Exploring the Cotswolds: A Journey Through England’s Most Picturesque Countryside
Nestled in the heart of England, the Cotswolds is a region of rolling hills, honey-colored stone villages, and timeless charm. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this idyllic countryside spans six counties—Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, and Somerset—offering visitors a perfect blend of history, nature, and quintessential English culture.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Cotswolds and its surrounding areas have something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best of this enchanting region.
1. Quintessential Cotswold Villages
Bibury – The Most Beautiful Village in England
Often called the most beautiful village in England, Bibury is famous for Arlington Row, a line of 17th-century weavers' cottages that look like they’ve been plucked from a storybook. The River Coln runs through the village, adding to its fairytale charm.
Bourton-on-the-Water – The Venice of the Cotswolds
With its low stone bridges spanning the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-visit. Don’t miss the Model Village, a 1/9th scale replica of the village itself, or the Cotswold Motoring Museum for vintage car enthusiasts.
Castle Combe – A Step Back in Time
Frequently used as a filming location (including War Horse and Downton Abbey), Castle Combe is a postcard-perfect village with no modern intrusions—just cobbled streets, a medieval market cross, and a charming pub, The Castle Inn.
2. Historic Market Towns
Stow-on-the-Wold – A Shopper’s Paradise
Known for its antique shops and bustling market square, Stow-on-the-Wold is the highest point in the Cotswolds. Visit St. Edward’s Church, where an ancient tree-framed door is said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Doors of Durin in The Lord of the Rings.
Cirencester – The Capital of the Cotswolds
Once a major Roman settlement, Cirencester boasts the Corinium Museum, showcasing fascinating Roman artifacts. The town’s Market Place and St. John the Baptist Church are also worth exploring.
Tetbury – Royal Connections
Famous for its Highgrove Estate (the private residence of King Charles III), Tetbury is a charming town with elegant Georgian architecture and excellent antique shops. The Market House in the town centre is a great spot for photos.
3. Stunning Gardens & Estates
Hidcote Manor Garden
One of England’s finest Arts & Crafts gardens, Hidcote is a masterpiece of outdoor design with themed "garden rooms" and vibrant floral displays.
Westonbirt Arboretum
A paradise for nature lovers, Westonbirt is home to one of the world’s finest tree collections. Visit in autumn for a breathtaking display of fiery colours.
Blenheim Palace (Nearby Oxfordshire)
Just outside the Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is a Baroque masterpiece, birthplace of Winston Churchill, and surrounded by stunning parkland.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Cotswold Way National Trail
For hikers, the 102-mile Cotswold Way offers breathtaking views, passing through historic sites like **Broadway Tower** and Sudeley Castle. Shorter walks, like the Broadway to Chipping Campden route, are equally rewarding.
Cotswold Water Park
A haven for watersports, cycling, and wildlife spotting, the Cotswold Water Park has over 150 lakes perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching.
5. Delicious Cotswold Cuisine
No visit is complete without indulging in local flavours:
- Afternoon Tea at The Lygon Arms (Broadway)
- Farm-to-table dining at The Wild Rabbit (Kingham)
- Traditional pub fare at The Swan Inn (Bibury)
- Cotswold cheeses and ales from local markets