Discover Painswick

The historic wool town of Painswick, known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds’, is one of the finest and best-preserved Cotswold towns and surrounded by some of the Cotswolds' most delightful countryside.

Beautiful buildings line the town’s narrow streets. New Street contains the oldest building in England to house a Post Office, the country’s oldest bowling green and the famous parish church of St. Mary sitting amongst 99 yew trees - one of the most memorable churchyards in the country. 

Painswick is at the mid-point of the Cotswold Way and surrounded by marvellous walking country. The world famous Rococo Gardens, Painswick Beacon and the picturesque villages of Sheepscombe, Edge and Slad are all within a mile or two of the centre. If you like walks with spectacular views, here is a route map for a walk to Painswick Beacon where you can see as far as the Malvern Hills and Brecon Beacons on a clear day.

Explore the countryside surrounding Painswick by following a Gateway Towns walking or cycling route. Created by the Cotswolds National Landscape and local communities you’ll discover hidden corners, epic views, historic sites, and a rich diversity of wildlife.

Cotswold Gateway - Painswick 1
A 3 mile circular walk along the Painswick Stream

Cotswold Gateway - Painswick 2
A 4 mile circular walk up to Frith Wood