Bourton on the Hill is a small, quiet village in the Gloucestershire Cotswolds with a population of just under 300 inhabitants.
Nowhere near as famous as its namesake Bourton on the Water, the village does not experience the same number of annual visitors, but is nonetheless worth a visit if you are in the area.
What’s in a name?
The name is descriptive and apt, as is often the case in the Cotswolds. The pretty village is located on the side of a steep hill, between nearby Moreton in Marsh and Snowshill. Bourton is a common place name in England, featuring in the names of a number of towns and villages. Its origins come from the Saxon word Burgh, for a fort or camp and ton, for village or settlement.
The main street of the village lies on the A44 main road that runs roughly east – west through the north Cotswolds.
Bourton-on-the-Hill, Gloucestershire Visiting Information
As it’s not a particularly popular tourist destination on the Cotswold escarpment, don’t expect to find similar facilities to those that you might find in a larger village. There are no dedicated car parks or public conveniences in Bourton on the Hill.
Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleys of the village, admiring the beautiful stone cottages and historic buildings that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
If you are visiting the village, you might be able to find parking off the main road but please be mindful of the locals and residents. The local pub, The Horse and Groom, located at the top of the hill does have a car park for its customers.
The nearest public conveniences can be found in Moreton in Marsh, or in the garden centre at nearby Batsford arboretum.
Bourton House Gardens
One of the main attractions in the village are Bourton House Gardens. The gardens are open to visitors between April and October and feature colourful borders and a raised 18th Century walkway with wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. There is dedicated parking across the street from the gardens.
Things to do in Bourton on the Hill
Other things to do near Bourton on the Hill include the Cotswold falconry centre, the aforementioned Batsford arboretum and Sezincote House and garden, all within walking distance of the village.
For more ideas, read our guide on things to do near Moreton in Marsh.
St Lawrence Church
As with many Cotswolds towns and villages, one of the most notable buildings is the beautiful church. St Lawrence Church is located in the centre of the village and is a prominent feature. The church is a Grade I listed building. This stunning church was built in the 12th century and boasts beautiful stained glass windows, intricate stonework, and a peaceful churchyard where visitors can take a moment to reflect and admire the surrounding countryside.
Getting out and about
For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Bourton on the Hill is the perfect destination. The village is situated on the Heart of England Way, a long-distance walking trail that offers breath-taking views of the rolling hills and fields of the Cotswolds. The village is also located near several other popular walking trails, including the Cotswold Way and the Monarch’s Way.
Getting Here
The A44 route that runs from Chipping Norton to Broadway and beyond, goes directly through Bourton on the Hill. The village is about 2.5 miles west of Moreton in Marsh, which is also where the nearest train station is.
Get more information about how to get to the Cotswolds.