Bourton-on-the-Water Dog Walk: River Windrush Paddling and the Slaughters
Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire
Bourton-on-the-Water sits on the River Windrush, and the river runs shallow and clear through the centre of the village - dogs paddle freely in it, and most do. The route heads out from the village through open field paths to Upper and Lower Slaughter, two of the quieter villages in the Cotswolds, before returning via the valley. Once clear of Bourton itself the walking is genuinely countryside: grass and dirt paths, livestock fields (leads required when sheep or cattle are present), and a noticeable drop in visitor numbers. The Slaughters Country Inn at Lower Slaughter makes an excellent mid-route stop, with a riverside garden that works well for dogs.
Partial off-lead: in the village itself, leads are advisable for the entire riverside stretch regardless of any formal rule - the paths are narrow and foot traffic on summer weekends is relentless. Off-lead opportunities are better on the field sections between villages when stock-free. Arrive early in July and August. The Rissington Road car park (GL54 2BN) is the more practical start point; Bourton Vale (GL54 2LU) fills quickly by mid-morning at weekends.
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog swim in the River Windrush at Bourton-on-the-Water?
Yes. The River Windrush runs shallow and clear through the centre of the village and dogs can paddle freely in it. The river is accessible at multiple points along the village green. In summer the banks are very busy with visitors so supervise dogs around other people and children paddling in the water. The river depth is typically ankle to knee-deep through the village - suitable for most dogs to wade and swim in calmer sections.
Is Bourton-on-the-Water too crowded for dogs in summer?
It can be. Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most visited villages in the Cotswolds and summer weekends see extreme congestion on the narrow riverside paths. For the best experience with dogs, arrive before 9am on summer weekends or visit on a weekday. Once the route leaves the village for the Slaughters, the walking is quiet and the crowds disappear entirely. The village is at its most enjoyable in spring and autumn.
Are there dog-friendly pubs along the Bourton to Slaughters walk?
Yes. The Slaughters Country Inn at Lower Slaughter is the best mid-route stop - a traditional pub with a riverside garden, well-positioned roughly halfway around the circuit. Back in Bourton, the Mousetrap Inn has dog treats behind the bar and ground-floor dog-friendly bedrooms. The Willow provides dog treats and water bowls. Most establishments in the village are dog-friendly; water bowls are set out throughout the village in summer.
Where should I park for the Bourton-on-the-Water walks?
The Rissington Road car park (GL54 2BN) is the more practical start point - it is slightly further from the village centre, tends to fill later, and is convenient for the route towards the Slaughters. The Bourton Vale car park (GL54 2LU) costs £5 for 3 hours and fills quickly by mid-morning at weekends. On-street parking in the village is very limited. Bourton-on-the-Water is also served by the Pulhams 801 bus from Moreton-in-Marsh rail station (approximately 30 minutes).
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info