You’ll know that I’m Paul, and I like to get straight to the point. We’ve covered the heavy hitters like Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe, but today we’re looking at something a little different.
If those famous villages are the blockbuster movies of the Cotswolds, Naunton is the indie film that wins all the awards but nobody has heard of yet. It’s quiet, it’s authentic, and it’s exactly where you should go if you want to escape the "Disneyfication" of the English countryside.
Here is your no-nonsense guide to one of my personal favorite spots in Gloucestershire.
What is Naunton, Anyway?
Naunton is a classic "dormitory" village sitting pretty in the Windrush Valley. It’s about 6 miles west of the much busier Stow-on-the-Wold and about 12 miles from Cheltenham.
With a population of around 350 people, it’s tiny. There are no gift shops, no tea rooms selling overpriced scones, and, since 1999, not even a village shop. What you do get is a collection of honey-colored stone cottages, a babbling river, and a sense of peace that you just can't find in the bigger tourist hubs. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear the sheep in the distance rather than the sound of tour bus engines (unless it’s one of ours, of course, but we keep things quiet!).
A Bit of History (The Fast Version)
I promised no nonsense, so I won't give you a university lecture. But you should know that Naunton has been around for a long time. It was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Niwetone.
For centuries, it was a farming community. The River Windrush, which runs through the heart of the village, provided the water needed for livestock and local life. Unlike other villages that grew into industrial centers or major market towns, Naunton just… stayed Naunton. It remained a quiet, agricultural settlement, which is why it looks so remarkably preserved today.
The Must-See Spots
Because Naunton isn't a massive tourist destination, you won't need a map and a three-day pass to see it all. You can walk the whole village in about 20 minutes, but here are the spots where you should actually stop and look.
1. The Naunton Dovecote
This is the village’s claim to fame. Built around 1660, this Grade II listed building sits right by the river. In the 17th century, a dovecote was a sign of status and a practical way to ensure a fresh supply of meat and eggs during the winter.
It’s an architectural gem with four gables and over 1,000 nesting holes inside. You can't always go inside, but even from the outside, it’s one of the most photographed spots in the village. It perfectly captures that "frozen in time" vibe that makes this region so special.
2. St Andrew’s Church
Dating back to the 15th century (though parts of it are even older), this is a classic Cotswold "wool church." These churches were funded by wealthy local wool merchants during the Middle Ages.
Look out for the ancient sundial on the tower and the intricate stone carvings. The graveyard is also incredibly peaceful, often filled with wildflowers in the spring and summer. It’s a great place to sit for five minutes and just appreciate the silence.
3. The River Windrush
The river here isn't the mighty Thames; it's a shallow, clear stream that winds its way between the houses. There are several small stone bridges crossing it. It’s the perfect spot for a quick photo or to watch the local ducks go about their business.
Where to Eat and Drink
Since there are no shops, your options for food are limited to the local pubs, which is exactly how I like it.
- The Black Horse Inn: This is your quintessential country pub. It’s got low ceilings, exposed beams, and a fireplace that’s usually roaring in the winter. They serve solid, traditional pub grub and local ales. It’s dog-friendly and hiker-friendly, making it the heart of the village.
- The Farmers Arms: Located slightly on the edge of the village, this is another great shout for a Sunday roast or a quiet pint after a long walk.
If you’re planning to eat at either, I’d recommend booking ahead, especially on weekends. Because there aren't many options nearby, they fill up fast with locals and walkers.
For the Active Travelers
Naunton is a massive hub for walkers and hikers. It sits right on the Wardens' Way and the Windrush Way, two of the best walking trails in the Cotswolds.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk from Naunton to Upper and Lower Slaughter. It’s a beautiful route that takes you through rolling hills and open fields. If you’re visiting us as part of a Cotswolds tour in a day, we can often point you toward the best short loops that get you back in time for the coach.
There is also the Naunton Downs Golf Club nearby if you fancy a round of golf with some of the best views in the county. Just try not to get distracted by the scenery when you're teeing off.
The Logistics: Getting There (And Staying Sane)
This is where the "no-nonsense" part really kicks in. Naunton is beautiful because it’s isolated, but that isolation makes it a bit of a pain to get to if you aren't prepared.
By Bus
Don't bother. Seriously. There is a bus that runs to Andoversford on Tuesdays and Stow-on-the-Wold on Fridays. Unless your holiday schedule is incredibly specific, the bus isn't going to work for you.
By Rail
The nearest station is Moreton-in-Marsh, which is about 10 miles away. From there, you’d need to grab a taxi, which can be expensive and hard to find if you haven't booked one in advance.
By Car
Driving is the easiest way to reach Naunton, but parking is a nightmare. The streets are narrow and mostly residential. If you do drive, please be respectful of the locals and don't block driveways. There isn't a large dedicated car park, so you'll be hunting for a spot on the lane.
The Shakespeare Coaches Way
This is where I put my "Owner" hat on. If you want to see Naunton without the stress of narrow lanes, non-existent parking, or the "Friday-only" bus, come with us.
We include Naunton in many of our destinations because we know how to navigate the village without causing a stir. Whether you’re looking for a 1-day private Cotswolds tour or you’re joining a larger group, we handle the logistics so you can just enjoy the view.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Naunton is a year-round destination, but each season offers something different:
- Spring: The valley is vibrant green, and the lambs are out in the surrounding fields.
- Summer: The river is low and clear, and the pub gardens are the place to be.
- Autumn: The trees lining the Windrush turn gold and orange, making for incredible photos.
- Winter: It’s quiet, misty, and perfect if you want to curl up by the fire at The Black Horse Inn.
Final Thoughts from Paul
If you’re planning your trip to the Cotswolds, don’t just stick to the famous names you see on Instagram. Take the time to head off the beaten path to places like Naunton. You won't find a souvenir shop, but you will find a memory of England that stays with you a lot longer than a fridge magnet.
Ready to explore? Check out our group tours or contact us to see how we can help you discover the hidden gems of the Cotswolds. We’ve been doing this for a long time, and we’d love to show you around.
Explore More Destination Guides
- Woodstock
- Northleach
- Great Tew
- Naunton
- Minster Lovell
- Moreton-in-Marsh
- Malmesbury
- Blockley
- Stanton
- Lacock
- Cirencester
- Winchcombe
- Painswick
- Tetbury
- Upper Slaughter
- Broadway
- Lower Slaughter
- Castle Combe
- Bibury
- Burford
- Bourton-on-the-Water
- Stow-on-the-Wold
- Snowshill
- Chipping Campden
- Stratford-upon-Avon
See you on the coach!
( Paul)