THE BEST WAY TO CHIPPING CAMPDEN, ENGLAND
From LAX, British, Air New Zeaiand, United, American and Virgin Atlantic offer nonstop service to London, and American, United, KLM, Air Canada, Delta, US Airways, Air France and Lufthansa offer connecting service (change of plane). Restricted round-trip fares begin at $1,241, including taxes and fees. From Heathrow airport, take the express train to Paddington Station. From Paddington, trains run every hour or so to Moreton-in-marsh. A cab or bus will take you the last eight miles to Chipping Campden.
TELEPHONES
To call the numbers below from the U.S., dial 011 (the international dialing code) 44 (England’s country code) and then the number.
PLANNING THE WALK Many companies, including Sherpa Van ( www.sherpavan.com) and Compass Holidays (www.compass-holidays.com), will handle as many of your arrangements as you’d like, including booking accommodations and transporting luggage. Some companies also have organized tours.
WHERE TO STAY
Most of the towns along the Cotswold Way have many choices of accommodation. These were a few of our favorites places. Bramley House Bed & Breakfast, 6 Aston Road, Chipping Campden; 1386-840066. Double room and breakfast an easy stroll from the start of the Cotswold Way. From $112 a night.
California Farm, Capel Lane, Charlton Kings; 1242-244746, www.californiafarm.co.uk. Double room and breakfast in a beautifully restored farmhouse from $149 a night. If you want to have dinner there (a good idea, because no restaurants are nearby), there is an extra charge ($31-$39) and you must reserve in advance.
Byfield House, Bisley Street, Painswick; 01452 812607, www.byfieldhouse.com. Double room and continental breakfast in a beautiful Tudor-era house with a spectacular garden is $142 a night. Two-night minimum booking, so a good place to plan a rest day.
TO LEARN MORE
To make your own arrangements, the best place to start is the National Trails website ( www.nationaltrail.co.uk/ Cotswold/), with an interactive map that shows accommodations.