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 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, embark on a quest to find the mystical door at St Edwards Church. This portal is nestled between two ancient yew trees, adorned with a lantern above: no wonder many say it 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 photographs. Be sure to respect the privacy of the residents.
Detour: If you’re eager for more lovely backdrops, Bourton-on-the-Water lies on the River Windrush on your way to Bibury, offering ample opportunities for picturesque waterside selfies. Nature lovers can also visit Birdland Park and Gardens just down the road.
2. Wander around Abbey House Gardens
As you would expect in England’s oldest town, the privately owned Abbey House Gardens in Malmesbury brims with charm. Stroll past the house itself to explore an almost Alice in Wonderland-esque backyard.
Carefully trimmed hedges, grassy walkways, and colorful rose bushes make for a delightful afternoon stroll. Refresh yourself 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 an event to note.
3. Tour the Roman Baths in Bath
Welcoming over 1.3 million visitors annually, the stunning Roman Baths in the city of Bath are a must-see 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. Although taking a dip in the thermal waters is prohibited, you can sample the springs’ water – though be prepared for its distinct mineral taste.
If you desire the famous therapeutic waters, consider a visit to the renowned Thermae Bath Spa nearby, which is known for its rooftop pool and beauty treatments. Alternatively, indulge in a luxurious stay at the Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel, which features its own thermal spa.
Planning tip: Plan on spending 1–2 hours visiting the Roman Baths; longer if you enjoy audio guides. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays and outside of 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 venture established in 1880. Once a simple apple and cobnut orchard, it is now a vibrant haven of plums, raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries, pears, and more.
Planning tip: Depending on the season, the farm allows you to pick your own fruit: visit from 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
Locals and visitors alike 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 whimsical characters scattered among the grounds.
This 19th-century garden spans roughly 600 acres adjacent to Prince Charles’ Highgrove Estate (the manor is obscured by trees). The arboretum consists of two parts: the Old Arboretum features avenues lined with exotic trees, while Silk Wood remains predominantly traditional woodland. For an exhilarating experience, try the 300m (984ft) treetop walkway.
Planning tip: The grounds are open for tours and afternoon teas from April to October; consider combining both for a splendid day.
6. Enjoy tea at a traditional tearoom
The Cotswolds serves as an idyllic location for finding a traditional English tearoom. Indulge in a classic weekend treat of scones, jam, and heartwarming teas.
The picturesque 17th-century Tisanes Tea Room in Broadway offers a traditional menu of ham sandwiches alongside over 30 varieties of tea. Additionally, don’t miss Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House in Bath’s oldest house (c. 1483). Here, the famous Sally Lunn Bun, a large golden treat akin to French brioche, is a must-try.
7. Browse local independent shops
Chain stores are happily rare in the Cotswolds, making boutique shopping more prevalent.
Located between Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton, Daylesford Organic farm shop is renowned for its super-fresh farm-to-fork produce, especially dairy items. It features an onsite cooking school, craft workshops, and a wellness spa, ideal for a fulfilling day.
Offering over 50 varieties, the aromatic Cotswold Cheese Company is definitely worth a visit. With locations in Burford, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Stow-on-the-Wold, it’s easy to include a cheese stop in your itinerary.
Curated by a former fashion director from Barneys New York, Cutter Brooks in Stow-on-the-Wold showcases a thoughtfully selected array of dresses, linens, and homeware by independent designers, all chosen with impeccable taste.
8. Start your engine at the Cotswold Motoring Museum
The Cotswold Motoring Museum gleams with vintage glory, offering an intriguing glimpse into motoring history through its captivating collection of vehicles, toys, and memorabilia.
Housed in a converted 17th-century water mill, the collection spans multiple showrooms across 7500 sq ft of exhibition space. Be sure to check out the “Windrush Alley” exhibit, showcasing the evolution of transport from boneshakers and penny-farthing bikes to the dawn of motor vehicles.
At “Jack Lake’s Garage,” engage with an interpreter presenting as a mechanic from the early 1900s, providing insights into the car industry’s growth during a transformative era.
9. Encounter exotic animals at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Experience giraffes, baby rhinos, cheetahs, and a family of raccoons at the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, a habitat for 260 species of animals nestled within sprawling lawns and green areas.
This engaging destination ensures you’ll spend ample hours enjoying a cozy train ride around the park. You might even consider acting as a keeper for a day (ages 17+), or exploring the beautiful landscaped gardens surrounding the Victorian Manor House – perfect for a romantic stroll or a playful outing with kids.
10. Soak up the history of Blenheim Palace
As the only non-royal country house in England with the title of palace, Blenheim Palace is a unique attraction in the Cotswolds.
The home of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, this extravagant Oxfordshire property is also the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Nestled beside a lake and surrounded by lush, manicured lawns, it’s a splendid place to explore.
Various events, including the Salon Privé auto show, are frequently held at the estate. When seasonal lights illuminate the festively decorated trails, it’s easy to see why it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
This article was first published Aug 8, 2022, and updated Dec 12, 2023.
