22 Feb Cotswold Driving: the best way to deal with narrow roads, parking, and stress-free driving

Driving in the Cotswolds is a rite of passage, but twisty lanes and high stone walls can be problematic. Here are a few simple habits, so your trip can go calmly (and at least avoid scratches and parking fees).

Narrow lanes: take it slow

Look for passing places on the single-track Cotswold roads.

Take blind bends and hills extremely slowly.

Let other drivers pass in two-way areas, and do the same by pulling into any lane (pullover on left) of all passing places correctly.

In particularly remote areas, expect tractors, horses, and cyclists, and summer walkers.

Sat nav alone is not your friend: it will plunge you down the narrowest passageway. Why not choose Cotswolds Guided Tours and visit //cotswoldtour.co.uk/cotswolds-private-tours/classic-cotswolds-guided-tour 

Parking: plan before you arrive

The hot reservations are always the worst for parking.

Head there before 10 am (or revisit late afternoon) for the best selection.

Park in the long-stay market towns and walk around on foot.

Read the signs. Some of the bays are exclusively for residents or have time limits on them.

Bring change and a card, as machines vary, and internet connection can be patchy.

Stress-free route planning

If you’re getting burned out, it’s because you are trying to get too many villages in.

Choose one major settlement (Market Town)

Two stops per half-day max.

Allow time for slow traffic and stop to take photos.

Quick safety reminders

Do not stop for a photo in bends.

Beware of short walls and narrow gateways.

If you are not confident in narrow lanes, then ride instead on A-roads between towns and perhaps make short local loops.

The slow life is enjoyed to its fullest in the Cotswolds, so you might want to drive like you have nowhere important to be.