Best places to visit in The Cotswolds
Explore the best places to visit across The Cotswolds
Best places to visit in the Cotswolds
A timeless journey through England's Heartland
The Cotswolds, often considered the beating heart of the English countryside, stands as a tapestry of golden stone villages, rolling green meadows, and history that stretches back centuries. Its charm is unparalleled, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and meander through landscapes that seem to have leapt out of a classic British novel. For wanderers eager to capture the essence of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, here are the best places to visit in the Cotswolds.
1. Stow-on-the-wold
Situated atop a 800 ft hill, Stow-on-the-Wold is more than just a historic market town. With narrow alleyways which once saw herds of sheep driven through to its market, it’s a place where every nook has a tale to tell. Antique enthusiasts will be thrilled with the myriad shops that dot the town, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying a traditional English scone at one of its many tearooms, gazing out at the old town square.
2. Bourton-On-The-Water
This charming village is not just picturesque, it’s an experience. The calm River Windrush flows right through, with low-arched stone bridges offering crossing points, giving the village its ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ moniker. With attractions like the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Birdland Park & Gardens, it’s a fusion of nature, history, and art.
3. Chipping Camden
An architectural masterpiece, Chipping Campden has preserved its beauty and grandeur from the days of the wool merchants. The High Street, with its stretch of limestone terraced houses and Grevel’s House with its ornate architecture, are sights to behold. For a touch of culture, the annual Chipping Campden Music Festival is a must-attend.
4. Cirencester
Delve into Cirencester and you’re delving into the layers of England’s history. As a former Roman town, its Corinium Museum offers insights into its ancient past. Modern cafes and boutiques juxtapose against this historical backdrop, making it a vibrant hub. The grandeur of Cirencester Park and the town’s charming Parish Church are sights that shouldn’t be missed.
5. Broadway Tower
More than just a tower, this is an emblem of the Cotswolds. Standing at 65 feet high, Broadway Tower offers sweeping vistas of the English landscape. Rich in history, it has served as a beacon for artists and designers like William Morris, and today, it beckons travellers to witness the majesty of the Cotswolds from its vantage.
6. Bibury
Stepping into Bibury is like walking into a watercolour painting. The Arlington Row cottages, dating back to the 14th century, are a testament to timeless architecture. The trout farm and the serene River Coln add a touch of rustic charm to this idyllic village.
7. Sudeley Castle & Gardens
Beyond its captivating architecture, Sudeley Castle is steeped in royal history, once being home to Queen Katherine Parr. Its award-winning gardens bloom in a riot of colours, and the exhibitions within the castle provide a deep dive into England’s regal past.
