Rodborough Common - Lurcher in the sun
1 / 10

Rodborough Common

4.6
Β·491k reviewsΒ·Rodborough Common, United Kingdom

Rodborough Common offers breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to see iconic Highland cows roaming freely. A perfect spot for walks and wildlife...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Rodborough Common - Lurcher in the sun

Rodborough Common

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rodborough Common offers breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to see iconic Highland cows roaming freely. A perfect spot for walks and wildlife encounters.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views are stunning and the Highland cows are a real treat to see!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Respect the Cows

Admire the Highland cows from a distance; never feed them. They are wild animals!

🍦 Ice Cream Stop

Don't miss Winstone's Ice Cream for a sweet treat after your walk.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Highland Cows

Highland Cows

Encounter the iconic, shaggy Highland cattle grazing peacefully on the common. A truly memorable sight!

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping vistas across the Stroud Valley and beyond from the elevated common. Perfect for nature lovers.

Winstone's Ice Cream

Winstone's Ice Cream

Treat yourself to delicious, locally made ice cream from Winstone's, a popular stop after a walk.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Highland Cows

Spotting the famous Highland cows is a highlight for many visitors to Rodborough Common. These gentle giants roam freely, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Remember to keep a respectful distance and avoid feeding them to ensure their well-being and your safety. Instagram

Combine with Minchinhampton

Rodborough Common is often visited alongside the charming nearby town of Minchinhampton. This offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and quaint village life, with local cafes and shops to explore. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Buzzing atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

πŸ“ Rodborough common and Minchinhampton Today we decided to visit Rodborough Common to see if we could spot any highland cows and we did! They were so lovely and allowed us to get quite close for some pictures! We then moved onto the little Cotswold town of Minchinhampton, which is a lovely little town and is surprisingly busy. We visited @henrysbakehousecafe and their @ritualroasters coffee did...
goldenstonewalks
76 likes β€’ 1.1K views

🐾 Respect the Cows

Admire the Highland cows from a distance; never feed them. They are wild animals! Instagram

🍦 Ice Cream Stop

Don't miss Winstone's Ice Cream for a sweet treat after your walk. Instagram+2

A short but very warm stroll around rodborough and across the common this morning. Soaking in the sunshine and the views. πŸ₯΅ Finished at @winstonesicecream shop - of course 🍦🍦 I went for honeycomb - important question… what would you choose? Join us for more free walks. Booking form link in bio πŸ‘†πŸΌ #freeactivity #walkinggroup #ukwalks #thecotswolds #hikinggroup #roamandwonder #walkingretreat ...
roamandwonder.retreats
39 likes β€’ 1.1K views
This lunchtime we’re joining zoologist, filmmaker and wildlife presenter @billy_heaney for a #BigButterflyCount at the beautiful Rodborough Common The data from the Big Butterfly Count is crucial in helping us to assess the health of our environment, and to understand how butterflies and moths are faring so that we can take action to protect them for the future. πŸ¦‹ Got a spare 15 minutes? Take a ...
savebutterflies
543 likes β€’ 16.2K views

πŸ¦‹ Butterfly Spotting

Visit during Big Butterfly Count for a chance to see diverse species. Instagram

πŸ‘Ÿ Sturdy Footwear

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:

A walk on Rodborough Common this morning, someone said it would be sunny today... :) Enjoyed a coffee from @winstonesicecream - tempted by the ice cream but managed to resist this time. #walks #outdoors #location #wheretolive #cotswolds #cotswolds_culture #visitthecotswolds #cotswoldslife #walkinguk #common #coffee #coffeebreak #greenspaces #views #footpaths #trails #running #cycling #mtb #outdoo...
craigfuller_property_search
47 likes β€’ 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Respect the Cows

Admire the Highland cows from a distance; never feed them. They are wild animals! Instagram

🍦 Ice Cream Stop

Don't miss Winstone's Ice Cream for a sweet treat after your walk. Instagram+2

πŸ¦‹ Butterfly Spotting

Visit during Big Butterfly Count for a chance to see diverse species. Instagram

πŸ‘Ÿ Sturdy Footwear

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:

πŸ“Έ Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and wildlife shots. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views and the charming presence of the Highland cows. The opportunity to enjoy locally made ice cream from Winstone's is a frequent highlight. Some find the terrain a bit uneven, and parking can be challenging during busy periods.

What People Like

Beautiful panoramic views
Iconic Highland cows
Delicious Winstone's ice cream

What People Dislike

Uneven terrain
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

Rodborough Common is accessible by car, with parking available. It's also reachable via public transport, with bus routes serving nearby Minchinhampton. Many visitors enjoy walking from the town. Instagram

Yes, there are parking areas available for visitors. These can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a popular and scenic walk from Minchinhampton to Rodborough Common, often taking around 20-30 minutes. Instagram+1

Yes, local bus services connect to Minchinhampton, which is a short walk from the common. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information. :bus:

Walking is the primary way to explore Rodborough Common. There are various paths offering different perspectives and access to key viewpoints. :walking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Rodborough Common is a public space and entry is free. You can explore its natural beauty without any admission fees. :free:

Rodborough Common is open year-round, 24 hours a day. You can visit at any time that suits you. :clock3:

There is no entrance fee to visit Rodborough Common. It's a freely accessible natural area for everyone to enjoy. :moneywithwings:

While Rodborough Common is technically open 24/7, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Stick to daylight hours for the best experience. :flashlight:

While not always formally advertised, local groups or National Trust rangers sometimes organize events or walks. Keep an eye on local listings or National Trust information. Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can see roaming Highland cows, enjoy stunning panoramic views, spot diverse wildlife including butterflies, and explore the natural grassland landscape. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a fantastic spot for wildlife. Keep an eye out for Highland cows, various bird species, and especially butterflies during the Big Butterfly Count. Instagram+2

The terrain is primarily open grassland with some undulating hills. It can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:

Facilities can be limited directly on the common. It's advisable to use facilities in Minchinhampton before or after your visit. :toilet:

Yes, picnics are very welcome! Find a scenic spot and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. Remember to take all your litter with you. :picnic_sun:

🍽️ 🍦 Food & Dining

The most popular spot is Winstone's Ice Cream, located nearby for a sweet treat. For more substantial meals, the town of Minchinhampton offers several cafes and pubs. Instagram+2

There are no cafes directly on Rodborough Common itself. The nearest options are in the adjacent town of Minchinhampton, including Winstone's Ice Cream. Instagram+2

You'll find classic ice cream flavors at Winstone's, and in Minchinhampton, expect typical pub fare and cafe offerings like sandwiches and cakes. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Rodborough Common is a perfect spot for a picnic. Pack your favorite snacks and enjoy the views. :sandwich:

Winstone's Ice Cream typically operates seasonally, so it's best to check their opening times before your visit, especially outside of peak summer months. :ice_cream:

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

The best spots are along the ridge for panoramic views, near the grazing Highland cows, and capturing the wildflowers in spring. Instagram

Yes, the expansive views across the Stroud Valley make it excellent for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:

You can photograph the famous Highland cows, various bird species, and a wide array of butterflies during the warmer months. Instagram+2

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Spring mornings are also lovely with wildflowers and fewer people. :camerawithflash:

Drone usage may be restricted due to wildlife and public access. It's always best to check with the relevant authorities (e.g., National Trust if applicable) before flying a drone. :noentrysign:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§ Families with Kids

Rodborough Common is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor fun. The main draw for children is undoubtedly the Highland cows; seeing these large, shaggy animals up close (from a safe distance!) is always a hit. The open grassland provides plenty of space for kids to run around and explore. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, and consider a stop at Winstone's Ice Cream for a special treat. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven, and keep a close eye on little ones, especially near any steeper slopes. Instagram+1

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Walkers and Hikers

For those who love to walk, Rodborough Common offers a rewarding experience. You can enjoy leisurely strolls taking in the views or embark on more energetic hikes across the undulating terrain. The common connects to various footpaths, allowing for extended walks. The panoramic vistas provide constant motivation, and the chance to spot wildlife like Highland cows and birds adds to the appeal. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and consider bringing water and snacks, especially for longer excursions. Instagram+1

πŸ“Έ Photographers

Rodborough Common is a photographer's delight, offering diverse subjects. The Highland cows are a prime attraction, providing unique portrait opportunities. The sweeping landscapes are perfect for capturing expansive views, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. In spring, the wildflowers add color and texture to your shots. Be mindful of the weather, as it can change quickly, and always respect the wildlife and the natural environment when composing your shots. Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Encountering the Highland Cows

The Highland cows are arguably the most famous residents of Rodborough Common, drawing visitors from far and wide. These distinctive cattle, with their long, shaggy coats and impressive horns, are a truly iconic sight. They roam freely across the common, often grazing peacefully or resting in the sun. Visitors are encouraged to admire them from a safe and respectful distance, as they are wild animals. Getting too close or attempting to feed them can be dangerous for both the cows and the people. Many visitors find the experience of seeing these gentle giants in their natural habitat incredibly rewarding and a highlight of their visit. Instagram

Photographers often find the Highland cows to be a captivating subject. The contrast of their reddish-brown coats against the green landscape, especially during the golden hour, makes for stunning images. Remember to be patient and observe their behavior; sometimes they are quite curious, while other times they prefer to be left undisturbed. Capturing these moments ethically ensures the well-being of the animals and preserves the natural charm of Rodborough Common. Instagram+1

Exploring the Landscape and Views

Rodborough Common offers a beautiful expanse of rolling grassland and undulating terrain, providing a sense of open space and tranquility. The common is situated on a ridge, which means visitors are treated to spectacular panoramic views stretching across the Stroud Valley and beyond. These vistas are particularly breathtaking on a clear day, offering a sweeping vista of the surrounding countryside, including distant hills and villages. The landscape changes with the seasons, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the muted tones of autumn, each offering a unique visual experience.

Walking across the common allows for a deep immersion in nature. The paths are generally well-trodden, though the terrain can be uneven in places, making sturdy footwear advisable. Visitors can wander freely, discovering hidden dips, enjoying the fresh air, and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It's an ideal location for a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk, or even a more challenging hike, depending on your preference. The open nature of the common also makes it a popular spot for kite flying and enjoying outdoor activities. Instagram+1

The Minchinhampton Connection

Rodborough Common is often experienced as part of a visit to the nearby charming Cotswold town of Minchinhampton. This proximity allows for a delightful combination of natural exploration and village charm. Many visitors park in Minchinhampton and then take a short, pleasant walk to the common, or vice versa. The town itself offers a glimpse into traditional Cotswold life, with its historic market square, independent shops, and welcoming pubs. Instagram+1

One of the most popular stops for visitors combining Rodborough Common and Minchinhampton is Winstone's Ice Cream. This local favorite is renowned for its delicious, locally sourced ice cream, offering a perfect treat after a walk on the common. It's a place where visitors can relax, enjoy a sweet indulgence, and reflect on their outdoor adventures. The combination of the natural beauty of the common and the quaint appeal of Minchinhampton makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable day out. Instagram+2

You may also like

1 of 2