cotswolds best places to visit

The Cotswolds: The 20 Best Places To Visit

The Cotswolds epitomise the very best of the English countryside: gorgeous villages of honey-coloured stone nestling in the hills, surrounded by green fields that have been farmed for centuries.

Covering over 2,000 square kilometres and the second largest protected landscape in England, visitors to the Cotswolds will be spoilt for choice with things to see and do.

Here’s our list of twenty of the best places to enjoy if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in this beautiful part of the country.

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One of the principal towns in the Cotswolds, Burford sits on the River Windrush eighteen miles to the west of Oxford.

Its high street of golden stone buildings is typical of the area. Notable landmarks include the Grade I listed parish church of St John the Baptist, the beautiful Burford Priory and the 16th century Tolsey building, once a meeting place for medieval merchants and now home to a museum charting the town’s history.

Burford is a great location for shoppers, with a treasure trove of antiques shops and up-market boutiques. After flexing your credit card, why not take a break in one of its excellent restaurants and spend the night at a historic inn.

2. Castle Coombe

Not one of the more famous Cotswolds villages – which reduces the number of tourists – but one of the prettiest.

Castle Coombe is one of several Wiltshire villages in this list. It is divided into two main areas: the By Brook next to the river, and Upper Castle Coombe, on higher ground to the east.

The village has a collection of picturesque landmarks including a market cross, two water pumps and a parish church with what is reputed to be one of the oldest working clocks in England. There is also a luxury hotel and a golf course, and on the edge of the village something a little different – the Castle Combe racing circuit, where you can try out different vehicles or test the limits of your own.

3. Cirencester

Lying on the lower slopes of the Cotswold Hills, Cirencester is sometimes referred to as the “Capital of the Cotswolds”.  It has been an important town for centuries and the local Corinium museum traces its long history through artefacts including Anglo-Saxon gold, Roman mosaics and medieval sculptures.

Visitors with some time to spare should head west to Cirencester Park, the country house of Earl Bathurst, to view its collections of art and spectacular gardens. As well as the pleasant walks and grottoes, the park contains the tallest yew hedge in England. The million tons of clippings produced by its annual pruning are used in the manufacture of drugs to treat cancer.

4. Upper and Lower Slaughter

As well as having the most interesting names in the Cotswolds (Slaughter is actually derived from the ancient English word for muddy), Upper and Lower Slaughter are amongst the area’s most beautiful villages. They are also extremely old: they were mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086.

Both Slaughters lie on the banks of the tiny river Eye, a tributary of the Windrush. A ford crosses the water at its widest point and several stone footbridges connect the two sides of the communities. Amongst the historic buildings are the Old Mill at Lower Slaughter, now open to the public and housing a museum, tea room and gift shop. There is limited parking  in the villages, but they are easily reached on foot via a pleasant stroll from Bourton-on-the-Water.

5. Bourton-On-The-Water

As its name suggests, Bourton lies on a river, the Windrush, which meanders its way through the heart of the village flanked by long, wide greens. The several bridges which arch across the water have given Bourton its nickname of “The Venice of the Cotswolds”.

The river is at the heart of village life and provides the unlikely venue for an annual game of medieval football. Both the goals are placed in the river itself, making this the wettest  football match you’re ever likely to see. Year-round attractions include a one-ninth scale model of the village (complete with its own model village), the Cotswold Motoring Museum, and Birdland Park and Gardens, home to avian life from penguins through to parrots.

6. Chipping Norton

Fondly known as “Chippy” to the locals, Chipping Norton still runs much as it has since the 13th century. Unlike some of its neighbours it remains a ‘real’ town, not yet overshadowed by the demands of tourism.

There has been a market here since the 13th century, while the 15th century saw the town thrive with the profits of the wool trade. The great church of St Mary, with its richly decorated interiors, provides evidence of its former wealth and status.

Even older than the church and market are the Rollright Stones, an ancient megalithic stone circle just to the north of the village. The circle is comprised of three monuments known as the King’s Stone, the King’s Men and the Whispering Knights. Legend has it that a local witch petrified the king and his men when the king failed a challenge, and that the King’s Stone comes to life when the church clock strikes midnight.

7. Winchcombe

A haven for walkers, Winchcombe sits on no fewer than seven different long-distance footpaths: the Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire Way, Wychavon Way, Windrush Way, Warden’s Way, St Kenelm’s Way and St Kenelm’s Trail. Keen ramblers should visit in May when the town holds its annual walking festival.

For lovers of locomotives, Winchcombe also has a station on the restored heritage Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Nearby Sudeley Castle (shown above) with its nine beautiful gardens is well worth a visit, but check the website before you go: it remains a private residence and is only open to visitors at particular times of the year.

8. Broadway

Sometimes referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds”, Broadway’s pretty high street is lined with a variety of shops and cafés and is known as a centre for arts and antiques. Visitors planning to stay in the town will find a variety of accommodation, including the grand Lygon Arms, a historic inn dating back to the 17th century.

As well as plenty of places to eat and shop, Broadway offers two museums, the Ashmoleon and the Gordon Russell Museum, dedicated to the twentieth century furniture maker. Just outside the village the imposing Broadway Tower has a long and fascinating history. Used in its time as a beacon, a residence for famous artists, and a wartime look-out point, it is today open to visitors. Climb to the top to enjoy stunning views of the Cotswold scenery.

9. Moreton-in-Marsh

One of the Cotswold towns to be served by its own railway station, pretty Moreton-in-Marsh has a small high street lined with golden-coloured buildings. A handful of antiques, craft and gift shops are supplemented by several good cafés and hotels.

The nearby Batsford Arboretum houses England’s largest private collection of trees and shrubs, as well as glass and woodturning studios where visitors can observe the craftspeople at work. The venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including photography workshops and treasure hunts.

10. Stow-on-the-Wold

The small market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is thought to have originated as an Iron Age fort. In later centuries several fairs were established there and the large market square that still stands at its centre testifies to its former importance to regional trading.

Today, Stow has many fine antique shops, art galleries and crafts shops. A farmer’s market is held in the town square on the second Thursday of every month, and May and October see hundreds of visitors arrive for the Gypsy Horse Fair, held in open fields just ten minutes’ walk from the town centre.

The picture postcard village of Bibury lies on the banks of the river Coln in Gloucestershire. Named “the most beautiful village in England” by the famous designer and artist William Morris, perhaps Bibury’s most photographed cottages are those found at Arlington Row.  These were once the homes of weavers and wool was washed there before being taken to nearby Arlington Mill. In recent times they have been used as locations for television series and films including  Stardust and  Bridget Jones’s Diary.

This is a village to look at and enjoy. There is little in the way of amenities, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier spot to while away a quiet afternoon.

12. Cricklade

Everything you need to know about Cricklade can be summed up by the town’s Latin motto, i n loco delicioso -“in a pleasant place”.

Founded in the ninth century, today its main claim to fame is its large nature reserve, North Meadow. Here, the unique habitat formed by the regular winter flooding of the rivers Thames and Churn provides a home for eighty per cent of England’s snake’s head fritillaries – a pretty, purple flower which blooms in late April to early May.

In June, the annual Cricklade Festival welcomes thousands of visitors from across the region to enjoy a day of free entertainment including live music, dancers, magicians and puppet shows.

13. Tetbury

Tetbury’s history as an important market for the Cotswold wool and yarn trade has shaped one of those eccentric traditions beloved of English provincial life – the annual Tetbury Woolsack Races. Participants carry a 60 pound sack of wool up and down the steeply sloping Gumstool Hill to raise money for good causes. Visit on the last Monday of May to join the thousands of spectators cheering them on.

Both Charles, the Prince of Wales and Anne, the Princess Royal have estates near Tetbury. You can sample some of the produce from the former in the town’s own Highgrove Shop. Whilst in the town centre be sure to check out the historic market hall and the “Chipping Steps”, once home to a medieval jobs fair.

14. Malmesbury

The market of Malmesbury in Wiltshire lies in the southern reaches of the Cotswolds. It is perhaps best known for its ancient abbey which provides the resting place for Athelstan, grandson of Alfred the Great and the first king to rule the whole of England. The abbey guest house was constructed in 1220 and now houses The Old Bell, which claims to be the oldest hotel in the country.

The last two weeks of August see the Malmesbury carnival come to town, with the finale procession held on the first Saturday in September. Over thirty events take part around the carnival itself, including a recent attempt to break the world record for the largest pillow fight.

15. Stanton

Built almost completely of golden Cotswold stone, Stanton is considered to have some of the most distinguished architecture of any of the Cotswold villages. Its parish church, St Michael’s and All Angels, is a Grade I listed building with the oldest parts dating back to 1200. Other notable buildings include the Elizabethan Old Manor Farmhouse and Stanton Court, a manor house built early in the seventeenth century.

The 102 mile footpath, the Cotswold Way, runs through Stanton. Visitors climbing the steep hill from the village to the Mount Inn will be rewarded with a real fire in winter and spectacular views from the terrace in summer.

16. Cheltenham

Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, the elegant Regency town of Cheltenham has been a spa resort ever since its mineral springs were discovered in 1716.

The town is a great destination for culture vultures. Its main museum and art gallery, the Wilson, hosts regular exhibitions and events throughout the year, while music lovers can sample from three regular festivals – the Cheltenham Music Festival, Jazz Festival and the somewhat more niche Ukelele Festival of Great Britain.

For sports lovers, the Cheltenham Cricket Festival features Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, whilst March sees Cheltenham Racecourse host yet another Cheltenham Festival, the National Hunt horseracing meeting.

17. Chipping Campden

Another of the Cotswold towns to have a rich history in the wool trade, today Chipping Campden is a popular destination for tourists looking to sample its independent shops, cafés and restaurants. Cultural attractions include a literary and music festival, while there are many pleasant walks through the town and surrounding countryside.

Chipping Campden has hosted the annual Olimpick Games since 1612, with sports including the painful skin-kicking, the destructive piano smashing, and the inexplicable “dwile flonking”, involving two teams of dancers and a wet rag. Fireworks, a torch-lit procession and dancing mark the end of the festivities, which take place on the Friday after the Spring Bank Holiday.

18. Northleach

Founded in the eighth century, the small market town of Northleach near Cheltenham has  a population of fewer than 2,000 people. The compact town centre has changed little in over 500 years: small alleys lined with half-timbered houses lead off the marketplace, and it is rumoured that a maze of tunnels and vaults lie beneath the streets.

Most of the shops in Northleach are independently owned and offer everything from bread and cakes to dolls houses and music boxes. Visitors looking to extend their stay will find a good selection of accommodation, pubs and restaurants.

19. Snowshill

The tiny village of Snowshill, with its fewer than 200 inhabitants, makes up for in beauty what it lacks in size. It is also one of the most fragrant of the Cotswold villages, home to 35 acres of lavender fields at Snowshill Lavender. Visitors to the farm can purchase lavender products, plants and local crafts.

Just outside the village lies Snowshill Manor, built in the 16th century and now owned by the National Trust. Built in Cotswold stone, it is notable for housing the collection of one of  its former owners, Charles Paget Wade. Wade’s tastes were nothing if not eclectic, and visitors can view objects including alarm clocks, toys, musical instruments and 26 sets of Japanese samurai armour.

Our list closes with something a little different…

The otherwise unassuming town of Bladon is notable for one reason: it is the resting place of probably the most famous Englishman of the past 100 years, wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Generations of Churchills lie in the small churchyard of St Martin’s. Winston’s wife, Clementine, who died twelve years after her husband is buried in the same grave.

Now that we’ve whet your appetite for the Cotswolds, why not take a look at our gallery of ten stunning Cotswolds cottages.

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10 of the best things to do in the Cotswolds

Dec 12, 2023 • 7 min read

Explore the Cotswolds, a region filled with natural beauty, quaint villages and quintessentially English charm © Imgorthand / Getty Images

Say “English countryside” and the Cotswolds might come to mind immediately. And with good reason.

Stretching from Stratford-upon-Avon in the north to Bath in the south, the Cotswolds features landscapes you'd see in Romantic paintings, quaint towns and villages built from honey-colored stone, world-class dining and amazing produce (that is to say, lots of cheese). 

Add in landscaped gardens and pretty canals, and it’s no wonder the Cotswolds is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England . Here is our list of the best things to do in the Cotswolds.

1. Explore old towns like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bibury

The many villages in the Cotswolds might best express the region’s beauty and charm.

Once a bustling center of the wool trade, Stow-on-the-Wold is now a treasure trove of antique shops, trendy galleries and independent retailers. When you’re done perusing these offerings, go on the hunt for the mystical door at St Edwards Church. This portal is nestled between two ancient yew trees, with a lantern hanging above: no wonder that many say it was this that inspired Tolkien’s “Doors of Durin” in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. 

For the pinnacle of Cotswolds cottages, head to the village of Bibury’s Arlington Row . The rustic two-story limestone buildings here were built in the 14th century, and it's a very popular spot for snapping a photograph. Get your shots from a respectful distance, as the quaint buildings are privately owned homes.

Detour: Hungering for more lovely backdrops? Bourton-on-the-Water sits on the River Windrush on the way to Bibury from Stow-on-the-Wold, and it offers ample opportunities for waterside selfies. Nature lovers can detour to Birdland Park and Gardens just down the road.

2. Wander around Abbey House Gardens

As you might expect in England’s oldest town, the privately owned Abbey House Gardens in Malmesbury brims with charm. Stroll past the house itself (as beautiful as it is) to enter an almost Alice in Wonderland –esque backyard.

Carefully trimmed hedges, grass-carpeted walkways and colorful rose bushes make for a delightful afternoon stroll. Refresh at Coy Carp Café, where tea and lunch are served next to a peaceful koi carp pond. The annual British Naturism “Clothing Optional” day, when nudists flock to the gardens, might be one to mark on your calendar – or avoid altogether.

3. Tour the Roman Baths in Bath

Receiving over 1.3 million visitors annually, the stunning Roman Baths in the city of Bath are a must-do in this region. They consist of four main preserved features – the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House, and a museum holding objects from Aquae Sulis, the Roman settlement – with the latter two open for tours. While taking a dip in the thermal waters is unfortunately prohibited, you can take a sip from the springs – although the mineral-y water is definitely an acquired taste.

If you do want to take Bath’s curative waters, visit the famous Thermae Bath Spa  around the corner, which is known for its rooftop pool and beauty treatments. Or consider splurging on a stay at the stunning Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel , which has its own thermal spa and treatment rooms on site. 

Planning tip: Plan on spending 1–2 hours visiting the Roman Baths, longer if you're an audio guide completionist (we recommend the "Bryson at the Baths" audio tour for writer Bill Bryson's humorous take on Roman life). To avoid crowds, skip weekends and July and August.

4. Pick your own at Hayles Fruit Farm

Near the market town of Winchcombe you’ll find Hayles Fruit Farm , a family-owned affair that dates to 1880. What was once a simple apple and cobnut (hazelnut) orchard now abounds with colorful riots of plums, raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries, pears and more.

Planning tip: Depending on the season, the farm lets you pick your own fruit: come May to September for fresh strawberries, or August to October for apples. Camping and fishing are also offered onsite.

5. Walk the paths of Westonbirt, the National Arboretum

Strollers delight in Westonbirt Arboretum , a magical estate with over 15,000 specimens, including 2500 different tree species and five national tree collections. Look out for the Gruffalo and other characters from the children’s book scattered throughout the grounds.

This 19th-century garden occupies some 600 acres adjacent to Prince Charles’ Highgrove Estate (the princely manor is, alas, obscured by trees). Westonbirt Arboretum has two parts: the Old Arboretum is a meticulous composition of avenues lined by exotic trees, while Silk Wood remains mostly traditional woodland. If the winding trails through all the trees and shrubbery don’t give you enough of a thrill, try the 300m (984ft) treetop walkway instead.

Planning tip: The grounds are open for tours and afternoon teas from April to October: combine the two for a wonderfully full day. 

6. Enjoy tea at a traditional tearoom

Care for a cuppa? The Cotswolds is the perfect place to find a traditional English tearoom. Slow down the weekend with a classic combination of scones, jam and heart-warming teas.

The picturesque 17th-century Tisanes Tea Room in Broadway is the ideal setting to enjoy a traditional menu of ham sandwiches and over 30 varieties of tea.  Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House , in Bath’s oldest house (c. 1483), is another famous tearoom. Here, you shouldn’t miss the famous Sally Lunn Bun, a large golden bun similar to French brioche.

7. Browse local independent shops

Chain stores are happily rare in the Cotswolds, and you’re more likely to run into a boutique shop than a Marks & Spencer. 

Located between Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton, the  Daylesford Organic  farm shop is famous for its super-fresh farm-to-fork produce, especially dairy products. An onsite cooking school and craft workshop, plus a wellness spa, is sure to be enough to fill a day on the farm.

With a menu of over 50 varieties, the aromatic  Cotswold Cheese Company is well worth a visit. Three locations (Burford, Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold) ensure there’s ample opportunity to fit a stop for cheese into any busy travel itinerary. 

Curated by the former fashion director of Barneys New York, Cutter Brooks in Stow-on-the-Wold stocks a well-curated array of dresses, linens and homeware by independent designers, all chosen with impeccable taste.

8. Start your engine at the Cotswold Motoring Museum

Their engines may not purr anymore, but the cars of the Cotswold Motoring Museum  gleam with vintage glory. Visit for a fascinating look at motoring history through an irresistible collection of vehicles, toys and memorabilia.

The collection is housed in a converted 17th-century water mill, and features several showrooms across 7500 sq ft of exhibition space. Check out the “Windrush Alley” exhibit, a chance to see how boneshakers and penny-farthing bikes once shared the roads with horse-drawn carriages and cars in the late 19th century, a transitional era of transport.

At “Jack Lake’s Garage,” you can interact with an interpreter playing a working mechanic and garage proprietor from the Cotswolds in the early 1900s. Learn how the car industry grew from nothing to over 20 million cars on the road in his lifetime, and how this affected him. 

9. Encounter exotic animals at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Giraffes, baby rhinos, cheetahs and a family of raccoons are just some inhabitants of the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens , where lawns and green areas have been turned into a habitat for 260 species of animals. The result is sure to be a hit with families.

You can easily spend hours at this Cotswolds stop, starting with a cozy train ride around the park. Follow up by acting as a keeper for a day (age 17 years or older), then maybe even "adopting" your own animal. You can also wander the glorious landscaped gardens that surround the Victorian Manor House – perfect for a romantic stroll, or for the kids to let off some steam.

10. Soak up the history of Blenheim Palace

The only non-royal country house in England with the title of palace, Blenheim Palace is another of the Cotswolds’ unique attractions.

The current home of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, this extravagant  Oxfordshire property is where Winston Churchill was born. Backing onto a lake and surrounded with verdant, trimmed lawns, it’s a wonderful place to stroll and explore.

Events, such as the Salon Privé auto show are often hosted at the estate. When Christmas lights illuminate the festively decorated trails, you can see just why it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated December 2023

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30 Best Places in the Cotswolds To Visit – Don’t Miss No. 9!

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Wondering where to go in the C otswolds ? With its scenic walks, picturesque villages, quaint tea shops and bags of history, it’s little wonder travellers flock from far and wide to soak up this little patch of heaven in Southern England . In this guide, I’m going to share all the best places to visit in the Cotswold to help you plan the perfect trip.

COTSWOLDS ESSENTIALS Rough Guides The Cotswolds Accommodation:  Booking.com Car hire – Rentalcars.com

Cotswolds places to visit – handy map

The Cotswolds is an area surrounded by the Cotswolds Hills. It spans Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, South Warwickshire and Somerset. It reaches Bath , Cheltenham and almost to Oxford . Driving from one end to the other would take two hours but you could spend weeks spotting all the famous attractions along the way. Driving from London to the Cotswolds takes around two hours.

To get a better idea, see this map of the best Cotswold destinations:

This post is designed to give you inspo about some of the beautiful places to go in the Cotswolds but if you’re looking for itineraries and how to plan a trip, head over to my Cotswold weekend itinerary . If you’re on a tight schedule check out my Cotswold day trip itinerary . For the most idyllic locations, read my guide to the 20 most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds !

Best places to go in the Cotswolds

With no further ado, here are the most beautiful places in the Cotswolds including towns, villages, stately houses, gardens, landmarks and other points of interest. From hidden UK gems to major tourist attractions, here are the highlights…

1. Arlington Row

This adorable row of Cotswold cottages dates back to the 1300s. They were originally built for the storage of wool belonging to the nearby monastery but, several centuries later, were converted into homes for the weavers. They’re still lived in by locals today (who I doubt still work in weaving) apart from Number 9 which can be booked as a holiday cottage. You can book on the National trust website from £800pn (ouch!). Fun facts about Arlington Row :

• The Arlington Row houses feature in British passports alongside Big Ben and the White Cliffs of Dover. Weirdly, they’re painted blue in the image. As you can see here, they’re definitely not blue.
• Apparently, a resident with a bright yellow sports car was pressured into getting rid of it because it was spoiling peoples’ photos!

Arlington Row puts Bibury on the map but don’t just snap the pretty cottages and leave. Quaint Bibury is a beautiful Cotswold destination in its own right, described by William Morris as the most beautiful village in all of England.

When in Bibury, make a stop at William Morris Tea Room filled with quirky clutter and homemade cakes. Other things to do in Bibury include crossing the River Coln by footbridge, seeing wildlife in the National Trust Wildfowl Reserve and sampling local delicacy, trout, at Bibury Trout Farm.

Another of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds is Tetbury, a civil parish with 1,300 years of history built on the site of an ancient hill fort. Tetbury is known for its antique shops and bizarre emblem of a dolphin (apparently – it looks more like an evil sea monster to me!). These quirky decorations can be found dotted around the town.

Tetbury is a short drive from Highgrove House & Gardens, the official residence of Princes Charles.

Read next: Things to do in Tetbury

4. Moreton-in-Marsh

Pretty Moreton-in-Marsh is one of the best places to go in the Cotswolds because you can experience all the charm of the region yet it’s never as crowded as Bourton-on-the-Water. With over 1,000 years of history dating back to Saxon times, Moreton is brimming with history: you can still see the building where King Charles I hid during the Civil War. Don’t miss the Curfew Tower with its original clock and bell as well as Redesdale Hall holding regular antique markets. After a couple of hours on your feet, stop at cute tea shops including The Marshmallow .  You won’t find anywhere more picturesque than this cafe, or anywhere with better cakes! For a luxurious place to stay, check out the White Heart Royal for £200pn . This 4* star hotel is inside an old 17th-century coaching inn. For the best place to stay on a budget, the Swan Inn has rooms from £80 .

Tip – if you don’t want to drive, Moreton is one of the easiest places to reach by train. From there, you can book on a Cotswolds day tour .

5. Chipping Campden

Between Moreton-in-Marsh and Broadway is Chipping Campden , a quaint market town in the Cotswolds with buckets of history and buildings made of golden Cotswold stone. Nearby is Hidcote Manor Gardens, known as one of the UK’s best ‘arts and crafts gardens’ with rooms of manicured hedges and landscaped gardens. In Chipping Campden, you can learn about the history of the region through crafts and paintings at The Court Barn , and silk goods at the Silk Mill . There are plenty of places to stay in Chipping Campden .

6. Broad Campden

En route to Chipping Campden, you’ll likely drive through Broad Campden. Although there’s not much to do in this tiny settlement, it’s one of the prettiest places in the Cotswolds, in my humble opinion. Pay a visit to St Michael & All Angels Church and admire what the locals have done with their gardens. The topiary is something else!

7. Chastleton House

This Grade I listed building is just 10 minutes from popular Moreton-in-Marsh. You can go inside the 400-year-old house, wander the gardens or just view it from outside (which I did as I’m cheap). It’s one of the best places in the Cotswolds for a combination of grandeur and rolling countryside. House and garden entry costs £10.50 per adult.

8. Cirencester

Although it’s not as idyllic as some Cotswolds spots, don’t overlook Cirencester. With 20,000 residents, it’s known as the ‘capital of the Cotswolds’. You could consider basing here for the varied, affordable accommodation options. Visit the many Cirencester pubs, boutique shops, galleries, the Corinium Museum, take a walk along the Thames Path, and try your hand at watersports at Cotswold Waterpark.

9. Cotswold Lavender

How stunning are these lavender fields? This is THE most beautiful place in the Cotswolds between June and August! Entry to the lavender fields is £7 and you can visit between June and early August. The very best time to visit Cotswolds Lavender is early to mid-July when the lavender stretches as far as the eye can see. There’s also a cafe on-site and a gift shop where you can purchase every lavender-related product under the sun. Afterwards, pop in at Snowshill, another gorgeous village known for Snowshill Manor and Gardens.

10. Winchcombe

This small settlement six miles from Cheltenham has a long history and several points of interest. It’s thought that the body of Saxon King Offa’s murdered son was hidden here, and that a note from heaven was received by the Pope alerting him to its whereabouts. As a result, the body was enshrined in the Winchcombe Abbey which became a pilgrimage site, bringing money and notoriety to the area. Today, you can learn about the history at Winchcombe Museum and tour the churches (St Peter’s and Saint Nicholas). For food and drink, don’t miss The Corner Cupboard and Food Fanatics , a luxury groceries and cafe. Finally, stroll along Vineyard Street, one of the prettiest areas of Winchcombe. The name dates back to when tobacco plants were grown here after the decline in the wool trade.

11. Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is probably the   most popular place to visit in the Cotswolds. I haven’t personally been here in a while as it’s SO crowded at weekends. Still, it’s a must-see place in the Cotswolds so take my advice: swing by early then escape to quieter corners of the Cotswolds. Walk the tiny bridges over the shallow rivers that trickle through town, then indulge in the trinket shops and cafes. I like  Bakery on the Water where you can grab a tasty lunch for a fraction of the gastropub prices. Other things to do include admiring Bourton in miniature format at the Model Village, seeing more than 500 species of bird at Birdland and having a pint at the Cotswolds Brewing Company. For a luxurious place to stay in the centre of town, choose the  Dialhouse (£250pn ) . For a budget option, stay at Old Manse Hotel (£70pn) .

12. Burford

Towards the Oxfordshire side of the Cotswolds (east), pretty Burford is a real gem. A busy road runs through the main street of Burford so it isn’t the most beautiful Cotswold town in terms of location – but the attractive buildings more than make up for it. You can easily escape the traffic in the cosy cafes or go walking in the surrounding countryside. There are some fantastic walks in Oxfordshire which aren’t too far from the Cotswolds. Tip for visiting Burford: get your fill of English tea and cake at Huffkins !

Read next: things to do in Burford

13. Minster Lovell ruins

Right on the edge of the Cotswolds beside large town, Witney, is this impressive set of 15th-century ruins. Belonging to the seventh Lord Lovell, these ancient ruins have an ominous history. Francis Lovell seemed to disappear without trace, puzzling historians, but in the 18th century, it was rumoured that an underground vault was discovered below the ruins. Word has it that in the room was found a skeleton sat at a desk surrounded by paper and pens. No one has found the vault since it was mentioned in 18th-century documents, so his fate remains a mystery! The ruins are free to visit. There’s parking at the end of the lane leading to the ruins. Pretty Minster Lovell village is also worth a wander.

The tiny village of Lacock in the southern Cotswolds is regularly used as a filming location for period dramas because it’s so quaint and picturesque with almost nothing pointing to the modern-day. Clear away the cars and you really could be in the 1800s! Lacock has a few Cotswold must-sees for TV and movie buffs. Spot scenes from Downtown Abbey and the Other Boleyn Girl , as well as Harry Potter’s parent’s house from a flashback scene in The Philosopher’s Stone .

15. Lacock Abbey

While Lacock village is indeed beautiful, it’s Lacock Abbey that draws the crowds. With more than 800 years of history, it’s a fantastic place in the Cotswolds for history buffs. Founded in the 13th century by the Countess of Salisbury as a nunnery, it was also once the home of William Henry Fox Talbot who helped invent parts of the photography process. Now you can visit an exhibition on photography and its history or simply stroll the grand grounds. If you’re into Harry Potter, there’s an extra reason to visit Lacock Abbey. There are several Harry Potter filming locations at Lacock Abbey . Don’t miss the grand cloisters (shaded corridors with large windows looking onto grassy quads) and enclave rooms that served as Snape’s Potions classroom and Quirrell’s Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. Entry to Lacock Abbey is £10 or free for National Trust members.

16. Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold is another Cotswold town with gorgeous tearooms and country pubs. This medieval settlement has an atmospheric Market Square with original stocks and an ancient cross, while St Edward’s Church has become quite the photo spot due to the tree roots growing around the doors. While visiting Stow, don’t miss the many tearooms. The Old Bakery Tearoom and Lucy’s Tearoom are both known for their freshly-baked cakes and traditional English dishes. While in Stow, you can also browse the many antique shops as well as Fosse Gallery. Stay in the Porch House, the oldest inn in Britain, for £130pn .

17. Broadway

Broadway is one of the bigger villages in the Cotswolds, located within Worcestershire. It has 2,500 residents and plenty of pubs, shops and cafes. Browse the art galleries, visit a few antique shops and stop for a decadent meal at Russels of Broadway. If you’re travelling Britain on a budget and fancy hearty local cuisine, grab lunch at Russell’s Fish & Chips instead. Check out the Lodge Broadway , one of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds.

18. Broadway Tower

Just five minutes’ drive from Broadway lies Broadway Tower. The bird’s-eye view from the top is unrivalled at 312 metres above sea level. There’s also a cosy cafe once you’ve climbed the tower and explored the surrounding countryside. Another thing to do is discover the past during a bunker tour of Broadway Tower.

19. Upper Slaughter

Not far from Stow-on-the-Wold is a village called Upper Slaughter. For the ultimate picnic spot, nab the bench at the top of the hill. It’s one of the quieter places to go in the Cotswolds, perfect for escaping the weekend crowds. For me, it brings back childhood memories of paddling in the brook at the bottom.

Read next: things to do in Upper Sla ughter

20. Lower Slaughter

Down the hill from Upper Slaughter is creatively named Lower Slaughter. Both the slaughters names’ originate from the word slough which means ‘muddy place’. Luckily on a sunny day, there’s no mud to be seen, just a picturesque Cotswold village with pretty bridges crossing the steam. There’s more to do in Lower Slaughter than Upper including drinking in the garden of the Slaughters Country Inn . The streams and bridges create a Bourton-on-the-Water vibe but with fewer crowds – phew!

21. Kingham

If you visit the Cotswolds by public transport, Kingham is one of your best points of interest. The train from Paddington takes just 1.5 hours. Kingham is a pretty village surrounded by lovely countryside. One of the highlights for foodies is the White Rabbit , a Michelin-starred pub serving gourmet European cuisine.

22. Daylesford Organic

Just outside of Kingham is this garden centre and organic kitchen. Even though spending a day at a garden centre wouldn’t usually be my cup of tea, visiting Daylesford is a real experience. Not only are there various fancy shops to browse, but there’s a coffee and Prosecco bar, a dining area, cookery school and floristry events. Even though the prices may make you wince (£7 yoghurt, anyone?), it’s an entertaining place to visit. Locals come dressed to the nines to sip Prosecco and browse the goods on offer.

23. Castle Combe

Down in the county of Wiltshire, you’ll find another of the most beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds. Castle Combe is so picturesque it hardly looks real. The old-fashioned houses and little bridges built for horses and carts have hardly changed in centuries. There are just over 300 locals so during summer weekends the tourists outnumber them. Aside from wandering the peaceful streets, other things to do in Castle Combe include eating and drinking at the country pubs and cafes. Visit Michelin-starred restaurant, the Bybrook, enjoy tea and cake at the Old Stables or go for decadent afternoon tea at Rectory Tearoom .

24. Painswick (the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’)

Located on the west side of the Cotswolds near Stroud is Painswick, often called ‘the Queen of the Cotswolds’ due to its traditional architecture and picturesque scenery. Visit St Mary’s Church and wander the paths lined with yew trees. Rumour has it that 99 yew trees were planted but the locals believed the devil would destroy the 100th if ever it was planted. The church officials went ahead and – indeed – a few years later, one tree toppled due to floods. Whether it was down to the curse or a coincidence, we can’t be sure! There’s not a huge amount to do in Painswick but wandering the streets and admiring the scenery is enough. Check out the Loovre Gallery inside a refurbished public toilet! Hikers visiting the Cotswolds can make the most of the many walks near Painswick , one of which I’ll mention in a moment.

25. Rococo Gardens

Fans of historical gardens will enjoy visiting the Rococo Garden near Painswick, an impressive 18th-century garden with distinctive ornamental buildings. The surroundings are so visually appealing, it’s even been voted one of the best 50 wedding venues in the UK… If you have a small fortune to splash, of course! Seasonal events take place at the Rococo Gardens including art exhibitions for adults and discovery trails for children. There’s a fancy gift shop selling all kinds of flower-themed bath products and goodies, and a cafe with a huge range of teas and cakes. Entrance is £9.30 for adults and £4.25 for children.

26. Slad Valley

After visiting Painswick, take a 10-minute drive to the majestic Slad Valley. Of all the places in the Cotswolds I’ve visited, it boasts the most impressive scenery. This area in the west Cotswolds is intertwined with local author, Laurie Lee, who set his famous novel, Cider with Rosie in the region. Take a hike in the sweeping valley between Painswick and Stroud, along the Laurie Lee trail. Follow signposts engraved with chapters of his book. Finally, stop in Slad village for a pint at the Woolpack Inn . There’s a stained glass window dedicated to Lee and you can even see the chair where he used to sit.

27. Sheepscombe

It may not be the biggest or most exciting place in the Cotswolds but if you visit the Slad Valley, take a quick drive through Sheepscombe before heading home. This hilly village set on several levels is full of beautiful Cotswold cottages. At the heart of the village is St. John the Apostle Church and a small war memorial. As well as being only 1.5 miles from Painswick, it’s 6 miles from both Stroud and Gloucester.

27. Gloucester

Although the city of Gloucester is just outside of the Cotswolds, many parts of Gloucestershire fall within the region so you may pass through as a pitstop. By far the most impressive feature of Gloucester is the majestic Gloucester Cathedral. With 1,300 years of history and some impressive Harry Potter filming locations , it’ll blow you away. Gloucester city centre isn’t so impressive and parts feel quite rundown. I prefer nearby Cheltenham. However, one worthwhile area to visit is Gloucester Docks where there are lots of restaurants and cafes with impressive views.

At the meeting point of the Five Valleys lies Stroud, a pleasant market town surrounded by quaint Cotswold villages. Alongside scenery and walking opportunities, there are a few fun things to do in Stroud. Follow the historical trail spotting monuments around the town, purchase fresh produce at the Shambles Market, or take a 3.5-mile walk in nearby Woodchester Park (run by the National Trust).

30. Cotswolds walks and hikes

If you’re looking for gorgeous places to visit in the Cotswolds, don’t overlook the rolling countryside. There are plenty of walking trails in the Cotswolds , a few of the best being:

• The Cotswold Way – this 100-mile route from Bath to Chipping Campden takes 10 days. Maybe it’s not the one for a weekend trip but I hear it’s glorious with countless tearooms and country pubs along the way.
• Rollright Stones Walk – this 8km hike along a section of the Shakespeare Way departs Chipping Norton and arrives at these mysterious stones within a sweeping valley.
• Windrush Way – this 13.5 mile circular trail can be done in a day if you’re feeling energetic. Pass Sudeley Castle and Westfield House on your journey from Winchcombe to Bourton-on-the-Water.

Don’t miss my pretty Cotswold villages blog and my tried-and-tested Cotswolds weekend itinerary !

Thanks for checking out these Cotswolds places to visit!

I hope these beautiful places in the Cotswolds have provided you with some travel inspo! They’re all gorgeous spots so whichever you pick, you’re going to have a fantastic time. If you have any questions, shoot me them in the comments.

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

If you’re looking for England inspo, check out some of my other posts:

• Backpacking the UK and budget tips
• How to spend a weekend in the Cotswolds
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• The best walks in Oxfordshire
• Wittenham Clumps walk in Oxfordshire
• My London archives
• How to spend a weekend in Bristol
• How to spend a weekend in Norfolk
• The ultimate day trip to Brighton
• How to spend a weekend in Manchester
• The perfect weekend in Dorset
• 2 day Lake District itinerary
• The perfect Margate day trip from London
• Things to do in Liverpool in winter

See you next time for more adventures,

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING THE UK Getting there & around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices with other modes of transport. For buses , I use busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Pack the latest copy of Lonely Planet UK . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . See all my suggestions on my resources page .

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

9 thoughts on “ 30 Best Places in the Cotswolds To Visit – Don’t Miss No. 9! ”

I always love posts like these. It’s usually hard to find top destinations for places in Europe. Especially places that would be suitable for a weekend trip. I didn’t know much about the Cotswolds, but if I ever visit I know which post to consult. Thanks!

Your post brought back so many memories. I lived in England for 3 years and the Cotswolds was one of our favourite places. We loved Bourton-on-the-water and my hubby deems the fish and chips there the best he’s had in all of the UK! We also LOVED Bibury and the Broadway tower 🙂 I would love to go back and enjoy another afternoon tea among the charming buildings 🙂

Great photos – they make me home sick after emigrating from the UK for 6 years. I have fond memories of visiting the Cotswolds to stay with family as a child.

The Cotswolds has been on staycation list forever but still haven’t made time to visit. This post is seriously making me want to road trip there soon (and also re-watch Bridget Jones’ Diary – haha).

OMG! I’ve been wanting to visit the Cotswolds for a while now and this is pushing me even more! Love the view of Castle Combe, the photographer in me got chills. And the cozy little Inn with the fireplace, ugh, love it all!

Completely agree that we rarely explore what’s on our doostep in favour of further afield! 25 countries later and I’ve still not seen any of the Scottish Islands despite being Scottish! Your photos are like something from a fairytale and everything you imagine English countryside to be – definitely adding to the bucketlist!

Thank you for featuring Chipping Campden in your review, we are so lucky to live and work here.

lovely write up. I want to take a ay tour for photo stops only at these places. Can you guide me as to which travels can cover these. I only have a day in London. 1.Burford . 2, burton on water. 3.Lower slaughters.4. Arlington row, 5. casle combe is a must. 6. if possible St Edwards & the yew trees.

Hi Banumathi! Thanks for reading and commenting; i hope you get all your pics! I am not sure off the top of my head but if you are short of time, I would recommend a tour with GetYourGuide or Viator. Their itineraries should give you the info!

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20 Stunning, Drool-Worthy Places to Visit in the Cotswolds!

Last Updated: August 11, 2022

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Looking for a list of the most beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds ? Look no further… Below you’ll find a detailed roundup of my favourite Cotswolds towns, villages, and attractions. Enjoy!

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated with the little part of England we know as the Cotswolds.

With its buttery limestone buildings wedged into rolling green hills, the Cotswolds are an irritatingly wonderful piece of the world with  everything this silly Canadian girl dreamt England would be – charming cottages, adorable pubs, and enough ahh-worthy sights to keep you drooling for weeks on end.

I’ve had the pleasure of road tripping around the Cotswolds twice now, along the way adding many new spots to my ‘retire here with 15 dogs’ list.

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And so, I figured it was finally time to round up some of my most delightful finds around the Cotswolds for you! You know, in case you, too, want ideas on where to retire with 15 dogs.

There really are countless incredible places to visit and fun things to do in the Cotswolds, whether you’re after a quiet escape in the countryside or a more vibrant getaway with fun attractions and activities. The question of “which Cotswold village is best” really depends on a lot of factors, so I’ve decided to cover all the bases.

Below, you’ll find my favourite places to visit in the Cotswolds –a Cotswold bucket list with everything from vibrant and exciting hot spots to sleepy and picturesque escapes. Enjoy!

PS: Click here for a full list of beautiful places to visit around England !

The Best Places in the Cotswolds for a Vibrant and Lively Escape

I’m a bit of a restless traveller, so my preferred getaway is a place that not only offers swoonworthy landscapes and sights, but also opportunities for fun and interesting things to do .

The following places in the Cotswolds are ones I felt had the best of both worlds: scenic views along with plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and more.

1. Cirencester

Confusingly pronounced as Siren-sester, this beautiful Cotswold town is known as the Cotswolds’ capital, and one of my favourite places to visit (and eat) in the area.

Despite its status as capital, Cirencester feels far less crowded than some of the smaller villages in the Cotswolds, which get congested with coach tours throughout the day.

This means that you’re able to explore more or less in peace, with plenty to see around its warm colourful streets as you gallivant and salivate.

One of the best things to do in the Cotswolds is to simply walk around and enjoy the atmosphere, so eager explorers will also be happy to know that the town is filled with hidden courtyards crammed with adorable boutiques, cafes, and independent retailers, along with The Church of St John the Baptist, by far the most beautiful church I’ve visited in the Cotswolds.

Don’t miss its wide range of interesting artifacts on display, like a golden goblet crafted for Anne Bolelyn.

Of course, I have to mention that Cirencester harbours a special little secret too: a rich Roman history which you can trace at the Corinium Museum, through special plaques scattered around town, and even a quick visit to the former Roman amphitheatre (once a seating space for 8000+ people, now a leafy green space ideal for strolling).

2. Bourton on the Water

While undoubtedly one of the busiest towns in the Cotswolds in terms of tourism, I can’t omit the adorable Bourton on the Water, affectionately dubbed the Venice of the Cotswolds thanks to the scenic River Windrush which cuts through town.

Besides offering the classic Cotswold charm with beautiful houses and peaceful green spaces, Bourton on the Water wins for me in terms of delightful, surprising and quirky attractions.

The Miniature Village for instance is a wonderfully detailed recreation of the village, built to a 1:9 scale with the local Cotswold limestone, complete with miniature trees, miniature displays in the shop windows and a (very meta) miniature version of the Miniature Village which, upon close inspection, has its OWN miniature village. I’ll give you a second to process that.

If you’re travelling with kids (or are a kid at heart), this is probably one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds!

Another fun attraction is the deceptively challenging Dragonfly Maze, which mixes a traditional maze with a scavenger hunt/riddle of sorts. It’s really good fun, even for a pair of adults.

Combined, all these things make Bourton on the Water one of my favourite villages in the Cotswolds, certainly for those travelling with kids (or still feel about 5 on the inside, like me).

Last but not least, visit during the August Bank Holiday weekend and you’ll get to witness the annual Football in the River match, which yes, is exactly as it sounds….. they play football in the river. Click here for a video!

The charming town of Tetbury is (in my mind) one of the loveliest places in the Cotswolds, and if you don’t trust my peasant opinion, know that the town has some royal backing too, as Tetbury is the swanky homebase of none other than Prince Charles, future king of England.

So…. *puts on crown* you know, it’s a pretty nice place.

And while Tetbury is the second largest town in the Cotswolds, its size has done nothing to erode its charm.

A quick stroll through the beautiful streets of Tetbury and you’ll find an endless stream of lovely boutiques, including a flagship shop for Prince Charles’ luxury brand, Highgrove, and even a quirky and free police museum, complete with eerily lifelike figures that snore.

Another highlight of course are the medieval Chipping Steps, one of the oldest parts of Tetbury, which consist of a steep set of stairs lined with centuries-old cottages. If you’re lucky (and unfathomably rich), I even saw a few up for sale…

4. Broadway

As its name hints, Broadway’s starring attraction is its High Street, a spacious wide road filled with wonderful boutiques, restaurants and antique shops to rummage through and throw money at. No doubt, this is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds if you’re looking to do a bit of shopping!

During my first Cotswolds road trip, this was the first “busy” town we visited and while I was initially deterred by the bustle of it compared to the sleepy villages we had been hopping through…

However, I was soon won over with Broadways’ wonderful assortment of cute shops, like Blandford Books, where I picked up a new summer read, and Broadway Deli, with its fully stocked shelves of enticing local goods.

After a quick bite at the ridiculously adorable Crown & Trumpet, I was won over: Broadway is a busy Cotswold town, but one with a lot of vibrant hub bub – perfect for a getaway that’s a bit more fast-paced.

PS: Broadway Tower is located nearby, and it’s well known as one of the most scenic places in the Cotswolds to nab an excellent view!

5. Wotton under Edge

Wotton under Edge was another wonderful surprise on my recent trip.

Frequently missed by travellers, this small off-the-radar Cotswold town is one with plenty of surprises to offer those who stop by.

Not only does Wotton under Edge have a delightful High Street studded with lovely shops, but it also has the unexpected bonuses of charming pink-washed buildings, hidden almshouses, a heritage center with a free museum, and a fascinating 13th century inn, “The Ancient Ram Inn”, beloved by ghosthunters for its connections with the paranormal . Oooooh. If you’re looking for something a little less terrifying, the nearby Wotton Hill supposedly offers stunning green views.

Random fact: Wotton under Edge was the first market town in Gloucestershire to install CCTV. So… now you know.

6. Chipping Camden

As one of the best preserved towns in the Cotswolds, Chipping Camden is a must-add for any Cotswold bucket list.

There’s a little something for everyone here: history lovers can geek out over the sprawling history of this quaint market town, which still has its original 17th century market hall in tact for nosy perusal.

Shoppers will be delighted to find an elegantly curved High Street with a lovely assortment of shops…

And sports lovers can even make a trip for the annual “Cotswold Olimpicks” (not a typo) which happen every spring, with delightful sporting events including “shinkicking”.

PS: For those of you keen to explore the Cotswolds on foot…….. very far on foot…. Chipping Camden is also the starting point of the Cotswold Way, a walking route that spans 100 miles all the way down to Bath.

7. Stow-on-the-Wold

The delightful Stow-on-the-Wold was one of my favourite Cotswold towns we visited during my 1st trip!

No lie – this town is everything you want the Cotswolds to be – quaint cottages charmingly stacked along narrow streets, yet with an ample selection of restaurants, pubs, and shops for some additional things to do.

Especially noteworthy is the sprawling market square, once the hotspot for buying/selling sheep, and the nearby Gypsy Horse Fair which comes to town twice a year.

If you have the time, make sure you don’t miss the St Edward’s Church, which is home to a magical little door flanked by yew trees. I didn’t find out about it until after my visit, and I pretty much kicked myself twenty times.

8. Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton is another market town famous in the Cotswolds for its lively atmosphere and picture-perfect facades.

Historic buildings like beautiful Almshouses and centuries-old pubs fill the town, all sprinkled with delightful pops of colour and life in the form of fun independent shops.

Amusingly, Chipping Norton has a few ties to the pop culture world too. For instance, one of my favourite actors, Wentworth Miller (yes from Prison Break!) was born here, and Jeremy Clarkson (of Top Gear fame) also calls the town home.

And if the name itself doesn’t sound familiar, odds are you would at least know some of the music created in Chipping Norton. That’s because once upon a time (in the 90s), the Chipping Norton Recording Studios were a bustling hub for music recording at their humble location on New Street. Famous hits like “I Just Died in Your Arms Tonight” by Cutting Crew were recorded here!

Sorry if that song is now forever stuck in your head again for the next decade.

Beautiful Burford has a lot going for it: for instance, it has an elegant sloped High Street that is lined with some of the prettiest stone houses and storefronts in the Cotswolds.

But make no mistake: Burford is more than just a pretty face – this town also has an abundance of historical gems scattered throughout town, like Reavley Chemist – England’s oldest pharmacy, a medieval stone bridge that dates back centuries, and little pops of half-timbered whimsy.

We arrived during golden hour for a quick stop in Burford, but I was lucky enough to catch the town in its prime: late Spring, when wisteria season meant plenty of elegant purple and white wisteria draped across those honey-coloured cottages we love so much.

Does it get any prettier than this?  Not tough to see why I consider the Cotswolds one of the best Spring destinations in Europe.

The Best Sleepy and Picturesque Villages in the Cotswolds

If it’s a relaxed and peaceful getaway you’re looking for, then the following Cotswold villages will likely be of interest. These photogenic gems are the definition of lovely, although a bit lacking in excitement/things to do. Regardless, I still consider them some of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds for a quick escape. So, here are some of the best quiet places in the Cotswolds (in no particular order)…

If you’ve heard of the Cotswolds, odds are you’ve heard of Bibury, perhaps one of the most photographed villages in the entire country.

The scenic houses of Arlington Row are a sight synonymous with the Cotswolds name, and for good reason – they embody all the charm of the Cotswolds in a single frame.

For that reason, it has become a tourist magnet for visitors from all around the world: the Japanese Emperor Hirohito once stayed here during his grand European tour, and it is even said that Henry Ford even once tried to buy a row of these houses to ship back to Michigan because he loved them that much.

… But anyways, for those of us without the funds to um, transplant an entire village across continents, a quick visit and photograph will have to suffice. Or a few thousand photographs even… I swear Cotswolds pictures take up 90% of my hard drive.

I do think Bibury is one of the prettiest corners of the Cotswolds, but be warned that there isn’t a ton to do here besides scenic strolls, photo opps and eating/drinking at one of the local pubs. If it’s a relaxing escape you’re after though, perhaps that’s all you need!

11. Castle Combe

Nestled in a picturesque valley in Wiltshire, you’ll find the achingly perfect Castle Combe (pronounced Coom, like coom to this village), one of the loveliest villages in the Cotswolds.

With its photogenic array of classic Cotswold stone houses and bridge, it may lay claim to one of the most picture-perfect photo opps in the entirety of the Cotswolds.

And if the village looks familiar, that might be because it has featured in numerous films, including Stardust and War Horse. So, while it may not be the most exciting place to visit in the Cotswolds, I’d say it’s indisputably one of the prettiest.

PS: If you fancy a… fancy place to stay, Castle Combe is home to one of the most luxurious hotels in the entirety of the Cotswolds. We had a quick walk around the Manor House grounds and let me just say, it would be a dream to stay here. Click here for photos to see what I mean.

12. Snowshill

I still remember driving into Snowshill for the first time. The grass was so green, it looked photoshopped.

And as we glided past the honey-coloured stone houses lined with radioactively green grass, a classic red phone booth caught my eye and I was just about ready to hurl myself out the car.

Which I did, for photos’ sake… of course.

While there isn’t a ton to do in Snowshill, this picturesque village does have one main attraction going for it: the nearby Snowshill Manor and Garden, which stores the bizarre and eclectic treasures of Charles Wade, a man who sought to turn his manor into an extraordinary world away from the monotonous lull of regular life.

To be fair though, if my regular life looked like this, I would be pretty okay with that…

13. Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter

Just before my 1st Cotswolds road trip, a friend of mine told me “you HAVE to visit the Slaughters”, and for a second I thought that was her way of telling me, not so subtly, that she wanted me to die.

This is not the case. Against all odds, the Cotswold Slaughters (Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter) are both exceedingly lovely little villages that frequently rank among the cutest villages in the Cotswolds.

And while they really have no made-for-tourist attractions like some other Cotswold villages and towns in the area, what they offer up is a simple and quiet idyllic charm.

Both hugging the banks of the River Eye, Lower Slaughter is home to a restored flour mill and a beautiful bridge that makes the ideal backdrop for scenic photos.

And Upper Slaughter, which is home to lovely almshouses and a unique ford crossing, has the unique distinction of being one of only a handful of “Doubly Thankful Villages”, having lost no men during either of the world wars.

In fact, George Collett, the village’s local handyman, was part of select few who served in both.

And as for the name?  Well, they’re said to come from the old English word ‘Slohtre’, which simply means “Muddy place”, rather than… “murder”.

14. Adlestrop

Adlestrop doesn’t often make top lists of places to visit in the Cotswolds, but to me, it was one of the quaintest and most adorable villages I’ve been.

From classic cottages crowded with green ivy and colourful flower beds to the friendliest village cat named Buster, who apparently sadistically loves attending funerals so he can get cuddles, this tiny rural village (with, admittedly, no attractions for tourists at all), is a lovely little spot to admire the quiet charm that makes the Cotswolds so special.

Fun fact: Jane Austen spent some time in Adlestrop and it’s said that the village inspired her when writing ‘Mansfield Park’.

Cotswolds Attractions to Check Out

Besides adorable towns and villages, there are also several wonderful attractions nestled in the Cotswolds as well. Here are some I’d recommend visiting.

15. Berkeley Castle and Butterfly House

What’s a list of pretty places in the Cotswolds without a castle thrown in?

Well, if you’re a princess wannabe/castle junkie like me, the Cotswolds is home to the world-famous Berkeley Castle, a must for your Cotswolds attractions bucket list.

This Norman Castle has been inhabited by the same family for over 9 centuries, which is (by the way) a longer time than any fortress in England can brag about. History creeps through every brick of this beautiful property, where King Edward II was supposedly murdered, so if you want your dose of morbidity, there you go.

Free guided tours are available to all visitors, along with a tropical butterfly house and beautiful walled garden.

Plus, a visit here also means a visit to filming sites for various famous productions, including The Other Boleyn Girl and Poldark.

Last but not least, the Edward Jenner Museum is a short walk away from the castle and is dedicated to Berkeley’s most famous resident: Edward Jenner, who pioneered the smallpox vaccine that would go on to save millions of people from the deathly disease.

16. Chedworth Roman Villa

I know that Roman ruins aren’t what you typically think of when you imagine the Cotswolds, but nonetheless, the Chedworth Roman Villa is here for you if you want to get a little nerdy with Roman history!

This property (owned by the National Trust) is one of the largest of its kind in Britain, with a lengthy history going all the way back to the 2nd century. A visit here means getting to check out ancient mosaics, sophisticated underfloor heating systems, and artifacts that have remained here for over a thousand years.

17. Highgrove Royal Gardens

Just outside of Tetbury is the royal residence of the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles… and while “stopping by” sounds like a great recipe for getting stopped by security (trust me, we actually tried), we normals can actually explore the beautiful gardens of the property through pre-arranged tours!

Tours have been running at Highgrove for 24 years now, and as you might expect, the grounds of this palace are immaculately stunning. Click here for more details!

18. Sudeley Castle

Not far from Winchcombe is where you’ll find the historic Sudeley Castle, which, throughout the past thousand years, has acted as the backdrop to stories from some of the most prominent people in history, including Henry VIII, Anne Bolelyn, and Queen Elizabeth I.

Katherine Parr, AKA Henry VIII’s wifey number 6 is even buried here.

And while Sudeley Castle has the unique distinction of being one of the few castles left in England that is still a residence, it is nonetheless open to the public most days of the year, so you can come see the 10 unique gardens and beautiful rooms of the castle for yourself.

PS: a random but wonderful fact: Sudeley Castle is where you’ll find the world’s largest collection of rare breed pheasants – 16! Click here for more details on how to visit.

19. Blenheim Palace

Grand architecture, stunning grounds and history come together at Blenheim Palace, known best as the birthplace of Winston Churchill (and actually, a little known filming location from Harry Potter! ). This makes it probably one of the most exciting attractions you can visit in the Cotswolds.

As the only non-royal home in the country to have the title of “palace”, it also happens to be one of the biggest houses in all of England. The estate is in fact so expansive that it even has its own miniature railway… It’s a busy place, so it would be a good idea to get a ticket in advance here.

You can also book a variety of tours to Blenheim that combine your day with other Cotswold villages! Here’s a Downtown Abbey themed one.

20. Broadway Tower

Last but not least, at 312 metres above sea level, Broadway Tower is the second highest point in the Cotswolds, which of course means it’s a wonderful place for views.

That said, this tower is far more than just a scenic viewpoint. Beyond just a pretty spot for photos, Broadway Tower actually houses a 3-story museum, a nuclear bunker from the Cold War, a stylish visitor center, and a cozy cafe.

Other Cities to Visit in/Near the Cotswolds

Alright, now onto the final section! I want to conclude with some cities and towns on the fringes of the Cotswolds that, while often lumped together with the rest of the spots on this list, aren’t part of the actual Cotswolds proper. It would be a shame to leave them out of this roundup though, so here they are!

I had always known Gloucester for its cathedral, but as I discovered on my recent visit, this city has a lot more than just that to offer.

Gloucester Cathedral is, naturally, a highlight, and reason enough to visit on its own, but all around town, you’ll find beautiful half-timbered buildings and pretty historical streets, a legacy of the city’s 2000+ years of history.

Itching for something a little cooler? Gloucester has seen a vibrant revival in the past few years, with over a dozen Victorian warehouses near the city’s docks converted into space for a variety of shops, museums and bars. Needless to say, Gloucester is a must-see.

I adore Lacock.

*brief pause for snickering*

Okay, but really. Lacock is the best. This little village just outside of the Cotswolds feels like stepping back in time, so much that it’s a favourite among TV and film productions, including two of the Harry Potter films .

Lacock Abbey is of course a beautiful must-see, but for me, wandering around the streets, perusing the fun honesty shops in front of local homes and just soaking in the atmosphere is more than reason enough to visit again and again.

Last but not least, we have Bath.

…. I…. LOVE this city.

Sentimentally, Bath was one of the first places in England I ever visited outside of London, and I fell in love with it almost right away.

This historic city is filled to the brim with scenic streets to prance through, and wonderful viewpoints for days… not to mention some truly lovely spa hotels nearby. Add to that amazing knockout attractions like the Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths and you have a winning recipe for a weekend break. Click here for a guide to spending 2 days in Bath!

Did I miss any of your favourite places in the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are definitely one part of the world I’d never tire of visiting. I know there are plenty more Cotswold towns, villages and more to visit, so let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any of your favourites!

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14 thoughts on “20 Stunning, Drool-Worthy Places to Visit in the Cotswolds!”

I went to a few of these when I was 12 or 13 (I remember Bath for sure), but I have been obsessing over the Cotswalds lately thanks to Pinterest showing me pins from blog posts there. I’m hoping to go one day soon – it looks beautiful. Thank you for sharing – saving this for when I go back!

So many great spots to check out around the Cotswolds. Top of my list are all of those forts, castles, and villas!

This is a great list, Thanks for sharing such an useful Information 🙂

I have been 4 times but haven’t been to all of these so I’m saving this for my next visit, thanks!

I loved Bibury and Castle Combe when I went to the Cotswolds! I actually stayed in a cottage in Bibury, and it was amazing! Unfortunately it rained on all the days I visited other villages, so I want to go back and visit again when the weather is nicer.

Hi, Lovely photos of the Cotswolds… I have made some notes for future visits. I have been to Cheltenham, Gouchester , Bath, Staveley, Churchdown, and Chipping Norton before (where Michael Palin fell off his bicycle as bicycle repairman). I too am an avid traveller from Canada… older than you perhaps, from Vancouver BC. I’ve been to over 30 countries. I did count them up once, but have forgotten the exact #. I will weigh in on that later. I am tracing my family tree with a thought to going back to the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands. I got to your site by typing in Google “prettiest places in England” and got stuck on #1, the Cotswolds because I remember how lovely it was. I did do a tour of some of the Cotswolds, but it was a too quick. It was my first trip out of North America with my Aunt for my cousin’s wedding in Churchdown. We hit Gloucester and Cheltenham because Churchdown is a tiny town with nothing but farms around. We walked out to find a 7-11 to pick up some supplies only to find all we could get was eggs from the local farmers! LOL. There was a pub in the B&B we stayed in so all was fine. I jotted down some of the villages/cities you mentioned that look so cool. I am also interested in Ashton Under Lyne where my Nana was born, Manchester where my great great Grandfather was born and Sussex where my Maternal Great Great Grandmother and Great Great Grandfather were born… Roscommon Ireland where my paternal great great great Grandmother was born and Tietsjerkstradiel Friesland in the Netherlands where my Maternal Grandfather’s mother was born. So confusing, I know. Also my cousins are half Italian because my Dad’s sister married an Italian. He was born in Montreal, but his parents were both born in Campo Basso Italy. Have you been to any of these places? The Sussex ties were Uckfield & Blackboys, with relatives in Brighton and Tunbridge Wells. The Manchester end mentioned Salford, Bolton and Oldham… there were mentions of trips to Liverpool, Blackpool, and the Yorkshire Dales as well as “the Moors” . For Ireland… my Mum’s Dad was half Irish, the consensus was Cork, but on having my DNA tested, it’s more likely Donegal. I have been both places, but need to go armed with dates etc I’ve collected from ancestry. Sorry… I am running on. I just love your site so much. I am going back in to explore more! Keep up the good work! Susan 🙂

I’ve lived in The Cotswolds are my entire life, so I love seeing it pop up on bucket lists. You’ve picked two of my favourite places – Cirencester, my home town, and Bourton-on-the-Water. But I’d also add nearby Cheltenham to this list, it’s just on the outskirts of the Cotswolds, and one of my favourite towns.

I live in the Cotswolds so I’m always happy to see posts about it! Bourton-on-the-Water is my favourite village to visit here. Followed by Bibury. Cirencester is actually my home town and I’m happy to hear you like it as much as I do. Especially all the back streets and eateries.

As someone who lives in the Cotswolds I love reading up on what others think of this gorgeous areas. Love that you included Broadway and Broadway Tower, such a great spot to watch the sunset.

Wow wow WOW! What a fantastic article! As a resident of the Cotswolds, it’s so great to see other people adoring this beautiful place in the world!

Your Brunch as Jacks looks to die for! super jealous of that, I may have to pop in one day soon!

You’ve given really great info which is super helpful, and your photographs are so gorgeous! Even though I live here, there’s still more and more to explore!

Wow this is such a wonderful read! The cotswolds is jam packed of beautiful places to visit and you’ve really shown that here, and gone the extra mile to explain each one to help anyone toying with the idea of visiting this amazing area!

There is much More to explore. Lavenham, bornplace from Harry Potter, Kelsey, A fine small community, Much Wenlock, the locks in the canals like the one in Devizes. And much More as you Can see on my website http://www.engelse.jouwweb.nl

Thank you for this amazing piece on Places to Visit in the Cotswolds; I love your writing style and feel every line of your writing.

Hi there We are a group of retired Aussies presently staying in Bourton on the Water, using it as a base to tour the Cotswold over 3 days (I know hardly enough time – but you know places to go things to do ….) I have found your blog most informative and I will go out on a limb here and say the best of mannny! A very unseasonable hot September in 2023.

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10 Places to Visit in the Cotswolds

Picture-perfect villages, chocolate-box houses, and a pastoral landscape dissected by dry stone walls, ancient churches, and the occasional herd of sheep: the Cotswolds is the quintessential English countryside. Peppered with market towns and quaint villages, there’s lots to love about this region. If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds , here are the best places to visit during your stay.

Bourton-on-the-Water

One of the most famous locations in the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is genuinely idyllic. Its old, golden sandstone homes are set beside the River Windrush, and the town has a real variety of activities for visitors. Whether it’s scones with jam and cream in the tea rooms or a pint of English ale in the pubs, there’s plenty to please hungry travelers here.

Families will love the Model Village, where a Bourton-in-miniature is open year-round, and the Dragonfly hedge maze is a beautiful place to get lost with the kids. Birdland Park and Gardens has flamingos, penguins, parrots, and owls, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection has a vast collection of rare 20th-century cars and nostalgic toys.

Thanks to its position on a vital ridgeway between London and Worcester, Broadway became a bustling village during the 1600s as stagecoaches would stop here overnight on their travels. Today, thousands of tourists stay here overnight to see its pretty Cotswold stone houses, browse its antique shops or attend the races at Cheltenham.

Rub shoulders with historical figures at the Lygon Arms Hotel, a former manor house that hosted the likes of Charles I and Oliver Cromwell, and hike up to Broadway Tower for a view. The castle-like tower is the second-highest point in the region, offering glorious views over the surrounding countryside and even out to the Welsh mountains, and was designed by famous landscape gardener Capability Brown.

Charming Bibury attracts snap-happy visitors from all over the world to take pictures of one thing: Arlington Row. Now owned by the National Trust, this row of terraced cottages is one of the most photographed spots in all of the Cotswolds, as the honey-hued stone and gabled facades set against the rustic backdrop make for a beautiful scene. The homes were initially built in the 1300s as a wool store, but were later converted into weavers’ cottages and are still lived in by locals today. 

Beyond these private homes (be respectful with your camera if you do decide to visit), there’s the historic St Mary’s Church where you can see a Saxon gravestone, Norman doorway, and medieval window. Plus, Bibury Trout Farm offers the chance to catch your dinner and cook it.

This market town on the edge of the Cotswolds, near Oxford, is a little-visited highlight. Its center is all honey-colored houses and shops, with excellent old pubs and hotels set inside ancient coaching inns, and surrounding the town is a host of brilliant attractions. For "Downton Abbey" fans, Cogges Manor Farm will feel familiar—it was used as Mr. Mason's small-holding during seasons four and five, and Keira Knightley visited to film "Colette" here, too. 

The Witney Blanket Hall is a fascinating museum to the town’s major trade—hand-woven blankets—and the 15th-century ruins of Minster Lovell Hall are a pleasant 2.5-mile walk away, along the River Windrush.

Another famous "Downton Abbey" filming location, there's a lot more to Bampton than the church and village green that featured in Julian Fellows' period drama. This gorgeous little village, also known rather quaintly as Bampton-in-the-Bush, has beautiful, historic architecture, some great traditional pubs, and the brilliant West Oxfordshire Arts gallery where you can see and buy works from local creatives. Don't miss afternoon tea at The Cake Element Bakery.

If the aforementioned show is your focus, though, head to Bampton Library where there’s an exhibition on the filming that took place here, and nearby you’ll spot Lady Grantham’s home and the church where Mary and Matthew were married. There are often volunteers inside who appeared as extras in the show.

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

Perfect for a family day out, the Cotswold Wildlife Park offers 160-acres of land to explore. Roaming its pastures and enclosures are big mammals and brilliant birds, from giraffes, lions, and rhino to colorful parrots, flamingos, and penguins. 

The highlight for kids will be a stroll through the Madagascan Walkthrough, where cheeky ring-tailed lemurs hop about the trees and rope swings freely as you walk among them. Don’t miss their feeding time at midday, or the penguin feeding displays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

A majestic Georgian town, Woodstock is a hub for many visitors to the Cotswolds. Here you’ll find the splendid, historic St Mary Magdalene Church, with its intriguing zig-zag patterned doorway and a musical clock that chimes four times a day (9 a.m., 1 p,m., 5 p.m., and 9 p.m.). Local history can be learned at the Oxfordshire Museum, and compelling tales from the wars are told in the Soldiers of Oxfordshire exhibit. 

But the ultimate highlight in Woodstock is Blenheim Palace—the spectacular stately home of the Duke of Marlborough. Get a feel for how the English upper classes once lived inside the palace’s exquisite rooms, then spend an afternoon strolling the verdant grounds.

Sudeley Castle

This self-proclaimed “hidden gem of the Cotswolds” is a genuine delight. Its manicured gardens and the impressive castle make a beautiful setting, but moreover, its history is fascinating. The castle was home to Henry VIII’s last surviving wife, Queen Katherine Parr, and Henry himself, as well as Queen Elizabeth I, Richard III, and Anne Boleyn have all owned, lived in, or stayed at the castle. 

Today, it’s the home of Lady Ashcombe and her children, who are restoring the castle and its grounds to their former glory. Its architecture is a classic example of Tudor building, and inside there are fascinating exhibitions, royal paintings, and exquisite antiques. Queen Katherine Parr is now buried in St. Mary’s Church on the grounds of the castle—the only English queen to be buried on private property.

Cirencester

Considered the capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester was the second-largest city (after London) during Roman times. That means there’s some fascinating history to behold, including the remains of an old Roman amphitheater that once held 8,000 spectators at a time. Today, the town is a thriving little market town with plenty of independent boutiques and restaurants to keep you busy for days.

Get Roman history lessons at the Corinium Museum, visit a craft center and gallery set inside a Victorian brewery at New Brewery Arts, and don’t miss visiting the imposing, Gothic-style Parish Church of St. John Baptist. For walkers, there are 3,000 acres of green space to enjoy at Cirencester Park.

If food is on your agenda, Kingham is the place to go. This tiny, picturesque village doesn’t look like much to write home about on the surface, but spend some time in the local pubs and shops and you’ll come home a convert. The Kingham Plough is the best spot for dinner, with legendary local producers on the menu and carefully crafted dishes. There are rooms for overnight if you opt to base yourselves here, too—it’s the ultimate retreat after a day of walking in the gorgeous countryside nearby. 

But the highlight around Kingham is Daylesford Organic Farm, just 1.5 miles north of the Plough. Here you’ll find absolutely sensational produce for sale, from ciders to cheese to freshly-baked breads—all made locally. They even have their own skincare range, so come with your credit card and be prepared to stock up on souvenirs.

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The Cotswolds

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With endless views, excellent food and natural beauty, if you’re thinking about visiting the Cotswolds, you’ve come to the right place.

There is simply so much to explore and learn about the Cotswolds, from Cotswolds museums to great historic houses, or simply a walk through the streets and back lanes within the beautiful stone towns and villages.

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The Cotswolds is an absolute must-visit for all travellers, whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for new avenues to explore during your fifth (or even tenth!) visit to the Cotswolds. Often considered the “most beautiful street in England,” Arlington Row, Bibury is easily one of the most iconic sights (and most photographed) in the Cotswolds and a hot favourite for those seeking a UK getaway.

With picture-perfect little cottages, Bibury is a charming, typically Cotswold, village just a short drive from Cirencester.

Beyond Bibury’s iconic cottages, there are so many awe-inspiring views to wake up to and capture during your visit – here are just a few of our favourite suggestions:

Walk The Cotswold Way

This National Trail is a famous walk, offering 100+ miles of scenic strolls and panoramic views of the countryside.

The Most Romantic Street in Britain

Lower Slaughter, a popular postcard-worthy Cotswolds village, is home to ‘the most romantic street in Britain’.

Check out Lavender Season

A total sight for sore eyes, if you’re visiting late April/early May to August, get your camera at the ready for the Cotswolds’ local lavender in bloom.

Warwick Castle

This medieval castle is located on the bend of the River Avon, in the town of Warwick – first built by William the Conqueror in 1068.

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14 Best Places In The Cotswolds You Should Visit

The Cotswolds is still one of my favourite areas in England to explore! Imagine, rolling green hills, quaint little villages and a huge amount of history. There are so many places in the Cotswolds that you’ll almost be spoilt for choice.

And you know what, that’s what I love most – there’s a surprise around every winding road. Over the years, I’ve visited the Cotswolds around four or five times, each time exploring some new picturesque hamlet or village that’s nestled in the region.

Now, whether it’s your first, fifth or fiftieth time exploring the pretty spots in England , I’d always recommend a little gallivant to the Cotswolds. It is a stunning place.

That being said, it can be tricky to narrow down the little villages and places in the Cotswolds to visit, especially on a shorter trip.

That’s why I wanted to show you some of my firm favourites to see. Some are larger villages , some smaller towns and some are just countryside spots, but what they all have in common is they are some of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore.

Take a look below at some of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore. You’ll have an epic time visiting England. 

Nestled on the banks of the River Coln, Bibury is a gorgeous little village that has one of the most famous streets in all of the Cotswolds, Arlington Row .

Famed for its crooked little cottages, you’ll feel like you’ve been thrown back a few centuries to a time gone by. Arlington Row is just stunning.

Though be warned, it can be a little busy during the day so plan your visit in the morning or late afternoon when it’s a little quieter.

Once you’re here, pop into the Catherine Wheel which serves up some piping hot British pub grub that I’m almost sure you’ll enjoy. Just make sure to leave some room for sticky toffee pudding.

Read more on finding Arlington Row

2.) Stow-on-the-Wold

The market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to visit that’s perched right on top of a hill.

Once you’re here, make sure St Edward’s Church, see the Fosse Gallery and pop over to the Farmer’s Market that’s held every second Thursday of the month. For a yummy bite to eat, pop into Lucy’s Tearoom for some freshly baked scones with lashings of clotted cream and strawberry jam.

Oh, and relatively close by is the stunning (Jacobean) Chastleton House which was built in the early 17th Century. It’s a great place to visit for an afternoon, especially if you want to see a historic house that has been left untouched by modern life.

3.) Kingham

Around 4 miles from Chipping Norton, Kingham is a tiny little village that has hundreds of people living there. Once you’ve arrived, make sure to pop into The Kingham Plough for a tasty lunch and see St. Andrew’s Church (yep, there are quite a few of these in the Cotswolds).

4.) Naunton

Based on the River Windrush, Naunton is a sleepy little village that’s a perfect stop-off point as you venture further towards Stow-on-the-World.  To get one of the best views of Naunton, climb (or ramble) the hill which overlooks the village itself.

There’s been evidence of a village here since the Doomsday Book recorded it as Niwetone (almost 1,000 years ago), which means there’s lots of history to soak up. If you visit on a Sunday, pop into The Black Horse Inn for a yummy roast dinner.

5.) Castlecombe

About 5 miles from Chippenham, Castlecombe is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to visit, which is split into two parts.

Firstly, explore the narrow valley of the By Brook then head towards Upper Castle Combe that’s quite a bit higher up.

Once you’re here, make sure to check out the Market Cross and St. Andrew’s Church, before heading for a stroll in this almost fairytale-like English village.

Read more: The most quaint places in England to visit

6.) Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is one of the picturesque places in the Cotswolds that’s perched on its northern fringes.

When you visit here make sure to visit the wool church as well as the historic marketplace that has been covered way back since the 17 th century.

Look to see if you can find the marker stone that signifies the start of the long-distance footpath of the Cotswold Way, it’s a great place to go on a ramble or trek through the countryside.

If that’s not your thing, take a stroll around the town and visit the Old Silk Mill located on Sheep Street and the Court Barn Museum. Set in a 17th-century farm building shows local arts and crafts that are perfect to visit, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Oh, and for a tasty lunch, pop into Badger’s Hall Tea Room who have the best afternoon tea in town!

7.) Broadway

A few miles south-west of Chipping Campden is the village of Broadway . It is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore, especially id you want to see one of the larger villages in the area.

Once here, make sure to pop over to the Broadaway Tower which was built way back in the 18th Century as a spot to view beacons that were lit on special occasions.

Also, make sure to explore Snowshill Manor, which was built in the 16th Century. Once inside, you’ll see a treasure trove of artefacts from all over the world. If you need somewhere to rest your head, check out the gorgeous and historical Abbots Grange Hotel.

Read more: What to see in Broadway

8.) Bourton-on-the-Water

Perched on the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore ‘ye olde England’.

With a heap of historical properties (dating hundreds of years back), it really is a stunning place to walk around and spend a few hours discovering its hidden gems.

Once you’re here, make sure to spot the tiny little bridges across the river, too.  Oh, and you can visit the quaintest model village that’s been in the town for decades. If all that exploring has your tummy rumbling, pop into Bakery on the Water which we went to on our last visit.

They have the best pasties (a little like a meat pie) and buns that are so yummy.

Read more: What to see at Bourton-on-the-Water

9.) The Slaughters

The Slaughters (upper and lower) are two tiny twin villages that are picturesque and some of the best places in the Cotswolds to experience a quieter way of life.

Now, don’t be fooled by the pretty macabre name, It has nothing to do with the modern interpretation of the word.

Historically, it is the Anglo-Saxon word for mud that was used to describe this area way back when.

Once here, make sure to explore the Old Mill Museum and take a stroll between the little cobbled streets that make this place so special.

Read more: What to see around the Slaughters

10.) Burford

Burford is one of the Cotswold’s smaller medieval towns that’s perched on the River Windrush (similar to Bourton-on-the-Water).

Standing at the top of Burford’s High Street will give you a pretty good view of how many medieval buildings are actually in this town.

While you are visiting, make sure you visit the Tudor market house of Robert Reavley (number 124). It’s the oldest pharmacy in England It has existed here since 1734. Oh, and make sure to pop into the Tolsey Museum and see local artefacts from the region.

If you’re looking for some proper pub grub, head into The Royal Oak and make the best homemade pies.

Burford really is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore, especially on a sunny day.

11.) Painswick

Around 8 miles south of Glocester, Painswick is a gorgeous town of steeply winding streets that is stunning.

Once here, you should visit the Church of St. Mary; it was built in the 14 th century and has lines of yew trees. There are 99 trees and there is a local legend that the devil will not allow more than that (who knows why?).

Also, if you feel like a little ramble, walk part of the Cotswold Way as the footpath passes through the village and carries on further into the countryside. If you’re hankering for a bite to eat, pop into Falcon Inn for a classic Sunday roast.

12.) Tetbury

Tetbury was a somewhat accidental find whilst we were scouting some new spots to explore. Thankfully, our last trip remedied this when we decided to stay a few nights in Tetbury itself.

Perched in the southern part of the Cotswolds, Tetbury is one of those quaint English towns that seems to have a little bit of everything. 

Whilst wandering around Tetbury, make sure to see Chipping Steps, a rather higgledy-piggledy street (filled with the quaintest houses) that’s so beautiful.

For a stunning and quintessentially English place to stay, pop into The Royal Oak Tetbury (where we stayed). They have the most gorgeous rooms.

Oh, and if you’re travelling from the west, pop into  The Wild Duck Inn in Ewen , they have some of the nicest food in the area (and some of the best Scotch eggs I’ve tried). Also, if you have time (and it’s a sunny day), head over to  Westonbirt Arboretum  for a little wander through the forests.

Read more: What to do in Tetbury

13.) Lacock 

Lacock is one of the gorgeous places in the Cotswolds that actually might feel quite familiar to you?

Over the last few years, Lacock has featured in a few big movies which have been shot on the pretty little lanes (Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, to name a few).

Once you’re here, make sure to explore Lacock Abbey, the historic home of Henry Fox Talbot (the inventor of the photographic negative). Also, make sure to see the 600-year-old tithe barn and head to King John’s Hunting Lodge for one of the best lemon drizzle cakes around. 

Read more: What to see whilst in Lacock

14.) Winchcombe

Filled with Jacobean mansions, an ancient church (decorated with medieval gargoyles) and Victorian almshouses, Winchcombe is a beautiful town to explore.

Winchcombe’s origin dates way back to Saxon England where it was once a key meeting point of 5 ancient trails. Even today, these trails can be followed, especially if you’re a keen rambler. Just make sure to take one of the short trails (that can get steep) towards the Neolithic tomb of Belas Knap.

Also, whilst you’re in the area, pop over to Sudeley Castle, with its grand banqueting halls and gardens. It has had many owners during its lifetime including the last of Henry VIII’s six wives, Katherine Parr.

Just remember that it’s often closed in the winter months between December to February.

Read more: Beautiful places to see in the south of England

12 Best Places In Southern England To Visit

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The 13 best things to do in the Cotswolds

From cosy pubs to fruit picking, here's our full guide to a perfect weekend in the Cotswolds

If you find yourself dreaming of a UK staycation with cobbled streets, wide open fields and cosy little pubs, then you’re probably dreaming of somewhere in the Cotswolds. The whole thing is an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, and it’s huge, covering everywhere from Stratford-upon-Avon to southern Bath, so there’s plenty of spots to get down on your bucket list. 

Here you’ll find the likes of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and Warwickshire, so it’s worth considering what you want to get out of your trip when choosing where to go. Fancy a long, arduous hike and a night in a B&B? Or do you fancy spending your days popping into shops and cafés in town? Our list of the best things to do in the Cotswolds lists everything from antique shopping to lavish retreats, and exactly where to go for them. Here are the best things to do in the Cotswolds. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds 🌾 The best places to visit in the UK 🥾 The best hikes in the UK

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Best things to do in the Cotswolds

1.  Get all the chocolate box village feels at Arlington Row

What is it?  Possibly the prettiest village in the whole of England. 

Why go?  When visiting the Cotswolds, a trip to Arlington Row in Bibury is a must. William Morris described Bibury as ‘The most beautiful village in England’, and it is most definitely one of the most photographed. Constructed in the 14th century, this quaint row of stone cottages is as typically ‘Cotswolds’ as you can get.

2.  Visit Cirencester - the Cotswolds largest town

What is it? A town often considered t he ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’

Why go?  Like many of its neighbours, Cirencester is often stupidly pretty. But it’s also very inhabited, and there’s tons of activities to get stuck into. For one thing, it was actually once a Roman settlement (and even has one of the largest amphitheatres in Britain). This is the largest town in the whole of the Cotswolds. If you want to upgrade your stay? Sleep at Barnsley House , which has its own private cinema, a spa and banging food. If that wasn’t enough food, round the corner is uber-posh  Made by Bob . But if you’re not quite hankering for a full meal, just grab some bits to go from its deli counter and snack on cheese, meats and cakes in your room later. 

3.  Pick up organic treats at Daylesford farm shop

What is it?  Nestled between Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton, Daylesford is probably the most famous organic farm shop in Britain. 

Why go?  Founded in 2002 by Lady Carole Bamford, Daylesford is now one of the most sustainable farms in the UK. You may have grabbed a coffee or salad at one of their few London outlets, but the 2350-acre Cotswolds Farm is something else entirely. This is real farm to fork eating – meat and poultry, fruit and veg, homemade bread. Even their cheese, milk and yoghurt are made onsite at the creamery. If you want to really get stuck in, book a Daylesford cookery course. Learn nose-to-tail butchery or how to forage for your dinner. Afterwards, unwind at the onsite Bamford Haybarn Spa. 

4.  Stroll around Abbey House Gardens

Temporarily closed for refurbishment. 

What is it?  Abbey House is a privately owned country house garden in England’s oldest town – Malmesbury.

Why go?  Open daily from April through to September, Abbey House Gardens is one of the main attractions in Malmesbury – a town with Iron Age origins. A Grade I listed building, it was extensively renovated during Tudor times. However, public admission (£12.50) is to the gardens rather than the house itself. The owners are both keen gardeners and keen naturists, and they hold ‘Clothing Optional’ days throughout the year. Check this before you go, or you might see more than you bargained for on the grounds of Abbey House. Refreshments are provided at Coy Carp Cafe, so-called because diners can watch and feed a great number of the fish while enjoying a cup of tea.

5.  Go antique shopping in Stow-on-the-wold

What is it?  Stow-on-the-Wold is a quintessentially English, historic town. 

Why go?  With a reputation for having some of Britain’s best antique shops, Stow-on-the-Wold pretty much encompasses everything you might be after in a picture-perfect Cotswolds town. Small, cute and abundantly characterful, Stow-on-the-Wold was once known for its wool trade – its large Market Square once saw up to 20,000 sheep being sold at one time. Check out St Edwards Church, famous for the gorgeous north door, flanked by two ancient yew trees. It’s not hard to believe the rumour that this Fairytale-esque feature inspired Tolkien’s ‘Doors of Durin’ in Lord of the Rings. With a surprising number of superb delis and restaurants for such a small town,  The Old Butchers  is the local favourite. As the name suggests, it’s a former butchers and now restaurant, serving meat and seafood in equal measure.

6.  Get a waterside selfie at Bourton-on-the-Water

What is it?  Bourton-on-the-Water is a large village lying within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Beauty.

Why go?  Often voted one of the prettiest villages in Britain, Bourton-on-the-Water is worth the detour to see its lovely high street, which the River Windrush runs through. Little arched stone bridges run across the water, and in December, a lit Christmas tree is erected in the middle of the river. Get those waterside selfies in and check out the nearby Dragonfly Maze (an elaborate hedge maze). Birdland Park and Gardens is down the road, for any penguin or parrot fans, and the village holds a cute farmer’s market on the fourth Sunday of each month.

7.  Explore Westonbirt Arboretum’s rare and exotic foliage

What is it?  One of the most well-known and important arboretums in the country.

Why go?  Just three miles from Tetbury, Westonbirt Arboretum forms part of a Grade I listed site on the register of Historic Parks and Gardens of special historic interest. Established in Victorian times, it actually backs right onto Prince Charles’s Highgrove Estate. Spread over 600 acres and with 18,000 trees and shrubs, it’s divided into ‘The Old Arboretum’ and ‘Silk Wood’. The latter is essentially traditional woodland, whereas The Old Arboretum is meticulously designed with stately avenues and rare and exotic trees. Beautiful in spring, summer, autumn and winter (an illuminated trail runs throughout the Old Arboretum every December), this is a year-round treat. 

8.  Sink a drink at The Wild Rabbit

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What is it?  A super fancy Chipping Norton pub with rooms and a lush menu. 

Why go?  Just down the road from Daylesford is (also Bamford-owned) cosy inn The Wild Rabbit. Intended to be a home away from home, the rooms are luxuriously decked out, and the popular restaurant serves Daylesford-farmed produce. Roaring fires, Egyptian cotton bedlinen and an organic menu – it's the quintessential posh English pub.

9.  Have a cuppa at trad Tisanes Tea Room

What is it? A traditional tearoom in a pretty 17th century stone building.   Why go? Traditional English tearooms are few and far between these days, and this Cotswolds establishment will transport you straight back to the 1940s. The Broadway setting is as picturesque as one might expect, and the menu is comfortingly classic – and well-priced, too. Pick up a cured ham sandwich, a scone and jam and choose from an extensive array of over 30 different teas. While in the area, pop into The Gordon Russell Museum . Celebrating the work of the renowned furniture designer, the museum was opened in 2008 by Sir Terence Conran and is housed in the original Grade II listed drawing office and workshop. The shop stocks a tempting array of work by local craftsmen and women, including stylish home furnishings.

10.  PYO at Hayles Fruit Farm

What is it?  A fruit farm covering roughly 100 acres of glorious Cotswolds countryside.

Why go?  Hayles Fruit Farm has a history dating back to 1880 and kept in the same family since the 1950s. It started out growing apples and Cob nuts, and these things continue to thrive - but now the repertoire has increased to include pears, plums, strawberries, raspberries and gooseberries. Aside from being able to hit the PYO fields with a punnet, visitors can camp and fish on site and enjoy a (very) freshly sourced meal at their cute cafe. Try their homemade apple juicer and cider before leaving.

11.  Visit Kelmscott Manor, William Morris's countryside retreat

What is it?  The Cotswold retreat of William Morris and his friends and family.

Why go?  If it’s good enough for William Morris, it’s good enough for us. William Morris loved Kelmscott Manor so much that after his death in 1896, his wife Jane purchased the house. His daughter May spent much of her adult life there, and the entire family are buried on the grounds of nearby St George’s Church. Morris drew inspiration from Kelmscott Manor for many of his most significant designs and writings. With its beautiful gardens, barns, meadow and stream, it’s not difficult to understand Morris’s attachment to the house, which is filled with furniture, original textiles, pictures and paintings, ceramics and metalwork. Fans of Morris’s distinctive textile designs will love the gift shop (pick up a cushion or throw) and there’s an onsite tearoom, too. A must for Pre-Raphaelite aficionados.

12.  Wander around the pretty village of Whichford

What is it?  A village and its surrounding area, home to a pottery workshop, salvage yard and loads of neat spirits.  

Why go?  Head to family-run  Whichford Pottery  to see their cosy café and pick up a hand-thrown, frost-proof flower pot. Round off with a trip to local  Cotswolds Distillery  for a tour, a tasting, or to pick up a bottle of gin, whisky or - if you dare - absinthe.

13.  Get the member’s club treatment at Soho Farmhouse

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What is it?  Soho Farmhouse is a member’s club in 100 acres of scenic Oxfordshire countryside.

Why go?  Fortunately, you don’t have to be a Soho House member to stay at this glorious farmhouse. ‘Farmhouse’ probably gives the wrong idea – with a Cowshed spa, onsite country pub, boathouse (with indoor and outdoor pools on a lake), multiple restaurants, cookery school, farm shop, kitchen garden, and cinema, this is more of a resort. Weather permitting, go horse riding, play tennis, or go rowing. If it’s raining, huddle up by the log fire in the main barn with a stiff drink. The hotel accommodation ranges from studio cabins (complete with little wood burners and porches) to bell tents or even an entire farmhouse.

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22 of The Cotswolds Best Villages You Must Visit [Plus Things to Do & Map]

The Cotswolds best villages are full of honey-coloured limestone buildings with deep-pitched roofs, topped with heavy stone tiles. All this nestled in gently undulating countryside, with shallow streams running through the valley filled with trout hunted by egrets and kingfishers. 

To see the Cotswolds best villages, get off the main roads and away from the towns. The most adorable villages are found on the quiet country roads that fill the gaps on the map. This comprehensive guide of hand-picked villages provides you with everything you need to know about the best villages in the Cotswolds. I’ve even included individual guides for many of these charming villages so you’ll know the best things to do and places to visit in the Cotswolds.

Here are the best villages in the Cotswolds you need to visit.

Map of the Cotswolds Best Villages and Top Things to Do

Don’t miss my cotswolds travel guide for more tips.

1.  Stow-on-the-Wold

Before you leave, make sure to experience the best Afternoon Tea in town. Pop into Lucy’s Tearoom and savour their exquisite scones and decadent cakes. You won’t regret it.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold .

2. Moreton-in-Marsh

Highlights include the Curfew Tower which is the oldest building in the village. Then there’s The Bell Inn which is considered to be the inspiration for the ‘Prancing Pony’, Middle Earth’s most famous pub in J. R. R. Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’.

Don’t be fooled by the bustling High Street, head towards St. David’s Church where you’ll see a lovely collection of cosy cottages covered with wisteria and other colourful flora. 

Located a few minutes from the town centre are other must-see attractions including the elegant Chastleton House, Batsford Arboretum for its 56 acres of beautiful parkland, Bourton House Garden for its award-winning gardens, and Sezincote House for a taste of Hindu and Muslim inspired architecture in this elaborate home. 

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh .

3. Bourton-on-the-Hill

4. Bourton-on-the-Water

There’s a lot to see and do in Bourton-on-the-Water, from getting lost in The Dragon Maze, to enjoying warm scones for Cream Tea at Bakery-on-the Water. The village’s main attractions include the Model Village, a one-ninth scale and perfect replica of Bourton-on-the-Water at the time it was built between 1936-1940. There’s the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection home to the famous sentient vintage car, Brum. 

Last but not least, there’s the Birdland Park and Gardens covering 9 acre and home to over 500 birds including flamingos, pelicans, penguins, cranes, storks, and waterfowl all in a natural water habitat.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water .

5. Lower Slaughter

You won’t need more than a couple of hours to explore Lower Slaughter. Start your visit with a gentle stroll along the banks of the River Eye which hug the village. Visit the Old Mill which is home to the Lower Slaughter Museum and where you’ll learn about the village’s history through the art of breadmaking. 

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Lower Slaughter .

6. Upper Slaughter

The main attraction here is Lords of the Manor hotel which dates from 1649. Wander the extensive grounds before enjoying their Afternoon Tea either in the lounge or in the garden.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Upper Slaughter .

7. Broadway

For the best fish ‘n chips around, head to go Russell’s Fish & Chips and order ANYthing. Their batter is so light, fresh and crisp. Then head to Tisanes Tea Room for a wonderful traditional Afternoon or Cream tea. This place is so loved that there is usually a queue out the door!

Located just 25-minutes from Stratford-Upon-Avon , Broadway is home to one of the Cotswold famous icons, Broadway Tower. Set within a 50-acre estate of parkland with wild deer roaming the ground, the spiral staircase for a whopping 360-degree view of the surrounding 16 counties.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Broadway.

8. Snowshill

While you’re here, visit the 16th-century country house Snowshill Manor to see the treasure-trove of tiny toys, Samurai armour, musical instruments all collected by its previous owner, Charles Paget Wade.

If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to head over to the Cotswold Lavender farm to wander the fields and pick up your favourite lavender-based gifts, soaps, toiletries and body products.

Located half-way down the High Street is the Tolsey, where medieval merchants had to pay their tolls. Hence the name Tolsey. At the opposite end of the village is the elaborate St. John the Baptist Church. Inside is the impressive mausoleum of Lawrence Tanfield, James I’s Chancellor of the Exchequer with his wife and the funerary plaque of Edmund Harman who was Henry VIII’s barber and surgeon. The plaque depicts four Amazonian figures, considered the earliest of its kind of native Americans in Britain.

Hungry? Not to be missed are the delicious homepage pies at The Royal Oak or the award-winning meals The Angel at Burford. It’s a hard choice!

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Burford.

10. Castle Combe

There are plenty of signature Cotswold stone cottages here which were once weavers’ cottages. As you enter the village from the north, look out for the striking yellow Grade II listed Dower House which appeared as the fictional Puddleby-on-the Marsh in the 1967 film Dr. Dolittle. Continue to the centre of town to see the old Market Cross, remnants of the Buttercross and the 15-century ‘wool church’, St. Andrew’s Church.

The most famous vantage point of Castle Combe is from Water Lane looking back towards town. Castle Combe really is a photographer’s dream.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Castle Combe .

Just opposite Arlington Row is The Swan Hotel, a former coaching inn that overlooks the banks of the River Coln. Stop here for lunch in The Swan Brasserie or enjoy afternoon tea by the river. The chef’s freshly baked fruit scones topped with lashings of clotted cream and strawberry jam are to die for.

12. Blockley

The village is best explored on foot, with several enjoyable walks leading from the village to the beautiful surrounding countryside.

13. Woodstock

There are several gardens, temples, monuments and other points of interest to explore within the palace’s extensive grounds. Not to be missed is the majestic 300-year-old Cedar of Lebanon tree known as the Harry Potter Tree, which featured in ‘Order of the Phoenix’.

In town, you can also visit Sir Winston Churchill grave at St Martin’s Church who rests alongside other family members.

14. Chipping Campden

At the heart of this delightful village is the impressive 17th-century market hall which provided merchants and farmers of the time shelter as they sold goods like cheese, butter, and poultry.

From here it’s just a short walk to the majestic wool church of St James. As you pass the almshouses you’ll see a sunken cartwheel wash just opposite. From St James’ graveyard, you can see the remains of Old Campden House and Gateway. In 1613 Sir Baptist Hicks began building a new home in the very latest style, unfortunately, it was burnt to the ground by retreating Royalist soldiers, only this single fragment remains.

For a relaxing lunch or the best afternoon tea in town, head to Badgers Hall Tea Room located on the High Street. From here head to the Court Barn Museum to learn how the Arts and Crafts movement shaped life in the north Cotswolds.

If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to stretch your legs, Chipping Campden marks the start of The Cotswold Way, a 102 mile (164Km) long National Trail running between this small market town to the city of Bath in the south. 

Just north of Chipping Campden village is Hidcote Manor Garden. This not-to-be-missed garden is one of the best-known and most influential Arts and Crafts gardens in Britain.  Also located nearby is Kiftsgate Court Gardens famed for its roses, the creation of three generations of women gardeners. 

15. Naunton

The village has two churches, St Andrew’s Church, which dates from the 13th century and rebuilt in the 15th century, when a tower was added and Naunton Baptist Chapel. 

If you visit the local tourism board website, they mention that you can ‘climb the hill for a really good view of church and village’. When I visited I tried to find this mysterious vantage point but was on;y met with private land. The best view I got was from the main road B4068, which isn’t a safe place to stop. If you find a better route, please let me know! 🙂

If you have time, definitely visit the famous Cotswold Farm Park which has been helping protect rare breeds of farm animals since 1971. Specialising in historical farm animals, including those from the Bronze and Iron Ages, Roman, Viking and Norman periods, Cotswold Farm Park even supplied period-correct animals for Mel Gibson’s film, Braveheart.

16. Painswick

While you’re here, don’t miss taking a wander down Bisley Street, flanked by mostly fourteenth-century buildings and St Mary’s Church with a spire that dominates the village. Take your time to wander through the churchyard, where 99 yew trees, surround a collection of 17th and 18th-century table tombs. As the legend goes, there are exactly 99 trees, and the Devil himself brings death every time someone has tried to plant a hundredth.

Other places to visit in Painswick include the Painswick Rococo Garden, a short walk from the centre. Designed as a flamboyant garden in the mid-1700s, it also features a world-renowned collection of snowdrops.

17. Tetbury

Tetbury is a historic wool town which prospered from the wool trade. Many of the wool merchants’ houses remain largely untouched since the 16th and 17th century. Tetbury’s Grade I listed 17th-century Market House has been the heart of the town for centuries. Still today,  markets are held here every Wednesday and Saturday. 

Dominating the skyline is The Parish Church of St Mary’s with one of the tallest and most elegant spires in the UK.

The Chipping (which is now a car park) means ‘market’ and for centuries was the site of the mop fairs, where local farmhands, labourers and domestic staff offered themselves for employment.  The cobbled Chipping Steps are flanked by weavers’ cottages and where you’ll get some of the most iconic views of the town. 

Also worth visiting is The Police Museum in the Old Court House which houses the world-renowned Alex Nicols collection of handcuffs and restraints, together with Gloucester policing memorabilia.

A short 12-minute drive south of Tetbury village is Westonbirt, the National Arboretum with a staggering collection of plants and trees from all over the world. From towering Champion trees to rare and threatened trees, Westonbirt has it all.

18. Great Tew 

Set behind a marvellous stone gateway, don’t miss visiting St. Michael and All Angels for its beautiful blend of different architectural styles. Much of it from the 13th and 14th century.

19. Stanway

Stanway is a small crossroads village centred around Stanway House, a superb Jacobean manor and home to the tallest gravity fed fountain in the world at just over 300 feet. 

From its baroque gatehouse, 18th-century water garden, 14th-century Tithe Barn, Stanway is an absolute delight.  Even St Peter’s Church, which was rebuilt in the 12th century and restored in 1896 makes up part of Stanway estate. 

20. Winchcombe

Dent’s Terrace

Winchcombe, which literally means ‘valley with a bend’ is one of the Cotswolds best villages to visit. Winchcombe has several drawcards, from its long main thoroughfare lined with a stunning medley of mellow yellow limestone and half-timbered buildings, Dent’s Terrace with ten Grade 2 listed charming cottages, to the magnificent Sudeley Castle with its award-winning gardens and where the last of King Henry VIII’s wives, Katherine Parr, lived and is buried. 

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia, Winchcombe has a long and interesting history which reaches as far back as the Stone Age when people settled in the hills leaving a stone-lined, burial chamber known as the Belas Knap long barrow which you can visit. 

During the Middle Ages Winchcombe became a thriving wool town and centre for pilgrims who travelled to Hailes Abbey. Visitors travelled far and wide to see a phial that was said to contain the Blood of Christ – known as the Holy Blood of Hailes. It was so famous that Geoffrey Chaucer mentions it in The Canterbury Tales. Today, you can visit the tranquil ruins of Hailes Abbey and explore the beautiful surviving stonework. 

Just west of Wincombe is St. Kenelm’s Well, named after the son of a Mercian king Kenwulph. At only 7 years old, Kenelm became an Anglo-Saxon saint after being murdered by his foster-father Asceberht and sister Quendryth in their plot to gain power. 

As you leave Winchcombe, stop by Hayles Fruit farm to pick up some apples and pears or have afternoon tea before heading south to Cleeve Common to see the wild, windswept countryside from the highest point in the Cotswolds.

21. Kingham

Take a stroll around the village greens, bordered by elegant cottages from the 17th and 18th centuries before visiting St. Andrew’s Church, a Norman church with a fine old rectory built in the 17th century.

With two highly-rated pubs, the Kingham Plough and The Wild Rabbit, Kingham is great for foodies. If that wasn’t enough, each year Jamie Oliver and Alex James host The Big Feastival on August Bank Holiday.

Less than 2 miles from the village is the fantastic Daylesford Organic Farm selling premium deli items of all kinds and delicious, award-winning organic food in its village shop.

Despite its modest size, Kingham has its own train station with services from London taking just 90 minutes, making it the ideal destination for a day trip.

22. Chipping Norton

Start your visit in the Market Square where many of the original houses were rebuilt in the more fashionable Georgian style. Browse the antique shops, visit the medieval Guildhall, St Mary’s Church and a row of handsome almshouses, before heading to the Chipping Norton Museum to learn more about the history of the town dating back to the time of the Romans.

Chipping Norton offers a good choice of places to eat too. Located next to the theatre is The Chequers, an atmospheric pub with three softly lit beamed rooms with low ochre ceilings and log fires and an airy conservatory. Then there’s The Red Lion, the smallest pub in town and still a local favourite. Dating from 1684, The Red Lion serves local Hook Norton ales you can enjoy while playing on darts.

If you have time, I highly recommend visiting The Rollright Stones, located just 4 miles from Chipping Norton. This complex of three Neolithic and Bronze Age megalithic monuments provide a fascinating look at the region’s past. Each monument was erected during a period where there was a continuous tradition of ritual behaviour on sacred ground, from the 4th to the 2nd millennium BCE.

So, there you have it, the Cotswold best villages and what to do and places to visit in each of them. To help you plan your trip, check out my guide on how to get to the Cotswolds  and the most unique Cotswold cottages on Airbnb.

Want to see more of the Cotswolds? Join one of these top-rated tours.

• Cotswolds & Downton Abbey Locations
• Small-Group Tour of Cotswold Villages
• Private Cotswold Village Tour (for your group only)
• Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London
• Lunch in the Cotswolds Tour from London
• Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London
• Small-Group Day Trip to Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon from London
• Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath Full Day Trip from London

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• Adorable Cotswolds Airbnbs: 26 Most Unique Airbnb Cottages in the Cotswolds
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• Top 12 Things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold, The Cotswolds
• 12 Best Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water, The Cotswolds
• 11 Lovely Things to Do in Lower Slaughter & Upper Slaughter, The Cotswolds
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12 of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• prettiest-cotswolds-villages-to-visit

written by Joanne Owen

updated 26.03.2024

If asked to picture a quintessential rural England , chances are your mind’s eye will conjure a  Cotswolds  landscape. Covering a stretch of south-central and southwest England and the West Midlands, the region is strewn with handsome hamlets nestled in river valleys, and elegant history-rich towns that radiate English country charm. Read on to discover the 12 prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit.

1. Blockley — a picturesque village with glorious gardens

2. bourton on the water — the venice of the cotswolds villages, 3. burford - gateway to the cotswolds, 4. castle combe — one the prettiest cotswolds villages in england.

• 5. Chipping Campden — one of the best Cotswolds villages

6. Cirencester — the capital of the Cotswolds

• 7.  Stanton — thatched fabulousness

8. Stow-on-the-Wold — scenic shopping

9. the slaughters — pastoral perfection.

• 10. Stratford-Upon-Avon - Beauty and the Bard

11. Broadway - quaint Cotswolds village allure

12. bibury - timeless english architectural charm, free online resources with our staycations cotswolds guidebook.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Cotswolds , your essential guide for visiting Cotswolds .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

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The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1361 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

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Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

14 days  / from 3248 USD

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

12 days  / from 2894 USD

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

12 days  / from 2686 USD

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

11 days  / from 1298 USD

England Historical Highlights

Discover the highlands of England: From busy London and its Buckingham Palace over historical Oxford to the mysterious Stonehenge. England has plenty to offer and this self-drive itinerary allows you the freedom and flexibility to choose activities to your liking.

8 days  / from 3969 USD

Discover 'All Creatures Great and Small' - England & Scotland

Explore the sets of the TV show "All Creatures Great and Small". The show follows the adventures of a young veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales during the 1930s. Start in London and make your way up to Yorkshire and then further to Edinburgh in Scotland.

Built on a series of terraces above the valley of the Knee Brook, beautiful Blockley offers a window into England’s medieval landscape. Speckled with grazing sheep, the open pastures on the hill opposite the village look pretty much as they did back then when sheep were brought to Blockley to be sheared before their wool was woven in mills at the bottom of the valley.

In time, the woollen mills were converted to process silk, a legacy you’ll see today during a scenic stroll around the village’s maze of paths. Look out for the Old Silk Mill and the Ribbon Mill buildings.

Row after row of Cotswold quaintness in Blockley © Andrew Roland/Shutterstock

Testifying its idyllic English charm, Blockley’s Vicarage and St Peter Church were used as locations in the  Father Brown  TV series. As for other sights, Blockley is known for its elegant English country gardens.  Mill Dene Garden is a must-visit for romantics and horticulturists. This is an especially great place to visit in the spring,

With a beautiful stream, and a garden terraced into the steep valley, the panoramas offer awe-inspiring views across the rolling Cotswold landscape. There’s also a Fruit Garden and herb potager, plus an enchanting grotto to relax in.

Where to stay in Blockley

• For a relaxing family break: Pearl Cottage
• For a charming atmosphere: Middle Rose

Find more accommodation options to stay in Blockley

Thanks to the elegant 18th-century bridges that cross the River Windrush that flows through its heart, Bourton-on-the-Water is known as the Venice of the Cotswolds and one of the most romantic places in the UK .

While it’s definitely one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit ( and England as a whole , for that matter), it’s also home to attractions that will keep the whole family happy. Among them is the Old New Inn's fun Model Village  that depicts Bourton as it was in 1937. You can also book a stay at the inn — the rooms ooze warm and welcoming country elegance.

No bridge is too far in Bourton on the Water - the Venice of the Cotswolds villages © Reimar/Shutterstock

Set in nine acres of woodland,  Birdland  is another child-pleasing Bourton highlight. Home to over 500 birds - from owls and pelicans to flamingos and ibis - it also boasts England’s only King Penguin breeding group.

With an area devoted to parrots (the Pandemonium of Parrots), a Jurassic Journey woodland experience replete with life-sized dinosaur models, plus the indoor Discovery Zone it’s easy to spend an entire day here without hearing a single “I’m bored!” complaint.

Where to stay in Bourton on the Water

• For location: The Lansdowne Guest House
• For couples: Chester House Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bourton on the Water

Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds (it’s part of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds region),  Burford  boasts an outstandingly beautiful high street, with attractive 17th- and 18th-century houses descending to a packhorse bridge over the River Windrush.

Halfway down the hill, the 16th-century Tolsey building houses the  Tolsey Museum . As you descend, look out for the oldest pharmacy in England -  Reavley's . This establishment has operated as a chemist since 1734 and dispenses tried-and-tested traditional remedies to this day.

Burford high street in the Cotswolds © Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

The vista around the river is dominated by a huge cathedral-like church, considered so important that its substandard 19th-century restoration prompted William Morris to found the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. If you fancy basing yourself in Burford,  Burford House comes highly recommended. Here you'll find a 17th-century Cotswold stone inn with exposed beams, leaded windows, cosy log fires and four-poster beds.

Where to stay in Burford

• For stylish stays: The Fox at Barrington
• For price and quality: The Royal Oak Burford

Find more accommodation options to stay in Burford

Tucked in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest Wiltshire, Castle Combe is often called “the prettiest village in England." It's certainly one of the best Cotswolds villages to visit. With no new houses built here since the 1600s, Castle Combe has a decidedly fairy-tale feel - honey-hued houses, a faceless 13th-century clock, and a picture-perfect bridge over a babbling river.

Little wonder, then, that it's long been used as a home base for all manner of movies and TV shows, from  Bridgerton  and  The Wolf Man to  Stardust  and  War Horse . It also featured in the original Dr Doolittle film.

Quaint Castle Combe village - one of the best Cotswolds villages to visit in England © Shutterstock

As for what to do in crazily quaint Castle Combe, after snapping an obligatory shot of the bridge, head up The Street from Market Place and follow the footpath onto the woodland trail - a lovely 5.5-mile loop along which you might spy woodpeckers, owls and buzzards.

Then head back to Market Place to enjoy a well-earned pint in the most picturesque of surroundings. Take your pick from  The White Hart  or  The Castle Inn , both of which also serve great grub, and have stylish rooms to overnight in.

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5. Chipping Campden — one of the best Cotswolds villages

Situated at the start of the national  Cotswold Way Trail, Chipping Campden is the quintessential Cotswold town, with its buildings and old-time ambience having been preserved by the fastidious Campden Trust since 1929. No messy telegraph and power cables sully the attractiveness of the high street here — all wires are buried underground or else brought into the backs of houses. Intrusive shop fronts are banned too.

The ancient market hall of historic Chipping Campden © Peter Nadolski/Shutterstock

Another of  Chipping Campden’s  quirks (and attractions) is the huge variety of architectural styles that have endured through the centuries. Here many architectural pleasures await from the 1627  National Trust Market Hall  that looks like an Italian Renaissance loggia (but with Cotswold-style gables) to the dramatic Jacobean gatehouse to Campden Manor House, also known as  Old Campden House .

The town is also dappled with boutiques devoted to exquisitely-made crafts, in part a legacy of the  Guild and School of Handicrafts , which was established in East London in 1888 before moving here in 1902. Head to  Robert Welch’s  on the Lower High Street to see contemporary incarnations of the Guild’s design excellence ethos.

Otherwise, visit the  Court Barn Museum of Craft and Design  to learn about the Guild and buy beautifully-made pottery, textiles and jewellery. As might be expected of Chipping Campden, this makes for an exceptionally scenic shopping experience.

Where to stay in Chipping Campden

• For delicious English breakfast: Badgers Hall
• For unique character: Eight Bells Inn

Find more accommodation options to stay in Chipping Campden

Back in the day, when it was founded in the 1st century AD, Cirencester was the second largest city in Roman Britain — only surpassed by London in size. Today it’s a thriving market town in which locals are well-used to unearthing Roman pottery in their gardens.

Talking of which, visit the  Corinium Museum  to marvel at incredible archaeological finds representing Cotswold life over the course of 12,000 years - it’s an enthralling experience for all ages, kids included.

The mega-pretty Cirencester Park Mansion © KayRansom/Shutterstock

Other Cirencester sights include  Cirencester Park . Known locally as The Mansion, and set in a 3000-acre woodland and pasture park, it's screened from the town by the tallest yew hedge in the world, no less.

Cirencester is also a great place to shop, not least for craft lovers.  New Brewery Arts , for example, is one of the finest centres of contemporary craft in southern England, with a gallery and studio shops to peruse, and a coffee house to kick back in.

Where to stay in Cirencester

• For B&B: The Old Brewhouse
• For an ambient atmosphere: Wild Thyme & Honey

Find more accommodation options to stay in Cirencester

7.  Stanton — thatched fabulousness

Could a village  be  more perfect?  Stanton  is definitely one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit and (you know the drill by now) that’s really saying something. A parish in Gloucestershire’s Tewkesbury Borough, Stanton sits sleepily on the slopes of Shenbarrow Hill, its narrow streets framed by impossibly attractive thatched stone cottages.

Head to the 17th-century  Mount Inn  to enjoy a post-walk, locally-brewed pint, and stirring views towards the Malvern Hills and Welsh mountains. Arty types might want to check out the summer schools held in  Stanton Guildhouse , with expert-led courses on everything from making stained glass and pottery to woodturning and watercolour painting.

Picture book perfection - an impossibly pretty thatched cottage in Stanton © PJ photography/Shutterstock

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After exploring Stanton, head to  Snowshill Manor and Garden . Stanton and Snowshill are connected by a wonderful walking trail  that will make you feel like you've stepped into the pages of a picture book. This charming - and unique - National Trust property was designed by eccentric Charles Wade, who was hugely influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement.

His playful passion for hand-crafted objects is clear to see from the curios on display - everything from unusual musical instruments to flamboyant masks.

The highest and one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages, Stow-on-the-Wold is also a high point for visitors seeking a spot for retail therapy. And it was ever thus here - the town has been an important trading centre since Roman times. 

Stow-on-the-Wold's famous Market Square before traders and shoppers descend © Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

With a huge market square showing the scale of sheep trading that took place between 1107 and the 1980s, Stow is rich in classy antique shops, galleries, delis and independent boutiques peddling country style products. Check out the wooden stocks that once served as a warning to wrong-doers while here.

A lively Farmers Market is held on the square on the second Thursday of the month. Stow is also within easy reach of  Batsford Arboretum  and the  Cotswold Falconry Centre , both of which delight kids and adults alike.

Where to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold

• For a central but quiet location: Stow Lodge Hotel
• For lovely cosy stays: Lucy's Tearoom

Find more accommodation options to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold

If compelled forced to pick  the  prettiest Cotswolds villages, The Slaughters (Lower and Upper) might just nab the number one slot. Connected by the tiny River Eye stream, a tributary to the river Windrush, both villages boast traditional Cotswold limestone cottages, with the Eye flowing and tinkling beneath a series of stone bridges.

Fascinating fact - while the name might conjure images of a bloody historic battle, Slaughter actually derives from the Old English word for a miry, muddy place - a “slough” or “slothre” - which describes the land on which the villages lie.

Lower Slaughter’s Old Mill  is a must-visit beacon of loveliness, with a long history to boot - the 1086 Doomsday Book records a mill on this very site. Today it houses a museum, craft shop and tearooms, plus a parlour famed far and wide for its homemade ice cream. 

Lower Slaughter - one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages. Probably. © Andrew Roland/Shutterstock

To reach Upper Slaughter, follow the lane that follows the Eye upstream, looking out for the Elizabethan manor house on your right as you approach the village. Set in 8 acres of gardens and parkland with a river meandering through its gorgeous grounds, this 17th-century former rectory is now  Lords of the Manor Hotel  - well worth staying in if you fancy living it large, aristo-style.

10. Stratford-Upon-Avon - Beauty and the Bard

If you’re visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, chances are you’ll want to take in all (or at least some) of its many Shakespearean sights. We’ll begin at the beginning by suggesting a visit to the  Bard’s Birthplace  on Henley Street.

Next up, put Shakespeare’s life in context by exploring the award-winning  Tudor World Museum , before heading to the site of his  New Place  home. Demolished in 1759, it’s been reimagined so visitors can walk in Willy’s footsteps, with artefacts relating to his life here exhibited in neighbouring  Nash’s House .

Lost for words - Bard's beautiful birthplace building in Stratford upon Avon © Alicia G. Monedero/Shutterstock

To see where Shakespeare first put quill to paper, you could join an informative, interactive tour of his schoolroom. Alternatively, if you’re pressed for time, nothing beats the convenience (and fun) of an  open-bus tour around Stratford-upon-Avon. Several other Shakespearean attractions can be enjoyed close to town, among them  Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and  Mary Arden’s Farm .

Home to Shakespeare’s grandparents and the childhood home of his mother, Mary Arden, the farm has plenty to entertain the whole family - from falconry displays and nature trails, to “meet the animals” experiences and 16th-century-style entertainers.

• For historic charm: The White Swan Hotel
• For modern stays: Baraset Barn Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Stratford-Upon-Avon

Wedged into an outlying corner of Worcestershire five miles west of Chipping Campden Broadway is a handsome medieval village at the foot of the steep escarpment that rolls along the western edge of the Cotswolds. It seems likely that the Romans were the first to settle here, but Broadway’s zenith was a stop for stagecoaches plying between London and Worcester.

This has defined much of the village’s present appearance – its long, broad main street framed by honey-stone cottages and former coaching inns shaded beneath chestnut trees. It’s undeniably attractive and, like Campden, can attract more visitors than is comfortable – but unlike its neighbour, Broadway feels less able to absorb them.

Pretty cottages along High Street, Broadway, Cotswolds © Shutterstock

Ordinary, everyday life exists here somewhere, away from the tearooms, souvenir shops and neatly mown roadside lawns, but in truth, there’s not much sign of it. Visit the two outstanding museums, and enjoy an early morning stroll while the streets are empty.

Then move on great walks leading up to the iconic hilltop Broadway Tower and around peaceful Stanton village, there are interesting stately homes at Snowshill and Stanway, and ruins of a medieval abbey at Hailes.

Where to stay in Broadway

• For luxury: Abbots Grange Manor House
• For couples: Russell's

Find more accommodation options to stay in Broadway

Hidden away on the B4425 between Cirencester and Burford, at the point where the road crosses the River Coln, the village of Bibury – like Broadway, Burford and Bourton-on the-Water – is a hugely popular Cotswolds tourism honeypot. Winningly attractive (and famously dubbed among the prettiest Cotswolds villages), it draws crowds by the coachload.

Set back from Bibury’s main road is the focus of every photographer’s attention. Arlington Row , originally built around 1380 as a wool store, was converted in the seventeenth century into a line of cottages to house weavers working at nearby Arlington Mill. It was this glimpse of hound’s-tooth gables, warm yellow stone and wonky windows which is now immortalized in the UK passport as an image of England.

Cotswold cottages in Bibury © Shutterstock

By a tiny bridge over the River Coln stands the Bibury Trout Farm . Unsurprisingly popular, since it’s the only paying attraction in a heavily touristed village, the fishery has footpaths leading out across a network of ponds to scenic picnic spots.

Outside of London, England is known for its idyllic countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with our tailor-made Refreshing English Countryside Break .

Where to stay in Bibury

• For stunning surroundings: The Swan Hotel
• For the attention to detail: Sycamore

Check out the maps listed below to discover the highlights and best places to visit while walking and driving in picturesque Cotswolds locations. You'll find full descriptions of the routes, plus much more, in the Rough Guide Staycations Cotswolds guidebook.

• South Cotswolds full-day excursion
• Cirencester to the Churn Valley tour
• Towns and Gardens around the North Cotswolds

Ready for a trip to the Cotswolds? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Cotswolds or The Rough Guide to England .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: it's not for nothing that Castle Combe in the Cotswolds is known as “the prettiest village in England” © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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15 Stunningly Beautiful Cotswolds Villages to Visit 2024

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The Cotswolds is home to some of the most unspoilt and historic villages in England. Famed for their honey-coloured stone, cosy pubs, quaint cottages and traditional tea rooms, it’s no wonder the Cotswolds is one of the most charming places to visit in the UK.

Made up of picture perfect towns and enchanting villages , the Cotswolds are ideal for day trips, Airbnb stays , hot tub getaways or glamping breaks , so plan ahead and visit as many of these beautiful Cotswolds villages as you can.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to yourself. This helps towards the upkeep of this website for which I am grateful.

Whilst in the Cotswolds , you might also like to check out:

• 15 Best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds
• 8 Cottages in the Cotswolds with Hot Tubs
• 10 Top Glamping Spots in the Cotswolds

15 Best Villages in Cotswolds

1. castle combe.

The chocolate box village of Castle Combe is situated in the idyllic countryside of Wiltshire.

It is often called the ‘prettiest village in England’, and has even featured in several films, including Dr Dolittle and the War Horse.

Castle Combe’s popularity stems from the village being untouched by time.

Since the 1600s, there have been no new houses built in Castle Combe, so the ancient and well preserved honey stone cottages remain the standout architectural feature of this quaint village in the Cotswolds.

Unfortunately the ‘Castle’ in Castle Combe no longer exists, but the village is still home to one of the most majestic buildings in the Cotswolds, the ivy covered Manor House Hotel .

Situated past the bridge, this beautiful estate is photogenic from every angle, and has a Michelin star restaurant and 18 hole golf course to keep you busy.

The village itself is also home to St Andrew’s Church, famous for housing one of the oldest working clocks in the country, and The Old Rectory Tearoom , one of the best places to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Cotswolds.

Making Castle Combe one of the must visit Cotswolds villages.

2. Bibury Village

Home to Arlington Row, the small but picturesque village of Bibury is so famous it features on the inside cover of the British passport.

Owned by the National Trust, the postcard view of Arlington Row is unsurprisingly one of the most photographed locations in the whole of England.

Once you’ve photographed Arlington Row from every angle, head to Bibury Trout Farm .

As one of the oldest trout farms in the country , and with 15 acres of countryside, it is the perfect place for budding fishermen.

You can learn how to catch your own dinner or purchase some of the trout and deli products to take home.

The riverside village of Bibury is best visited in Spring, when the quintessential cottages are covered in blooming flowers and the weather warms up enough to enjoy the creamy ice creams on offer from the local ice cream van.

If you fancy a quirky stay nearby then check out this luxury Shepherd Hut with a hot tub on AirBnB .

3. Stow-on-the-Wold

Originally a market town, Stow-on-the-Wold’s unique Saxon name means ‘holy place on the hill’.

In the middle ages the village was the centre for the wool trade, hence the towns narrow alleyways which were originally constructed to help shepherds herd their sheep to market.

Nowadays the Cotswolds town is filled with fascinating architecture from beautiful 16th century churches, to unique crooked houses. As well as stunning cottages that can be rented or beautiful glamping sites that can be enjoyed .

The Cotswold village also has plenty of excellent shops to explore, including local butchers, galleries, craft and antique shops, as well as several spots for afternoon tea and scones.

Stow-on-the-Wold has a number of historic places to stay such as the Kings Arms Inn and the Porch House , one of England’s oldest inns and a historic landmark in England .

Stow-on-the-Wold is situated close to Bourton-on-the-Water and Upper Slaughter , (two other beautiful villages in the Cotswolds you must visit) and only half an hour from the town of Bampton , where the popular TV show Downton Abbey was filmed.

Submitted by Christina from Travel2Next

4. Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is one of the largest Cotswolds villages, and with great road access it’s easy to visit if you’re planning a UK road trip .

Compared to the other prettiest Cotswold villages, Chipping Campden is lively and has more of a buzz.

Locals regularly put on charity events in the village centre and tourists are encouraged to join in. 

There are a range of places to eat in Chipping Campden, including the famous Badgers Hall Tea room and the Eight Bells Inn , which has been feeding, watering and accommodating guests since the 14th century.

The best attractions in this village in the Cotswolds are the magnificent Hidcote Manor Gardens , run by the National Trust, and the impressive Kiftsgate Court , with breathtaking views across the whole of the Cotswolds.

Submitted by Kathryn from Wandering Bird

Situated in North Oxfordshire, Burford is known as the gateway to the Cotswolds and attracts plenty of tourists and locals to this Cotswold town.

It is one of the most beautiful villages in England, filled with traditional pubs, quaint tea rooms and quirky independent shops.

Burford Cotswolds is filled with great places to eat, notably the Bakery on the Hill , and Lynwood & Co. Café .

If you plan to stay a few days in the Cotswolds book a night or two at The Bull at Burford – a family-run hotel with 600 years of history, a must do experience for your Cotswolds bucket list.

Submitted by Darek from Darek and Gosia

6. Broadway

Close to Worcester, is the large Cotswolds village of Broadway. With 2,500 residents, there are several highly-rated restaurants and cafes making the village a great stop to add to your Cotswolds itinerary .

The streets of Broadway are lined with golden Cotswold stone which contrasts beautifully with well positioned classic red phone boxes.

So despite being slightly larger than many Cotswolds villages, Broadway has no shortage of English charm.

One of the most famous attractions in the Cotswold village is Broadway Tower , a 312 metre Saxon tower overlooking the rolling English countryside.

There is a £5 entrance cost, which includes the exhibits and entrance to the top of the tower, and once you’ve worked up a sweat, you can head to the onsite Morris & Brown Cafe, to indulge in a pick me up.

One of the best dinner options in Broadway is The Swan Pub , where you can tuck into world class cuisine including an exploding chocolate dessert!

Submitted by Rose from Where Goes Rose

One of the most charming and beautiful Cotswold villages is Lacock.

The tiny village can be walked from top to bottom in less than ten minutes, but its untouched medieval vibe has over the years caught the attention of many film crews.

From period dramas to blockbuster movies, Lacock has featured in many of the nation’s favourite films and shows.

The main attraction is Lacock Abbey , a 13th century property with sandy cloisters and large chambers.

It has served as a Harry Potter filming location over the years as its magical ambience can easily be mistaken for that of Hogwarts.

Elsewhere in the Lacock village, you can enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at a traditional British pub or browse the honesty boxes containing products made or grown by locals.

Lacock is so stereotypically quaint and British, you can’t help but love this village in the Cotswolds.

Submitted by Laura from What’s Hot?

8. Minster Lovell Village

The Cotswolds village of Minster Lovell is home to the picturesque ruins of a 15th century manor house.

The undiscovered gem of Minster Lovell hall was built in 1430 by William, Baron of Lovell who at the time, was one of the richest men in England.

Today, the hall, a tower and a dovecote sit in crumbling golden ruin along the banks of the River Windrush in a beautiful rural setting.

Passing the Old Swan , a stunning hotel and the ideal place to stay in Minster Lovell, a narrow road leads across the river and through the local playing fields, where each Sunday a game of cricket will be in full swing.

Further on past a row of immaculate chocolate box houses, the ruins open up in a small hidden field, making the perfect spot for a picnic in a stunning Cotswolds setting.

Submitted by Paul Healy from Anywhere We Roam

Kingham is a secluded village in the Cotswolds that has maintained its unspoilt, honey-stoned charm.

Beside a wide open green and rows of chocolate box houses, a Norman church stands tucked away behind weathered old trees.

It’s beautifully atmospheric, but it’s the dining scene that sets this diminutive Cotswolds village apart from other charmers in the area.

The local pub – The Plough – is operated under a Heston Blumenthal prodigy who has reinvented classic dishes on their innovative menu.

It’s the perfect country pub to enjoy after a long day hiking in the nearby bucolic countryside.

For another unforgettable dining experience, the Wild Rabbit with its Michelin starred chef churn out culinary masterpieces – made with local ingredients – in a relaxed unstuffy setting.

Both the Kingham Plough and the Wild Rabbit have rooms and Kingham is within easy access of London via a direct train line , making it one of the best Cotswolds villages to visit.

10. Lower Slaughter

Don’t be put off by the village’s ominous name, especially if you’re a vegetarian or vegan traveler .

You’ll be happy to know that Lower Slaughter is not a reference to a ye’ olde slaughterhouse.

It actually comes from an Old English word “sloh”, which can mean “marsh” or “bog”. OK, so maybe that doesn’t sound so appealing either.

But in this case, it refers to the lovely wetlands that surround Lower Slaughter village and the River Eye that runs through it.

The river, and the stone footbridges that cross it, are a main feature of the village and a big part of its charm.

In fact, a few years ago the road that follows the stream was even named the ‘most romantic street in Britain’.

You can follow this quaint path all the way to the next most beautiful village in Cotswolds, which is fittingly named Upper Slaughter .

Submitted by Wendy Werneth from The Nomadic Vegan

11. Bourton-on-the-Water

The ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds.

The River Windrush flows through the village with five low arched bridges, creating a peaceful and beautiful natural environment.

Whilst strolling along the quaint walkways you’ll find children paddling in the river and families feeding the ducks on the river banks whilst enjoying their fish and chips.

The Cotswolds village is filled with charming stone buildings, housing the Cotswold Motoring Museum , Birdland Parks and Gardens , and the model village which even has a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water for you to explore.

In the evening you can join the Bourton Ghost walking tour , and visit one of the many pubs and restaurant in this must visit village in the Cotswolds.

One of the best places to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water is the Chapel Cottage .

Submitted by Heather Raulerson from RaulersonGirlsTravel

12. Painswick

Best known as ‘the Queen of The Cotswolds’, Painswick is a romantic village away from the tourist hotspots in the area.

Painswick village sits halfway along the Cotswolds Way National trail , making it a great base for hikers.

The beautiful Cotswolds village is built from honey coloured stone quarried from the nearby Painswick Beacon, and is a great place to sample locally brewed ales.

Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds Hills, Painswick has England’s sole surviving complete rococo garden, which was famously used as a place for lavish events.

The best time to visit the Rococo Gardens is in early Spring when you can witness the world renowned white snowdrops.

If you plan to stay in the Cotswolds village for a few days, choose the small 16 room boutique hotel, The Painswick , with incredible views of the rolling hills.

Submitted by Jasmine Buckley from The Life of a Social Butterfly

13. Upper Slaughter

Situated between Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold , Upper Slaughter is widely considered one of the most beautiful villages in the UK.

Upper Slaughter is a must visit place on a road trip around England due to its most famous attraction, the majestic 17th century Manor House .

Best visited on a sunny day, when it’s easy to spend a few hours roaming the manicured gardens and taking in the picture perfect views.

Upper Slaughter also has several alms houses and fords dating back to medieval times and even a beautiful old school house, that is well worth a visit.

One of the best places to stay in this Cotswold village is the Lords of the Manor Hotel , rated one of the Top 200 hotels in the UK, and one of the best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds.

14. Winchcombe

One of the most underrated and prettiest villages in the Cotswolds is Winchcombe, close to Cheltenham.

The main attraction is the almighty Sudeley Castle and Gardens . Over a thousand years old, Sudeley Castle is known as the ‘hidden gem of the Cotswolds’.

On site there are ten magnificent gardens to explore, and the beautifully restored St Mary’s Church.

Which is uniquely home to the tomb of Queen Katherine Parr, the only English queen to be buried on private land.

Step back in history further and explore the rest of Winchcombe, made up of traditional coffee shops, restaurants and pubs, making for a wonderful day out in the Cotswolds .

Submitted by Vicky from Day Out In England

15. Chedworth

The quaint village of Chedworth is off the beaten track for most tourists.

However, located only seven miles from Cirencester (the capital of the Cotswolds) it is well worth making the short trip to this beautiful Cotswolds village, especially to visit its main draw.

Chedworth Roman Villa , is preserved by the National Trust and is one Britain’s largest remaining Roman Villas.

Decorated with intricate mosaics, the site is a must for history buffs.

The village of Chedworth is nestled in a valley and is home to only 700 people.

The easiest way to reach the village is by car, as trains no longer run there, and buses are infrequent.

However, Chedworth village is also accessible via the Monarch and Macmillan Way walking routes. With hikers usually stopping to fill up at the famous Seven Tuns pub .

Chedworth village is perfect for a day trip from Cirencester or Gloucester, but if you want to stay longer and soak up the peace and quiet, there are several guesthouses in this Cotswold village.

Submitted by Jenna Rank from I Know the Pilot

Villages of the Cotswolds Map

Lastly, if you want to view all the most beautiful Cotswold villages on a map, have a peek at the one I’ve created below.

It should help you plan where to stay in the Cotswolds and which of these best villages to visit in the Cotswolds together. Enjoy!

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17 Things to do in the Cotswolds (+ tips to plan your visit)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 18, 2022

Are you planning a Cotswolds trip and want to know the best things to do in the beautiful English Cotswolds? We have you covered! You will find our guide to the best things to do in the Cotswolds is exactly what you need to help you plan.

The Cotswolds are an area of outstanding natural beauty and one of the top destinations in the UK and you can easily spend several days exploring the area.

In this article, we cover some of the best things to do in the Cotswolds including visiting some of the pretty villages for which the area is world-famous.

Below you will find a list of the best things to do in the Cotswolds. Further down you will find a map of the area as well as places to stay and finally at the end of the article you can find tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Looking for accommodation in the Cotswolds? My guide to the best places to stay in the Cotswolds (villages and hotels) has options for every travel style and budget.

⭐️ If you want to make the best out of your visit to the Cotswolds but are short on time we recommend taking a small group tour. For example, this full-day tour of the Cotswolds from London with a tour guide includes stops in Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Burford.

Where are the villages located?

Walk the cotswold way, explore warwick castle, discover sudeley castle, snowshill manor, blenheim palace, visit the historic city of bath, batsford arboretum, tickle some trout at bibury trout farm, kelmscott manor, cirencester, enjoy the sights and smells at cotswold lavender fields and farm.

• Climb Broadway Tower for spectacular views of the Cotswold's countryside

Arlington Row

Take a cookery course, afternoon teas, cotswolds attractions map, best places to stay in the cotswolds, tips to make the most of your cotswolds visit, final words about visiting the cotswolds.

17 things to do in the Cotswolds

Visit the pretty cotswold villages.

If you are planning to visit the Cotswolds the best way to organise your trip is to decide what you want to see in the different areas.

The Cotswolds can be divided into northern (Gloucestershire) eastern (Oxfordshire) and southern areas (Gloucestershire and Wiltshire) each with its own must-see villages and market towns.

There are lots of beautiful villages and towns to visit in the Cotswolds. You can find out about the most charming villages and towns to include in your itinerary here including Bibury, Bourton on the Water, Stow on the Wold, Castle Combe and Lower Slaughter (reputed to be the location of the most romantic street in England).

Below you will find the locations of some of the villages in each area – at the end of the article, there is a map where you can see the locations of all the Cotswold attractions mentioned in this article.

Northern Cotswolds

Chipping Campden

Lower Slaughter

Eastern Cotswolds

Chipping Norton

Southern Cotswolds

It can be said that the best way to enjoy Cotswolds sightseeing is on foot. If you agree, then consider walking the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile long trail that winds through the Cotswold villages and countryside.

It has been a National Trail since 1998 but was officially opened in 2007, which means there are plenty of signs to follow along the way. You’ll climb rolling hills, pass through picturesque pastures dotted with sheep and discover charming little hamlets that look as though they’ve come to life from the pages of a storybook.

The trail begins in Bath and ends in Chipping Campden or can be done the other way around. It usually takes a week to walk the whole thing but that depends on how much time per day you plan to spend walking and which villages you select for spending the night.

If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly historical activity, Warwick Castle (one of England’s most famous castles ) is a must-do. Located deep in the English countryside in a bend of the River Avon, it is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds, especially if you’re interested in 14th-century military architecture.

It was built in 1068 on the orders of William the Conqueror and in spite of its long and colourful history, the castle is amazingly well preserved.

Visitors can see the State Rooms and Great Hall, which have been meticulously recreated. Once outside the castle, watch for actors in period costume roaming the grounds and giving demonstrations about medieval weaponry and archery.  

Tickets: Day ticket prices for entry into the castle, grounds and gardens begin at £20.00. There will be an extra cost for special events.

Click here for tickets

Address: Warwick Castle, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 6AH

If you’re looking for romantic things to see in the Cotswolds, head on over to Sudeley Castle . It dates from the 15th century and was once the home of Katherine Parr, the last and perhaps the luckiest of Henry VIII’s six wives.

In the 19th century, the castle was restored and today it is privately owned and has been opened to the public. Inside you can tour many of the castle rooms which have historical exhibitions detailing the castle’s 1,000 years of history.

On the outside, there are 10 lovely gardens to explore as well as some mysterious overgrown ruins. Katherine Parr’s final resting place is on-site and is well worth visiting.

Tickets: Children under 3 are free Children (3-15) £7.95 Adults £17.25 Family ticket (two children and two adults) £45.00

Address: Winchcombe, Gloucestershire GL54 5JD

What does an early 20th-century architect and collector do when he has acquired too many pieces of art? He buys a 16th-century country house and restores it so that he has a place to display his treasures.

Charles Paget Wade was a man who travelled the world collecting anything that caught his fancy. By the time he gave Snowshill Manor to the National Trust in 1951, there were over 22,000 items of artistic interest in its inventory.

You can’t possibly see everything but what you can see will amaze you. After the tour, go outside for a breath of fresh air and explore the garden or take a walk and enjoy the lovely grounds.

Tickets: To see the manor and garden Children £6.30 Adults £12.00 Family ticket (two children and two adults) £30.50.

Address: Snowshill, Broadway, Gloucestershire, WR12 7JU

Between the history, gardens, playground and miniature train, you could easily spend the entire day at Blenheim Palace. Though it is called a palace, it does not have any royal affiliation and is really more of an elaborate country house.

Built in the early 1700s, it is the traditional residence of the Duke of Marlborough but is best known for being the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. In 1987, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can see period furniture, tapestries and fine art in the gilded State Rooms.

The gardens showcase a variety of different eras and styles. Children are in for a treat. They can climb aboard the miniature train that chugs its way from the palace to the gardens.

Tickets: For the palace, park and gardens Children £16.50 Adults £28.50 Family ticket (two adults and two children) £69.00

Address: Woodstock OX20 1PP

Pushed for time but want to visit Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds? A full day escorted tour which includes visits to Blenheim Palace two beautiful Cotswold villages and a walking tour of ‘Downton Abbey’ village may be exactly what you are looking for. Click here for more information

People have been travelling to Bath for relaxation and pleasure since the days of the Roman Empire. Today, it’s one of the favourite places of interest in the Cotswolds, not only for its mineral water springs but because of its rich history and culture.

Start by enjoying the Royal Crescent — a row of 30 houses built in the 1700s that are joined together to form the shape of a crescent. Like much of the town, the Royal Crescent is a superb example of Georgian architecture.

If you’re in the mood for a serious walking journey, Bath is at the start of the 102-mile Cotswold Way.

If you’d rather relax and stay in town, head to the town square for some shopping, restaurants and pubs. The town also offers museums, theatre and art galleries.

Other attractions like Stonehenge and the Longleat Safari Park are nearby as well.

Learn more about visiting Bath in my Bath Travel Guide which has all the information you need to plan your trip to the city.

Recommended tour – If you want to experience the best of the Cotswolds including Bath and Oxford as part of an organised trip this 2-day tour from London offers the perfect Cotswolds itinerary. Tour the Cotswolds, stop at the ancient stones of Avebury and experience the majesty of Bath and Oxford. See an England that you may have only seen in your history books!

Looking to spend some of your vacation days out Cotswolds style? Stop in and visit the Batsford Arboretum. It’s a gorgeous 56 acres of parkland featuring the most beautiful and varied trees in the UK.

In 1886, Algernon Freeman-Mitford inherited the property and used it to display plantings gathered from his world travels. Visitors will notice that he was particularly inspired by Chinese and Japanese styles.

Batsford Arboretum is not just about trees — there are gardens with walking paths that offer stunning views of the Evenlode Valley. It is open year-round but is especially lovely in the autumn when the leaves are changing colors.

Don’t forget to stop in for a hot drink or snack at the Garden Terrace Café.

Tickets: Children (4-16) £3.50 Adults £8.95 Families £20.00

Address: Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB

The Bibury Trout Farm is more than just a fish hatchery. It’s a popular destination set on 15 of the loveliest acres in the Coln Valley. It was founded in 1902, making it one of the oldest trout farms in Britain.

The goal was to use the Bibury Springs to provide the region with native Brown and Rainbow Trout for stocking area waters.

Visitors can learn about fish production and can tour the grounds, feed the fish, visit the gift shop and get some smoked trout to take home.

The terrace café, which is open between March and October, is a charming place to enjoy a quick bite to eat. Also, in the summer months, you can try your hand at some fishing — they have rods, nets and bait.

Tickets: Children £2.95 Adults £3.95 Family £12.50

Address: Bibury, Cirencester GL7 5NL

In 1716, someone noticed birds pecking at salt deposits around the pools of water in the sleepy little town of Cheltenham.

It wasn’t long before mineral springs were discovered, transforming the location into one of the UK’s most popular destinations for health-minded city-folk. Ever since Cheltenham has been a fashionable getaway not just for the soothing spa mineral waters but for a complete holiday.

There is a wide variety of upscale shopping, dining, cultural activities as well as a vibrant nightlife.

Because Cheltenham plays host to so many different festivals — like jazz, literature or arts and crafts — it is considered to be the cultural centre of the Cotswolds.

Horse racing has also been a local institution for generations, so a visit to the Cheltenham Racecourse would be mandatory for any horse enthusiast.

Kelmscott Manor was once the country home of the 19th century’s most celebrated designer, William Morris, known as the father of the Arts and Crafts movement.

The manor was built in 1600, steps away from a bend in the River Thames on a particularly lovely parcel of land.

As a textile designer, novelist and poet, Morris was heavily influenced by the serene beauty surrounding Kelmscott Manor. He particularly enjoyed how the home organically fit into the landscape and looked as if it belonged there.

Stroll through the charming gardens or wander further and explore the meadows to find a barn and a bubbling stream. There is a tea room on-site as well as a gift shop so you can purchase your very own sample of Morris’ famous textiles to take home.

Tickets: Children (5-16) £5.00 Adult £10.00 Family £26.00

Address: Kelmscott, Lechlade GL7 3HJ

Cirencester is located in East Gloucestershire and is the largest town in the Cotswolds. It sits on the River Churn and has a distinctly historical feel about it.

The 15th and 16th-century streets are lined with charming period architecture that winds its way to the market square. The impressive Parish Church of St. John Baptist dominates the square with its cathedral-like presence. Cirencester was once an important Roman settlement that had a thriving wool trading industry.

South of the town’s centre, visitors can see the remains of a 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre. To learn more about the town’s Roman past, as well as the Norman and Saxon eras, visit the Corinium Museum.

If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, you’ll have no problem finding upscale shopping, quirky boutiques and antique stores.

Among all of the places to see in Cotswolds, the Cotswold Lavender Fields and Farm may be the most beautiful. It’s a family-owned farm on the edge of the village of Snowshill that grows 35 different varieties of lavender.

Mid-June through early July is the ideal time to visit because the plants will be flowering. Visitors should bring their cameras to capture the breathtaking colours as they walk amongst the rows upon rows of blooming lavender.

Bring a picnic lunch! There are many spots that would make an ideal setting for a charming afternoon nibble. Eventually, the lavender will be used to make a variety of products including English Lavender Essential Oil.

There is a tea room and gift shop on-site as well. The weekends do tend to be crowded, so if possible, plan to visit on a weekday.

Tickets: Children under 5 are free Children £2.50 Adults £3.50

Address: Hill Barn Farm, Snowshill, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7JY

Climb Broadway Tower for spectacular views of the Cotswold’s countryside

In 1794, Lady Coventry gazed across the English countryside and wondered if a light perched on a certain beacon hill would be visible at her home 22 miles away.

There was only one way to find out — hire the most famous landscape architect of the day, Capability Brown, to build an elaborate tower on the spot and see.

Years later, the tower was used as a home for a printing press and later, in the 1950s, as a station to monitor nuclear fallout. Today, this peculiar castle-like tower dominates the landscape.

It is surrounded by 50 acres of rolling green hills has become an iconic local landmark. By the way, as it turns out, the tower’s beacon could indeed be seen at Lady Coventry’s house.

Tickets: Tower, park and picnic Children (6-16) £4.00 Adults £8.00 Family (two adults and two children) £20.00

Address: Middle Hill Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7LB.

Of all the Cotswolds attractions, you must make time to see Arlington Row. In the charming village of Bibury, near the River Coln, Arlington Row is perhaps the loveliest, most idyllic street in the entire UK in arguably the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds.

It’s a collection of 14th century stone cottages on Awkward Hill that are so quaint that they’ve earned the distinction of being one of the most photographed destinations in the Cotswolds.

The honey-colored cottages were originally built for wool storage and eventually became the homes of the weavers.

Today they are preserved by the Royal College of the Arts but maintain their weathered and charming fairytale appearance. Arlington Row is a must-visit, but beware, the parking is very scarce.

There are some fantastic experiences available in the Cotswolds. Why not book one of these baking activities and learn how to make some traditional English cakes and scones?

• Baking Scones in a Cotswold Cottage – Step inside a 15th century Cotswold thatched cottage to learn to bake English scones.
• Traditional Afternoon Tea-Baking Class – Bake a rich and delicious chocolate fudge cake or Victoria Sponge and different variations of sweet and savoury scones!
• The magic world of chocolate – You will be able to produce very professional chocolates using the facilities of a home kitchen so you can continue to do at your own home having been through the experience.

Have a traditional pub meal or afternoon tea

With so many wonderful pubs and tea shops in the Cotswolds, you are spoilt for choice.

These are some of my recommendations:

The Bell – Stow on the Wold

The Churchill Arms – Paxford

The Wheatsheaf – Northleach

The Swan – Swinbrook

The Lion Inn – Winchcombe

The Swan Inn – Moreton-in-Marsh

The Painswick Hotel – Painswick

Tisanes Tea Room – Broadway

Lavender Bakehouse and Coffee Shop – Chalford

Marshmallow Tea Room – Moreton-in-Marsh

The Slaughters Country Inn – Lower Slaughter

Now you know what you want to see and do in the Cotswolds you may be considering accommodation options for your trip.

With lots of great places to stay in the Cotswolds to suit all budgets and travel styles, I have curated a small selection of recommendations below.

Luxury – Oak House No.1 (Tetbury)

Boutique – The Painswick

Family Hotel – The Slaughters Country Inn

B&B – The Old New Inn (Bourton on the Water)

Budget – Number Four at Stow

• Plan your itinerary carefully – don’t over plan however as you may wish to spend more time exploring a village plus travel times between places can take longer than expected.
• Book accommodation early – the Cotswolds are a popular destination at all times of the year. Look for accommodation with parking or you may find you have quite a walk with your luggage.
• Book restaurants and pub meals ahead of time especially at weekends.
• The roads can be congested with cars, coaches and tour buses and parking can be difficult in some of the smaller villages e.g Bibury, Lower Slaughter. Try to visit these villages earlier in the day before the buses and coaches arrive.
• Carry change for parking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you may have to walk some distance from your car.
• Take snacks and drinks with you (though do stop off for an ice cream or cuppa in one of the many quaint tea shops)
• Don’t forget your camera!

So this is my guide to the best things to do in the Cotswolds and suggestions to help you plan your visit to this beautiful region of England .

We have more helpful and informative posts to help you plan your trip to the Cotswolds:

• WHERE TO VISIT – Guide to the most beautiful Cotswold villages and towns many of which also feature in our choice of the most beautiful villages in England too!
• BEST TOURS – 7 Best Cotswolds tours from London
• CITY GUIDES – Guides to the beautiful cities of Bath and Oxford
• PLAN YOUR TRIP – Everything you need to know is in our Cotswold Travel Guide
• WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO SEE? Check out our top 10 things to do in South West England
• WHAT TO PACK – Check out our UK packing list for all seasons
• WHAT TO READ – Our recommended UK travel guide books is a great place to start.
• HOW TO GET THERE – How to travel to the Cotswolds from London

If you have specific questions about a destination in England why not join my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat with others planning their trip.

Join my UK and London travel planning group on Facebook for more tips, inspiration and help from other travelers planning future travel to London and the UK.

15 Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds (with maps)

The Cotswolds are England’s most beautiful area. Rolling hills hide tiny quaint villages with houses made from the local yellowish color stone. Small, peaceful streams flow thorough these idyllic places creating unbelievably quaint settings. I believe that everyone coming to visit London should plan on taking time to visit the Cotswolds. Come along with me as we explore the best places to see in the Cotswolds .

Table of Contents

The Cotswolds span a large area of rolling hills and villages in the West of England. This beautiful area spreads from Bath in the south to Stratford-upon-Avon in the north, with Oxford midway to the east. Let’s find the best places to visit in the Cotswolds by taking a trip from Bath to Stratford upon Avon through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) as the English officially call it.

Southern Cotswolds: Between Bath and Oxford

Driving north east from Bath, you will start encountering the famous beautiful and quaint villages of the Cotswolds. Tucked among rolling hills, these tiny places take you far away from the busy nearby cities into a world of peaceful streams and fairies. Let’s start exploring the Southern part of the Cotswolds first.

Start in Bath

Bath is my favorite starting place for exploring the Cotswolds. However, Bath in itself is a beautiful city to visit, so make sure you don’t skip it. Spend time visiting Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths as well as the beautiful Royal Crescent. My Walking Tour of Bath

1. Bradford-on-Avon

There are many beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds, and Bradford-on-Avon is the perfect place to begin your journey! After a short car ride from Bath, you’ll love all the opportunities to explore outdoor nature activities in this small town. Hire a bike to cycle around the glorious countryside, or a canoe to paddle through the town’s maze of sparkling canals. To stock up on souvenirs and road trip snacks, visit The Shambles , a historic street of shops that dates back to the middle ages.

Stop for a quick visit at the Bradford-on-Avon Museum . You will get great views of the Town Bridge and River Avon.

There is no shortage of things to do in the Cotswolds for film buffs. Especially, if you are a fan of Harry Potter, the beautiful and magical Lacock Abbey (click for map location) is the must-see place. The small village Lacock is the filming location for countless well-known movies and television shows, including Pride and Prejudice, Downton Abbey, and the Harry Potter series. The historic atmosphere of the village is so perfectly preserved that a substantial part of its income comes from hiring out filming locations like the Lackock Abbey and Cloisters.

Stop at the King John Hunting Lodge Tea Room  for some sustenance and enjoy the historically significant location. King John was the original signer of the Magna Carta, a momentous civil rights document.

3. Castle Combe

In Castle Combe you arrive in a dreamy village of honey colored stone cottages, the place you have adored from many famous movies like War Horse and Stardust. Old world charm abounds in Castle Combe, a tiny village along our driving tour. At the central market cross you may be lucky enough to stumble upon the village’s weekly market, where you can treat yourself to local delights. Have a pint in one of the village’s classic English pubs, or splurge on a Michelin-starred meal at The Bybrook , a restaurant in the luxury hotel Manor House.

You’ll never spend too long wondering what to do in the Cotswolds because beautiful villages like Castle Combe appear around every corner.

4. Fairford

While you can find impressive architecture all over the Cotswolds, you won’t want to miss Saint Mary’s Church in Fairford. This church boasts massive, colorful windows that are some of the most well-preserved medieval stained glass in the entire country. For more recent history of the area, you can visit RAF Fairford, an airfield that served the British pilots who were instrumental in the success of D-Day at the beaches of Normandy during World War II.

Northern Cotswolds: Between Oxford and Stratford

As we’re approaching Oxford on the east, we come into the Northern section of the Cotswolds. While this separation is purely artificial, the Northern Cotswolds area is filled with fairy tale villages. Let’s continue our trip north towards Stratford upon Avon through the Cotswolds.

Bibury transports you into the past at the first sight of the historic row houses that line every street. Artist and revolutionary socialist William Morris called Bibury, “The most beautiful village in England”. You must keep it on your list of things to do in the Cotswolds! You may recognize the picturesque Arlington Row , a line of gorgeous stone houses, from the movies Stardust or Bridget Jones’ Diary.

Burford, the gateway to the Cotswolds, features medieval limestone buildings that line rolling green hills. If have children traveling with you and you’re planning what to do in the Cotswolds, this area will be especially attractive to you – nearby sites include the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens and the Crocodiles of the World Zoo . Here, you can see 17 of the world’s 24 species of crocodiles, as well as a variety of other reptiles and mammals.

If you are spending more days in the Cotswolds, you may also want to plan a stop at Blenheim Palace. This is a huge English Baroque-style mansion that was constructed for the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough by Queen Anne. 10 Beautiful English Manor Houses

7. Burton-on-the-Water

Burton-on-the-Water,  known as “Venice of the Cotswolds” has lots of attractions to discover. The Cotswolds Motoring Museum & Toy Collection is perfect for entertaining children while the Smiths of Bourton offers a quaint tearoom experience. You can also stop for a fresh pint at the Cotswold Brewing Company and explore fine fragrances at the Cotswold Perfumery. Our favorite experience was the pretty waterside views, bridges and walks along the peaceful River Windrush.

8. Lower Slaughter

The village Lower Slaughter has been inhabited for over 1,000 years, making it one of the most historic places to visit in the Cotswolds. The name of this village may sound a little ominous, owing to its Old English meaning, but the village is actually beautiful and charming, with the sight of the Old Mill and the sleepy River Eye.

There are many gorgeous nature walks adjacent to the village that you can explore, as well as the old mill which now houses a museum and a cafe.

9. Upper Slaughter

Upper Slaughter is one of very few Doubly Thankful Villages – villages which lost no soldiers during World War I or II. While you’re in the area and have planned to spend a few days, consider visiting Sudeley Castle , a stately building that is surrounded by the expansive green hills which make it one of the loveliest places to visit in the Cotswolds.

10. Blockley

Blockley is one of the larger villages in the Cotswolds, and it was once the center of the silk industry in England. There are more things to do in the Cotswolds for the outdoorsy types on your trip near Blockley. Visit the Cotswold Falconry Center to learn about many different types of birds, or Cotswold Archery to practice your aim.

11. Stow on the Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold is a market town that was once the epicenter of sheep sales at the peak of the Cotswolds’ wool industry. Today, it is known for its proliferation of antique shops and the Cricket Museum. During your visit you can pay your respects to John Entwhistle, the bass guitarist of The Who, who is buried at St. Edward’s Church.

12. Snowshill

Snowshill is one of the smallest places to visit in the Cotswolds, with a population of under 200 people. Archaeologists discovered evidence of settlements in Snowshill as early as the Bronze Age. Discover the nearby lavender fields, which are overrun with fragrant purple blooms, and pay a visit to Snowshill Manor , an eccentric home-turned-museum with a unique collection of art, furniture, and toys.

13. Stanton

Almost all of the buildings in Stanton are made of Cotswold stone, a type of limestone that you will see everywhere you visit in the Cotswolds. Some buildings still have thatched roofs, and there is a winding high street with many old homes and shops along it. Make your way to the Mount Inn , an inn and restaurant at the top of a hill in this village that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

14. Broadway

The historical origins of Broadway are uncertain, but it is now one of the largest and most bustling places to visit in the Cotswolds. The village is associated with the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century, and appears in paintings by many artists of the time, including John Singer Sargent. Explore the Gordon Russell Museum to see some artisanal furniture, or climb Broadway hill to take in the views from the highest point in the northern Cotswolds. Broadway is also home to one of the longest High Streets in England, with plenty of shops and restaurants.

15. Chipping Campden

Famous author Graham Greene chose Chipping Campden as his home for a time during the 1930’s, likely because it is one of the most rich and charming places to visit in the Cotswolds. Packed with historical architecture and community events, you will always find something exciting to do or see in Chipping Campden. The town has hosted its own Olimpick Games since the 1600’s, which are still held every summer. There are hundreds of historic buildings in the relatively small village, which you can explore on foot or in your car.

End in Stratford upon Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a beautiful place to visit and it is an amazing spot to end our trip through the Cotswolds. The birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford is one of my favorite English towns to visit. Historical walking tour of Stratford-upon-Avon

Plan Your Trip Through the Cotswolds

Stay in the Cotswolds . Find budget hotels in the Cotswolds . There are lots of choices, but it all depends on your itinerary.  Make sure you use the map to locate each property so it fits your travel plans.

Tour the Cotswolds from Oxford . From Oxford: Cotswolds Towns and Villages Small Group Tour . Tour the scenic towns and villages of the Cotswolds. Explore the 15th-century ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and visit Bourton-on-the-Water, regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England.

Tour the Cotswolds from London . From London: Tour the Cotswolds . This will take you to the central part of the Cotswolds.

Is it Worth Visiting the Cotswolds?

Absolutely yes! In fact, the Cotswolds have become one of my favorite day trips from London . We have made it to the end of our road trip from Bath to Stratford upon Avon through the Cotswolds. Even though we have rushed through some of the best places to see in the Cotswolds, we were able to get a beautiful glimpse into this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

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Thank you so much for sharing all these great spots in the Cotswolds, although you did miss out Moreton in Marsh (my home town!). I do like that the list deviates a little from the normal suspects showcasing a few of the lesser known villages such as Stanton. Great read!

Bea…yes, I did miss on Moreton in Marsh indeed. Next time we’re visiting the Cotswolds we’ll definitely visit. I do agree with you about Stanton…just gorgeous.

Hello. Some great choices there, although you can’t go far wrong anywhere in the Cotswolds. You may wish to correct one spelling, in number 7. The village is Bourton-on-the-Water, not Burton. My credentials? I’m a Tourist Guide and the Cotswolds are part of my itinerary. Best wishes, Graham

Graham…thank you! Yes that is the full name of the village…I will correct it and add the hyphens. I also agree that the Cotswolds are beautiful anywhere you go pretty much…even though some places are more “famous” than others.

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The Cotswolds: Best Places To Visit + 3-Day Itinerary

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2023

Categories Europe , United Kingdom

Fairytale villages, rolling hills and honey-hued cottages: check out this full guide to the Cotswolds, England. It includes the best places to visit in the Cotswolds + the perfect 3-day Cotswold itinerary.

There is no other region in the English countryside that is as romanticized as the Cotswolds . If you get the chance to visit, you will see for yourself why. Just a couple of hours away from London, this rural area feels like you’re in a different world. It is located in south-central England and spans a total of 6 counties , which includes Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.

The Cotswolds rural area is a picture of romantic beauty come to life. The fact that the landscape has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years has also added to its charm and appeal. At the heart of the Cotswolds are limestone villages , rolling green hills , and farmlands . 

As you walk around its villages, you will chance upon honey-colored cottages, wisterias, old limestone churches, well-preserved buildings, and shops. It is a picturesque scenery you could only read about in literary books and fairytales. Or perhaps it is the very same villages that have inspired those fairytale books?

Cotswolds is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1996, which was later expanded to include more area in the year 2000. This meant that Cotswolds has the same quality of landscape and status as those that were declared as National Parks .

This rural area is therefore governed by the Cotswolds Conservatory Board, wherein they are tasked to oversee the conservation and enhancement of the area covered within the AONB proclamation.

Prior to it being named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds was already flocked by tourists . As of 2018, this area was visited by 23 million people, which is the most out of any protected landscape. In fact, tourism is a significant part of the economy in Cotswolds.

There are plenty of places to stay in the area, but wouldn’t be just perfect to stay in a holiday cottage in the Cotswolds ? Imagine your own thatch-roofed cottage in one of those delightful honey-hued villages – unforgettable.

Table of Contents

How to Get To the Cotswolds

For a chance to explore the romantic beauty and unspoiled landscapes of the Cotswolds, it is important to know how to get here . Tourists have plenty of options to choose from to get here regardless of where you are in the world.

London is the perfect jump-off point for those wanting to visit Cotswolds from other parts of the world. There are daily flights to London from major cities and transportation hubs. Once in London , there are different options available to get to and around the Cotswolds.

READ ALSO: 2 Days in London: The Perfect Itinerary

Aside from London, there are other major gateways such as Oxford , Birmingham , Bath , and Cheltenham . The closest international airports are located in Heathrow and Birmingham.

➤ To reach the Cotswolds by car , you can drive through M40 road . This is the best route to take to gain smooth entry to Cotswolds. Other route options you can take via car are M5 and M4. Always check the road conditions prior to travel to find the best route that offers easy access.

➤ You can also get to Cotswolds by train . The Cotswolds Line has made it easy for tourists to get here, especially as part of a day trip from London or other parts of England. This section of the train service is linked to London Paddington.

The best part about riding the train to Cotswolds is that you are treated to gorgeous views of the English countryside, especially as you will be making train stops in Charlbury, Kingham, and Moreton-in Marsh.

➤ Another option is taking the Golden Valley Line to Cotswolds. Both the Golden Valley and Cotswolds Lines are operated by First Great Western. You can visit this link to get more information about train lines and services that are headed for Cotswolds.

➤ If you are looking for yet another way to get to the Cotswolds, you can ride the bus. There are two major operators that serve routes to Cotswolds: Oxford Bus Company and Oxford Tube . Depending on the coach service you choose, they have different starting points that include London, Birmingham, and Leeds.

Once you get to the Cotswolds, it is easy to get around if you have a car. Renting a car is the best way to get around Cotswolds and see as many sights as you can. There are local buses in the English countryside but the service is patchy.

Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds offer an endless array of sights, experiences, and things to do and enjoy. Below are 7 of the attractions and experiences that you cannot afford to miss during your visit.

Castle Combe

Castle Combe is one of the must-see attractions raved about by tourists. The moment you step into this village, it feels like you are stepping back into time. In particular, the village has been kept intact since the 1600s . The beautifully preserved village includes notable sights like the honey-hued cottages and meandering river views that scream fairytale.

A perfect day in Castle Combe includes a visit to the medieval market cross monument . This monument is easy to find because it is located near St. Andrew’s Church, another notable attraction in the village.

While there, you can also drop by the village hall to see if there is a market for that day. The quiet village streets invite you to explore it on foot.

There is also a footpath trail from the Market Place that leads to a quiet woodland . This trail extends for 5.5 miles but is absolutely worth the views! Other must-see attractions in Castle Combe include The Old Museum (where you can stay the night), Manor House, Castle Combe Circuit, and The Castle Inn.

Bibury is another charming town, which is typical of a Cotswolds village. It is a short drive from Cirencester and is a worthy addition to your day trip. William Morris once called it “the most beautiful village in England”. This alone should be enough to pique your curiosity to give it a visit.

Arlington Row is one of the must-see attractions at Bibury, which is owned by the National Trust. It is one of the most photographed sites in England and is also featured inside the UK passport!

The Arlington Row was built in the 14 th century wherein it was used as a monastic wool store. In the 17 th century, the building was used as a weaver’s cottage.

Aside from Arlington Row, you can also add the Bibury Trout Farm to your day trip itinerary. There is an on-site shop that you can visit to buy local wines and delicious smoked trout. And if you want to stop by for a lovely meal, visit The Swan or The Catherine Wheel and you will not be disappointed.

Cotswold Lavender

If you cannot go to France for their lavender fields , you are lucky to find one in the Cotswolds. The Cotswold Lavender is another famous tourist attraction for those seeking out the gorgeous lavender fields in Europe. Planted in 2000, this lavender field spans a total of 53 acres .

The limestone soil and the location above sea level (1,000 feet) provide the ideal condition for high-quality lavender. To see the lavender in full bloom, make sure you time your visit in July .

READ ALSO : The Only 10 Days in South of France Itinerary You Need

Stow-on-the-wold

Stow-on-the-wold is located 800 feet above sea level, which makes it the highest among the towns and villages in the Cotswolds. It is ideally situated – close to Roman Fosse Way – so it can be easily accessed from various roads and routes.

This village was once an important trading center with a history that goes back to prehistoric times . During that time, this village was a fortified settlement and was the site of the last battle during the English Civil War . Many signs of the damage of that war are still evident in some of the buildings in the village.

Cotswold Way National Trail

The Cotswold Way National Trail is a scenic yet undulating route that was established as a national trail in 2007. It spans more than 100 miles of the Cotswolds countryside. It is the perfect trail to explore for avid hikers who want to enjoy a different side of Cotswolds , particularly the stunning views and the chance to stumble upon a few historic sites .

Among the historic sites in question are the Roman heritage at Bath, Sudeley Castle, Hailes Abbey, and the Belas Knap neolithic burial chamber.

This trail has been around for more than 30 years but was recently designated as a National Trail . This designation aims to recognize the special qualities and attractions along this route. There are only a few walking routes in the UK with this special grading.

Broadway Tower

The Broadway Tower is another iconic attraction to check out if you want to see the best of the Cotswolds. This is a unique tower that is open for public access .

It is built in a charming location and is steep in history and English heritage. Located 1,024 feet above sea level, it marks the second-highest point in the Cotswolds escarpment . You can therefore enjoy unrivaled views when you climb up the tower that can span up to 62 miles in radius.

The tower is divided into three floors, with graphic displays on each. There is also a viewing platform on the roof and a tower shop on-site.

These are all must-visit attractions that you cannot afford to miss if you want to enjoy the full Cotswolds experience. The Broadway Tower is conveniently located along the Cotswolds Way, so make sure you include this in your stop.

Blenheim Palace

The Blenheim Palace rounds up this list of must-see attractions on your visit to the Cotswolds. This is a World Heritage Site, monumental country house, and historic garden in one.

With more than 300 years of history , it is a bucket list item for any historical enthusiast. This palace also holds the distinction as the only non-royal and non-episcopal house to earn the title of a palace in England .

Blenheim is located near Oxford and boasts of a grandiose romantic park that is a creation of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, a world-famous landscape gardener. The beautiful garden style has been referred to by many as “naturalistic Versailles”. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 for its eclectic style and princely dwelling that is nationally rooted.

A Long Weekend in Cotswolds Itinerary

If you are planning to spend a long weekend exploring the Cotswolds, there is plenty you can squeeze into your itinerary . Below is a three-day guide that you can use to plan the perfect Cotswold itinerary in the beautiful English countryside. It’s definitely one of the best Europe road trips to take this year .

Day 1 – Explore the Southern Cotswolds

For your first day in the Cotswolds, you can start at one of the most-visited parts of the region: Castle Combe .

This fairytale village is beautifully preserved from the 17 th century with its romantic cottages, meandering rivers, and a boatload of other tourist attractions. Make it your first stop as sort of a sneak preview of what your weekend will be like.

Once you are done strolling the gorgeous streets of the charming Castle Combe, drive for less than an hour to another picturesque village – Bibury .

The Arlington Row is the biggest attraction here, but you can also explore other historic sites such as the Bibury Trout Farm and The Swan.

From the historic village of Bibury, you can drive for 13 minutes to reach the rural village of Burford .

Visiting these two villages can provide you with a look into two different types of English villages . Burford is known as the ‘gateway’ to Cotswolds. There are plenty of things to do in Burford such as visiting the Burford Church, Tolsey Museum, and Burford Priory.

You can make a stop at The Swan Inn to grab lunch or afternoon tea. Once you’ve had your fill of the English delicacies, you can drive to either the village of Painswick or the Painswick Beacon .

While Painswick is another painfully charming village, Painswick Beacon is a great spot for sunset in the Cotswolds .

If you are not into sunset-chasing, you can tour the Blenheim Palace , which we talked about before.

You can walk its historic grounds and marvel at the romantic park surrounding the palace.

Day 2 – Explore the Central Cotswolds

On the second day of your long weekend in Cotswold, you will be exploring the central region .

Located in Gloucestershire country, Bourton-on-the-water is a charming English village that is highly recommended for tourists visiting the Cotswolds.

It is referred to by those who have visited it as “ The Venice of the Cotswolds ”. It is located on the picturesque River Windrush and is an ideal day trip destination. Within this charming village are a variety of attractions including The Model Village, The Dragonfly Maze, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum.

From the romantic village of Bourton-on-the-water, you can take a stroll to the Lower and Upper Slaughter . The distance between these two locations is a little over a mile. These two villages are collectively referred to as “The Slaughters”.

These are twin villages that straddle along the banks of the River Eye . This bank is also known as the Slaughter Brook, which is how the name was derived. 

The main attraction here is the 19th-century flour mill that had been restored. There are not a lot of touristic activities or attractions, but is definitely a great way to experience the authentic English village charm .

READ ALSO : 10 Charming Villages in the Peak District

From the Slaughters, head up 800 feet above sea level to reach the small market town of Stow-on-the-wold , one of the most beautiful in the region.

Once an important trading center, it is easily accessible as this is where several roads meet.

If you have more time to spare, a visit to the Daylesford Organic Farm is highly recommended.

Satisfy your taste buds with great-tasting dishes prepared using locally sourced and fresh ingredients straight from its organic farm.

Once you have had your fill of organic meal, head to the Sezincote House .

This country estate is located in Gloucestershire and boasts a Moghul architectural style , which is a combination of Hindu and Muslim architecture.

You should definitely try and visit both the house and the garden , but when planning your itinerary keep in mind that the Sezincote House is only open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays, and Bank Holiday Mondays in the afternoon, from May to September.

Day 3 – Explore the Western Cotswolds

On the third and final day of exploring Cotswolds, head to the western region. Start your day at Chipping Camden .

This is a small market town noted for its elegant terraced High Street. Other attractions include St. James’ Church and Dover’s Hill.

Also make sure to see the Broadway Tower , which is mid-way between Chipping Camden and Snowshill, the next destination. Going up the Broadway Tower is a must if you want to see the exhibit and marvel at the views of the surrounding villages from atop the tower.

From Chipping Camden, it is approximately a 12-minute drive to reach Snowshill .

This small village sits atop the Cotswolds Edge, so it’s secluded and offers plenty of great views. It is best known for its unspoiled beauty and amazing collection of historic sites owned by the National Trust .

This is also where you will find the Cotswold Lavender Farm . The lavender fields are in full bloom from June to early August.

While you are in the area, don’t forget to drop by Stanton – an idyllic village on the foot of the Cotswolds escarpment. With a population of less than 200, this is an easy to explore attraction filled with cottages and stonewall houses.

For your final stop, head to Winchcombe for a chance to sightsee at Sudeley Castle . This castle has a history that spans more than 1,000 years but the existing structure was restored in the 15 th century.

There are exhibitions held inside the castle for you to explore if you want to learn about the royal past of Sudeley. As with any great English castle, it has a stately garden that is maintained to the highest standards .

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

Book your accommodation by using the map below ⬇

Where to Eat in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is best known for its romantic and picturesque villages that make you feel like you are stepping back into time. But the Cotswolds is also a fertile ground for culinary explorations .

If you have a taste for fine and gourmet dining, you would be pleased to know that there is plenty to satisfy your palate. From Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants, farm-to-plate restaurants, to rustic country pubs, there are a variety of dining options to suit your taste .

Afternoon Tea in The Cotswolds

Drinking tea is a national pastime in England. Therefore, there is no more quintessential way to immerse into the way of life in the Cotswolds than to enjoy an afternoon tea .

One of the can’t-miss culinary experiences in Cotswolds is the afternoon tea at The Lygon Arms in Broadway. This is a 17th-century coaching inn located at the heart of the Cotswolds and within the village of Broadway.

This experience is built on over 600 years of tradition and history . The afternoon tea at The Lygon Arms is served at the Terrace Restaurant or in the Courtyard – though the last option is a more scenic and traditional one. The afternoon tea experience is seasonally themed so the menu can change regularly.

Among the delicacies served along with your tea are also traditional, such as puddings, scones, classic finger sandwiches, and a variety of English pastries. There are also vegan and gluten-free menu options for those who prefer them.

Another great place to enjoy an afternoon tea is Huffkins Burford . If The Lygon Arms is fully booked during your visit, don’t despair as the afternoon tea experience at Huffkins Burford is equally spectacular and traditional.

This bakery and café tea room has been serving delicious English pastries and teas to locals and tourists since 1890 . It is located at the heart of the High Street in Burford, which serves tea for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and afternoon. A classic afternoon tea menu includes servings of warm scones, handmade cake selection, finger sandwiches, preserves, and clotted cream.

Best Restaurants in The Cotswolds

For those who are looking to taste the best that Cotswolds can offer (literally), head to Daylesford Organic Farm .

Daylesford is all about sustainability. The organic farm has been around for over four decades and it has committed to creating delicious dishes using the simplest ingredients.

Their organic farm employs sustainable farming practices , and in doing so is changing the face of British farming. They have a zero food waste policy and aim to become 75% energy self-sufficient by 2020. This philosophy is reflected on their menu.

Do you want to dine in a beautiful cottage with fresh and seasonal local produce? Head over to The Swan Inn at Swinbrook. It is a restaurant famed for offering locally sourced and seasonal menus in an idyllic part of the Cotswolds.

The food is what helped put The Swan Inn on the map but the character and the living atmosphere are part of the reason why it has gotten extremely popular over the years. There is no better place in the Cotswolds to grab real ales and local beers , as well as get the opportunity to meet a few locals.

Last but definitely not least, a must-try experience to satisfy your palate while in Cotswolds is The Wild Rabbit in Kingham. Any list of the must-eat places in Cotswolds includes The Wild Rabbit as an option, and for good reason.

This is a modern British inn that is noted for its award-winning kitchen . The food at The Wild Rabbit is derived from ingredients brought in by local British farmers and other artisan producers.

The restaurant aims to showcase traditional British cooking with a modern twist . The food is not the sole highlight of your dining experience as the dining room aesthetics is also worth noting. You can also sit by the fireplace for a cozy dinner.

Best Time to Visit the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are located in the Central and South-West region of England. This region is known for its temperate maritime climate that experiences warm (not hot) summers and cool winters (that can get cold). It is rare for this part of England to experience extreme weather, so you can visit the Cotswolds any time of the year and expect fair weather conditions.

On average, the hottest month of the year is in July . January is the coldest time of the year in Cotswolds. There is a well-distributed amount of rainfall throughout the year. But visiting in December means that you could experience more rainfall than other months in a year. On the flip side, February is the driest month of the year.

As with the rest of the UK, weather can be unpredictable in the Cotswolds . You can use the information provided above as a guideline so you can decide the best time of the year to plan your visit. But it is best to come prepared and pack your rain gear when you go.

In some cases, you could experience various elements of four seasons in a single day. Always check the weather forecast before you travel to the Cotswolds so you know what kind of weather to expect.

Read More: Other Destinations in the UK

10 Villages in The Peak District Not To Miss

14 Magical Things to do in London in the Winter and Fall

17 Unusual Things to do in London

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you book something through one of my links I might get a commission, at absolutely no extra cost to you

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Bea Adventurous

Sunday 14th of August 2022

This is an incredible 3 day itinerary! You've included lots of ideas here which will be sure to keep anyone busy on their trip to the cotswolds! Some brilliant ideas, thank you!

Tuesday 14th of December 2021

Hi Steph, would you recommend going there in winter (december)? Would the beauty of the place reduce as winters mean less greenery and more stems visible?

Sunday 26th of December 2021

Hello! I honestly don't know how to answer. I am not a winter person at all and I've never visited at wintertime, so for me, it would be too cold to enjoy walking through the villages, but each person is different! I'm sure the atmosphere would be magical though, and you can always plan for multiple tea stops, just a different experience.

Friday 31st of January 2020

Hi Steph, would you recommend staying at a new village each night or did you have one base where you returned to each night? If so, what would you recommend?

Saturday 1st of February 2020

Hi Jessy! If you don't mind changing place since it's a short road trip, I'd recommend doing that. This way you won't have to lose precious time retracing your steps. Just make your itinerary and try and stay at you last destination for the day or the first destination of the next day!

The 10 Best Travel Destinations for Women Who Love the Countryside

Adventures in the countryside can be therapeutic and captivating for women who seek peace in little-known spots in rural settings.

Faith Katunga • Apr 4, 2024

Adventures in the countryside can be therapeutic for women who seek peace in rural settings. Discovering little-known spots off the typical tourist trail can be captivating, especially with their emerald fields, picturesque cottages , and the promise of peaceful nature strolls. If you are a woman who loves the soft embrace of nature, these are some of the top places to visit.

1. The Cotswolds, England

In England’s Cotswolds, you will find scenic routes winding past quaint villages, each more picturesque than the last. This region boasts honey-colored stone cottages, majestic manor houses, and gardens that display all kinds of colors come spring and summer. The Cotswolds is a dream for those who delight in the beauty of the English countryside and historical exploration. Take a walk through the streets of Chipping Campden or Bibury, and let the timeless beauty of the area sink in.

2. Tuscany, Italy

Expansive vineyards, old olive trees, and picture-perfect hilltop towns are the hallmarks of Tuscany. This Italian region offers a sublime countryside experience. It serves culinary masterpieces with unforgettable landscapes. Imagine starting your day with a walk through fields bathed in golden sunlight, followed by a wine-tasting session in a local vineyard. Cities like Florence and Siena are nearby, offering cultural excursions, but the true essence of Tuscany lies in its rural heartland. Montalcino and Cortona, with their ancient streets and rustic charm, are must-visits for any countryside lover.

3. The Cape Winelands, South Africa

South Africa’s Cape Winelands is an outstanding region known for its world-class wineries amid rocky mountains and green valleys. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, for example, provide a distinctive mix of Dutch colonial architecture and welcoming African culture. They also offer numerous options for wine sampling, art appreciation, and nature exploration. Here, you will discover a one-of-a-kind rural adventure steeped in the region’s pristine natural beauty and storied past.

4. Kyoto Countryside, Japan

When one thinks of Japan, big cities like Tokyo and Osaka often come to mind. However, Japan’s countryside offers an entirely different palette of experiences. For example, the rural areas around Kyoto reflect Japan’s profound connection with nature. Places such as Arashiyama and its famous bamboo grove offer quiet walks, while the historic village of Miyama is home to thatched farmhouses and a slower pace of life. The cultural richness, peaceful surroundings, and the unique harmony between man and nature make Kyoto’s countryside a captivating destination.

5. The Loire Valley, France

Often referred to as the ‘Garden of France,’ the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vineyards, orchards, and historic villages. It’s also famed for its majestic châteaux, which provide insight into France’s royal history. A bicycle ride in the Loire Valley is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the region’s natural splendor at your leisure. Every corner presents a postcard-perfect setting, from the gorgeous Vouvray vineyards to the Tours alleys. 

6. The Lake District, England

Another gem in England, the Lake District National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and literature lovers. With its dramatic landscapes comprising towering mountains and calm lakes, it’s easy to see why this region has inspired poets and writers for centuries. Hiking, canoeing, and simply basking in the beauty of lakes like Windermere or Derwentwater can fill your days here. The Lake District also offers a wealth of charming bed and breakfasts, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.

7. Patagonia, Argentina and Chile

Patagonia is unmatched for the adventurous woman who craves wide-open spaces and otherwordly natural areas. This vast region, shared by Argentina and Chile, has glaciers, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes. The countryside here is wild and untamed, offering opportunities for trekking in Torres del Paine National Park, whale watching off the coast of Peninsula Valdés, and marveling at the Perito Moreno Glacier. Patagonia’s remote beauty offers a profound sense of freedom and connection to the natural world.

8. The Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Wild and beautiful, the Scottish Highlands are home to mountains, lochs, and glens that will stir the soul. The Isle of Skye and the ancient Culloden Battlefield are just two examples of the beauty that makes the Highlands an ideal retreat for adventurers and peace seekers. In addition to fantastic scenery, this region has a long-lasting cultural heritage, with whisky distilleries, old castles, and Highland games that bring the past to life.

9. Munnar, India

Munnar, a picture of emerald serenity with its sprawling tea plantations and mist-covered hills, is located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. The region’s biodiversity, including exotic species of flora and fauna in the Eravikulam National Park, offers an outstanding countryside experience. The Neelakurinji blooms, which paint the hills blue every twelve years, are a spectacle not to be missed. Munnar’s peaceful environment and gentle climate make it an ideal retreat for reconnecting with nature.

10. Sonoma County, US

Tucked away from San Francisco’s congestion, Sonoma County is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With over 400 wineries and a tranquil setting ideal for wine tasting and gastronomic activities, this wine region is less busy than neighboring Napa Valley yet just as distinguished. Beyond the vineyards, the rugged Pacific coast, towering redwoods, and artisan markets make Sonoma a diverse countryside retreat with both luxury and nature.

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The Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Kids

T he Cotswolds is undeniably one of the most beautiful places to visit in England. There are loads of options if you’re looking for great things to do in the Cotswolds with kids. We are sure that the adults will enjoy these places too. 

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With a fantastic mix of sprawling countryside, cute villages, and picturesque towns to explore (plus you’re a stone’s throw from having a great day out in Oxford !), there’s tons to do on a visit to the Cotswolds. It’s designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), meaning the land is preserved and protected from development. So strap on your walking boots, pack some snacks, and get ready to explore this beautiful part of the country. 

Things to Do in the Cotswolds with Kids

1. cirencester.

First up, the lovely market town of Cirencester is a great place to visit with kids. If you’re looking for somewhere with familiar shops and plenty of cafes and restaurants, this is the place to go. It’s known as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ due to its population and variety of attractions. 

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cirencester. Start by exploring the Corinium Museum , where children can discover Roman history and artifacts while enjoying the interactive exhibits. For outdoor activities, head to Cirencester Park, a sprawling green space perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. 

You could also pop into the independent ones, and take in the lively Cirencester atmosphere. If you’re in the Cotswolds for Christmas , there are some cute festive markets in Cirencester you should definitely explore. 

Jack’s Tea Room and Kitchen is lovely if you’re looking for a great place to stop mid-morning for some breakfast or brunch. For dinner, The Fleece should be on the menu as it’s one of the highest rated places to eat in the area. 

2. Barnsley

Onto the small village of Barnsley, which could win awards for its prettiness. Barnsley is a great spot to visit as it’s right in the heart of the Cotswolds. It’s surrounded by beautiful walks in all directions. This is a great place for a short walk in the Cotswolds for little ones. There’s plenty of nature and buglife to keep them busy.

Visit for the cute village vibes; there’s a church, a pub, and a luxury hotel called Barnsley House . It was once the home of the gardener Rosemary Verey, and its beautiful gardens are still well maintained to this day. 

3. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens – Burford

You can’t beat a trip to a wildlife park to see some amazing animals, especially if you’re bringing little ones on your day out in the Cotswolds. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is the perfect place to visit while you’re in the area since it’s one of the top zoos in England . 

The kids won’t be disappointed when they come across everything from bats to flamingos to giraffes to reptiles and much more. In fact, there are over 260 different animal species in the park.

Each day they offer zookeeper talks and feeding times so you can see the animals up close and personal! Don’t forget to hop on the little train that runs around the park. This is perfect for getting back to the exit when those little legs are tired after a fun day with the animals. 

4. Blenheim Palace – Woodstock 

Blenheim Palace is a must-visit while you’re in the Cotswolds, since it’s an absolutely stunning. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history and beautiful architecture to discover. It was listed as a Heritage Site in 1987, and the team who runs the Palace spends a lot of time and effort into maintaining the property. 

This was the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, so you know there is plenty of history in these walls. You can walk around the house and gardens, attend one of their many events throughout the year, and make memories on your day out in the Cotswolds . 

Blenheim Palace offers a host of activities for kids to enjoy. Start by exploring the stunning grounds and gardens, where children can run and play in the wide open spaces.

Take a stroll through the Butterfly House to marvel at the colourful butterflies fluttering around. The Pleasure Gardens have a giant hedge maze, a miniature train ride, and an adventure playground. 

Inside the palace, kids can join a family-friendly tour to learn about its rich history and grandeur. Blenheim Palace often hosts seasonal events and activities specifically designed for children. There’s nothing quite like Blenheim Palace at Christmas , when it’s arguably at its most beautiful, but it really is a spectacular visit all year round. 

5. Cotswold Farm Park – Cheltenham

You can never get enough of cute animals, so if the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens wasn’t enough, Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park has even more fun in that department. They boast over 50 rare breed British animals on their farm, and you can meet them all. You might even have a chance to feed them! 

The farm park is surrounded by beautiful woodland with bubbling streams, so if you want to explore beyond the farm grounds, this is a lovely spot. 

There is a lot to learn here, but there is also lots of fun to be had. Dare to go on the zipline, try driving a tractor, and learn to handle delicate (and insanely cute!) chicks with care. They offer many events throughout the year, like spring lambing and their Autumnal Harvest. You will find there is plenty of entertainment at the farm park. 

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds for kids of all ages. 

6. Broadway Village 

Broadway Village in the Cotswolds has a little bit of everything. There are great cafes and restaurants, independent shops, a beautiful countryside, a children’s activity park, and much more. Broadway Village is known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, and it’s a fantastic spot in the north of the area with plenty to do for the whole family. 

If a little retail therapy is in order, Broadway Village has unique shops offering fashion, handmade jewelery and homewares, flowers, and more. You’ll love picking up some gifts for loved ones that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t miss the Broadway Deli , which has lots of delicious foods for a Cotswold picnic! 

Broadway Tower

We highly recommend a walk out to the iconic 200-year-old Broadway Tower. While you’re there, definitely visit the nuclear bunker which was built to record nuclear activity in the Cold War.

It was apparently a total secret until it was decommissioned in 1991, and today is a great way to travel back to the Cold War to learn about this fascinating time period. This is an interesting spot for adults, and also a great place for kids of all ages to run around. There’s also a picnic area if you want to enjoy an afternoon snack. 

Are you planning a trip to the Cotswolds with kids soon? A day out there is a terrific idea with so many lovely activities to try and villages to visit. Pack a bag with some snacks and water, bundle up the kids, put your hiking boots in the car in case you fancy a big walk in the Cotswolds, and drive to this beautiful area of the country to see where you end up!  

About the author : Headed up by top travel blogger, VickyFlipFlop, DayOutinEngland.com is filled with guides and itineraries to England’s best days out. It’s searchable by interests, counties, cities and areas – and definitely not just for the kids!

The post The Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Kids appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

• Statue of Lenin
• Electrostal History and Art Museum
• Park of Culture and Leisure
• Museum and Exhibition Center
• Museum of Labor Glory

Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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