Cotswold Way National Trail
The Cotswold Way National Trail runs to/from Bath and Chipping
Campden and is approximately 163km (100 miles) long. It has existed
as a "regional route" and has been enjoyed by walkers for over 30
years.
In 1998, following an in depth feasibility study and
consultations it was approved by the Secretary of State for the
Environment to be developed as a National Trail.
There are only 13 designated Trails in England. National Trails
cross some of the finest landscape in England. They provide a
nationally and internationally recognised series of walks and
rides. These trails are managed and maintained to the highest
standard, whilst continuing to reflect the distinctive landscapes
through which they pass.
The Cotswold Way runs through four highway authority areas:
- Bath & North East Somerset
- South Gloucestershire
- Gloucestershire
- Worcestershire.
All these Authorities and the Countryside Agency signed a
‘Memorandum of Agreement’ for the development and maintenance of
the Cotswold Way National Trail during the implementation period;
it also runs for most of its length through the Cotswold's Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Work on the implementation of the Trail started at the beginning
of 1999; the work involves signposting and waymarking the route,
carrying out surface and drainage improvements where necessary, the
installation of gates (to replace stiles) wherever possible and the
legal recording and (if needed) diverting of the Trail.
The Trail is due to be launched as a National Trail in 2004.
Progress on trail development will be reviewed in Spring 2005 to
assess whether this launch proposal is still realistic.
