Lower Slaughter is a picturesque village in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire. The village lies a mile north of the village of Bourton-on-the-Water and four miles southwest of the town of Stow-on-the-Wold.

The village straddles the River Eye, which also flows through the neighbouring village of Upper Slaughter.

Village Centre

Most homes in Lower Slaughter are built from the yellow stone typical of the Cotswolds, however a 19th Century water mill is prominent for its chimney built of red brick. Rather like the nearby village of Bourton on the Water there are several small stone foot-bridges that span the River Eye.

History

Records exist showing that Lower Slaughter has been inhabited for over 1000 years. And the Domesday Book entry has the village name as “Sclostre”. The Domesday Book further notes that in 1066 and 1086 the manor was in the sheriff's hands.

Churches

St Mary's Church, Lower Slaughter

The 13th century Anglican parish church is located on the edge of the village and is dedicated to St. Mary the Virgin. The present church of St Mary's was rebuilt in 1867 when the earlier church fell into dis-repair. The interior of St Mary's retains some of the original 13th century arches, and there are stained glass windows in the north, west and east walls. The tower contains six bells dating from 1450 to 1867, and both the six bells and the spire were recently restored.

Walks, Cycle Trails and Other Activities

The Cotswold Hills are a popular walking destination and the countryside around Lower Slaughter is no exception with several major trails - the Gloucester Way, Macmillan Way, Monarch's Way, and the Heart of England Way all converging on the small village. Those feeling less energetic can always take the shorter circular loop walks to the picturesque villages of Upper Slaughter and Bourton on the Water.