Where to Stay in the Cotswolds (Without a Car)
If renting a car isn’t a good fit for you, picking the right place to stay in the Cotswolds can make all the difference.
In this guide, I’ll share three of the best areas to stay in the Cotswolds without a car — plus my top hotel pick in each and practical tips for getting around.
I’m originally from the UK and have visited the Cotswolds many times. I plan trips for clients here all the time, often as an add-on to London, so I know exactly what works — and what doesn’t!
1. Moreton-in-Marsh: Best North Cotswolds Base for Visitors Without a Car
After exploring London, many of my travel planning clients request to spend a few days in the Cotswolds.
Since most don’t want the hassle, expense, or stress of renting a car, I almost always recommend Moreton-in-Marsh as a perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds without a car.
Getting to Moreton-in-Marsh by Train
Direct trains from London Paddington make Moreton-in-Marsh a top choice for where to stay in the Cotswolds without a car, with journeys under 1.5 hours. Trains depart every hour.
If you are looking to do a day trip from London, I recommend you catch the 8:51 AM direct train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh. You can purchase tickets easily through Rail Europe.
Why Moreton-in-Marsh is One of the Best Places to Stay in the Cotswolds (If You Don’t Rent A Car)
Once you’re there, Moreton-in-Marsh is excellent for exploring some of the Cotswolds’ loveliest towns and villages, all accessible by public transport or taxi.
Here are three that are easily reached from Moreton-in-Marsh:
- Stow-on-the-Wold. Around 4 miles away, this historic market town is famous for its large market square and antique shops. Wondering how long to spend in Stow-on-the-Wold? I recommend 3–5 hrs to explore the town, browse the shops, and enjoy a café or two. You can catch the 801B bus from Moreton-in-Marsh train station to the Market Square in Stow-on-the-Wold.
- Bourton-on-the-Water. About 8 miles away, this village is often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” thanks to its charming stone bridges over the River Windrush. Wondering how long to spend in Bourton-on-the-Water? There’s plenty to see, plus loads of cafés and restaurants, so up to 5 hrs works well. You can catch the 801B bus from Moreton-in-Marsh and be there in around 35 minutes.
- Broadway. Roughly 9 miles away, this picturesque village is filled with independent shops, galleries, pubs, cafés, and restaurants. Wondering how long to spend in Broadway? Plan a full day here to really soak in the charm, and don’t miss the walk to Broadway Tower.
Each of these can easily be a day trip in itself, or you can combine two if you’re short on time.
Public transport is easy to navigate. Use Traveline to help you find bus routes. Taxis and ride-shares are also a convenient and reasonably priced option if you prefer more flexibility.
What to Do in Moreton-in-Marsh Itself
You certainly won’t be bored staying local.
- If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, don’t miss the open-air market — one of the largest in the Cotswolds, with stalls stretching the length of the High Street.
- Wander along the long, characterful High Street and explore the independent boutiques and antique stores.
- Stop to jnjoy coffee and sweet treats at independent cafés — Grouch Coffee and Martha’s Coffee + Kitchen are both excellent.
My Top Pick in Moreton-in-Marsh: White Hart Royal Hotel
As for a place to stay, my recommended pick is the White Hart Royal Hotel.
It’s comfortable, reasonably priced, and has well-appointed rooms.
I’ve had clients stay here before and they’ve always had positive things to say.
What really makes this hotel stand out is its excellent location.
The hotel is just a short walk from the train station. This makes arriving from London (and leaving) incredibly easy — especially with luggage!
Best for: Couples, families or solo travelers wanting a convenient base for Cotswolds day trips or public transport. It’s popular and books fast.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the White Hart Royal Hotel on Booking.com
2. Cheltenham – A Convenient North-West Cotswolds Base Without a Car
Cheltenham makes a fantastic base if you want to explore the North and West Cotswolds.
Often called the gateway to the Cotswolds, Cheltenham is close to iconic sites like Sudeley Castle and the charming town of Cirencester.
A short distance away, you’ll also find some of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque villages like Winchcombe and Painswick — perfect for day trips.
Getting To Cheltenham By Train
Direct trains from London Paddington take just 2 hours, making Cheltenham an easy and convenient base to stay in the Cotswolds.
You can purchase tickets easily through Rail Europe.
Why Cheltenham Is A Great Base For Exploring The Cotswolds Without A Car
What I love about Cheltenham is that it combines easy access to public transport with all the perks of a larger town.
You’ll find cafés, shops, and restaurants tucked into vibrant historic streets, along with plenty of local attractions to keep you busy.
Best Place to Stay in Cheltenham: The Queens Hotel
The Queens Hotel in Cheltenham is my top pick if you’re looking for a solid base.
The location is perfect for exploring the town, and you’re within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
The rooms are clean and very spacious, and the history and architecture of this elegant Regency-style hotel is amazing.
I recently had clients spend Christmas Day here, as part of a wider England itinerary. They had really great things to say about it.
Best for: couples, solo travelers, families, or anyone who wants a comfortable base within walking distance of everything.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the The Queens Hotel on Booking.com
3. Bath: A Good Base for Exploring the South Cotswolds Without a Car
Ok hear me out! Technically, Bath isn’t in the Cotswolds.
Sitting just outside the Cotswolds, Bath still makes an excellent base for exploring the wider region without a car, especially if you’re thinking of a longer stay.
Getting To Bath By Train from London
A direct train from London Paddington gets you there in as little as 1 hour and 15 minutes.
You can purchase tickets easily through Rail Europe.
Why Bath Works As A Base For Exploring The Cotswolds (And Beyond)
The city itself offers plenty to do too, from the Roman Baths and stunning architecture to charming shops and an excellent food scene.
Bath is also perfectly positioned for departing Cotswolds day tours.
Two of my favorite Cotswolds villages near to bath are Castle Combe, an idyllic village famous for its stunning scenery, and Lacock, a National Trust village with a stunning Abbey and medieval streets.
By staying in Bath as your base, you get the best of both city and Cotswolds countryside on your doorstep, as well as easy access to places like Stonehenge — another highly requested day trip by clients.
Best Place to Stay in Bath: No 15 by GuestHouse
Bath has no shortage of amazing places to stay.
For a reasonably-priced option that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or charm, I recommend No 15 by GuestHouse.
This stylish hotel is one of the best boutique hotels in the Cotswolds in my opinion.
It’s centrally located, and ideal for exploring Bath on foot.
Best for: couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants a comfortable, boutique stay without breaking the bank.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the No. 15 by GuestHouse on Booking.com
My Go-To Cotswolds Day Tours
Finally, I can’t recommend this award-winning Cotswolds in a Day Tour enough.
It’s my go-to recommendation for clients and consistently earns rave reviews. Honestly, you won’t be disappointed.
The tour has the option to pick up from Moreton-in-Marsh train station, and during the tour you’ll see the best of the Cotswolds (plus hidden Cotswolds gems).
All in stress-free comfort!
If you want to combine a visit to Stonehenge with some of the prettiest Cotswolds villages, this tour departing from Bath is the one to take!
Cotswolds Without A Car – Wrap Up
Still wondering if the Cotswolds are worth visiting without a car? The answer is yes!
You just need to plan where to stay in the Cotswolds carefully — close to a convenient rail link, with public transport or tours departing from town.
The three areas I recommend — Moreton-in-Marsh, Cheltenham, and Bath — along with my hotel picks and recommended tours, will help you enjoy the region’s beauty without the stress of driving.
Plus, these towns are great year-round, including winter stays in the Cotswolds.
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