Stow-on-the-Wold, one of the highest towns in the Cotswolds, is being highlighted as a hidden gem that many visitors miss, with reviewers praising its autumn beauty.
Sitting at 800 feet (243m) above sea level, the town offers peaceful countryside views, cosy pubs and quiet streets filled with falling leaves. Its large Market Square is home to antique shops, tearooms, art galleries and boutiques.
Visitors describe 'magical' golden trees
Several TripAdvisor reviews say the town is particularly beautiful in autumn. One visitor wrote: “There are golden trees everywhere and they are magical. It felt like walking through a painting.”
Another added: “We came in October and the colours were incredible. Every street looked like a postcard.”
Historical highlights and local attractions
A must-see is St Edward’s Church, which has a unique doorway framed by two ancient yew trees. It’s widely believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.
Other local highlights include the Cotswold Cricket Museum, nearby Chastleton House, and scenic walks to Bourton-on-the-Water, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter. After exploring, many visitors stop at The Porch House, believed to be England’s oldest inn, for a Sunday roast or local ale. The Bell at Stow is another popular spot that serves hearty pub meals.
Autumn events and travel
Autumn is also when the Stow Horse Fair takes place, with traders and travellers gathering in October. The town also hosts craft markets, Christmas events and a summer music festival.
It’s easy to reach from London in about two hours by car, or by train to Moreton-in-Marsh followed by a short taxi ride.
