Flowing through iconic valleys and historic towns, the Cotswolds’ rivers are among the defining landscapes of rural Britain, attracting millions of visitors each year. Yet they are in serious decline. Decades of neglect, development pressure and pollution have pushed these rivers to the brink. Once-common species such as grayling and curlew have been decimated, wetlands have been lost, flood risk is growing, and elevated levels of chemicals and nutrients now pose a growing public health risk.

There is growing momentum to reverse the decline of the Cotswolds’ rivers. With strong support from landowners, communities and partners, the Cotswolds Rivers Trust is turning ambition into action. We are restoring habitats, re-meandering rivers, slowing the flow, removing barriers and reconnecting people with nature. By joining up projects and people across catchments, we can deliver lasting benefits for wildlife, communities and climate resilience.