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Why we love the Cotswolds

Famous for its lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers, this rural belle has graced countless books, artworks and TV shows – but does it live up to the hype? Absolutely. From the willow-shaded banks of the River Thames, and Blenheim Palace’s lavish decor, to the honey-coloured cottages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden and Burford – it’s all just as idyllic as you imagine.

The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966, an accolade it more than lives up to – but this landscape isn’t just for admiring. There are ancient castles to explore, wild lakes to kayak, local wines to taste, and endless trails to hike, cycle and ride.

Totalling nearly 800 square miles (2,000 square km), the region spans five west-central counties, yet is just 90 minutes from London. With so much to see, do and discover, here’s how to plan your trip.

Things to do in the Cotswolds

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Book your Blenheim Palace tickets now

Photo by: VisitBritain/Marina Comes

Location: Blenheim Palace

Woman walking in Blenheim Palace gardens surrounded by greenery
Blenheim Palace

Where else do rhinos roam on the lawn of a stately home? The Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is one of the best attractions in the Cotswolds.

Go wild at the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Photo by: Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

Location: Burford, Oxfordshire

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Burford, Oxfordshire
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

This magnificent cathedral offers guided tours, discovery trails and breathtaking live concerts.

Step into history at Gloucester Cathedral

Photo by: ievgeny

Location: Gloucestershire, England

Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucestershire, England
Gloucester Cathedral

Take one of Britain’s most beautiful walks, on the Cotswold Way National Trail, from Chipping Campden to Bath.

Discover the Cotswold Way National Trail

Photo by: vivlee123

The Cotswold Way Walking Trail
Cotswold Way National Trail

With its honey-coloured stone houses and ambling river, this village is a true Cotswolds beauty.

More about Castle Combe

Photo by: Shutterstock / LC_Captures

Location: Cotswold, England

Blue skies and reflections in the picturesque Cotswold village of Castle Combe.
Castle Combe

Home of the Cheltenham Festival, this legendary stadium is synonymous with horse racing.

Visit Cheltenham Racecourse

Photo by: The Jockey Club / Marketing Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

Cheltenham Racecourse, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Cheltenham Racecourse

This family-run sanctuary is home to hawks, owls and eagles – and offers exciting wildlife experiences.

Visit Walks With Hawks

Photo by: Walks With Hawks

Location: Cotswolds

Walks With Hawks
Walks With Hawks

The tranquil waters of this water park are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventures, whether you’re a beginner or pro.

Discover SUP at Cotswolds Water Park

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

SUP at Cotswolds Water Park
SUP at Cotswold Water Park

On the top of a roaring biplane, this is definitely the most exhilarating view of the Cotswolds!

More about Wingwalking with AeroSuperBatics

Photo by: Wingwalking Experiences & Events

Location: Cotswolds

Wingwalking with AeroSuperBatics
Wingwalking with AeroSuperBatics

Home to art galleries, studios and creative workshops – featuring pottery, painting, jewellery-making and more.

Explore New Brewery Arts

Photo by: New Brewery Arts, Cirencester

Location: Cotswolds

New Brewery Arts, Cirecenster
New Brewery Arts

This independent gallery has close connections to the Royal Academy and the New English Art Club.

What’s on at Fosse Gallery

Photo by: Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold

Location: Cotswolds

 Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold
Fosse Gallery

Maybe you’ll learn the art of lino printing, make your own puppet, or give life-drawing a go?

Visit The Wilson - Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

Photo by: Candid Pictures/Cheltenham Trust Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum in Cheltenham
The Wilson - Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

Stepping into William Morris’ home, you’ll be blown away by its incredible colours, patterns and designs.

Take a trip to Kelmscott Manor

Photo by: Kelmscott Manor

Location: Cotswolds

The exterior of Kelmscott Manor
Kelmscott Manor

This cosy pub puts the best of British cuisine on your plate, plus fine local ales, spirits and wines.

Plan your trip to The Falcon Inn

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism/Nick Turner

Location: Cotswolds

Falcon Inn, Painswick, Gloucestershire
The Falcon Inn

Enjoy stone-baked pizzas and traditional pies, plus a wine list that includes Cotswolds-produced bubbly.

Dine at The Olive Tree

Photo by: Shutterstock

Location: Cotswolds

The Olive Tree
The Olive Tree

Treat yourself to a pint in the sunny beer garden, or a cosy supper beside the log fire.

Discover The Butchers Arms

Photo by: The Butchers Arms

Location: Cotswolds

The Butchers Arms, Stroud
The Butchers Arms

With chef Raymond Blanc OBE at the helm, this superb hotel and restaurant has two Michelin stars.

Treat yourself at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel

Photo by: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons / Chris Terry

Location: Cotswolds

 Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons main course Trout
with Caviar
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel

Tuck into a night of fine wine, traditional entertainment, and seven delectable desserts…

More about Pudding Club - Three Ways House Hotel

Photo by: Shutterstock

Location: Cotswolds

Pudding Club - Three Ways House Hotel
Pudding Club - Three Ways House Hotel

When you explore the ancient forest of Puzzlewood, some places might feel eerily familiar.

Plan your trip to Puzzlewood

Photo by: Puzzlewood

Location: Cotswolds

A low wooden bridge in the beautiful Puzzlewood woodland, Forest of Dean
Puzzlewood: Star Wars and Doctor Who

Packed with memorabilia, artwork and props from some of the world’s favourite TV series and movies.

Visit The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction

Photo by: Shutterstock

Location: Cotswolds

The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction
The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction

This 16th-century manor starred in the hit TV series, as ‘Trenwith’ – the Poldarks’ family home.

What’s on at Chavenage House

Photo by: Robert Viglasky Photography/Chavenage House/Cotsowlds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Filming of Poldark, Chavenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Chavenage House: Poldark

From Stone Age art to Roman jewellery and Medieval coins, there are over 60,000 objects to discover.

What’s on at the Corinium Museum

Photo by: Corinium Museum

Location: Cotswolds

Corinium Museum
Corinium Museum

Toot toot! These classic cars and motorcycles reveal the 20th century’s rich motoring history.

Tour the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection

Photo by: Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection/ Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, Bourton-on-the Water, Gloucestershire
Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection

A lively, sociable weekend of racing, best enjoyed with a glass of Champagne in hand.

Plan your trip to Cheltenham Festival

Photo by: The Jockey Club / Marketing Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

Cheltenham Festival, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Cheltenham Festival

Wychwood Festival

30th May - 1st June 2025

Designed to enthral the whole family, this three-day fiesta features music, books, comedy and well-being.

Explore Wychwood Festival

Photo by: Wychwood Festival

Location: Cotswolds

Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham
Wychwood Festival

From the daffodils in spring to the blazing maples in autumn, every season brings a new spectacle.

Discover Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

Photo by: Batsford Arboretum

Location: Cotswolds

Batsford Arboretum
Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

Discover the best of the Cotswolds with tours offering a unique way to experience the charm and beauty of the region, packed with unforgettable moments.

Explore with Cotswold Tours & Travel

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Cotswolds, England

Woman sitting on wooden gate looking at greenery
Cotswold Tours & Travel

Nestled near Tetbury, Highgrove is home to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Visit Highgrove Gardens

Photo by: Highgrove Gardens

Location: Cotswolds

Sundial Garden, Highgrove Gardens
Highgrove Gardens

A fabulous spot for summertime picnics and wintertime strolls, with a small golf course and tennis courts too.

More about Pittville Park

Photo by: Visit Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

Pittville Pump Room, Pittville Park, Cheltenham
Pittville Park

For countryside walks, friendly local pubs and boutique hotels, you’ve come to the right place.

Plan your trip to Painswick

Photo by: Nick Turner/Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Painswick, Gloucestershire
Painswick

Explore a curated array of artisanal treasures and home delights, all inspired by His Majesty King Charles III's passions.

Explore The Highgrove Shop at The Coronation Pavilion

Photo by: Highgrove Gardens

Location: Cotswolds

Highgrove Gardens Estate Shop
The Highgrove Shop at The Coronation Pavilion

This outlet mall offers up to 70% off designer fashions, featuring AllSaints, Levi's and more.

Head to Gloucester Quays

Photo by: Gloucester City Council

Location: Cotswolds

Gloucester Quays, Gloucester
Gloucester Quays

Vintage vinyl records, pre-loved books, artisan food, small-batch gins: you’ll find it all here.

Visit Shambles Market, Stroud

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Cotswolds

Shambles Market, Stroud
Shambles Market, Stroud

From Georgian furniture to Victorian jewellery, the antique shops of Tetbury are brimming with treasures. The town was transformed into fictional ‘Cotchester’ in the Disney+ series Rivals!

Plan your trip to Tetbury

Photo by: Visit Tetbury/Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Tetbury

Located in Shilton and Southrop, these self-catering retreats have won awards for their eco credentials.

Stay at Eco Chic Cottages

Photo by: Eco Chic Cottages/Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Eco Chic Cottages’ Chestnuts cottage, Shilton, Oxfordshire
Eco Chic Cottages

With its spa, restaurant, cookery school and food hall, this is the perfect balance of nature and luxury.

Get to know Daylesford Organic

Photo by: Martin Morrell/Daylesford Organic

Location: Cotswolds

 Daylesford Organic Farmshop
Daylesford Organic

Set in a beautiful 19th-century farm, this restaurant is recommended by the Michelin Guide.

Dine at The Ox Barn

Photo by: Rachael Smith Photography Ltd/The Ox Barn

Location: Cotswolds

The Ox Barn, Thyme, Southrop, Gloucestershire
The Ox Barn

There are lots of famous faces who live nearby, so keep an eye out while you shop!

More about Stroud Farmers' Market

Photo by: Simon Pizzey/Stroud District Council

Location: Cotswolds

Stroud Farmers’ Market, Stroud, Gloucestershire
Stroud Farmers' Market

A fairytale castle with romantic ruins and swoon-worthy gardens, Sudeley is a Cotswolds heart throb.

Discover Sudeley Castle & Gardens

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Cotswolds, England

Pärchen, das sich im Garten in der Nähe eines Springbrunnens umarmt
Sudeley Castle & Gardens

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Book your Blenheim Palace tickets now

Photo by: VisitBritain/Marina Comes

Location: Blenheim Palace

Woman walking in Blenheim Palace gardens surrounded by greenery
Blenheim Palace

Where else do rhinos roam on the lawn of a stately home? The Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is one of the best attractions in the Cotswolds.

Go wild at the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Photo by: Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

Location: Burford, Oxfordshire

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Burford, Oxfordshire
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

This magnificent cathedral offers guided tours, discovery trails and breathtaking live concerts.

Step into history at Gloucester Cathedral

Photo by: ievgeny

Location: Gloucestershire, England

Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucestershire, England
Gloucester Cathedral

Take one of Britain’s most beautiful walks, on the Cotswold Way National Trail, from Chipping Campden to Bath.

Discover the Cotswold Way National Trail

Photo by: vivlee123

The Cotswold Way Walking Trail
Cotswold Way National Trail

With its honey-coloured stone houses and ambling river, this village is a true Cotswolds beauty.

More about Castle Combe

Photo by: Shutterstock / LC_Captures

Location: Cotswold, England

Blue skies and reflections in the picturesque Cotswold village of Castle Combe.
Castle Combe

Home of the Cheltenham Festival, this legendary stadium is synonymous with horse racing.

Visit Cheltenham Racecourse

Photo by: The Jockey Club / Marketing Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

Cheltenham Racecourse, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Cheltenham Racecourse

This family-run sanctuary is home to hawks, owls and eagles – and offers exciting wildlife experiences.

Visit Walks With Hawks

Photo by: Walks With Hawks

Location: Cotswolds

Walks With Hawks
Walks With Hawks

The tranquil waters of this water park are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventures, whether you’re a beginner or pro.

Discover SUP at Cotswolds Water Park

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

SUP at Cotswolds Water Park
SUP at Cotswold Water Park

On the top of a roaring biplane, this is definitely the most exhilarating view of the Cotswolds!

More about Wingwalking with AeroSuperBatics

Photo by: Wingwalking Experiences & Events

Location: Cotswolds

Wingwalking with AeroSuperBatics
Wingwalking with AeroSuperBatics

Home to art galleries, studios and creative workshops – featuring pottery, painting, jewellery-making and more.

Explore New Brewery Arts

Photo by: New Brewery Arts, Cirencester

Location: Cotswolds

New Brewery Arts, Cirecenster
New Brewery Arts

This independent gallery has close connections to the Royal Academy and the New English Art Club.

What’s on at Fosse Gallery

Photo by: Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold

Location: Cotswolds

 Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold
Fosse Gallery

Maybe you’ll learn the art of lino printing, make your own puppet, or give life-drawing a go?

Visit The Wilson - Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

Photo by: Candid Pictures/Cheltenham Trust Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum in Cheltenham
The Wilson - Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

Stepping into William Morris’ home, you’ll be blown away by its incredible colours, patterns and designs.

Take a trip to Kelmscott Manor

Photo by: Kelmscott Manor

Location: Cotswolds

The exterior of Kelmscott Manor
Kelmscott Manor

This cosy pub puts the best of British cuisine on your plate, plus fine local ales, spirits and wines.

Plan your trip to The Falcon Inn

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism/Nick Turner

Location: Cotswolds

Falcon Inn, Painswick, Gloucestershire
The Falcon Inn

Enjoy stone-baked pizzas and traditional pies, plus a wine list that includes Cotswolds-produced bubbly.

Dine at The Olive Tree

Photo by: Shutterstock

Location: Cotswolds

The Olive Tree
The Olive Tree

Treat yourself to a pint in the sunny beer garden, or a cosy supper beside the log fire.

Discover The Butchers Arms

Photo by: The Butchers Arms

Location: Cotswolds

The Butchers Arms, Stroud
The Butchers Arms

With chef Raymond Blanc OBE at the helm, this superb hotel and restaurant has two Michelin stars.

Treat yourself at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel

Photo by: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons / Chris Terry

Location: Cotswolds

 Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons main course Trout
with Caviar
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel

Tuck into a night of fine wine, traditional entertainment, and seven delectable desserts…

More about Pudding Club - Three Ways House Hotel

Photo by: Shutterstock

Location: Cotswolds

Pudding Club - Three Ways House Hotel
Pudding Club - Three Ways House Hotel

When you explore the ancient forest of Puzzlewood, some places might feel eerily familiar.

Plan your trip to Puzzlewood

Photo by: Puzzlewood

Location: Cotswolds

A low wooden bridge in the beautiful Puzzlewood woodland, Forest of Dean
Puzzlewood: Star Wars and Doctor Who

Packed with memorabilia, artwork and props from some of the world’s favourite TV series and movies.

Visit The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction

Photo by: Shutterstock

Location: Cotswolds

The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction
The Time Machine Museum of Science Fiction

This 16th-century manor starred in the hit TV series, as ‘Trenwith’ – the Poldarks’ family home.

What’s on at Chavenage House

Photo by: Robert Viglasky Photography/Chavenage House/Cotsowlds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Filming of Poldark, Chavenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Chavenage House: Poldark

From Stone Age art to Roman jewellery and Medieval coins, there are over 60,000 objects to discover.

What’s on at the Corinium Museum

Photo by: Corinium Museum

Location: Cotswolds

Corinium Museum
Corinium Museum

Toot toot! These classic cars and motorcycles reveal the 20th century’s rich motoring history.

Tour the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection

Photo by: Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection/ Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, Bourton-on-the Water, Gloucestershire
Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection

A lively, sociable weekend of racing, best enjoyed with a glass of Champagne in hand.

Plan your trip to Cheltenham Festival

Photo by: The Jockey Club / Marketing Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

Cheltenham Festival, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Cheltenham Festival

Wychwood Festival

30th May - 1st June 2025

Designed to enthral the whole family, this three-day fiesta features music, books, comedy and well-being.

Explore Wychwood Festival

Photo by: Wychwood Festival

Location: Cotswolds

Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham
Wychwood Festival

From the daffodils in spring to the blazing maples in autumn, every season brings a new spectacle.

Discover Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

Photo by: Batsford Arboretum

Location: Cotswolds

Batsford Arboretum
Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

Discover the best of the Cotswolds with tours offering a unique way to experience the charm and beauty of the region, packed with unforgettable moments.

Explore with Cotswold Tours & Travel

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Cotswolds, England

Woman sitting on wooden gate looking at greenery
Cotswold Tours & Travel

Nestled near Tetbury, Highgrove is home to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Visit Highgrove Gardens

Photo by: Highgrove Gardens

Location: Cotswolds

Sundial Garden, Highgrove Gardens
Highgrove Gardens

A fabulous spot for summertime picnics and wintertime strolls, with a small golf course and tennis courts too.

More about Pittville Park

Photo by: Visit Cheltenham

Location: Cotswolds

Pittville Pump Room, Pittville Park, Cheltenham
Pittville Park

For countryside walks, friendly local pubs and boutique hotels, you’ve come to the right place.

Plan your trip to Painswick

Photo by: Nick Turner/Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Painswick, Gloucestershire
Painswick

Explore a curated array of artisanal treasures and home delights, all inspired by His Majesty King Charles III's passions.

Explore The Highgrove Shop at The Coronation Pavilion

Photo by: Highgrove Gardens

Location: Cotswolds

Highgrove Gardens Estate Shop
The Highgrove Shop at The Coronation Pavilion

This outlet mall offers up to 70% off designer fashions, featuring AllSaints, Levi's and more.

Head to Gloucester Quays

Photo by: Gloucester City Council

Location: Cotswolds

Gloucester Quays, Gloucester
Gloucester Quays

Vintage vinyl records, pre-loved books, artisan food, small-batch gins: you’ll find it all here.

Visit Shambles Market, Stroud

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Cotswolds

Shambles Market, Stroud
Shambles Market, Stroud

From Georgian furniture to Victorian jewellery, the antique shops of Tetbury are brimming with treasures. The town was transformed into fictional ‘Cotchester’ in the Disney+ series Rivals!

Plan your trip to Tetbury

Photo by: Visit Tetbury/Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Tetbury

Located in Shilton and Southrop, these self-catering retreats have won awards for their eco credentials.

Stay at Eco Chic Cottages

Photo by: Eco Chic Cottages/Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

Eco Chic Cottages’ Chestnuts cottage, Shilton, Oxfordshire
Eco Chic Cottages

With its spa, restaurant, cookery school and food hall, this is the perfect balance of nature and luxury.

Get to know Daylesford Organic

Photo by: Martin Morrell/Daylesford Organic

Location: Cotswolds

 Daylesford Organic Farmshop
Daylesford Organic

Set in a beautiful 19th-century farm, this restaurant is recommended by the Michelin Guide.

Dine at The Ox Barn

Photo by: Rachael Smith Photography Ltd/The Ox Barn

Location: Cotswolds

The Ox Barn, Thyme, Southrop, Gloucestershire
The Ox Barn

There are lots of famous faces who live nearby, so keep an eye out while you shop!

More about Stroud Farmers' Market

Photo by: Simon Pizzey/Stroud District Council

Location: Cotswolds

Stroud Farmers’ Market, Stroud, Gloucestershire
Stroud Farmers' Market

A fairytale castle with romantic ruins and swoon-worthy gardens, Sudeley is a Cotswolds heart throb.

Discover Sudeley Castle & Gardens

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Cotswolds, England

Pärchen, das sich im Garten in der Nähe eines Springbrunnens umarmt
Sudeley Castle & Gardens

Places to stay in the Cotswolds

Heritage hotels

If walls could talk, the Cotswolds’ historic hotels would tell tales of holidaying monarchs and noble families. If you love fine dining, plush decor and five-star service, look no further.  

Rental cottages

Make yourself at home in a picture-perfect stone cottage. In villages and towns all over the region, these traditional homes often feature log burners, roll-top baths and gardens.

Quirky glampsites

Take your pick from bell tents, shepherd’s huts and cosy yurts, all set in woodlands and wildflower meadows. Simple pleasures are paramount, such as picnics and long country walks.

Explore nearby

An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

Photo by: West Midlands Growth Company

Historical building, with a clock tower, beside a fountain

Cool and creative, Bristol is a must-visit for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Lit up hot air balloons and fireworks in the night sky

Fall in love with this hopelessly romantic 16th-century town, birthplace of the great bard, William Shakespeare.

Photo by: ©VisitBritain/Nemorin

Couple walking around the exterior of Shakespeare's Birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England

A wellness retreat for the Romans, with elegant Georgian architecture around every corner.

Photo by: VisitBritain

Woman swimming in a swimming pool at a spa

Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Jon Attenborough

Man looking up at a historical building with dome
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Dive into Cheltenham’s spring waters and discover a thriving cultural scene.

Photo by: Visit Cheltenham

Location: Cheltenham, England

IMG_495(7) Cheltenham Spa
Hereford, England

Bring your appetite to discover historic Hereford’s mouth-watering food scene.

Photo by: Getty Images/Joe Daniel Price

Roman Bridge over a river with a cathedral in background at sunrise

Discover incredible street art, visit cosy countryside pubs and live your best Bridgerton life on a trip around the south-west of England and south Wales.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Newcastle, England

Friends enjoying tea and cake on a rooftop terrace, overlooking a river and suspension bridge.

Getting to the Cotswolds

With the likes of Oxford, Bristol and Bath on its doorstep, the Cotswolds is easy to reach by rail, and direct trains between London Paddington and Moreton-in-Marsh take just 90 minutes. If you’re arriving internationally, London Heathrow is around a two-hour drive, while the airports of Bristol and Birmingham are just over an hour’s transfer away.

Getting around

Travelling by public transport is recommended – especially in summer, when the narrow roads can get congested. Regular trains run throughout the region, but buses venture deeper into the smaller villages and hamlets. Hire a bike to explore even further on traffic-free trails and bridleways; if you’re pedalling long-distance, Luggage Transfers can transport your suitcases.

By steam train

For a spectacular steam-powered journey between Cheltenham and Broadway, hop on board the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway.

By public transport

With a Cotswolds One Day Discoverer pass, you’ll enjoy unlimited travel on the region’s plentiful buses and local trains. 

By car

If you choose to drive, opt for an electric car if possible: there are charging points all over the Cotswolds, and at many hotels too.

Want to know more?

The Cotswolds’ official website is packed with local tips and fun things to do – including the top walks, sights and villages.