When to Travel to the Cotswolds
With its pretty villages of honey-colored stone cottages, rolling hills laced with quiet rivers, and historic pubs that serve modern takes on traditional food, the Cotswolds is quintessential England. However, when should you visit?
As one of the most beautiful parts of the country, the typical peak season of summer attracts crowds to the narrow lanes of the Cotswolds’ quiet villages; nevertheless, the area is so charming that there’s something to discover at any time of the year.
June to August: Best for Long Summer Days
This period marks peak season in the Cotswolds. Between June and August, the calendar is packed with events, school holidays, and you can expect busy roads, crowded restaurants, premium-priced hotels, and bustling shops. If this is the only time that fits into your schedule, all the summer events ensure a visit is still worthwhile.
September and October: Best for Autumn Colors
Wedged between the heat of summer and the festivities of Christmas, autumn might be the best time to be in the Cotswolds. Accommodation prices drop to more acceptable levels, and the overall atmosphere is more relaxed. In between leisurely countryside walks, you can easily find a table at a pub without needing to reserve in advance.
November to January: Best for Winter Landscapes
Winter sees the Cotswolds in its low season; however, there’s still plenty to do. Shops and restaurants are more accessible, and there’s increased space to enjoy the main attractions, such as Hidcote, one of the area’s best gardens (note that hours are reduced in winter).
Time your visit right, and you might see a charming sprinkle of snow. Heavy snowfall could disrupt hiking plans, but the winter storms provide perfect opportunities to cozy up with a warming red wine or hot chocolate in a pub. While prices will be lower during this low season, expect higher rates during Christmas and school holidays.
February to May: Best for Springtime Scenes
Spring in the Cotswolds brings blooming flowers, longer and sunnier days, and the return of village markets to town squares. This season is particularly popular among visitors without school-age children, as it offers the best prices on accommodations and more secluded attractions.
Venture Out for Wintry Walks in January
The start of the year is an excellent time to enjoy the beauty of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Stay close to the pubs and villages for a cozy pint as you relish short but invigorating walks through the English countryside. Snowy days provide a beautiful backdrop for your visit, and the early January nights offer prime stargazing opportunities.
Key events: New Year’s Day Cheltenham Races, Snowdrop Weekends in Cirencester
Spend a Romantic February in the Cotswolds
Is there anywhere more romantic than a Cotswolds village in February? Gourmet meals, beautiful hotels, lovely walks, and leisurely café days are perfect reasons for a visit. However, it’s wise to remember that prices often rise around Valentine’s Day weekend due to increased demand.
Key events: Lambing at Cotswold Farm Park, Cheltenham Winter Craft Beer Festival
Pack for Weather Roulette in March
March can be unpredictable—glorious sunshine could greet you, or you might need your wellies and raincoat. If you don’t mind a little moisture, this is an ideal time to explore the region before the summer crowds arrive. Mother’s Day is a fantastic opportunity for a lovely weekend getaway and a perfect chance to enjoy the newly opened gardens. Consider a visit to Sudeley Castle and Westonbirt Arboretum for stunning floral displays.
Key events: West of England Game Fair, The Festival at Cheltenham, Stroud Film Festival
Walk the Daffodil Way in April
The Cotswolds countryside is breathtaking in April. The Daffodil Way in Gloucestershire boasts one of the most abundant daffodil displays in the country. Many other patches of yellow flowers enhance the beauty, especially when surrounded by frolicking lambs for delightful photo opportunities.
Key events: Chipping Norton Literary Festival, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Coleford Carnival of Transport
May Brings Outside Adventures
The weather in May is ideal for outdoor adventures across the Cotswolds. From cycling between villages along scenic trails to canoeing around the Gloucester Docks under the sun, this is a prime time to engage in various outdoor activities. The fields are especially colorful with blooming wisteria, rapeseed flowers, and wildflowers.
Key events: Tetbury Woolsack Races, Barnsley Village Garden Festival, Lechlade Music Festival
June: Mixed Weather and Increasing Public Transport Services
During June, conversations in pubs commonly center around the weather, which can fluctuate between bright sunshine and chilly rain. As summer approaches, train services from main cities, such as London, become quieter, allowing for a more tranquil experience. The region’s train and bus networks begin to ramp up services just prior to peak summer, making it easier to travel between top spots.
Key events: Cotswolds Olimpick Games, Blenheim Palace Flower Show
Enjoy Picnics and Festivals in July
July is known for its excellent weather, making it a prime time for festivals. Major events such as the Cheltenham Music Festival draw classical acts to the beautiful Cotswolds. Be sure not to miss the smaller village fetes and fairs, such as the Stroud Country Show, which features dog shows, farm animals, and falconry displays.
Key events: The Royal International Air Tattoo, The Cotswold Show and Food Festival, Guiting Music Festival
Join the Crowds in August
As the school holidays commence, it often seems as though everyone and their children flock to the Cotswolds in August. Consequently, advance planning is crucial, and you should be prepared for bustling crowds. This time marks the peak of summer in the Cotswolds, where its picturesque charm may be somewhat diminished by the influx of tourists.
Key events: Magic Millions Festival of British Eventing, Gloucestershire Vintage and Country Extravaganza, Cotswolds Vintage Fair
Visit in September for Sunny Weather with Fewer Crowds
September signifies a transitional month in the Cotswolds. As the early weeks are busy, crowds tend to thin by the month’s end. Trains from London are less crowded, providing a tranquil journey to enjoy the scenic passing countryside. If you want to experience the Cotswolds basking in sunshine but with fewer tourists, this is an excellent time to go. Don’t forget to check out the Moreton in Marsh Agricultural Show or the Frampton Country Fair for farming, food, and family enjoyment in the countryside.
Key events: Northleach Steamshow, Jane Austen Festival, Broadway Food Festival
Soak Up the Autumnal Colors in October
As you drive or walk through the Cotswolds in October, the trees display a vibrant array of fall colors. The cooler weather and stunning natural beauty make this season ideal for hiking. Additionally, as it’s harvest season, local farm shops will have an abundance of fresh produce for sale.
Key events: Cotswold Water Park Ball, Cheltenham Literature Festival
The Festive Season Kicks Off in November
November focuses on preparing for Christmas in the Cotswolds. Cozy pub lunches gain a magical ambiance. Sudeley Castle and Blenheim Palace begin their annual Christmas displays, while temperatures drop, prompting the need for cozy layers. This is an ideal period to enjoy the hospitable pubs and restaurants that feature roaring fires, delightful dishes, and festive drinks.
Key events: Christmas at Blenheim Palace, Westonbirt Arboretum’s Enchanted Christmas, the Cotswolds fireworks display in Tetbury
Shop at the Christmas Markets in December
In December, the Cotswolds come alive with Christmas markets offering exceptional options for holiday shopping. Visitors can expect live music, mulled wine, and numerous craft stalls. Garden centers throughout the Cotswolds host extra-special festive displays, complete with Santa ready to meet children.
Key events: Tetbury Santa Express, Broadway late-night Christmas shopping, Cirencester Christmas Market
