14 Best Places In The Cotswolds You Should Visit
The Cotswolds is a place you’ll love visiting and exploring. Imagine rolling green hills, small charming villages, and an abundance of history. A single trip through the Cotswolds is to come back time and time again, visiting new beautiful villages and towns nestled in the area. I’m sure you’ll enjoy a trip to Cotswolds as the whole area is beautiful and breathtaking.
So without further ado, let’s start exploring The cotswolds…
Why is it called The Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds gets its name from the word “Cotswold”, which means “rolling hills”. The area is home to some of the most picturesque countryside in all of England.
What Areas Are In The Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds are made up of several different villages, all of which are equally charming. Some of these villages are:
Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire
Upper and Lower Slaughter merge at rivereye, one of the tributaries of the Windrush river. Both rich in beauty and history, the upper and lower slaughters are well known and both are mentioned in the 1086 Doomsday book.
Lower Slaughter is situated on a green grassy slope that leads to a lovely brook just four miles south of Stow-on-the-Wold. One millimetre from it stands Upper slaughter.
Stanton – Thatched Fabulousness
What is the best way to make village life better? Some say Stanton is arguably the prettiest village in the Cotswolds you can visit. Stanton is a parish in Gloucestershire’s Tewkesbury Borough and the village has a sleepy feel to it, especially in Shenberrow Hill with its narrow streets surrounded by a beautiful thatched cottage.
Visit the Mount Inn, a pub dating back to the 17th century and enjoy a post-walk, local beer while appreciating the sweeping views of the Welsh Mountain range and Malvern Hills. Art enthusiasts may find it useful to visit the Summer school program at Stanton Guildhouse, which offers specialist-guided courses in every aspect ranging from the fabrication and decoration of stained glass to woodturning and watercolor painting.
Minster Lovell, Oxfordshire
Lovell’s mission is to provide a romantic experience of extraordinary quality. A quiet village with babbling water, Minster Lovell is located on an idyllic riverbank. This delightful village has an enchanting charm and is worth a visit to take in the sights.
Thatched roofs covered by a white-painted stone surround homes lined with distinctive street names Cotswold. Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote were once the 15th century West Oxfordshire manor houses. Today the romantic ruin of the Hall tower and the dovecote is found in this serene area. Depending upon your bravery and whether the sunshine shines, the water provides good swimming spots in the summer months.
Burford, Oxfordshire
Burford has been dubbed the southern gateway into the Cotswolds. The street actually stands tall in the lovely Cotswold town — it sits on a hill. Lined with charming antique shops, boutiques, and cafés, it has spectacular scenery and ample opportunities to lighten the pocketbook.
Located halfway down the hill are the Tolsey museums. They’re situated in 16th-century buildings and were used by merchant traders to host meetings, and are located halfway down the hill. Inside you’ll find plenty of interesting facts about this town’s long history. In a broader context, the iconic church of the saint John Baptist is an important testament to the town’s rich and prosperous past.
Castle Combe, Wiltshire
Castle Combe is an outstanding place to visit within the Cotswolds countryside. Castlecombe is considered by several to be “ the prettiest village in England. When you’re here you’ll be surprised as to how it earned such a reputation, as well as the best spot in the top 100 of all Cotswold villages.
It’s surrounded by stone-covered and honey-coloured farmhouses. It also features 14th-century marketplaces.
Painswick, Gloucestershire
Painswick is surrounded by an impressive St Mary church, a medieval church dating to the 14th century. The church courtyard is adorned with tombs dating back to the 17th century, coupled with 99 perfectly maintained oak trees, provide a beautiful backdrop to take pictures and are an excellent source of inspiration. Painswick, once a Wooltown is just over seven miles south of Gloucester and is nick-named the Queen of the Cotswolds.
Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire
Stow-on-the-Wold is the largest village in the Cotswolds you could say that it’s a tiny city that is surrounded by quaint shops. It also offers the typical Cotswold stone farmhouses and sloping roofs which place it in the list of prettiest Cotswold villages.
Its centre is surrounded by an enormous square that hosts a market every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a fortnight till 12 p.m. St. Edwards Church is a great place to pay a visit and was built between the 10th- 15th century.
Snowhill, Gloucestershire
Lavender surrounds the small village of Snowshill, which is filled with amazingly beautiful scents. Another Cotswold beauty, the Snowshill streets contain tiny stone houses, adorable cafés, and unique retail stores. Most visitors come to this lovely town for its beautiful view over the Severn Valley.
If you can’t get enough of the fragrances filling the air, buy lavender at Hills Barn Farm. Visit in the summer so you can see the lavender blooming. Harvesting usually occurs from June through August.
Naunton, Gloucestershire
Naunton is ideal for those who enjoy solitary relaxation in beautiful settings. Bring some fun picnics and enjoy them in one of the gorgeous greens. Explore old streets lined by stone houses and historic buildings in this area. You can also stop by the Black Horse Inn for a Sunday roast.
Naunton isn’t plagued by popularity so you won’t have to battle crowds in other Cotswold towns. The lack of visitors allows for greater enjoyment in the splendour of this beautiful medieval town.
Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire
Chipping Campden is a popular Cotswold village. It’s also one of the larger villages and is a bonus for those of us who do not like driving down tiny roads in search of an unknown place.
Chipping Campden has an attractive stone market situated at its centre that dates back to its wool trading days. Alongside the streets that surround these markets are charming shops, excellent restaurants, and charming cottages, which make it a very attractive village in Cotswold countryside. You will find the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon tea at the Badger Hall Tea Room or Bantam Tea Room.
Cirencester, Gloucestershire
The Cotswold capital of the ancient city has been called the “Capital of the Cotwold”. Cirencester is a popular tourist resort. There will be several good hotels and a shopping center full of shops that range from chain shops and eclectic boutiques.
The church in Saint John is the best-known Anglican church in the city and one of the most impressive in medieval history. Visitors can take a guided tour for two days, from mid-May to October. Sometimes a climbing tower is available too.
Blockley – Glorious Gardens
The beautiful Blockley is framed on terraces in the valley of Knee Brook offering a glimpse into England’s medieval scenery.
Speckled with grassed sheep, the open grazing pastures in the valley opposite the town look much the same. In time, the woollen mills were converted for the production of silk, a legacy that will remain today in the village’s maze of pathways. Row after row of Cotswold quaintness in Blockley.
Blockley is a great place to visit if you’re interested in exploring English history. The village has several historic buildings, including the Church of St Michael and All Angels.
Bibury, Gloucestershire
Bibury is a peaceful, beautiful village situated along Coln’s banks. The quaint cottages, well-tended gardens, and the old Arlington Mill are dubbed the “most gorgeous town of England”. There is no way to get a poor picture of Costwold town. Arlington Row is a street you’ll probably never forget dotted with charming 16th-century weaving homes. A rolling mountain backdrop this beautiful landscape makes it the most picturesque spot in the country.
Bourton-on-the-Water – Venice Of The Cotswolds
The elegant 18th-century bridges cross a river that flows into Bourton-on-the water which has been named the Venice of the Cotswolds. While it certainly is an excellent place to visit in the Cotswolds, it also houses several attractions that will keep all the kids happy.
The hotel is an excellent location for a quick getaway with a private pool. No bridge is too far in Bourton-on-Water. Venice of the Cotswolds.
Lacock, Wiltshire
Lacock is known from the Saxon times and means small water. Bide Creek soaring in front of the town centre increases the charm of this charming hamlet of Cotswolds. Lacock National Trust manages Lacock with impressive preservation, with beautiful greenery perfectly manicured.
Therefore the town is an attractive place for films and broadcasts. You will find historical buildings and lovely streets a lot of times. The 13th-century Lacock Abbey is the best-known attraction in the village.
Stratford-Upon-Avon – Beauty And The Bard
When you visit Stratford-upon-Avon, you will probably be keen to take advantage of all the sights of Shakespeare. We’ll begin by suggesting visiting Bard’s birthplace in Henley Street. Next place Shakespeare’s life into context with an exploration of the Tudor World museum. In 1759, the house was destroyed but reconstructed for the visitors to follow Willy’s footsteps and artefacts about his life are being displayed at the adjacent Nash House.
Which Village Is The Most Popular?
Bibury is often referred to as the “most picturesque” village in England, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds. If you’re looking for a village that has it all – from charming cottages to quaint shops and tea rooms – Bibury is the place to go.
What Are Some Of The Best Things To Do In The Cotswolds?
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your visit to the Cotswolds. Here’s what should be part of your must-visit picks:
- Visit the Cotswold Wildlife Park: Home to over 260 different species of animals, the Cotswold Wildlife Park is a great place to spend a day.
- Take a stroll through Bibury Trout Farm: This farm has been in operation since the late 1800s and is one of the most popular attractions in Bibury.
- Explore Blockley village: This pretty village is home to several shops and cafes, as well as a number of historic buildings.
- Visit Chipping Campden: This medieval market town is full of half-timbered houses and quaint shops.
- Go for a hike in The Cotswolds: With over 200 miles of footpaths to explore, there’s no better place to get some fresh air than in The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Visit Castle Combe: A medieval castle that was once home to royalty including King Henry VIII and has been in situ for over 900 years. It’s also were lots of blockbusters, including War Horse were filmed.
What Are Some Of The Best Places To Eat In The Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds are home to a number of excellent fine dining restaurants and pubs, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to dining options. Here are some of our top picks:
- The Swan at Bibury: This Michelin-starred restaurant serves modern British cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. It’s helmed by chef Nathan Outlaw, who has been awarded five AA Rosettes.
- The Wheatsheaf Inn: This 16th-century inn is located in the village of Northleach and serves traditional British pub fare with a modern twist.
- Cotswold House Hotel & Spa: This hotel is located in the pretty town of Chipping Campden and offers a fine dining experience in its dining room restaurant. The menu features seasonal produce from the hotel’s kitchen garden.
- Soho Farmhouse: This members-only club is located on a working farm in Great Tew and offers several dining options, including a pizza oven, a grill, and a deli counter.
- The Wheatsheaf Inn: This 17th-century inn offers a menu of traditional pub food with a contemporary twist.
- The Wild Rabbit: Another Michelin-starred restaurant, The Wild Rabbit serves seasonal British dishes in a rustic setting.
- Painswick Restaurant: This award-winning restaurant is located in a 16th-century building and offers a menu of modern European cuisine.
Cotswolds Hotels
If you’re looking for a place to stay during your visit to the Cotswolds, there are plenty of great accommodation options to choose from:
The Manor House Hotel & Spa: This luxury hotel is located in Castle Combe and features an award-winning spa.
Dormy House Hotel & Spa: This country house hotel is located in the village of Broadway and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Soho Farmhouse: As mentioned before, this members-only club is located on a working farm and offers a number of different accommodation options, including cabins, cottages, and glamping tents.
- The Cotswold House Hotel & Spa: This hotel is located in the town of Chipping Campden and features elegant rooms with views of the surrounding countryside.
Barnsley House: This country house hotel is located in the village of Barnsley and offers an award-winning spa as well as a Michelin-starred restaurant.
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds is a great place to visit at any time of year. However, if you’re looking for the best weather, we recommend visiting between April and October. This is also when the flowers are in bloom and the weather is perfect for exploring everything this area has to offer.
The Cotswolds is a truly magical place and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting some of the amazing villages, towns, and attractions that this area has to offer. We hope you enjoyed our ultimate guide to including the Cotswolds and that you have a wonderful time during your visit!
