best towns to visit in the cotswolds

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.

Table of Contents

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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12 of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit

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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 .

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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.

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 .

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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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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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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

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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 Aug 8, 2022 and updated Dec 12, 2023.

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17 Best Villages in the Cotswolds

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 30, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Visiting the Cotswolds is akin to stepping into the pages of a storybook. Undulating hills blanket nearly 800 square miles and five counties that make up this picturesque region. It's the tiny Cotswold villages that really capture your heart in this breathtaking locale, located about two hours west of London .

Honey-colored stone buildings line ancient laneways, and medieval market squares highlight town centers, while thatched cottages push the charm factor to a whole new level in the prettiest Cotswolds villages. The backdrop for films and inspiration for everything from paintings to novels, this lovely region was named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966.

As quintessentially delightful as England gets, the Cotswolds region is one of the best places to spend a weekend . Hike along the 102-mile Cotswold Way National Trail , a footpath stretching from Chipping Camden to the best attractions in Bath , or drive from village to village to truly enjoy the magic found in the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds.

Before you go, plan your sightseeing with our list of the best villages in the Cotswolds.

1. Castle Combe, Wiltshire

2. bourton-on-the-water, gloucestershire, 3. painswick, gloucestershire, 4. bibury, gloucestershire, 5. stow-on-the-wold, gloucestershire, 6. chipping campden, gloucestershire, 7. burford, oxfordshire, 8. broadway, worcestershire, 9. upper and lower slaughter, gloucestershire, 10. kingham, oxfordshire, 11. cirencester, gloucestershire, 12. naunton, gloucestershire, 13. snowshill, gloucestershire, 14. minster lovell, oxfordshire, 15. lacock, wiltshire, 16. stanton, 17. asthall, map of villages in the cotswolds.

Castle Combe is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds, and one of its most beautiful villages.

Time and again, Castle Combe has been deemed " the prettiest town in England ." Once you arrive, you'll understand why it gained this title, along with its top placement on our list of the best villages in the Cotswolds. Peppered with slate-roofed, honey-hued cottages and featuring a 14 th -century market square, it's hard to beat the authenticity found in this adorable village.

You won't find box stores or tourist shops in this sleepy town. Instead, you'll feel like a local while wandering its tiny streets. Speaking of streets, you'll want to sightsee along these all day. Each building lining the laneways is ancient, dating back to the 14 th century at least.

Buy baked goods or flowers left for sale outside a resident's home, enjoy a meal at The White Hart (it's been around since the 1300s), or visit the oldest working medieval Castle Combe Clock . If you're up for adventure, take your car for a spin at the Castle Combe Circuit .

Walk across the stone bridge spanning the winding Bybrook for one of the best photo-worthy backdrops. Then stop at the Manor House Hotel and Golf Club , a five-star hotel with impeccable grounds. This was once home to feudal lords.

Another area superstar is Bourton-on-the-Water. This captivating village has been dubbed the Venice of the Cotswolds due to the sparkling River Windrush , which runs through the heart of town. Spanned by multiple picturesque bridges, this river and the surrounding town are as pretty as a postcard.

You won't find even a hint of modern architecture, which is a lovely treat for visitors hoping for an authentic experience. Enjoy high tea at a riverside café, find your way out of the Dragonfly Maze , shop in a boutique store, or visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection .

Expect to share the narrow streets with busloads of tourists if visiting during the summer. This is one of the prettiest places to visit in the Cotswolds, so it gets busy. Plus, there are so many fun things to do in Bourton-on-the Water that it seems to be busy non-stop. If you're hoping for a quieter, more private experience, try booking during the spring or fall.

Painswick's most awe-inspiring attraction is the 14 th -century St. Mary's Church . Outside lies a churchyard so fabulous, it belongs in a storybook. Tombs dating to the 17 th century and 99 perfectly groomed yew trees (legend says the devil won't let the 100th grow) cover the grounds, providing a photo-worthy backdrop.

Once a wool town, Painswick is located just over seven miles south of Gloucester and has been nicknamed "Queen of the Cotswolds" for good reason. This charming town's captivating scenery will put your camera into a frenzy. Quintessential Costwold stone homes line the churchyard's borders and the steep, winding streets of town.

It's easy to get lost in the splendidly narrow laneways, but thankfully Painswick is small, so you'll find your way eventually. Plus, getting lost gives you an excuse to explore areas you might have missed otherwise.

Eagle-eyed visitors can spy remnants of its past (like the donkey doors on Bisley Street ) throughout the village. Another must-see is Rococo Gardens , an 18th-century venue featuring fab gardens, family trails, and art exhibits. Slightly outside of town, this is a lovely spot to enjoy sprawling countryside vistas.

Bibury is a quiet village serenely set along the banks of the River Coln . Thanks to its impeccably preserved cottages, well-manicured gardens, and ancient Arlington Mill , this lovely spot has been dubbed "the most beautiful village in England." You really can't take a bad photograph in this pretty Costwold town.

The most famous street in Bibury is one you won't want to miss and have likely seen on a zillion postcards — Arlington Row is lined by charming 14 th -century weavers' cottages. Backed by a rolling hill, this lovely area is breathtaking, making it one of the most photographed spots in the country and one of the best villages in the Cotswolds.

Bibury Trout Farm is a must-visit for anglers. You'll find a "catch your own" fishery on the premises, the oldest of its kind in the country.

Insider's tip: Arrive in Bibury early in the morning or late in the day to avoid crowds. Also, spring is the most beautiful time to visit — the cottages will be covered with colorful blooms.

The highest of the Cotswold villages, Stow-on-the-Wold sits 800 feet up, on Stow Hill . What it lacks in size, this small market town more than makes up for with charm. It, too, boasts the typical Cotswold stone cottages with sloping roofs that push it into the category of prettiest Cotswold villages.

At its center lies a large market square, a testament to the village's prior importance. Over 20,000 sheep were once sold during a fair held here. Today, you'll find a vibrant farmer's market taking place in the square from 9am to 1pm on the second Thursday of each month.

St. Edward's Church is a gem you really must see. Built over many years between the 11 th and 15 th centuries (multiple additions took place), this unique church is most famous for the yew trees that encroach upon the intricate wooden doorway at the north porch.

Not only is Chipping Campden one of the most vibrant of the Cotswold villages, but it's also one of the largest . This bodes well for those of you who don't fancy trying to drive a car down tiny narrow streets in search of an elusive parking spot.

An important market town during its wool trade heyday, Chipping Campden boasts a beautiful stone marketplace in the center of town. Alongside the streets lining this marketplace are quaint shops, excellent restaurants, and the most adorable cottages, easily making this one of the best villages in the Cotswolds.

Fulfill your desire to experience a true English teatime with a visit to Badger's Hall Tea Room or Bantam Tea Rooms . Both will delight your senses with a delicious spread.

If you're looking for action, you'll find it in this buzzing Cotswold town, which plays host to music and literary festivals throughout the year. The Cotswold Olimpick Games have been held in Chipping Camden each spring since the early 1600s.

It's here that you'll find people competing in a quirky collection of events: a pentathlon called King of the Hill , rural games (we're talking relays using garbage cans, wheelbarrows, and hay bales), tug o' war, and shin kicking. This will likely be the most interesting games you've ever attended.

Dubbed the southern "gateway to the Cotswolds," Burford lies 20 miles west of Oxford . The high street in this pretty Cotswold village is literally high — it's perched upon a hill. Lined with charming antique shops, boutique stores, and cafés, it offers stunning views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities to lighten your pocketbook.

The Tolsey Museum , a 16 th -century building that once hosted meetings for merchants, lies halfway down the hill. Inside, you'll find a bevy of information about the town's storied past. Speaking of past, the iconic Church of St. John the Baptist stands as a testament to the town's wealthy history.

Built in the late 1100s, this grand building was finished about 400 years later. Inside, you'll find an abundance of ornate beauty, including the 13 th -century Lady Chapel , which boasts magnificent stained-glass windows.

Traditional honey-colored houses line the streets of beautiful Broadway. Its shining glory is the chestnut tree-lined high street, which is peppered with quaint shops, adorable cafés, charming restaurants, and intriguing art galleries. If you're on a hunt for antiques, you'll find them aplenty in Broadway.

The impressive Broadway Tower lies just outside the center of town in the 50-acre Broadway Tower Park . You'll find three floors of museum inside this well positioned structure, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see 16 counties form the rooftop platform in this beautiful village in the Cotswolds.

The tower has been used for a multitude of purposes including as a home to the printing press of Sir Thomas Phillips, an artists' retreat, and a farmhouse. The property also hosts nuclear bunkers left over from the Cold War.

Upper and Lower Slaughter are joined by the River Eye , a tributary of the River Windrush . Don't let their slightly off-putting monikers fool you, these villages are gorgeous. Plus, "slaughter" apparently means "muddy place," which isn't so bad!

Both rife with beauty and history, Upper and Lower Slaughter have been around for a while — they're both mentioned in the 1086 Doomsday Book.

Upper Slaughter is known as a "sainted village," meaning it didn't lose any residents during World War I. A mere four miles from Stow-on-the-Wold, this attractive town is positioned on a verdant grassy slope leading to a picturesque stream.

One mile away lies Lower Slaughter , which is traversed by a lovely stream and peppered with traditional limestone cottages. It's also home to the most romantic street in Britain: Copse Hill Road .

The Slaughters Manor House is a contemporary hotel housed in an exceptional building dating back to the 17 th century. If you're looking for a luxurious experience set within five acres of pristine gardens, you'll want to stay in this Lower Slaughter marvel.

Beautiful Kingham sits between Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton in the pretty Evenlode Valley . A mere hour-and-a-half train ride from London's Paddington Station, this lovely Cotswold village is a popular weekend destination for big-city folk looking for peace.

For a tiny hamlet, Kingham dishes up a bevy of fantastic food options. The Kingham Plough is a wonderful spot to grab a British meal with a Mediterranean twist. The menu changes daily, so you never know what you'll get, but it's guaranteed to be delicious.

The Wild Rabbit is one of the best restaurants in the Cotswolds. Their innovative menu features food grown on the owners' nearby farm, Daylesford , which is a wonderful place to visit. You'll find everything from candles to creams to cutting boards in its shop. And just outside lies the Bamford Barn , Wellness Spa , and Cookery School .

In addition to its fab food, Kingham boasts the beautiful Cotswolds cottages you've come to see. If you visit in late August, you can catch The Big Feastival , a music and food festival offering concerts, cooking demonstrations, and other family-friendly things to do.

Dubbed the "Capital of the Cotswolds," this ancient town is beautiful and bustling, not to mention one of the best villages in the Cotswolds. The largest village in the region, Cirencester is a popular tourist destination. You'll find plenty of great lodging options, as well as a high street filled with shops ranging from chain stores to eclectic boutiques.

A medieval masterpiece, the Parish Church of St. John the Baptist is the most striking of the three Anglican churches in town. Visitors can join one of two daily guided tours from the middle of March through October. At times, the tower is also available to climb.

Just outside the village lies the extensive remains of one of Britain's largest Roman amphitheaters . It dates to the second century, when Cirencester was known as Corinium. You can learn more about the town's interesting past by exploring the Corinium Museum's diverse exhibits.

Naunton offers visitors a quiet respite in the loveliest of settings. Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the lush green spaces. Wander along the ancient streets lined with historic stone cottages. Or pop into the Black Horse Inn for a typical Sunday Roast. This is one of the best things to do in Naunton.

Naunton isn't plagued by popularity, which means you won't have to jostle through the crowds that descend upon other Cotswold towns (i.e. Bourton-on-the-Water). This lack of tourists leaves you more space to enjoy the beauty of this pretty medieval town and makes it easier to get to know the locals.

Set along the River Windrush, the best view on offer can be found from the top of the hill overlooking the village. This pastoral scene is guaranteed to soothe what ails you!

Fields of lavender surround the quaint town of Snowshill, infusing it with the most wonderful aroma. Another Cotswold beauty, the streets here are lined with small stone cottages, cute cafés, and unique shops. The reason most visit this sweet village, though, is for its spectacular views of the Severn Vale .

This bucolic locale is the perfect place to relax and recharge. Purchase lavender products at Hills Barn Farm . This is where you'll find Cotswold Lavender , a company that farms the odorous crop. Visit during the summer when the lavender is in full bloom. Harvesting usually begins late July into August.

Snowshill Manor and Garden are must visits. Run by the National Trust, this unconventional home once belonged to a one-of-a-kind collector, Charles Wade. Inside, you'll find a variety of eclectic toys, armor, bicycles, and musical instruments, among other interesting finds. Outside, the well-maintained garden offers plenty of hidden places to explore.

Minster Lovell serves up romance on a grand scale. Home to a babbling brook and set on the picturesque banks of the River Windrush, this lovely, quiet town seeps charm and is one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. Thatched roofs and honey-hued stone cover the homes that line its quintessential Cotswold streets.

Once a 15 th -century West Oxfordshire manor home, Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote are British Heritage sites you won't want to miss. Today you'll find the romantic ruins of the hall, tower, and dovecote on these pristine grounds.

If you're feeling brave (and the sun is shining) the river makes a good place for a summer dip. Pack a towel as well as a picnic to enjoy on the riverbank or stop in at one of the cute restaurants in town.

Named in the Saxon times, Lacock translates to "little stream." The bubbling Bide Brook runs dramatically through the center of town, upping the charm factor dramatically in this top village in the Cotswolds.

Run by the National Trust, Lacock is wonderfully preserved, and its greens are perfectly manicured. As a result, it's a popular location for film and television productions. You'll recognize its historic buildings and lovely streets from Downton Abbey , Pride and Prejudice , and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince .

The 13 th -century Lacock Abbey is one of the village's most popular attractions. Founded by Ela, Countess of Salisbury, this later became the quirky home of Henry Fox Talbot (he invented the photographic negative). Today, it also houses the Fox Talbot Museum .

The tiny Cotswolds village of Stanton is pretty no matter what season you choose to visit. Whether covered in a blanket of snow, bursting with vibrant floral blooms, or highlighted by the colorful hues of autumn, this untouched, ancient town is one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds.

Like the other best Cotswold towns, this sleepy village is devoid of modernity and high street shops, as well as crowds and large buildings. Instead, you'll find a peaceful, and incredibly photographable, mix of honey-colored limestone homes and a medieval church (St. Michael and All Angels) that dates to the 12 th century.

A mere three miles from Broadway, this charming village is located close to multiple walking trails, making it easy for visitors to spend a few hours exploring the pastoral landscape. Don't miss a trip to the Shenberrow Hilfort , a historic Iron Age camp that overlooks the village.

The River Windrush winds its way through the quaint village of Asthall, which is highlighted by an ancient, 12 th -century church and its most famous tourist attraction, the historic Asthall Manor .

Once home to the Mitford sisters (Nancy Mitford authored the 1945 novel, The Pursuit of Love ), this spectacular Jacobean manor home and its stunning gardens host on form , an artistic exhibition of numerous sculptures created by artists from around the world. It dates to the early 1600s, and its grounds are more than worthy of a visit if you get the chance.

Located in Oxfordshire, the village's name translates to "at the east nooks," and it is as beautiful as you would expect a Cotswold village to be. You'll find the typical honey-colored stone cottages, gabled roofs, and stunning blooms during warmer months.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Small English Villages to Explore: Much of England's beauty can be found in its sprawling countryside, rolling hills, and winding rivers. If you spend all your time in a big city (hello, London), you'll miss out on the relaxing charm found in England's adorable small towns . A lovely fishing town called Whitstable lies on the country's east coast. This is a lovely spot to spend a weekend at the shore.

More Places to Visit in England: While you'll likely visit London on your trip to the UK, you'd be amiss if you didn't venture farther into the country to get a real feel for life as a Brit. You can't help but feel smarter in Cambridge . Wandering around the magnificent university's 31 colleges is an unbeatable experience. York boasts a massive and impressive medieval church, as well as a lengthy collection of town walls visitors are welcome to walk.

More on England

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20 Prettiest & Best Cotswold Villages To Visit – By A Local

Table of Contents

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Want to visit the best Cotswold villages? You’re in the right place. After many years living nearby, I know all the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds from the tourist favourites to the hidden gems.

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

Since there’s more to say about the Cotswolds than I can squeeze into one blog post, I decided to keep this post on the topic of beautiful Cotswold villages to visit. For more Cotswolds content, check out:

• The best places to visit in the Cotswolds (the must-see highlights: towns, villages, stately houses and other attractions)
• Complete Cotswolds weekend itinerary (how to spend 2 days for first-timers including where to stay and eat, plus tips for your visit)
• 10 perfectly planned Cotswold day trip itineraries (your ultimate guide to day trips from London including by public transport)
• Things to do in Burford (not a village but one of the favourite Cotswolds towns)
• What to do in Tetbury (as above, a gorgeous Cotswold town)

What defines Cotswolds villages vs towns?

While there are some gorgeous towns in the Cotswolds, this blog is about the villages which are (in my opinion) more charming and idyllic. For any non-Brits around here, I’ll clear up the definition:

• Hamlet : a tiny settlement usually with no central place of worship or meeting point
• Village : usually somewhere with a ‘centre’ and place of worship
• Town : in the past, this meant ‘market town’ AKA somewhere with shops and public facilities
• City : traditionally these were places with cathedrals but this is no longer a requirement. You won’t find any in the Cotswolds!

In this blog, I’ll be leaving out the towns but you can read about them in my big Cotswolds guide . I’ll focus instead on the many beautiful Cotswolds villages in England which showcase the idyllic charm of the region. Enjoy!

Tips for visiting these pretty Cotswolds villages

• You need a car! If you don’t have one, use Rentalcars.com to pick one up in Cirencester or Oxford.
• Remember these are people’s homes. Be mindful taking photos when locals are in the shot, and never snap photos of the houses if you can see into their living rooms.
• In peak season, book your accommodation well ahead of time. Things get booked up and prices rise in school summer holidays.

What to pack for the Cotswolds

• An umbrella because you never what the British weather is going to do next!
• Comfortable shoes. Many of these Cotswold villages have cobbled streets and a few are on hills
• A guidebook. I recommend a Rough Guide to the Cotswolds
• A picnic if you don’t fancy paying Cotswold gastropub prices!

Best season for visiting the Cotswolds villages

Summer (June-August): In terms of weather, this is the best season for visiting the villages in the Cotswolds. Just prepare for it to be busy! Spring (March-May): This is my personal favourite time to visit the Cotswolds. Lambs are jumping and daffodils and bluebells are in bloom. The villages are less crowded although it’s still best to avoid weekends if you hate crowds. Autumn (September-November): As the leaves turn brown and the summer tourists fade away, prices drop in the Cotswolds making it a lovely time to visit. Winter (December-February): While the winter months in England can be cold, wet and rainy, the Cotswolds is the perfect place to indulge in cosy pubs with mulled wine and a hearty roast. With lots of luxurious accommodation options, you can stay snug and enjoy the beautiful Cotswold villages with a warm coat and an oh-so-necessary umbrella!

Cotswolds villages map

Best Cotswold villages – North Cotswolds

To make organising your trip easier, I’ll start with the prettiest villages in the North Cotswolds, the area you’ll drive through when arriving from the Midlands. These places are also accessible from London as you’ll arrive via the northeast Cotswolds (providing you take the M40 past Oxford rather than the M4 via Swindon). These are the best Cotswold villages to visit…

1. Minster Lovell

Right on the very edge of the Cotswolds towards Oxford is the tiny Cotswold village of Minster Lovell. It’s best known for Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote , a set of ruins dating back to the 12th century. They’re free to enter . Picnic beside the river (or swim if you can handle the cold!) and try to visualise how this stately hall would have looked in its heyday. After you’ve explored Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, wander through Minster Lovell, easily one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds. Stop at the Old Swan , a pub with a huge garden. They serve all manner of ales, wines and gins, as well as English pub dishes and roast dinners.

Where to park: There’s free parking on the road leading up to St Kenelm’s Church but it can be busy in summer months. Where to stay: Rooms at the Old Swan start from £150. Check availability here .

2. Blockley (hidden gem)

I recently had the pleasure of visiting this pretty Cotswold village. There’s not a lot to do in Blockley but if you’re visiting nearby Chipping Campden or Moreton-in-Marsh, it’s one of the best Cotswold villages to visit and escape the crowds! The Church of St Peter and St Paul (a filming location in TV show, Father Brown) is a central feature with a small cafe at the front. Take 30 minutes to an hour to wander the pretty streets, spotting wisteria in the spring months and paddling in the babbling brook at the bottom of the hill. This is where silk mills would have washed their product when Blockley was the heart of the industry. We spotted some people filling up their water bottles from a tapped natural spring. Perhaps it’s a mystic healing spring, or maybe they were just thirsty?

Where to park: On the road near the church (free). Where to stay: Nearby in Chipping Campden. Bantam Tea Rooms & Guest House is a cosy guesthouse with fantastic afternoon tea served downstairs.

3. Broad Campden

Despite being lesser known by tourists, quaint Broad Campden is one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to pass through. It’s on the road between Chipping Campden and Blockley with a distinctive church and several Cotswold cottages with impressive topiary. St Michael & All Angels Church is a central feature of the village. If you’re in the mood for a pint or hearty roast, stop at the Bakers Arms before you leave.

Where to park: There’s free on-street parking.

With just under a thousand residents, this charming Cotswold village lies four miles from Chipping Norton. Although idyllic, Kingham is perhaps a better place to live than visit. There aren’t a huge amount of must-dos but it’s certainly worth a visit for gourmet foodies. Describing itself as a modern British inn, the White Rabbit serves Michellin-starred locally-sourced seasonal food, curated by renowned head chef, Nathan Eades.

Other things to do in Kingham including visiting the Norman church and sampling homemade bar snacks at Kingham Plough. Finally, Daylesford Organic is a short drive away. This gorgeous farm shop sells organic veg, fancy cheese and homemade cakes. In the spring, they offer lambing tours for those wanting to experience the magic of the English countryside.

Where to park: The free car park beside Kingham Primary School. Where to stay: The Kingham Plough is a cosy British pub with rustic bedrooms and luxurious details. Includes free English breakfast. Check availability here .

5. Lower Slaughter

Straddling the River Eye is another of the Cotswold’s prettiest villages, Lower Slaughter. While wandering across low footbridges over the river, you’ll experience all the charm of Bourton-on-the-Water without the crowds. Don’t worry, the name ‘Slaugher’ isn’t as ominous as it sounds; it derives from the old English ‘slough’ meaning wetland. Inhabited for over 1,000 years, this is one of the oldest villages in the region. Nearby Copse Hill Road has been voted the most romantic street in Britain by a Google Street View poll. Why not take a wander and see if you fall in love with Lower Slaughter?

6. Upper Slaughter

Just up the hill from Lower Slaughter is another of the nicest villages in the Cotswolds, Upper Slaughter , once owned by the rich Slaughter family of the 12th century. This settlement is smaller and quieter but equally pretty. Park yourself on the bench at the top of the hill and look down over the ford, preferably with a picnic or thermos of tea. Before you leave, take a wander around Grade II* listed St Peter’s Church.

Upper Slaughter is known as a ‘sainted’ or ‘thankful village’ because it lost no one during WWI. After losing no one in WWII either, it became one of 14 ‘doubly sainted villages’ in the UK.

Where to park in the Slaughters: There’s free on-road parking on the left-hand side as you approach Lower Slaughter from Bourton-on-the-Water. You can easily walk between Upper & Lower Slaughter (over the fields from the mill). Another option is parking and walking 1 mile from Bourton-on-the-Water. Where to stay in the Slaughters: The Slaughters Country Inn. With 4 acres of grounds and a riverside location, it’s worth the £200 price tag! Check availability here .

7. Adlestrop (hidden gem)

Although Adlestrop is lesser-known, it’s one of the best Cotswold villages to visit for literature lovers. It’s known for the poem of the same name written by Edward Thomas in June 1914 when his train passed through the station. Although the line is now closed, the tiny station platform has been preserved and the poem etched onto a metal plaque inside.

After checking out Adlestrop station, wander the pretty settlement, visit St Mary Magdalene Church and stop for ice cream at Adlestrop village shop.

Where to park: The Village Hall car park (free, donations welcome). Where to stay: The Old Post Office has cosy, colourful rooms inside a period Cotswold cottage. Check availability from £130 .

8. Church Enstone (hidden gem)

I believe Church Enstone is a six-minute drive outside of the Cotswolds but hopefully no one is going to quibble. This contender for the prettiest village in the Cotswolds is full of stone cottages with roses growing around the doorways. Down the road in Enstone is Hoar Stone burial chamber which may of interest to historians. Stop afterwards for a cuppa at Artyard Cafe.

Where to park: There’s free on-street parking. Where to stay: Crown Cottage .

9. Westwell (hidden gem)

Although this tiny village won’t make many lists of Cotswold villages, it’s worth a visit if passing through. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Burford, set around a small pond. If you don’t fancy paying Cotswold pub prices, pack a picnic and eat it on the green.

10. Taynton (hidden gem)

Taynton makes for a pretty pitstop nearby Burford and Bourton-the-Water. Admire St John The Evangelist church with examples of early stonemasons’ art inside.

11. Bourton-on-the-Water (the busiest Cotswold village!)

Leaving all talk of hidden gems behind, enter the most famous Cotswold village! If you’re keen to dodge the crowds, it’s safe to say this isn’t the place for you. However, if you’re keen to tick off the top Cotswold villages and snap photos in the most iconic places, you can’t miss Bourton-on-the-Water.

The River Windrush trickles through this village below low-hanging bridges made with golden Cotswold stone. Another appealing factor of Bourton is its traditional Cotswold cottages. There are also plenty of guesthouses, pubs and cafes, my favourite being Bakery on the Water . Grab coffee and pastries here before a quick stroll. Aim to move on by mid-morning when it gets busy.

Where to park: You can park at Station Road car park (£5.50 for two hours), Burton Vale Car & Coach Park (£2.50 for two hours) or Rissington Road car park (£2.30 for two hours but a 15-minute walk into town). Where to stay: The 16th century Dial House beside the river is made of golden Cotswolds stone with individually decorated rooms. Double ensuite rooms start from £95pn; check availability here .

12. Broadway

Broadway is one of the best Cotswold villages in terms of activities. These include visiting Broadway Museum and Art Gallery, taking a sneak peek at the Millennium Garden and admiring gorgeous houses on Upper Street. Shoppers can browse a wide array of bookshops and antique shops such as Cheltenham House Antiques (collectables) and Whatever The Weather  (homeware and gifts). Indulge at award-winning restaurant, Russell’s Of Broadway, or grab a cheaper lunch at Russell’s Fish & Chips beside it. Then there’s No32 Broadway (serving Tuscan food with a modern twist) and Broadway Indian restaurant (no prizes for guessing what cuisine they serve!).

It’s worth incorporating Broadway Tower into your visit which is a 7-minute drive away. This historical landmark was designed in the 18th century by architect, James Wyatt, and landscape designer, Capability Brown. Entry is £4.80 for adults and £3 for children.

Where to park: Broadway High Street Car Park or Short Stay Car Park Broadway. See all Broadway car parks . Where to stay: The Lodge at Broadway is a mix of new and old: a Cotswold-stone building with modern, bespoke bedrooms. Check availability from £89pn .

13. Snowshill (don’t miss the lavender fields!)

If you’re visiting Broadway, take a detour to Snowshill. It’s best known for Snowshill Manor and Gardens , a 16th-century manor house managed by the National Trust. There are a few other features of the village including Barnabas Church and dog-friendly pub, the Snowshill Arms. As well as full pub lunches, they serve paninis and baguettes from £6. A budget-friendly lunch on the go!

In the early summer months, Cotswold Lavender comes into bloom at the edge of Snowshill village. Not only is wandering the purple fields an idyllic way to spend an afternoon, but you can shop for luxurious lavender-scented body products at the shop, and sample lavender-flavoured teas and cakes at the cafe. Cotswold Lavender entrance: £7 for adults, £3 for children (5-15); free for under 5s.

Best time to see lavender: June and early August. Early to mid-July being is peak.

Where to park: There’s a car park at Cotswold Lavender, otherwise you can park in town. Where to stay: Nearby in Broadway – check out the Lodge at Broadway .

14. Naunton

Naunton is yet another of the prettiest Cotswold villages and, with almost 1,000 years of history, one of the most historic too. Admire the quaint cottages, visit St Andrew’s Church and stop for a roast at The Black Horse Inn. This Gloucestershire village can be found close to Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Where to park: There’s on-road parking.

15. Sherborne (hidden gem)

Not to be confused with Sherborne in Dorset or Sherbourne in Warwickshire, this Cotswold village can be found near Burford. My favourite part of visiting Sherborne was visiting this micro-library full of books. Just donate one to borrow one! From Sherborne, you can take a circular walk around the watermeadows . I recently stopped for a picnic on this huge fallen tree pictured below. Reward you walk with a trip to Sherborne Village Shop & Tea Room (order the hot chocolate!), and take a quick wander around St Mary Magdalene Church before you leave.

Where to park: There’s free on-street parking in the village. If taking the watermeadows walk, use the National Trust car park.

Best Cotswolds villages – Central & South Cotswolds

The Southern Cotswolds are home to several beautiful Cotswold villages, easily visited from Swindon, Bath or Bristol. These are the best villages down south…

You can’t talk about pretty Cotswold villages without mentioning Bibury. It’s best known for Arlington Row, a street of ridiculously quaint Cotswold cottages that feature in British passports. William Morris voted Bibury not just the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds but the whole of England! Rather than snap Arlington Row and move straight on, explore a few of the other things to do in Bibury which include crossing the bridges over the River Coln, wildlife-spotting around Rack Isle, and tickling your own trout dinner at Bibury Trout Farm. Bibury can be found halfway between Cirencester and Burford on the east side of the Cotswolds.

Where to park: Park for free on-road or in the spaces beside Bibury Trout Farm. Where to stay:  The Swan Hotel, a period 17th-century inn with river views, decadent rooms and fantastic food. Check availability here .

17. Coln St Aldwyn

Two miles from busy Bibury is a tiny Cotswold village that receives far fewer tourists. With a quaint shop and a couple of pretty guesthouses, you have the feeling you’ve stepped back in time 100 years. Since there isn’t a great deal to do in Coln St Aldwyn, I’d only recommend visiting if you’re passing. For a quick look around and a delicious lunch at the highly-rated restaurant at  New Inn , it’s a real gem.

Where to park: Park on-road. Where to stay: The New Inn .

17. Hatherop

Within walking distance of Coln St Aldwyn is tiny Hatherop. This is another picturesque Cotswold village that’s worth a stroll if you’re passing through. On the banks of the River Coln, this sleepy settlement has a church (St Nicholas’s) and several red phone boxes and post boxes. Even the adorable bus stop is made from golden Cotswold stone.

19. Castle Combe (THE prettiest Cotswold village!)

Castle Combe is often voted the most beautiful Cotswold village. It’s not hard to see why! No new houses have been built in this tiny settlement since the 1600s making it one of the best-preserved ancient settlements in England. It was used in filming for Stardust (2007) and Stephen Spielberg’s War Horse (2011). Whilst in Castle Combe, stop by St Andrew’s Church to see the faceless clock used in the Doctor Dolittle films. Foodies can enjoy afternoon tea at The Old Rectory Tearoom  or a Michelin-starred meal at The Bybrook . My top tip is to visit as early as you can to beat the crowds… especially if you want a photo on Market Place Bridge without 100 Instagrammers waiting in turn (no shade intended for I am one of them)!

Where to park: Castle Combe Free Visitor Car Park. Note that it’s a steep walk up the hill from Combe. There’s street parking in town on West Street but on a busy summers day, you’re more likely to find a place in the car park. Where to stay: The Castle Inn right in the heart of town. Check availability from £147 .

Right at the southern base of the Cotswolds is this adorable village where little has changed for centuries. Lacock Abbey is a National Trust property at the heart of the village, most famous for past resident, William Fox Talbot, credited with inventing part of the photography process. Learn about photography at the Fox Talbot exhibition and spot Harry Potter filming locations around the Abbey, before strolling the Lacock village’s antique shops and open-air produce stands. Purchase jams and confectionary, leaving your money in an honesty box.

Related read: Harry Potter movie locations in Lacock, England

Where to park: The National Trust car park close to the Abbey. It costs £4.50 per day for non-members (free for National Trust members). Where to stay: The Sign of the Angel Inn (the black and white building pictured above). This cosy pub and hotel is so quaint it was used in Harry Potter filming. Check availability from £13 0 .

Which are the most famous Cotswold villages? Certainly Bourton-on-the-Water! It’s usually packed. In the north, Broadway is also popular. Down south, Bibury is the most famous Cotswold village due to the appeal of Arlington Row. The same goes for Castle Combe with its Instagrammable photo spot on the bridge. How many villages can you see in a day? If you’re visiting the bigger villages with museums and other things to do, I’d say 3-4 per day. If you’re doing a road trip of the smaller villages, you could probably squeeze in 5-6. Can you visit the Cotswolds as a day trip? Sure, although you won’t have time to see all 20 places in this blog! Several tour companies offer Cotswolds tours from London or you can drive and do it yourself. Use Rentalcars.com for UK car hires and my Cotswolds day trip guide for tips. Take a full-day, small-group Cotswold tour from London . Take a Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold tour with lunch from London . If you’re in the Cotswolds already, take a day trip from Moreton-in-Marsh .

Thanks for reading!

I hope you have a good idea of the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds. It’s truly (busy) heaven down here! Don’t forget to use my Cotswold villages map to help plan your route & itinerary.

Visiting the UK?  These are my trusted resources… Guide books – LP always get my seal of approval. Use the latest copy of Lonely Planet England . 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. Flights (international and domestic): I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. 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. I use GetYourGuide for tours & activities when I don’t want to travel solo. The guides are knowledgeable and you can’t beat the prices. I also check Viator as they often have fun and unique offerings. For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . 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 . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

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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!

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The 16 Best Towns To Visit In The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Britain. Covering around 800 square miles and five different counties, it’s an area that is known for its old-fashioned charm, gorgeous little villages and status as one of the best places to come on holiday in the UK.

Because the Cotwolds cover such a large area of the country, trying to decide which of its towns to visit can seem like an impossible task. Do you take a trip to the tourist hotspots and enjoy some of the finest food and sightseeing in the area? Or do you head off the beaten path and visit the more undiscovered towns and villages in the Cotswolds that are perfectly peaceful and encompass classic English charm?

To help guide your decision, we’ve rounded up 16 of the best towns to visit in the Cotswolds, featuring visitor favourites and some more unheard of options.

In the North of Oxfordshire lies Burford , known by many as the gateway to the Cotswolds. With plenty of traditional pubs and little independent shops, it’s a popular tourist destination that features some classic examples of 17th and 18th century English architecture and still maintains a historic charm to this day.

If you’re visiting the Cotswolds then you should definitely consider coming to Burford to sample the offerings from its cafes and tea rooms or taking home a charming antique from one of the town’s many stores.

Bourton-on-the-Water

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water comes at the top of most people’s lists of recommendations. Often called ‘The Venice of the Cotswolds’, the River Windrush flows through this gorgeous village and is covered by five, arched bridges that are incredibly popular photo spots.

There are plenty of different attractions in Bourton-on-the-Water suitable for all ages, from the Cotswold Motoring Museum to the miniature model village. Its popularity can mean that it gets very busy, especially in the summer months, but it’s still well worth a visit for the charming architecture, excellent food and range of things to see and do.

If you’re looking for Cotswolds villages that will take you away from the crowds, you should definitely visit Painswick. Many refer to it as the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’ because it is such a beautiful place, with charming architecture, gorgeous surrounding countryside and a very peaceful atmosphere.

A highlight for history fans is the Painswick Rococo Garden, and keen walkers will find plenty of routes around the area including the Cotswolds Way National Trail. Many people think of the village as one of the most romantic places to visit in the Cotswolds , and once you’ve seen the beauty of Painswick, you’ll understand why. It’s also a great part of the area to stay with dogs , as the traffic is minimal and there are lots of open spaces for walks around the village.

Chipping Campden

One of the liveliest towns in the Cotswolds is Chipping Campden , found in Gloucestershire . If you’re looking for a change from all the sleepy, peaceful villages that this area is so well known for, this town offers plenty of locally organised events, tourist attractions like Hidcote Manor Gardens and lots of different accommodation options.

Chipping Campden is also one of the best towns to stay in the Cotswolds, as it provides an excellent base to go and visit other popular nearby villages like Moreton-in-Marsh and Broadway .

Cirencester

One of the most historic towns in the Cotswolds is Cirencester ; a destination that dates back to Roman times. Often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, a highlight of Cirencester is the cathedral-like Parish Church of St. John Baptist, located in the bustling market square and one of many fascinating historic buildings found around the town.

Visitors should come to Cirencester if they’re looking to see a more vibrant side of the Cotswolds than its classic, sleepy villages. There are lots of shops, cafes and restaurants lining the streets, a Roman amphitheatre to visit and regular farmers, craft and antique markets.

Broadway is one of the larger villages in the Cotswolds, found in the county of Worcestershire . It’s full of charming houses and shops built with signature golden Cotswolds stone, making it a very pretty part of the area that gets plenty of visitors throughout the year.

One of the main attractions in the village is Broadway Tower, a Saxon structure that overlooks the surrounding countryside and is not a good choice for anyone afraid of heights! Never fear however; there are lots of top-rated pubs, restaurants and cafes nearby that still make it a location that is well worth visiting.

Upper Slaughter

Upper Slaughter is a similarly quiet part of the Cotswolds that is an ideal place to visit if you’re looking for a more laid-back trip. You can walk from Lower Slaughter to the village alongside the beautiful River Eyre and enjoy a picnic on the green or a walk admiring the pretty, stone houses.

There’s a 17th-century gabled Manor House that has been converted into a hotel in Upper Slaughter that does excellent food (and afternoon tea!), but there aren’t as many other attractions in the village as you’ll find in a lot of other places in the Cotswolds.

Lower Slaughter

Whilst this location might not have the most encouraging name, it’s actually one of the most picturesque Cotswold villages. Lower Slaughter is only a few minute’s drive from the popular Bourton-on-the-Water which means that most tourists overlook it, but this is good news if you’re looking for a quieter experience of the area that is still full of quintessential Cotswolds charm.

Lower Slaughter is named after the Old English word for marsh, and so the village is surrounded by wetland. There are a couple of lovely cafes and a museum to pass the time, as well as lots of walks nearby that are great for visitors with dogs .

Castle Combe

Castle Combe is referred to by many as ‘the prettiest village in England’. Whilst the castle that this picturesque Cotswold village is named after no longer exists, the 17th-century architecture has remained well-preserved and gives the whole area an idyllic, ‘chocolate-box’ feel that has many luxury holiday accommodation options.

Located in the county of Wiltshire , Castle Combe is an incredibly popular tourist hotspot in the summer months, but if you visit in the early spring you’ll have the quaint streets almost all to yourself.

Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the best towns in the Cotswolds if you’re looking for plenty of delicious places to eat. This historic market town is full of tea rooms, cafes and pubs that make it an ideal place to come for an afternoon or to stay for a weekend and sample all of the eateries found around the pretty little streets.

This town is also home to a brilliant array of gift shops and galleries, as well as classic examples of unique architecture, including Porch House and St Edward’s Church.

The village of Blockley was once famous for its silk production in the 18th and 19th centuries. Overlooking a hill and a Norman church in Gloucestershire , many of the historic mills in the village have now been converted into accommodation, and there are many classic golden stone Cotswold cottages around as well.

Blockley is one of the best towns in the Cotswolds if you want to enjoy some authentic peace and quiet without hordes of daytrippers, making it an ideal choice for holidaymakers looking to get away from it all. 

Close by to Chipping Campden in Oxfordshire is the quiet, secluded village of Kingham. This location in the ‘Golden Triangle’ is one of the most beautiful Cotswold villages, with picturesque cottages lining the streets, an elegant Norman church and a surprisingly lucrative dining scene that includes a restaurant run by a Michelin starred chef.

Kingham also has a train station that connects directly to the centre of London , making it an excellent choice for visitors who are coming to the Cotswolds straight from the city .

Gloucestershire’s Stanton is a village that perfectly captures everything you first think of when you hear the word ‘Cotswolds’. The charming houses are all built out of signature golden stone, there are miles of gorgeous countryside surrounding the village and an authentic pub serves local food and drink all year round.

If you’re after a really authentic experience of the area then Stanton is the place to come, as the village lacks any real commercialisation and isn’t ever overrun by tourists.

One of the best Cotswolds villages to visit if you’re looking to get off the beaten path and discover a new side to the area is Chedworth. This tiny village is only really accessible by car or on foot, is home to only 700 inhabitants, and has a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere that is ideal if you need a break from the busier tourist traps.

A highlight of the village is the National Trust Chedworth Roman Villa, which is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the whole of Britain. Even if you’re not that much of a history fan, the intricate mosaics are stunning.

Tetbury is found on the southern side of the Cotswolds and is a very lively market town that is also full of history. As the second largest town in the Cotswolds and the home of HRH Prince Charles, it’s a location that gets a lot of visitors all year round, but for good reason.

Whether you’re looking for shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants or tourist attractions, Tetbury has got it all. Highlights include the Grade I-listed historic market hall, local markets and stalls, the gardens at Highgrove and the famous Goods Shed Arts Centre.

Finally, if you want to see one of the most photographed places in the Cotswolds, head to the village of Bibury in Gloucestershire. The famous Arlington Row of period houses is featured on the inside cover of the British passport, and attracts hundreds of tourists to snap a shot of the iconic line of houses every week.

Aside from the must-see street, Bibury is one of the nicest places to visit in the Cotswolds in the springtime, where you can enjoy afternoon tea in the William Morris Tea Room, visit the local trout farm and stroll alongside the River Colne.

When it comes to choosing the best towns in the Cotswolds, the list is endless. Some locations stand out for their food and shopping opportunities, others that feature iconic landmarks and historic sites, and some that are simply so beautiful that you need to visit just to take it all in.

Whichever towns in the Cotswolds you decide to visit, you’re sure to find classic architecture, stunning natural landscapes, friendly locals and plenty of things to see and do . No matter what time of the year it is, the area is known as one of the most stunning parts of the country for a good reason, and all of the towns and villages showcase something special. 

If you’re planning a visit to one of the towns or villages in this popular part of England, check out our range of self-catering properties in the Cotswolds . If you’re looking to book a last-minute break, you can view our selection of cottages with last-minute availability here .

One thought on “ The 16 Best Towns To Visit In The Cotswolds ”

You’ve hit the nail on the head with this list here! Such a great read and I love reading other peoples opinions as a resident of The Cotswolds!

Your photos are absolutely gorgeous too!

Thank you for sharing!

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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

Visiting the UK? Check out my other posts

• Adorable Cotswolds Airbnbs: 26 Most Unique Airbnb Cottages in the Cotswolds
• 6 Unmissable Things to Do in Castle Combe [The Cotswolds Prettiest Village]
• 7 Wonderful Things to Do in Burford in The Cotswolds
• 14 Unique Things to Do in Broadway [The Jewel of the Cotswolds]
• 16 Best Things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh, The Cotswolds
• 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
• How to Get to The Cotswolds from London, around the UK & Beyond!
• 16 Lovely Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon: A Detailed Guide to Shakespeare’s Birthplace
• 10 Unusual Things to do in London You Never Knew About
• B Bakery Bus Tour: The Best Afternoon Tea Tour in London
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• Self-Guided Banksy Walking Tour in Bristol: Where to See 10 Original Banksy Art
• 29 Best Things to do in Bristol | The Ultimate City Guide

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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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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 .

In this article:

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 best things to do in the Cotswolds

By Sarah James

Stretching across the counties of Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, Oxfordshire and Somerset, the Cotswolds is perfect for a weekend break in the UK and also heaving with A-listers with country retreats – though don't assume you will see any of them, there is plenty of space to hide between the rolling hills and creamy-stone villages full of fabulous antique stores and cheese shops. Here we outline our favourite spots to visit and the best things to do in the Cotswolds.

How many days are enough for the Cotswolds?

Lots of visitors cover impressive ground in the Cotswolds over a weekend, but to make the most of this beautiful corner of England , we recommend at least three days, if not four or five. With more time to kill, you can see more villages, pack more into your itinerary and spend longer lingering in cosy pubs and restaurants .

What is the best time of year to visit the Cotswolds?

Peak summer is the busiest time of year for tourism here – days are long, the weather is warm and the sun should be shining, which makes tramping along walking paths and sitting in beer gardens all the more inviting. Spring is gorgeous for seeing flora and fauna, while in autumn, the falling leaves paint everything a gorgeous golden hue. And, without sitting too firmly on the fence, winter is special as well – seeing these storybook places in a blanket of snow is a fairytale experience.

1. Walk the Cotswold Way

This National Trail starts in Chipping Campden and trickles down for 100 miles ending in Bath . It’s suitable for walkers of all levels – whether you plan on covering the whole lot in a few days or breaking it up throughout a few weekends, there is no shortage of epic views, lovely places to eat and things to do. The official guide breaks the route into 15 sections, which include the six-mile path from Chipping Campden to Broadway, at the beginning of the Cotswolds Way, and the nine-mile route from Birdlip to Painswick, which passes through beech woodlands, through Copper’s Hill (where the famous Cotswolds cheese rolling competition takes place each May) and Painswick’s Rococo Garden. Pick a section to do, or take on the full path over seven to 10 days.

2. Visit the prettiest villages

Picturesque towns and villages speckle the 787 square miles that make up the Cotswolds – buildings carved from honeyed stone folded into the hills, surrounding dinky rivers and centuries-old town squares. Hopping between them is a charming way to spend a day here; start in Bourton-on-the-Water, where 18th-century bridges link the two banks of the River Windrush, or Castle Combe, a hamlet built in the 16th-century with leading lady qualities (the village has been used as a filming location in period shows and films such as  Bridgerton ). We like Lower Slaughter for its pretty mill and tiny waterways and Painswick for its walking routes and annual arts festival.

3. See film and TV sets in real life

Tramping through the Cotswolds, even as a first-time visitor, you’ll chance upon scenes you’re certain you’ve seen before. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has been used in countless films and TV shows, from fantasy productions such as  Harry Potter  (Gloucester Cathedral was used to film scenes at Hogwarts in most of the films) and  Stardust  (filmed in Castle Coombe) to period shows such as  Bridgerton  (Badminton House stands in for Clyvedon Castle, where Daphne and Simon live once they’re married in season 1).

4. Cosy up at the pub

Is there anything more quintessentially English than a country pub ? The Cotswolds does British boozers really well – and, when the weather inevitably turns, there’s nowhere better to cosy up next to a roaring fire with a pint of something local. The Bell at Langford is a cool reimagining of an old-school drinking den, with striking blue walls and traditional flagstone flooring, The Wild Rabbit at Kingham is textbook posh pub with an elevated menu, and The Porch House at Stow-on-the-Wold is the place to book for a slap-up Sunday roast .

Shannon McMahon

Charley Ward

John Weller

5. Peek inside a country pile

In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Cotswolds became affluent due to the money made from the wool trade. The result was the construction of stately manors, churches and palaces which still stand today. Now, many are open to the public or have been turned into grand dame Cotswolds hotels . Berkeley Castle was built in the 12th century – a Norman fortress with an enclosing wall. Stanway Castle, meanwhile, is a Jacobean manor house with a very pretty garden. The show stealer is Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only non-royal country house in England to have the title of palace which was the birthplace and ancestral home of Winston Churchill.

6. Go antique shopping

The Cotswolds is well loved for shopping – for organic produce, homewares and antiques. At Blighty Antiques in Twigworth, where you'll discover quirky country house pieces from beautiful mirrors and furniture to lighting. Tetbury is dotted with antique stores – Amy Perry Antiques has hand-dyed linens, glass vases and distressed chests of drawers, while Lorfords Antiques is a blow-the-budget showroom.

7. Relax at a world-class spa

It makes sense that the Cotswolds – with its beautiful views and serene, slower pace of life – is home to a smattering of smart spas. At Thyme , a village-like hotel, the Meadow Spa has a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool and a curated list of probiotic treatments in partnership with Aurelia London. Calcot Spa , meanwhile, offers Elemis facials, massages and reflexology.

8. Go to a festival

All that green, open space is ripe for the picking when it comes to festival season. There are splashy music festivals such as Wilderness to bag tickets to (the 2024 line up is yet to be announced). Food and drink festivals include the Cotswold Beer Festival and The Big Feastival (where globally renowned chefs such as James Cochran and Clare Smyth can often be spotted wandering the grounds). And there are more niche festivals to get stuck into, too – Barn on the Farm spotlights folk music, for example.

9. Go on a hot air balloon

One of the most enticing things to do when visiting the Cotswolds is soaking up the region’s glorious vistas by hiking across rolling hills and sweeping valleys. The best way to get the lay of the land? From above – by way of a hot air balloon. Wake up early to catch the sunrise as you rise above the towns and villages, and golden light bathes the patchwork of lush green fields and gorgeous Cotswolds stone buildings. Virgin Balloons offer flights from various locations, including Evesham, Shipston-on-Stour, Evesham, Tewkesbury and Prestbury, taking guests on tours across some of the Cotswolds’ most iconic villages.

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• The Cotswolds

The Best Cotswold Villages and Towns – Our Top 10

Discover our top 10 list of the best Cotswold villages and towns, then choose the perfect place to visit for your UK staycation!

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We reveal our top 10 list of the best Cotswold villages and towns to visit, and why.  From the quaintest, prettiest locations to the beautiful bustling high streets – read on to discover more.

The Best Villages in the Cotswolds

Wondering why this gorgeous village looks familiar? We thought so! Bampton became Downton Village during the filming of the critically acclaimed TV show, Downton Abbey. Revisit your most-loved Downton moments with a stroll down Church View to St Mary’s Church, home to some of Downton Abbey’s most dramatic scenes! You can also view a selection of Downton memorabilia at the Bampton Community Archive.

Not to worry if you’re not the biggest Downton fan, Bampton is also home to some great pubs and cafes. Looking for a perfectly cooked beef Sunday roast with huge Yorkshire puddings, then The Plough Inn is the answer, as you can spend your Sunday cosied up by the log fire with a glass of red. If you fancy a lighter bite, then head to Bampton Garden Plants Cafe, perfect for coffee and cake.

Burford is a hotspot for shopping, cafes and some excellent pubs. Our favourite being The Angel at Burford , where you can enjoy some mouth watering gastro-pub food served all day. You must order the blade of beef, and if you enjoy a freshly pulled pint, the Hooky ale is the one to go for. The pubs surrounding Burford are also not to be missed, including the Maytime Inn , which has a gorgeous garden so you can soak up the sun in the Summer months.

Hoping for a fun-filled family day out? Head to the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens to get up close and personal with lions, tigers and bears, oh my! Burford really is one of the best Cotswold villages.

3. Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton has a buzzing, lively, high street lined with independent shops and every third Saturday of the month, you’ll also find a Farmer’s Market where you can pick up quality local produce to cook up a storm from the comfort of your holiday cottage in the Cotswolds . If you don’t fancy cooking (we don’t blame you, you’re on holiday after all!), why not try The Boxing Hare ? A quaint country pub with great food and stunning views of the Cotswold countryside.

Chipping Norton provides fun for all the family with many local attractions, including Heythrop Zoological Gardens , Fairytale Farm and The Lido – the perfect place to cool off during the Summer months! Plan your stay around one of Chipping Norton’s annual events, such as the Chipping Norton Lit Festival , and make the most of the activities on offer to keep the kids entertained whilst on holiday. Discover many more things to do in the Cotswolds over on our handy Cotswold guide!

4. Cirencester

The perfect place to shop till you drop! Cirencester has a great shopping area where you can find high street names as well as independent retailers. There’s plenty of things to see and do, the kid’s favourite tends to be Cotswold Country Park & Beach , as it’s home to a giant inflatable water park, high ropes course and BBQ pits, so that you can spend the whole day soaking up the fun!

If that sounds like your idea of hell on your relaxing Cotswold holiday, then visit the Corinium museum or Elemental Sculpture Park for something more low-key. If you took the plunge and visited the kid’s haven, reward yourself with a delicious, hearty dinner and freshly pulled pint at The Masons Arms and they will welcome you with open arms.

5. Fairford

This gorgeous village is just what you signed up for if you’re looking for a picture-perfect spot. We recommend a stroll along the River Coln with an award-winning cup of coffee and cake from Lynwood & Co . Don’t forget to pick up one of their sourdough loaves to enjoy during your stay. There’s also a delightful family-run Italian, Colosseo Ristorante , we hear their Carpaccio pizza is to die for!

If you’re looking for a family activity, plan your stay around the Fairford Festival in June where you can enjoy live music and appearances from top writers. You could even put your pooch to the test in their Dog Show! Alternatively, do you have a need for speed? Embrace the fast and the furious at Cotswold Driving Experiences which is open all year round for all you adrenaline junkies out there. There’s also The Royal International Air Tattoo which is one of the world’s largest military air shows, held annually in July at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.

6. Faringdon

With stunning views of the Cotswold countryside, Faringdon is a picturesque, historic market town. It’s 100ft tall Folly Tower is the area’s most famous landmark and you can explore it in all its glory with the 8km Farringdon circular walk, famous for its breath-taking views of the rolling Cotswolds hills. If this sounds a bit too far, you can follow the last bit of the route which features a sculpture trail in the woods, perfect for children.

Visit the National Trust site, Buscot Park , an 18th century house, home to enchanting gardens and the Faringdon art collection. Just around the corner from Buscot Park, you’ll find Buscot Weir, which is known by the locals as a great place for open water swimming. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, try Faringdon Coffee House, great for a light bite and also amazing Lebanese food… their sharing plate with grilled aubergine, chicken wings and vine leaves is absolutely divine!

Voted England’s Favourite Village in 2006, Kingham is a beautiful, cosmopolitan village filled with chocolate box houses. A hotspot for visiting Londoners, as they can’t get enough of the independent boutiques, particularly Daylesford Farmshop ! Famous for local, organic produce, homeware and cookery classes.

You can also book in for some well-deserved relaxation time at the Bamford Wellness Spa, just next door to Daylesford. Kingham is also home to The Big Feastival , hosted on August Bank Holiday, where you can watch artists such as Rag’N’Bone man perform and tuck into street food from the best chefs around!

8. Longborough

This small, pretty Cotswolds village is not to be underestimated, as every Summer the village becomes a hub of activity for Longborough Festival Opera . Hosting beautiful classical performances in their intimate opera house with 500 seats and Big Top tent.

Kickstart the evening with a round of drinks at The Coach and Horses . If you’re looking for all-year-round activities, you can travel slightly further afield to visit Sezincote House , an old Indian palace in the heart of the Cotswolds (yes, you did read that correctly).

9. Stow-on-the-Wold

The ivy-clad buildings of Stow-on-the-Wold make it one of the most beautiful market towns in the Cotswolds. This pretty town is famous for its antique shops and has a lively Market Square lined with independent boutiques. If you’re a history buff, take a look at the ancient cross in the centre of the square or explore other areas of local history by heading down to St Edward’s Church for amazing architecture. Without doubt, one of the best villages in the Cotswolds!

There are many great places to eat and drink. Why not visit England’s oldest inn, also known as The Porch House founded in 947AD, for a freshly pulled pint by a cosy open fire? We love Alexiou’s restaurant and The Old Butchers in Stow for the most delicious seafood.

10. The Oddingtons & The Wychwoods

This collection of peaceful, beautiful, traditional Cotswold villages includes Upper & Lower Oddington, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Milton-under-Wychwood and Ascott-under-Wychwood. The Fox is a great pub located in Oddington, popular with visiting foodies and wine lovers. Oddington is also a stone’s throw away from our favourite Daylesford Farm Shop!

The Wychwoods have their fair share of delightful country pubs too, including The Swan at Ascott-under-Wychwood and The Milton Hare at Milton-under-Wychwood , The Hare even offers a Champagne Happy Hour at 5pm on a Friday and regular live music (what’s not to love?!). Unwind by the open fire following a beautiful walk in Wychwood forest.

• Things to do

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Cotswolds Travel Guide (Best Tips, Itineraries & Map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: July 26, 2023

Our Cotswolds Travel Guide includes recommended places to go and things to do, accommodation options, tips and photos from one of the most beautiful regions of England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to the region!

LET’S PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE COTSWOLDS!

The Cotswolds are one of the most popular destinations in the south of England for both UK residents and visitors from abroad.

Spread across an area of 2000+ kilometres and several English counties including Gloucestershire, Somerset, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire the Cotswolds region was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966.

Famous for its English market towns and villages with quaint honey-coloured houses, the Cotswolds are the perfect destination for walkers, cyclists and those simply wishing to explore a quintessentially English destination.

In this guide, you will find links to all our articles about the Cotswolds to help you plan your visit to the Cotswolds and have the best time possible in this beautiful area of England.

Good to know – If you are visiting the UK and are located in London the Cotswolds are perfect for a day trip (though I highly recommend exploring the area for a few days if you can) You can find out more below.

Map of the Cotswolds

When is the best time to visit the cotswolds, what to see and do in the cotswolds, cotswolds podcast episodes, how to get to the cotswolds, best tours to the cotswolds from london, where to stay in the cotswolds, best experiences in the cotswolds, best travel books about the cotswolds, common questions when planning your visit.

The Cotswolds are a popular destination to visit in England at any time of the year . High season is from June to August and the area is crowded with visitors. If you are planning to visit Oxford this is the time of year when students are on holiday and a great time to wander the different colleges.

During the winter months (December to February) the Cotswolds are at their quietest. Expect cooler temperatures with the possibility of snow! If you are planning a winter trip check the weather and visit on cold, crisp days when the sun is out and the skies are blue. The days are shorter in winter so plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of daylight hours.

Spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) are ideal times of year to visit the Cotswolds. Enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves on the trees or the spring flowers as you explore the villages and countryside.

There are so many beautiful towns and villages to visit in the Cotswolds that one is really spoilt for choice.

If you are planning a Cotswolds visit the best way to organise your trip is to decide which villages and towns 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 towns.

Let’s not forget that some of the towns and villages that border the Cotswold region are also worth including in your itinerary.

The beautiful town of Stratford-upon-Avon is located on the edge of the northern Cotswolds region.

Blenheim Palace a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill and the historic university city of Oxford are both located to the east of the Cotswolds.

And the stunning city of Bath is located to the south of the Cotswolds.

Read more about these attractions below:

BEST VILLAGES TO VISIT IN THE COTSWOLDS

BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE COTSWOLDS

7 BEST COTSWOLDS TOURS FROM LONDON

BATH TRAVEL GUIDE

GUIDE TO VISITING BLENHEIM PALACE

OXFORD TRAVEL GUIDE

FAQs – Cotswolds Travel Guide

Option 1 – cotswolds by car.

The Cotswolds are in (my opinion) best explored by car (though parking can be an issue during the summer) as public transport options are limited.

There are excellent links to the area via the national motorway network and the M4, M5 and M40. 

The Cotswolds are located about 100 miles outside of London. Allow around 2 hours depending on traffic.

Option 2 – By train

London to Cotswolds

If you wish to take public transport it is possible to catch a train from London’s Paddington Station to Moreton in the Marsh in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Alternatively travel from Paddington on the Gloucester line alighting at Kemble Station in the southern Cotswolds region. Here you can pick up a bus outside the station to Morton in the Marsh, Stow on the Wold, Bourton on the Water and Tetbury. 

Check timetables and train prices at the trainline .

Option 3 – Take a tour

There are many day tours to the Cotswolds from London and other English cities . You will find more information below.

Read more – How to get from London to the Cotswolds (detailed guide)

If you prefer to take a tour of the Cotswolds and avoid the hassle of driving or public transport there are a few options to choose from.

We highly recommend booking a private driver tour guide to show you around the Cotswolds – our partner Victoria of Cotswold Teacup Tours can tailor-make your private tour around your interests. She can meet you in the Cotswolds or at Oxford train station and start your tour from there.

Unfortunately with a group day tour from London you will only scratch the surface of the area but if you are pushed for time or can’t push the budget for a private tour this may be your best option .

Often the tours combine visits to other popular destinations too. I have curated a selection of the best group day tours to the Cotswolds below from Get Your Guide who is our tour operator of choice.

We book the majority of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide when we travel. Their cancellation policy is very good and customer service exceptional and we have only ever had positive experiences when we book tours with them.

• Full-day tour of the Cotswolds from London – Visit 4 of the most beautiful Cotswolds villages during this 9-hour tour from London. There is plenty of free time to explore and even to enjoy a traditional pub lunch at Stow-on-the-Wold!
• Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds – A must for Downton Abbey fans this full-day tour includes visits to 2 Cotswolds villages as well as Blenheim Palace the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
• Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon, Cotswolds, and Warwick – Another full day trip with lots to see. This tour is perfect for those with limited time as it includes a number of the top sights in the Cotswolds.

Click for our guide to the 7 best tours to the Cotswolds from London

There are many wonderful accommodation options in the Cotswolds from quaint cottages, glamping and B&Bs to luxury 5-star hotels with spas.

Budget £75 – 130 for a double room in a B&B and £130+ per night for a boutique hotel.

Click the link below to book the perfect Cotswolds accommodation for your trip.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE COTSWOLDS

⭐️ UK TRAVEL PLANNING QUICK PICKS

• Most romantic hotel in the Cotswolds – The Painswick or Mad Molly’s Cottage
• Best hotel with hot tub in the Cotswolds – The Manor House Hotel
• Best hotel with spa –  The Lygo n Arms
• Best Country House Hotel –  Ellenborough Park
• Best pub with rooms in the Cotswolds – The Swan Hotel
• Best thatched cottage in the Cotswolds – Bells Cottage
• Best pet-friendly hotel – The Old Stocks Inn
• Best Cotswolds hotel for foodies – The Slaughters Country Inn

For other stays in England click here for my England Accommodation Guide

There are lots of fabulous experiences to have during your visit to the Cotswolds. These are my top choices:

• Explore Downton Abbey Filming Locations & Highclere Castle on a day tour from London.
• Join a walking tour through some of the prettiest villages of the famous Cotswolds, including Minster Lovell and Burford
• Take part in a Geo scavenger hunt of the Cotswolds Using a smartphone app and GPS technology follow a series of map pins that guide you to secret destinations and challenges.
• Tour of the Cotswolds from Moreton-in-Marsh – Showcasing the must-see villages that can be tricky to find on your own, the excursion visits Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden along with some lesser-known hamlets that many Cotswolds tourists miss. Start from an easy-to-find location at Moreton-in-Marsh train station!

If you are looking for more information to plan your trip to the Cotswolds there are a number of books which you may find helpful.

For walkers

• Short walks in the Cotswolds – All the walks are five miles or under in length and can easily be completed in less than three hours. 20 walks are included and use clear maps to show the route plus easy to follow walk descriptions.
• Cotswold Way: Chipping Campden to Bath – All-in-one hiking route guide and maps to the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile National Trail that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath, following the beautiful Cotswold escarpment for most of its course.

For those who love discovering hidden gems

• Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds – A captivating portrait of 20 of the greatest British gardens and the lords, ladies and gardeners who own and manage them.
• Secret Houses of the Cotswolds  – A personal tour of twenty of the UK’s most beguiling houses in this much loved area of western England.

Best travel guide books

• Lonely Planet Pocket Oxford & the Cotswolds – Get to the heart of Oxford & the Cotswolds and begin your journey with Lonely Planet’s guide!
• The Rough Guide to the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford – Discover this exquisite region of England with the help of this rough guide!

• What should you not miss in the Cotswolds?

Check out my guide to the best things to do in the Cotswolds which has all of the top things to do and places to visit.

• Which is the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds?

There are so many pretty villages to visit in the Cotswolds that it is impossible to choose just one! My favourites are Bibury, Bourton on the water and Lower Slaughter.

Read more in my guide to the most beautiful villages and towns in the Cotswolds.

• How many days do you need in the Cotswolds?

You can see some of the Cotswolds in a day but I recommend at least 2/3 days to explore the area.

• When is the best time of year to visit the Cotswolds?

As mentioned above if possible try to avoid visiting during the summer school holidays (July/August) as the Cotswolds can be extremely busy.

Parking can be even more difficult at this time of year too. I recommend booking your accommodation as much in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

Also, book restaurants ahead of time or you may struggle to get a table at popular pubs and eateries.

• What other places are there to visit near the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are located in the South West of England. Read more about the best things to do in this area of the UK here.

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

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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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wild Rabbit (@thewildrabbitkingham)

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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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!

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