Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham

Situated halfway between Cheltenham and Winchcombe, the lofty peak of Cleeve Hill marks the highest point of both the Cotswolds Hills and Gloucestershire. At over 1,000ft high, it commands far-reaching views across Cheltenham, the Malvern Hills and beyond, extending as far as the Black Mountains of Wales on a clear day. Naturally, it’s a real highlight of any trip to the area.

Surrounded by Cleeve Common – the biggest common in the Cotswolds – Cleeve Hill is a brilliant place for family walks and strolls with your dog. If you fancy conquering this mini but mighty peak at Trig Point or any of its surrounding landscapes, you’ll find there are lots of footpaths that zigzag high and low, giving you plenty of choice. There’s even a section of the Cotswolds Way National Trail that traces the area in the form of the Cleeve Hill Common Ring. 

As well as the beautiful panoramas that provide inspiration at every turn, you’ll also find the ground beneath your feet holds a great deal of significance. A conservation area and Site of Special Scientific Interest, Cleeve Common is recognised for its geology, habitats and botany and is also home to three Scheduled Monuments. The largest unenclosed “Wold” in the Cotswolds, it contains nearly 1,000 acres and provides sanctuary for many wildlife species. 

If you feel like adding a novel twist to your walk, you can also practice your swing at the local Cleeve Hill Golf Club which sits at the foot of the hill. Open to everyone to play, this super heathland course affords one of the most idyllic settings from which to tee off and enjoy. Otherwise, a great way to spend a few hours on Cleeve Hill is with a generously stocked picnic hamper and blanket, tucking into sweet and savoury treats whilst lazing under the sun. 

When planning your trip to Cleeve Hill, you’ll find there are lots of car parks all around the common, meaning it’s relatively easy to find a spot and head off on foot. If you are bringing your four-legged friend with you, then they need to be kept on their lead in summer in certain places as the area is grazed by sheep who help to look after the common through traditional grazing – important for the critically endangered wildflowers that grow on the common’s grassland. 

Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Cheltenham here.