Discover Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is one of the most historically important and beautifully preserved towns in the Cotswolds. Founded as a planned town in the late 12th century, its original layout can still be traced along the High Street, which follows the line of an important medieval trading route. The town takes its name from the old word “chipping,” meaning market, reflected in the Market Hall, built in 1627 for the sale of cheese, butter, and poultry. Chipping Campden combines historic charm with a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for day trips, short breaks, or longer stays in the Cotswolds.

Things to Do in Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is rich in history, heritage, and cultural experiences. At the north end of the High Street stands the Church of St James, one of the finest Cotswold “wool” churches, built with wealth from the medieval wool trade. The church is renowned for its early altar tapestries and one of the largest collections of monumental brasses in England. Nearby, the gates of the historic Campden House remain a reminder of the town’s grand past.

The town is also home to the Court Barn Museum, which celebrates the legacy of craft and design in the Cotswolds. In the early 20th century, the Guild of Handicraft brought artists and designers to the Old Silk Mill, a tradition of creativity that continues to influence the town today.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Dover’s Hill is a popular destination. This historic hilltop was the site of the original Cotswold Olimpicks, founded in the 17th century, which continue to be celebrated annually with traditional games, competitions, and festivities, including the famous shin-kicking event. The surrounding Cotswold countryside offers a network of scenic footpaths, including the Cotswold Way, a 104-mile trail that starts (or ends) in Chipping Campden and follows the escarpment down to Bath.

Eating Out in Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden offers a variety of cafés, tearooms, and restaurants serving locally sourced and seasonal dishes. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed coffee, a hearty lunch, or a more refined dinner in a historic town setting. Dining outside peak times allows for a quieter and more leisurely experience along the High Street and in the surrounding lanes.

Shopping in Chipping Campden

The town features a range of independent shops, galleries, and craft outlets. Visitors can browse for unique gifts, artisan products, and traditional Cotswold crafts, making it a delightful destination for leisurely shopping while soaking up the historic atmosphere.

Accommodation in Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden offers a selection of boutique hotels, charming inns, and countryside guesthouses. Staying overnight allows visitors to experience the town after day-trippers have left, enjoying peaceful streets and riverside walks. Many accommodations retain traditional Cotswold features, such as stone walls, timber beams, and characterful interiors.

When to Visit Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is a destination worth visiting all year round. Spring and summer offer vibrant landscapes and longer walking days, while autumn provides rich colours across the escarpment and countryside. Winter offers a quieter, more reflective experience of the town’s historic streets and architecture. Annual events, including the Cotswold Olimpicks, add colour, tradition, and community spirit to visits at specific times of the year.