The Cotswolds is a region renowned for its beauty, enchanting landscapes, and traditional towns and villages. Nestled in the heart of England, the surrounding countryside is picture-perfect with its light stone cottages and rolling hills dotted with sheep.
It’s no wonder that an estimated 38 million people visit the Cotswolds each year on day trips and overnight stays. Full of great places to visit, it’s ideal for a scenic drive to explore the winding country roads and discover hidden gems.
Take the time to stop and enjoy a traditional cream tea in one of the many charming tearooms, or some of the many great country pubs.
Where is the Cotswolds?
The Cotswold is a range of hills in south central England, primarily in the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, but also reaching into parts of Wiltshire, Bath & North East Somerset, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.
The area designated as the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is over 2,000 square kilometres/800 square miles, but many of the top activities and attractions in the Cotswolds are outside of this area.
Due to its size, travel by car is a lot easier, with excellent links to major motorways such as the M4, M5, and M40, making it easily accessible by car. There are some public transport options, including rail and bus services, which provide easy access to various destinations. The region’s strategic location at the heart of the British Rail network does makes travelling by train a convenient choice if you plan to stay in one area.
International travellers also have the option of reaching the Cotswolds by air, with the closest airports in Birmingham, Bristol, and London Heathrow.
Whether you are coming for a holiday or to just spend a day in the beautiful Cotswolds it is always well worth a visit. It has many fun activities open to the public as well as beautiful gardens, wildlife parks and an abundance of walks.
Each village and site has its own unique charm and history, making it a delightful destination for visitors. Here are a few ideas on how to spend your day out in the Cotswolds.
So what is a Wold? It’s a upland area of open country, and the rolling hills England is famous for. And in this particular area of the UK, a lot of the houses were built with Cotswold stone, which is a yellow oolitic Jurassic limestone. Depending on the location, the honey-colour is more prominent in the Northern areas (like Broadway above), and more golden centrally and south (like in the main town Cirencester).
It really is the small towns and villages that are the attraction for visitors, like Bourton-on-the-Water (GL54), Broadway (WR12), Chalford (GL6), Charlbury (OX7), Chipping Campden (GL55), Chipping Norton (OX7), Cricklade (SN6), Dursley (GL11), Malmesbury (SN16), Minchinhampton (GL5), Moreton-in-Marsh (GL56), Nailsworth (GL6), Northleach (GL54), Painswick (GL6), Stow-on-the-Wold (GL54), Stroud (GL5), Tetbury (GL8), Witney (OX28), Winchcombe (GL54) and Wotton-under-Edge (GL12).
Above is the postcode district which gives you a rough idea of location, the letters are the counties of Gloucestershire (GL), Oxfordshire (OX), Wiltshire (SN for Swindon), and WR for Worcestershire (pronounced Woostershire, not who’s sister)
Top Activities and Attractions in the Cotswolds by County
Oxfordshire
As we have a dedicated article on the many things to do in Oxfordshire, this is focused just on those with closer proximity to the Cotswolds area. We do, however, recommend visitors see our article Oxford’s top attractions if you are looking for things to do close to the City of Dreaming Spires, as it’s just a short drive from the Cotswolds.
It pains me as a proud Oxon to say this, but while Oxfordshire has some of the best attractions and things to do in the Cotswolds, it’s not got the picture postcard aesthetic.
There are still some villages to visit for that English market town charm, including Chipping Norton, Burford, Kingham, Minster Lovell, Asthall, Charlbury, Bampton, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Milton-under-Wychwood and Stonesfield.
Blenheim Palace, Park and Gardens
Woodstock, OX20 1PP
Blenheim Palace is an architectural masterpiece that exudes grandeur, history, and natural beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of its time and the legacy of the renowned 1st Duke of Marlborough’s family home.
Built in the early 18th century, Blenheim Palace is a great example of English Baroque architecture by Nicholas Hawksmoor, with its majestic façade and exquisite interiors. The palace is set within 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland, designed by the landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
As you explore the sprawling grounds, you’ll be greeted by peaceful lakes, rolling lawns, and enchanting woodland, a place that is simply breath-taking.
Inside the palace, the birthplace of former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, you’ll discover an abundance of art and history. You can take a tour of the State Rooms which showcase magnificent artworks, tapestries, and ornate furnishings. The Long Library is also home to a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts.
Beyond the palace walls, take a stroll through the Formal Gardens, boasting carefully manicured flower beds, water features, and pathways. In spring and summer, visit the Rose Garden or wander through the Secret Garden to enjoy the vibrant blooms.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4JP
www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
One of my favourite places in Oxfordshire and well worth a visit for young animal lovers. Set in 120 acres of parkland the Cotswold Wildlife Park has over 260 different animal species. From Giraffes and Rhinos to meerkats and lemurs, each species roam in beautiful settings from the Old Walled Gardens to lush spacious lawns and rainforest coverings. The gardens are well tended to with special displays and are enjoyable at all times of the year. The park has one of the largest reptile collections in the UK and several indoor exhibits such as the Bat House, Tropical House and Little Africa where its inhabitants can roam free.
Lunch is available in the onsite café or you are allowed to bring a picnic. After lunch, children will be overjoyed by the adventure playground with its tree houses, rope bridge and slides. Along with daily talks and feeding times you can easily spend the whole day at the park.
The park is wheelchair and pushchair-friendly and allows dogs on a lead so everyone in the family can come and enjoy a day here. Tickets are available at the gates but you can save money buying them online.
Fairytale Farm
Southcombe, OX7 5QH
Fairytale Farm is a magical destination that sparks the imagination and brings beloved fairytales to life. Children will love the playground, the enchanted walk brimming with surprises, and the opportunity to interact closely with the animals. It’s a sensory and educational paradise for the whole family to enjoy.
Fairytale Farm is divided into six main zones – Adventure Play at Huff and Puff, a sensory journey along the Enchanted Walk, meeting animals at Alfie and Friends, Jack’s Yard, and the new Wilderness Walk and Fairy Dell Areas.
Fairytale Farm is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the enchantment. The farm features wheelchair-friendly pathways, sensory gardens, and inclusive play areas. In addition to the main attractions, Fairytale Farm also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, from interactive storytelling sessions to seasonal celebrations.
Cogges Manor Farm
Church Ln, Witney, OX28 3LA
Situated on Church Lane in Witney, a visit to Cogges Manor Farm is an absolute must for a fun-filled day. This remarkable farm has a history that spans over a millennium and even holds a place in the Domesday Book of 1086. Today, Cogges Manor Farm is a tourist attraction, a fully operational working farm, and a vibrant venue for local events. This farm also served as a filming location for the beloved period drama, Downton Abbey, further solidifying its status as a heritage site that captivates visitors.
For children and animal lovers alike, Cogges Manor Farm is a true delight. The farm is home to an array of creatures, from adorable pygmy goats and Shetland ponies to cuddly rabbits, guinea pigs, and the delightful Oxford sandy and black pigs. On weekends, families can partake in the “meet the animals” sessions, where children are able to interact and even snuggle up with these friendly residents.
Expanding across 15 acres, the farm grounds include a walled garden and orchard with a large range of fruit varieties, including Moorpark apricots, crisp Cox apples, and Blenheim oranges. Cogges Kitchen located within the farm is a place where you can indulge in locally roasted coffee and homemade scones made using the produce sourced from the walled garden.
Wychwood Brewery
Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Witney, OX28 4DP
Wychwood Brewery is renowned for its production of 50,000 barrels (8,200,000 litres) of exceptional cask ale annually in the United Kingdom. With a strong dedication to brewing traditions and an impressive range of flavourful ales, this brewery has firmly established itself as a prominent figure in the local and national craft beer landscape.
Established in 1983, Wychwood Brewery sits in the heart of the Cotswolds and upholds a steadfast commitment to quality and artistry, crafting distinctive beers that embody the essence of traditional English brewing. Drawing inspiration from the ancient Wychwood Forest, which once enveloped the surrounding Witney area, the brewery pays homage to its historical roots.
One of the brewery’s standout ales is the renowned Hobgoblin, its flagship brand. This iconic beer has bold flavours and distinctive branding and features the mischievous Hobgoblin character. Hobgoblin has garnered a dedicated following both domestically and internationally. Additionally, Wychwood Brewery produces a diverse selection of other beers, each boasting its unique characteristics and appealing to a variety of palates.
A visit to Wychwood Brewery provides beer enthusiasts and curious visitors with a captivating journey into the world of brewing and an opportunity to explore the brewery’s history. Guided tours, lasting approximately two hours, allow you to observe the art of brewing and the difference between traditional methods and modern techniques.
Crocodiles of the World
Burford Rd, Brize Norton, Carterton OX18 3NX
www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk
There are many attractions on offer near Witney, but Crocodiles of The World should not be missed by animal enthusiasts. Established in 2011 under the guidance of conservationist Shaun Foggett, this extraordinary zoo has continued to increase in popularity and expanded to its current location in Brize Norton in 2014 to accommodate its remarkable growth.
The zoo boasts an impressive collection of over 150 crocodiles, representing 17 out of the 24 known species worldwide. Dedicating itself exclusively to the preservation and study of these creatures, it stands as the only zoo in the United Kingdom with such a focused commitment.
Among the notable residents, you will encounter the formidable saltwater crocodiles, alongside several rare species that may be unfamiliar to many visitors.
In addition to its crocodile population, there is a diverse array of other fascinating animals. From playful meerkats and Asian short-clawed otters to the elusive cotton-topped tamarins, tortoises and exotic birds, there is an abundance of species to admire.
Gloucestershire
If you have a picture in your head of the idyllic golden Cotswold village, then it’s probably in Gloucestershire.
Some of the most popular and charming ones include:
Stow-on-the-Wold: A historic market town with a traditional market square and plenty of antique shops and tea rooms.
Castle Combe: Often described as one of the prettiest villages in England, with its honey-coloured stone cottages and peaceful surroundings.
Painswick: Famous for its beautiful churchyard with ancient yew trees and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
Lower Slaughter: Known for its charming stone cottages, traditional architecture, and peaceful surroundings.
There is also Winchcombe, Tetbury, Cirencester and Nailsworth.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Postcode district: GL54
Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, this picturesque village is famous for its quaint stone bridges and riverside setting. Burton-on-the-Water is one of the prettiest villages in Britain and one of the most popular Cotswold destinations. The river Windrush flows through its centre powering three mills including one which is now a motor museum.
The beautiful stone buildings, shops and restaurants along the high street make it a pleasant way to spend a sunny day, The nearby Model Village and Bird World are also great destinations for families.
The Costwolds perfumery is not to be missed and is situated on Victoria Street, Burton. The Grade II listed building is beautiful in its looks but also its smell. They have created perfumes for many around the world and you can book your own perfume-making course which will teach you to create and blend your own scents.
Due to its popularity, the village can be extremely busy in the summertime and visitors may wish to plan around this by coming in Spring or Autumn. Christmas time is particularly magical but if you are visiting in the Summer make sure you come for the August bank holiday to see the village’s traditional football match which is played in the middle of the river.
Bilbury
Postcode district: GL7
Bilbury is one of the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds. Its famous Arlington Row consists of a number of weavers cottages constructed in the 17th century. The River Coln runs just in front of the cottages and the surrounding Water Meadows are the perfect place for a stroll and to take photos.
Bibury Trout Farm is the oldest working trout farm in England and is open to visitors where you can watch the fish being fed or try fishing for yourself. If you catch anything you can BBQ it on site for a small cost or have someone else do the cooking in the onsite cafe.
Also not to be missed is St Mary’s church which is located just outside the village centre and dates back to the 11th Century, built from local golden limestone and slate. It features a stained glassed window designed in 1927 by Karl Parsons and was even featured on a Royal Mail Christmas stamp in 1992.
If you have plenty of time you could also walk into the surrounding Cotswold countryside. The most popular route is a 6.7-mile walk from the village of Coln St Aldwyns to Bibury. The walk takes you through stunning countryside and the Coln River valley. The walk takes around 3 hours, although a shorter route through Bibury Court Estate is also possible. This is a great way for walkers or hikers to enjoy the Cotswolds breathtaking views and Bibury itself without having to navigate parking in the village itself.
Walk the Cotswold Way
Postcode district: GL55
www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/cotswold-way/
This long-distance footpath starts in the English market town of Chipping Campden, also known for the Dover Hill National Trust site that is situated here and ends in the Roman town of Bath. The trail is 102 miles long (164km) and takes around 10 days to complete. The route follows the Cotswolds western edge with views of the countryside, beech woodland and traditional stone villages. Walking through an area of outstanding natural beauty you will see Iron Age hill forts, stately homes and historic battle sites.
Anyone can walk the trail but be aware there are a number of steep inclines. It is well marked and therefore easy to follow but having a guidebook or map to hand would be useful. These will also have a note of accommodation, things to do and services such as food and drink along the trail.
Many people choose to plan their own walk of the trail, perhaps only visiting certain parts of it or doing the full walk as part of a holiday. For those who would rather leave all the planning to someone else, there are a number of companies now offering this to you. They are usually planned with specific stops at the most popular sights, pre-booked accommodations, food, drink and more. Trip Advisor or Google will provide plenty of choices for a variety of prices.
Sudeley Castle & Gardens
Winchcombe, Near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5JD
Situated eight miles away from the idyllic town of Broadway, Sudeley Castle is a cherished family home and visitor attraction within 1200 acres of beautiful parkland. This Tudor Castle and its 10 award-winning gardens have over 1,000 years of England’s rich history and royal connections.
Inside the castle, you’ll trace the footsteps of past monarchs, including Richard III, Elizabeth I, and Lady Jane Grey. What sets Sudeley Castle apart is its unique distinction as the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within its grounds. Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s sixth wife, resided and passed away here, finding her eternal rest in the 15th-century church within the castle’s gardens.
Within the castle’s walls, are many artefacts, including the highly anticipated “20 Treasures of Sudeley.” This extraordinary collection showcases historically significant items and works of art, such as Katherine Parr’s love letters, lacework attributed to Anne Boleyn, bed hangings created for Marie Antoinette, and Charles I’s personal beer jugs.
In Sudeley Castle’s magnificent gardens is the Queen’s Garden, a living tribute to the four queens of England – Anne Boleyn, Katherine Parr, Lady Jane Grey, and Elizabeth I – who once admired the countless varieties of roses that grace this enchanting sanctuary.
Kelmscott Manor
Kelmscott Manor, Lechlade, Gloucestershire GL7 3HJ
www.sal.org.uk/kelmscott-manor/
Kelmscott Manor, the country retreat of William Morris, stands as a testament to the visionary poet, designer, and craftsman who revolutionised the Arts and Crafts movement. This magnificent Grade I listed building captured Morris’ heart with its traditional craftsmanship and seamless integration with the surrounding village and landscape.
As you step foot into Kelmscott Manor, you are transported to the world that inspired Morris’ remarkable designs and influential writings. The manor, which is situated in the upper reaches of the Thames, holds a charm that resonated deeply with Morris and influenced his creative endeavours, including the renowned Willow pattern now known worldwide.
You can wander through the halls of this historic residence and admire the intricate details of the architecture, the handcrafted furniture, and the delicate textiles that showcase its traditional craftsmanship.
Within this listed Manor House are exhibitions and guided tours where you can discover the legacy of William Morris and uncover the profound impact he made on the arts, crafts, and social reform.
Batsford Arboretum
Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AT
Batsford Arboretum is a true haven for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. This arboretum, located near Moreton-in-Marsh in Gloucestershire, boasts a tapestry of trees, plants, and flowers, creating a vibrant and tranquil environment.
With its origins dating back to the late 19th century, Batsford Arboretum has evolved into one of the largest private collections of trees and shrubs in the country. Spanning 56 acres, the arboretum has a diverse range of species from around the world, carefully curated to offer a delightful sensory experience throughout the seasons.
As you walk along the winding paths you’ll see a striking display of colours and textures. From delicate spring blossoms to vibrant autumn foliage, each season brings something new to see. Discover rare and exotic trees, including Japanese maples, magnolias, and cedars. The Arboretum is also renowned for its impressive collection of wildflowers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Batsford Arboretum offers a range of facilities and attractions including a Garden Centre where you can browse and buy a wide selection of plants and garden accessories.
Warwickshire
Some of these could be considered too far out of the Cotswolds. But if you have a car, and rarely get to this area, then these are well worth the visit in my opinion.
Cotswold Walks
Small Brook Cottage, Admington, Warwickshire, CV36 4JL
The Cotswold Walks hiking tours take you along the gentle Cotswold hills, through charming stone villages, and remarkable natural beauty.
With over 20 years of experience, they are a local company dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring that every detail of your hiking adventure is taken care of.
Their tours allow you to immerse yourself in the charming surroundings, venturing along ancient footpaths that wind through picturesque landscapes. You will see English country gardens, visit historic manor houses and discover hidden gems in quaint villages. Along the way, take a well-deserved break at a cosy village pub, where you can try local delicacies and mingle with friendly locals.
To enhance your hiking experience, they provide comprehensive route notes and detailed maps conveniently packaged in a booklet. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures that you can navigate the trails with ease, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in the unspoiled beauty of the Cotswolds.
Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 6AH
www.warwick-castle.com
Warwick Castle is one of the most visited stately homes in the UK. Built by William the Conqueror, its great hall, dungeons and torture chambers date back to the 14th century. You can join a free history tour to explore the rich and intriguing past of the castle or spend your time strolling its plentiful gardens.
There are several gardens to see from the beautiful Peacock Garden where you can enjoy the pretty blooms and free-roaming peacocks to the Pagent field where you can watch medieval tournaments and jousting. The castle hosts many events throughout the year so it is always worth checking the website to get the latest information before you visit. There are several activities and shows during half term and also music concerts in the summer.
If you don’t think you can cram in all these activities in one day, you can now book a short stay in their Knights Village in a unique woodland lodge or glamping tents. With a restaurant, entertainment in the evenings and discounts on park admission, taking a short break at the castle is an excellent way to see all that it offers and of course have a great time.
Shakespeares Birthplace
The Shakespeare Centre, Henley St, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6QW
www.shakespeare.org.uk
Here you can discover the history of Shakespeare, where he and his wife lived and died, as well as known places he visited. Tickets are available for each individual site or as a group. All three locations included in the ticket, Shakespeare Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare New Place are located within a 10-minute drive of each other with parking on site, toilets and food and drinks facilities. Your ticket is valid for 12 months allowing as many repeat visits in that time as you wish.
Having owned the properties since 1847 the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust takes you on an immersive experience at each location. You can enjoy live performances within its garden and discover objects from its collection from Tudor times and from within Shakespeare’s home.
British Motor Car Museum
Banbury Road, Lighthorne Heath, CV35 0BJ
www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk
The British Motor Car Museum is a great place for a family day out where you can discover the history of the British motorcar industry. The Museum tells the story of the birth, decline and re-birth of the motor industry and how it has been a vital part of the lives of people living in the Midlands. Its displays, exhibits and interactive zones take you on a journey of cars through time, and with a collection of over 300 cars, you are not short of things to see.
One of the interactive zones that is great fun for children as well as adults is called ‘under the skin’ where you can look under the bonnet of a car to see how all the different elements work. With lots of levers and buttons to press as well as driving simulators, you might find it difficult to pull them away. It also holds many car shows and meets during the year with details and this year’s 2024 dates available on the website.
