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The medieval wool trade brought prosperity to the Cotswolds and this wealth funded the rich architectural heritage that we see today. Sheep farming began with the first human inhabitants of the region. Early settlers found the dry slopes, sheltered valleys and pleasant climate of the Cotswolds ideal for their purposes and a large number of prehistoric monuments survive such as Belas Knap burial chamber, the Rollright Stones and Iron Age fortifications. The monastic foundations of the Cotswolds helped pioneer the development of the wool trade, which reached its peak between the 14th and 17th century. By the end of the Middle Ages wool had become England's major export industry and half of the woollen cloth shipped was produced in the Cotswolds.
The Industrial Revolution passed this region by as there was a distinct lack of coal deposits. This meant that much of this legacy survived intact and unspoiled. However, it did lead to a decline in the wool industry in the area, which led to much hardship and poverty. Every cloud has a silver lining though, it was this that was largely responsible for preserving the attractiveness of the Cotswolds. The Industrial Revolution with its accompanying massive urban development, destruction of the countryside and pollution had little or no effect in the area. Indeed, the climate, beautiful landscape and good communications have led to its rejuvenation as a delightful place to live and visit.
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