Whenever we investigate the rich tapestry of the English countryside, the marvelous beauty, and rich history of Cotswolds is the first thing that comes to our mind!
The picturesque villages with hatched rooms, antique tea rooms, and far stretches of lush green farmlands. How can we forget, the cobblestoned alleyways, old bookstores, and the quiant walks through rain covered woods.
Yes, all the cottagecore dreams of visiting UK, ends to get fulfilled in the Cotswolds. This is why you must visit this place.
Without any further ado, let’s get into the things you can do in Cotswolds, and how to make your tour even more memorable.
Things To Do In Cotswolds
So, without any further ado, let’s get into a stroll through the picturesque village.
Bibury
Bibury and the easy access to Arlington Row are indeed England’s most beautiful villages. Once you see the white-walled cottages with well-maintained thatched roofs, you will understand why.
Plus, the gardens filled with begonias and petunias are a treat for the eyes as well.
Castle Combe
Castle Combe is another must-visit. You won’t believe how unchanged this village appears to be from the days gone by!
Wander about the streets, look at the older-than-old buildings (The Market Cross literally dates from the 14th century).
You can then stop for a traditional cream tea in The Old Rectory Tearoom and pretend you’re back in the era it was built in when life was simple.
Bourton
Called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water is known for its low bridges, serene river, and picturesque colours.
There isin’t much to do here but enjoy the beautiful views. Take an afternoon to peruse the town’s many boutiques and tea rooms.
For a fun and different experience, you can also visit the Model Village, which is a one-ninth scale replica of the village. It literally looks like a hamlet from the folklores.
Painswick
This is a small village with plenty of appeal. Take a tour around the Snowshill Manor and Garden, which is a National Trust property.
Take your time wandering through the grounds of the manor and if visiting in summer check out when the Lavender Fields are in bloom. The experience will be phenomenal.
Lower Slaughter
Don’t let the name wrong you!
Lower Slaughter is a tiny village that cries out to be explored on foot. Wander along the little river Eye, admire the historic mill with its water wheel, and cross numerous picturesque arched stone bridges.
The old mill with the water wheel still in action makes for an interesting stop.
St.Mary’s
St. Mary’s has been in use as a place of worship for over 1,000 years. This beautiful building with such an eye-catching tapestry was built almost 200 years ago on the foundations of a medieval older church.
If you are there on a Sunday, do not forget to visit the Sunday visits.
Other than the religious visits, you can also take a stroll down Arlington Row. It is one of England’s most iconic sights – a row of impossibly cute cottages that are a magnet for tourists and photographers like us.
Broadway
Broadway is famous for its beautiful High Street lined with chestnut trees. Historically, this is a testament to the wealth of the wool merchants who built this town centuries ago. You can still climb further to the top of Broadway Tower for amazing views of not only Broadway but also over 16 counties.
It’s a great spot for a picnic as well!!
Avoid the tourists by going at lunchtime! Then it is shopping time before you end the trip with a dinner at one of the cafes.
Stanton
Stanton is one of those little villages you head to when you really want to escape the bustling tourist scene. Not many people know of this place in Cotswold, and its thatched roofed cottages and pretty streets make it the ultimate ‘cottagecore’ destination.
From the village, you can also walk to Stanway House, which is nearby. This is a Jacobean manor with stunning gardens and arguably one of the tallest gravity-fed fountains in the world.
Chipping Campden – Cotswolds Very Own Mystery Village
Fan of the Miss Marple stories?
Why not visit the land that inspired the fictional village of Chipping Cleghorn? Alongside the quant scenery, the Market Square is also a focal point. It hosts numerous independent shops and galleries. There are also plenty of old pubs to duck into for a few moments of peace after exploring the town on foot. You are likely to be knackered!
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the highest towns in the Cotswolds, perched on a hill. There are lots of adorable shops and cafes along the town square. Make sure you visit St. Edward’s Church –
It has an ancient yew tree-framed doorway that looks like it’s something out of a fantasy movie (…if you are a fan of the Lord of The Rings series!)
The weekly market is also great for picking up local produce and crafts.
Final Notes!
Do not forget Cotswold is not always about the top tourist attraction. You can find happiness in visiting this place even when it is all about finding those hidden destinations.
Those medival bridges on your morning walks.
A hidden tea room up the hill.
Or, even a cosy crowded not much crowded but you get the best scones, and cornish pasties.
Ensure to enjoy these moments as well!
