Visit Lower Slaughter
Lower Slaughter is a village just north of Bourton-on-the-Water and south-east of Stow-on-the-Wold, in the Cotswolds county of Gloucestershire. It is just south of its equally popular neighbour, Upper Slaughter.
Like some of the other Cotswolds villages, Lower Slaughter is exceptionally picturesque, with ancient unspoiled houses in the style traditional to the region, on the banks of the River Eye and set in rolling green countryside.
Visit Lower Slaughter, Cotswolds
The Eye river runs through the village and a walk along its edge allows you to admire the beautiful houses and cottages of the village. Various small bridges allow you to cross the river for a closer look at the houses on each side.
At the start of the village next to the river is the lovely Slaughters Country Inn. This is a very impressive 17th century manor house that is now a luxury hotel. Looks like a lovely places to stay! It is also a restaurant and a lovely spot to stop for lunch or dinner.
Continue along the river's edge and you will come to the old watermill - with a working waterwheel, and gift shop and tea shop. The path to Upper Slaughter starts next to the mill.
Walk along Mill Lane and up to Copeshill Road which will take you back to the start of your walk. Saint Mary's Church is on Copeshill Road and has some arcades remaining from the original 13th century church, though most of St mary's was rebuilt in the sceond half of the 19th century. Inside it is nice and light with lots of arched windows and a timber frame roof.
Copeshill Road winds back round to the river and then follows the river with more charming houses along the way. It has been voted Britain's most romantic street in 2011 for its architecture, views and romantic ambience!
As both Upper and Lower Slaughter are quite small we thoroughly recommend doing the 2km walk between the two. Start at the Old Mill and follow the path signposted "Warden's Way". It takes about 25 minutes though you can carry on to Bourton on the Water. It is a pleasant walk and not taxing.
When to visit Lower Slaughter
If possible it is best to visit the village before 10.30am or late afternoon / early evening, when there are less other visitors and the sun is lower in the sky (the light at that stage improving an already beautiful place). Spring or autumn are also recommended.
Places to visit nearby
The neighbouring village of Upper Slaughter should not be missed and nor should Bourton on the Water which like Lower Slaughter winds along by the edge of a river. Stow on the Wold makes a good base as its charming high street has lots of pubs and restaurants and Burford is also a good choice. Burton is often said to have the UK's prettiest high street.
You can find more local travel ideas in the Cotswolds guide and the
Photos of Lower Slaughter
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Map of Lower Slaughter and places to visit
Lower Slaughter places to visit
Bourton on the Water
Beautiful water-side Cotswolds village with a few attractions close by.
Bourton on the Water guide
Stow on the Wold
Charming Cotswolds village with a good number of shops, pubs and restaurants.
Stow on the Wold guide
Moreton in Marsh
Moreton in Marsh guide
Snowshill
Snowshill guide
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...or see all our recommended places to visit in Gloucestershire