The Cotswolds offers an abundance of charming towns, scenic walks, and delightful tea houses that make it an idyllic escape from city life.
This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is nestled between the cities of Bath, Cheltenham, and Gloucester and is conveniently located around two hours from London — making it a perfect getaway destination.
Living just over an hour away from The Cotswolds, I had my first experience of this stunning region recently and regretted not visiting sooner.
During our visit, we set up base at a cozy glamping pod in Moreton-in-Marsh, which offered both comfort and affordability, particularly with its plush bedding.
Over two days, we explored several picturesque spots, and I’ve compiled a list of three must-visit destinations in the Cotswolds that you shouldn’t miss.
Best Places To Visit in The Cotswolds
Bourton-on-the-Water is a quintessential Cotswolds town that captivates with its charming pale-brick buildings, numerous bakeries, and delightful tea houses. However, the town’s true charm lies in the clear river flowing through its center and the quaint stone bridges that gracefully traverse it.
Don’t miss the Cotswolds Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, which features children’s TV star Brum, or enjoy a fun outing at the Dragonfly Maze. A word of caution: parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends, so it’s advisable to arrive early if you’re planning to visit.
If you’re considering an overnight stay, there are several charming cottages available in Bourton-on-the-Water.
Food lovers will rejoice upon discovering Daylesford, an award-winning organic farm and restaurant located in Kingham. This establishment is a haven for both culinary enthusiasts and home goods shoppers.
Housed in high-ceilinged barns, Daylesford includes a restaurant, café, and a farm shop, as well as a florist and the Bamford Haybarn Spa. Enjoy your meals outdoors among fire pits and beautifully arranged flowers, and if you stay longer, you might even book one of the cozy cottages on-site.
For an authentic farm-to-table experience, visit The Old Spot for a hearty English breakfast made with fresh eggs and artisan sourdough bread. We indulged in coffee and bacon before heading to the farm shop and bakery, where we picked up delightful treats, including a salted caramel brownie that left a lasting impression.
The farm also features a lovely homewares shop that includes a children’s section filled with traditional wooden toys and knitted dolls, in addition to hosting cookery and flower arranging workshops throughout the week.
While we initially intended to only stop for brunch, we found ourselves captivated by the ambiance and ended up spending a whole morning indulging in the delightful offerings this Cotswolds gem provides.
Lower Slaughter is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque villages in The Cotswolds, so stunning that it seems to have leaped straight out of a movie. It’s so charming that it has even served as a filming location for the latest Hollywood adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma, featuring Bill Nighy and Miranda Hart.
When we visited, the village was adorned with artificial spring blooms for the filming, which created a beautiful illusion of early spring for a delightful moment.
The Old Mill, noted in the Domesday Book of 1086, is the village’s main attraction. It houses a quirky antiques and craft shop, as well as a riverside café accessible through the shop itself. For a cozy dining experience, check out The Slaughter’s Country Inn for a traditional Sunday roast next to a warm log fire.
While I’ve highlighted just three destinations that enchanted us during our visit to The Cotswolds, many others are equally worth exploring. Here are some additional towns to consider if your travel plans allow for a longer stay.
More Gorgeous Cotswolds Towns & Villages
Stow-on-the-Wold is a fantastic market town perfect for those who enjoy shopping, featuring a variety of independent homewares, jewelry, and bookstores.
Broadway comes highly recommended, especially the Lygon Arms, known for both its excellent cuisine and characterful accommodations.
Bibury is famous for its stunning row of 17th-century weavers’ cottages, which not only grace the pages of UK passports but also frequently appear on social media.
How To Plan Your Cotswolds Visit
When planning your trip, explore options for hotels in The Cotswolds, consider booking an Airbnb, or check out the glamping accommodations we enjoyed at Experience Freedom in Moreton-in-Marsh.
If a day trip from London interests you, various tours include many of the locations mentioned in this article.
Lastly, for even more ideas, check out the guide featuring eight great days out in The Cotswolds from Vicky at Day Out In England.
Have you explored The Cotswolds? What were your favorite spots? Your adventure awaits in this stunning region filled with history, culinary delights, and breathtaking landscapes.
