Discover the Art of Slow Travel at Pettifers Hotel in Crudwell
In a fast-paced world, more travellers are turning to slow travel—a gentler, more meaningful way to experience a destination. The Southern Cotswolds, with its rolling hills, market towns, and timeless charm, is made for this slower rhythm.
Tucked in the peaceful village of Crudwell, Pettifers Hotel offers the perfect base for a calm, unhurried escape. Whether you’re strolling through Westonbirt Arboretum or exploring Malmesbury’s medieval streets, your journey into slow travel begins right here.
What Is Slow Travel?
Slow travel is not about moving slowly for the sake of it—it’s about depth, connection, and presence. It encourages you to immerse yourself in the local culture, spend time in one place, and savour your experiences.
Rather than racing from sight to sight, you might wander through a local market in Tetbury, enjoy a peaceful walk through ancient woodland, or take the time to speak with a local cheesemaker. The goal is to travel intentionally, creating lasting memories along the way.
Why the Southern Cotswolds Is Perfect for Slow Travel
While the Northern Cotswolds often attract large crowds, the Southern Cotswolds remain refreshingly under the radar. With fewer tourist hotspots, you’ll find quieter footpaths, uncrowded towns, and a greater sense of stillness—perfect for a peaceful Cotswolds break.
Crudwell sits between Cirencester, Tetbury, and Malmesbury, making it ideal for day trips without long drives or crowds. Visit Highgrove Gardens (by pre-booked tour), browse Tetbury’s antique shops, or take a scenic walk across blooming meadows of the Avon Valley. Wherever you go, the pace is yours to set.
Stay at Pettifers: Your Base for Slow Travel in Crudwell
At Pettifers Hotel, slow travel isn’t a passing trend, it’s part of our ethos. Our 16th-century building, once a veterinary apothecary, has been thoughtfully converted into a warm, independently owned hotel with a relaxed, friendly feel.
Stay in one of our characterful rooms, dine at Sasa’s – our modern Indian fusion Restaurant , and let the team recommend off-the-beaten-track walks or countryside cycle routes.
We’re also proudly dog-friendly and cyclist-friendly, with flexible check-in options and a welcoming team ready to help you enjoy the best of the area.
Looking for added value? View our current seasonal offers to make your stay even more rewarding.
Slow Travel Experiences in and Around Crudwell
With so much to explore nearby, your itinerary can be as active or as restful as you wish. Here are a few ideas to inspire your slower Cotswolds adventure:
Explore Westonbirt Arboretum
Located just 15 minutes away, Westonbirt, The National Arboretum offers over 2,500 tree species from around the globe. Ideal for gentle walks, Sky-high Treetop Walk, the Gruffalo Trail and abundant seasonal photography, and peaceful reflection, it’s one of the area’s most tranquil spots.
Visit Tetbury and Malmesbury
Both towns are rich in character and history. Discover Royal Tetbury’s renowned antique stores and boutique shopping or explore the ancient grounds of Malmesbury Abbey, where layers of history meet lovely riverside paths that encircle Britain’s oldest Town .
Enjoy Local Food and Craft
Take time to browse local markets, artisan delis, and farm shops. From handmade preserves to craft ales and cheeses, slow travel is as much about local flavour as it is about the landscape.
Unplug and Reconnect with Nature
The Southern Cotswolds are crisscrossed by public footpaths and bridle paths, offering varied routes suitable for all levels. Pack a picnic and explore at your own pace—no schedule required.
Why Slow Travel Creates a Richer Experience
Slow travel offers more than just a break—it invites you to reset. Instead of ticking off landmarks, you discover quiet corners. You trade itineraries for inspiration and connection. And you experience the true rhythm of a place.
At Pettifers, we’re proud to support this approach to travel. From the moment you arrive, we invite you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the unhurried hospitality that makes the Cotswolds so special.
Start Your Slow Travel Journey Here
If you’re ready to embrace the beauty of slow travel in the Southern Cotswolds, there’s no better place to start than Pettifers Hotel in Crudwell.
Contact us to book your stay, ask about our current packages, or simply chat with our team about what to see and do nearby.
