The Cotswolds is a picturesque region of England that is known for its idyllic countryside and charming villages. Located in the southwestern part of the country, the Cotswolds stretches across several counties, including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Warwickshire. The region is named after the Cotswold hills, which are a range of rolling hills that are dotted with sheep and cows, and are crisscrossed by narrow lanes and ancient footpaths. Below we will find about what to see and what to do in the Cotswolds, together with the most beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds and the top tourist attractions in the Cottswolds.
Are you visiting this fantastic region? Here are the best hotels in the Cotswolds.
What to do in the Cotswolds. Places to visit in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a popular destination for travelers who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the beauty of the English countryside. The region is home to a number of quaint villages and towns that are filled with thatched cottages, old inns, and traditional pubs. These charming settlements are often surrounded by rolling hills, fields of wildflowers, and picturesque gardens.
One of the best ways to explore the Cotswolds is by taking a leisurely walk or hiking along the many footpaths and trails that crisscross the region. The Cotswold Way is a long-distance footpath that stretches for 100 miles, from Chipping Campden to Bath. The route passes through a number of charming villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Another popular activity in the Cotswolds is visiting the many gardens scattered throughout the region. The Cotswolds is home to a number of world-class gardens, including Hidcote Manor, Sudeley Castle, and Rodmarton Manor. These gardens are filled with beautiful flowers, plants, and trees and are a delight to explore.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Cotswolds is also known for its cultural attractions. The region is home to many museums, galleries, and historical sites worth visiting. For example, the Cotswold Motoring Museum in Bourton-on-the-Water is a popular destination for car enthusiasts, with a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. The Cotswold Wildlife Park is another popular attraction, with a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and giraffes.
The Cotswolds is also home to a number of festivals and events that are worth attending. The Cheltenham Music Festival is a popular annual event that takes place in July, with a program of classical and contemporary music. The Cotswold Show is another popular festival, with a mix of livestock shows, food, and drink stalls, and entertainment.
The most beautiful villages to visit in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is home to a number of beautiful villages that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, every traveler should visit:
Would you like to take a Cotswolds Village Tour? Try one of these:
Bourton-on-the-Water
This picturesque village is often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its network of canals and bridges that cross the River Windrush. The village is home to a number of historic buildings.
Bourton-on-the-Water has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. The village was first mentioned in the Domesday Book, a survey of England and Wales that was conducted in 1086. In the centuries that followed, Bourton-on-the-Water grew and developed into a thriving market town, with a bustling market, a number of inns and pubs, and a wide range of industries, including milling, tanning, and brewing.
One of the most interesting historical events that took place in Bourton-on-the-Water was the Battle of Bourton-on-the-Water, which occurred in 1644 during the English Civil War. The battle was fought between the Royalist forces, who were loyal to King Charles I, and the Parliamentarian forces, who were fighting to overthrow the king. The Royalists were ultimately victorious, and the battle is still remembered and celebrated in Bourton-on-the-Water today.
Another interesting aspect of Bourton-on-the-Water’s history is its architecture. In the village you can visit o lot of wonderful places, including the Old Mill, the Cotswold Motoring Museum, and the Cotswold Perfumery. These buildings are examples of the traditional Cotswold style of architecture, which is characterized by its use of local stone, thatched roofs, and mellow colors. Also, these attractions, along with the village’s charming shops, galleries, and cafes, make Bourton-on-the-Water a popular destination for tourists and visitors.
Stow-on-the-Wold
This charming village is located at the top of the Cotswold hills, and is surrounded by rolling fields and beautiful countryside. Stow-on-the-Wold is home to a number of splendid historic buildings. Among them – the 17th-century Market Cross, the 15th-century Falcon Hotel, and the Church of St. Edward.
Broadway
This pretty village should be visited for its wide, tree-lined main street, which is filled with shops, galleries, and cafes. In Broadway you will discover a number of impressive manor houses and gardens, including Broadway Tower and Snowshill Manor.
Chipping Campden
This historic market town is located at the eastern end of the Cotswold Way, and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views. Chipping Campden is home to a number of historic buildings, including the medieval St. James’ Church, the 17th-century Market Hall, and the 14th-century Old Silk Mill.
Burford
This charming village is located on the River Windrush, and is known for its beautiful houses and gardens. Burford hosts many historic buildings, including the 15th-century Church of St. John the Baptist, the 17th-century Tolsey Museum, and the 15th-century Old Prison. The village is also a popular destination for antiques enthusiasts, with a number of shops and galleries that specialize in antiques and collectibles.
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
There are many great options for accommodation in the Cotswolds, depending on your budget, preferences, and the specific location that you are visiting. Here are a few suggestions for places to stay in the Cotswolds:
If you are looking for luxury accommodation, the Dormy House Hotel and Spa in Broadway is a great option. The hotel is located in a beautiful 17th-century building and offers a range of stylish rooms and suites, as well as a spa, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant that serves local produce.
If you are looking for more affordable options, try these ones:
The Wheatsheaf Inn: This stylish and modern hotel is located in the charming village of Northleach. With a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, the restaurant at The Wheatsheaf Inn serves up delicious meals made with produce from the hotel’s own kitchen garden.
The Slaughters Manor House: Located in the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter, this elegant manor house dates back to the 18th century. The hotel boasts beautifully decorated rooms, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant.
The King’s Head Inn: This historic inn is located in the heart of the Cotswolds in the village of Cirencester. The hotel offers a mix of traditional and modern rooms, as well as a popular restaurant and bar.
Can you eat good food in the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds is known for its excellent food and drink. The region is home to several excellent restaurants, pubs, and cafes that serve local produce and specialties. Also, the Cotswolds is known for its high-quality meats, cheeses, and ciders, which can be found in many local restaurants and pubs.
If you are looking for a fine dining experience, the Dormy House Hotel and Spa in Broadway offers a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves a modern British menu with a focus on local ingredients. The Lygon Arms in Broadway is another excellent option, with a restaurant that serves traditional British dishes and a selection of local ales and ciders.
For a more casual dining experience, the Wild Garlic in Nailsworth is a popular choice. The restaurant serves modern British cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
How far is the Cotswolds from London?
The distance from London to the Cotswolds varies depending on the exact location in the Cotswolds that you are visiting. The Cotswolds is a large region that stretches across several counties in southwestern England, so the distance from London will depend on which part of the Cotswolds you are traveling to.
As a general rule, the Cotswolds is located about 90 miles (145 kilometers) from London. This is a driving distance, and the actual travel time will depend on factors such as traffic and the route that you take. For example, if you are driving from London to Bourton-on-the-Water, which is one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds, the distance is approximately 90 miles (145 kilometers), and the journey time is about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
If you are traveling from London to the Cotswolds by public transportation, the distance and travel time will be slightly different. The nearest train station to the Cotswolds is Charlbury, which is located on the edge of the region. From Charlbury, you can take a bus or taxi to the various villages and towns in the Cotswolds. The journey from London to Charlbury by train takes about 2 hours, and the journey from Charlbury to the Cotswolds villages takes about 15-30 minutes.
Conclusion about a visit to the Cotswolds
In a wrap, the Cotswolds is a stunning region of England that offers something for everyone. From charming country pubs and grand manor houses to hip boutique hotels, there are plenty of places to visit in the Cotswolds and many options for a luxurious and relaxing stay. The Cotswolds are also home to a variety of attractions and activities, including beautiful gardens, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a weekend break or a longer stay, the Cotswolds are sure to impress with their charm and beauty.
Pin it!
You may also like: Best things to do in Malta. A visit to the island of the Templars
What a brilliant article!
I love how you’ve provided things to do AND where to stay and eat! Super helpful 🙂
Thank you!