subject: What Are The Cotswolds? [print this page] If you are looking to speak to local residents, then ask what Cotswolds means. Most people agree that wolds means hills after that most views about the rest of the meaning of Cotswolds are divided.
A local farmer will describe the Cotswolds as a place made up of sloping hills which provides the ideal setting for farming, a geologist would be enthralled by the oolitic limestone and an estate agent will describe it as one of the most desirable addresses in the UK. Further to this, the Cotswolds is also given the status as Englands largest 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' (AONB). If you have been on holiday in the Cotswolds or if you are planning to visit the Cotswolds, ensure that you remember that the Cotswolds constitute more than just a couple of villages, in fact the area is over 100 miles wide.
The southern part of the Cotswolds has more surrounding nature than the northern parts of the Cotswolds, especially in the five beautiful valleys that surround Stroud.
These valleys all come to a head at the town of Stroud and the hills help to form interesting links between the different valleys, particularly the lofty hills of Rodborough and Minchinhampton Commons which can make it seem like you are in a completely different world.
These two commons in particular provide vast stretches of open spaces which help to form the perfect setting for a number of outdoor activities such as walking, horse riding or simply chilling out.
If you are looking for a fantastic place to stop along the way during a hot sunny day, then look no further than Winstone's home-made local ice cream which is located on Rodborough Common.
The views from Coaley Peak Picnic Site are absolutely fantastic but for many visitors, the surrounding countryside locations around Cam Peak and Cam Long Down are unbeatable.
The southern reaches of the Cotswolds highlights the best parts of this unspoiled English landscape where you can escape from the pressures of a busy city life.
