If you’re craving that perfect English countryside getaway, let me tell you—The Cotswolds is the spot. Nestled in the heart of England, The Cotswolds is a picturesque region that seems frozen in time. With its honey-colored stone villages and lush green meadows, this “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” offers visitors a glimpse into quintessential English countryside life. Think rolling green hills, adorable villages straight out of a movie, and enough tea rooms and pubs to keep you happily fed and hydrated all weekend long. Whether you’re looking for a cozy escape, a little bit of history, or some amazing English comfort food, the Cotswolds has it all.
I visited The Cotswolds with my friend, Serena, who was just as eager to e xplore the nooks & crannies of the villages and towns that make up The Cotswolds! Before going, it was always hard for me to wrap my head around what “The Cotswolds” really was – and what was included in this cluster of villages! For Americans, it’s similar to us saying “The Hamptons.” The area is known for its picturesque villages and historic market towns –each with it’s own unique character and charm. First off, the Cotswolds isn’t just one place—it’s an entire region, and every little town has its own vibe. Here are some of the most notable and my favorite ones you’ve have to check out:
- Bourton-on-the-Water: Often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this village is famous for its beautiful bridges spanning the River Windrush.
- Bibury: Described as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury is home to the iconic Arlington Row cottages, featured on the inside cover of UK passports. This was a favorite!
- Cirencester – A town that goes way back to Roman times. The architecture is stunning, and it has this big, beautiful church that is worth seeing.
- Stow-on-the-Wold: This charming market town sits on top of an 800-foot hill, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. It’s known for its large market square and antique shops.
- Chipping Campden: With its elegant terraced High Street dating back to the 14th century, Chipping Campden is one of the best-preserved towns in the Cotswolds.
- Broadway: Often called the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” Broadway is known for its wide High Street lined with horse chestnut trees and picturesque limestone buildings.
- Cirencester: Known as the “Capital of the Cotswolds,” this historic town was the second-largest in Roman Britain. Today, it’s a bustling market town with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
- Tetbury: With its 1300-year history and over 1300 listed buildings, Tetbury is a town of extraordinary architectural interest. It’s also known for its proximity to King Charles’ home, Highgrove. They have great antique shopping here and was a favorite!
- Burford: This medieval town with its sloping High Street offers a picturesque blend of ancient cottages and Tudor and Georgian frontages.
The Cotswolds’ history dates back to the Roman era, when towns like Cirencester were important centers of trade. The name “Cotswolds” is thought to derive from “Cots” (meaning sheep enclosures) and “Wolds” (meaning rolling hills), reflecting the region’s early role as a hub for the wool trade. During the medieval period, the Cotswolds flourished thanks to the high demand for wool, leading to the construction of the grand “wool churches” that still dominate the skyline of many towns and villages. By the 17th century, the Cotswolds began to decline as industrialization shifted trade to larger cities. However, the region retained its rural charm, and today it is a protected “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” (AONB), attracting visitors from around the world.
To really see The Cotswolds, you’ll want to rent a car so you can maximize the most on your trip! Most towns are 10-30 minutes away from each other on tiny winding roads. We stayed in Gloucestershire which was so lovely! I’d recommend staying near Cirencester if you want to be central and plan on visiting most of the towns listed above. You could also come to The Cotswolds and stay in one town or property (maybe a romantic getaway!) for the entirety of your trip to really unplug and relax! Luckily, there is no shortage of quaint inns and charming bed & breakfasts. I’d recommend staying at The Pig or Estelle Manor – and if you’re a member, Soho Farmhouse!
If it’s your first time in The Cotswolds, a trip to Daylesford Organic Farm (Daylesford) is a must – it’s a chic organic grocery, home + garden shop, café, restaurant, and even spa! You really could spend all day there – I didn’t want to leave! While most of the food is elevated English comfort or pub food, you’ll be eating very well. Lunch at MBB Brasseire (Cirencester) or Daylesford Organic Farm (Daylesford) and if you just want a classic fish & chips, The Potting Shed Pub (Gloucestershire) or have great options! Grab afternoon Tea at the Close Hotel (Tetbury) or The Pig (Barnesly). For dinner, The Brasserie at The Swan Hotel (Bibery) or The Ox (Southrop) are great and for an elevated experience, you can go to Lumiere (Gloucestershire) or Tara (Gloucestershire). If it happens to be Sunday while you’re there, you’ll have to take part in the UK’s affinity for “Sunday Roast” – we really enjoyed ours at The Village Pub (Barnesly). If you’re looking for something besides English fare, you can get sushi at KOKO (Tetbury) or Spanish tapas at Lola & Co. (Tetbury).
To Eat & Drink:
- *Daylesford Organic Farm (Daylesford) – An incredible grocery store, restaurant, home & garden store, and spa. A must!
- *Kitchen Garden at The Pig in the Cotswolds (Barnesly) – This incredible inn that has 9 locations across the UK countryside. Great for lunch, afternoon tea, or a cozy cocktail by the fire!
- *The Village Pub (Barnesly)- They have a great”Sunday Roast” here! They are the same owners as The Pig!
- Bayshill Inn (Cheltenham) – For a more laid-back vibe, this pub is a Cheltenham favorite. The food is classic pub fare (think burgers, pies, and fish & chips) with great local ales to wash it all down.
- *The Potting Shed Pub (Gloucestershire) – Gastropub with gnarled beams and stone fireplace in the bar and a timbered barn-style restaurant. They’ve got a great Fish & Chips!
- MBB Brasseire (Cirencester) – Tucked away in the Corn Hall Arcade, this stylish café and deli is perfect for a fresh, seasonal lunch. The menu changes regularly, but everything is so good—definitely try the seafood if it’s on offer.
- The Crown at Ampney Brook (Cirencester) – A bit outside of Cirencester, but totally worth it. It’s a gorgeous country pub with a modern twist on classic dishes. The Sunday roast here is next-level!
- The Lygon Arms (Chipping Campden) – Not only does this place have a rich history, but they also serve fantastic British cuisine. You can have a cozy meal in front of the fire in the winter, or sit outside in the lovely garden when it’s warmer.
- Huxleys (Chipping Campden) – A cute little café and wine bar on the High Street. It’s great for a relaxed lunch (think fresh salads, sandwiches, and cakes) or for a glass of wine in the afternoon.
- The Old Butchers (Stowe-on-the-Wold) – Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! The Old Butchers is known for its incredible fresh seafood, but don’t worry if fish isn’t your thing—they’ve got plenty of other options too.
- The Porch House (Stow-on-the-Wold) It’s one of the oldest inns in England, dating back to 947 AD, and the food is amazing. You can’t go wrong with their steak or slow-cooked lamb, and they’ve got a great selection of local ales.
- *KOKO (Tetbury) – The “Smallest restaurant in the Cotswolds” is serving up Japanese sushi and delicious cocktails!
- The Angel at Burford (Burford) – This cozy pub has won a ton of awards for its food, and it’s easy to see why. They do everything from classic pub dishes to more refined options like pan-fried seabass. Plus, the atmosphere is super friendly.
- The Cotswold Arms (Burford) – Another great pub right on Burford’s High Street, this is the place to stop if you’re craving hearty pub grub and a cold pint. Their burgers and pies are especially popular.
- *The Swan Hotel (Bibery) – For a proper countryside meal, head to The Swan. It’s got those classic Cotswold vibes and offers seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. Grab a seat by the river—it’s such a relaxing spot.
- *KNEAD (Tetbury)- A cute and quaint bakery serving up classic pastries and English essentials!
- The Catherine Wheel (Bibery) – This little pub is great for a casual meal and a pint. The menu is simple but tasty, with options like fish & chips and homemade pies. Perfect for a post-walk bite.
- *The Close Hotel (Tetbury) – If you’re in the mood for something a bit fancier, check out The Close. It’s set in a beautiful 16th-century building, and their afternoon tea is an absolute must. For dinner, try their seasonal British menu—everything’s beautifully presented and delicious.
- Tara (Gloucestershire): Located in Hatton Court, a country house hotel, Tara is an upscale and elevated take on English country classics
- Lumiere (Gloucestershire) – Smart, contemporary eatery in the Regency district serving British dishes often with a modern twist. And they boast a Michelin Star!
- *The Ox Barn (Southrop) – This contemporary farm-to-table restaurant sits in a stunning reclaimed 19-century oxen barn and is surrounded by Provençal-style gardens.
- *Lola & Co. (Tetbury) – Authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy space – if you’re there in summer sit in their garden terrace out back!
- Larkhill Vineyard (Tetbury) – 5-acre winery sitting on the edge of Tetbury with a tasting room!
To Do:
- Visit Daylesford Organic Farm – An incredible grocery store, restaurant, home & garden store, and spa. A must!
- Stroll King Charles’ Highgrove Gardens (Tetbury) – be sure to make reservations, they fill up fast!
- Shop like a king at Highgrove Shop (Tetbury)
- see the Market Stall (Chipping Campden) – Old wool-trade structure
- Visit Arlington Row (Bibery)
- Antique shopping in Tetbury
- Visit the Blenheim Palace
- shop at the Jolly Nice Farm Shop (Gloucestershire)
- Visit Aynhoe Park – a listed Palladian country estate that was taken over by Restoration Hardware!
To Stay:
- Soho Farmhouse (Chipping Norton) A members’ club and hotel set on 100 acres, offering a range of accommodation from rooms to cabins.
- Estelle Manor (Oxfordshire)
- The Pig (Barnesly) – The 17th-century Barnsley House hotel that is tucked away in the quintessential Cotswolds village of Barnsley, with A luxury hotel and spa set in beautiful gardens, perfect for a romantic getaway!
- The Fish Hotel (Broadway) – A collection of quirky accommodations including treehouses and hilly huts, ideal for those seeking something unique.
- The Close Hotel (Tetbury) – The Close Hotel and Restaurant holds the enviable reputation of being one of the finest 16th-century town houses in the Cotswolds (built in 1535!). You’ll have more of a “city-experience” here as it’s located in town!
- The Lygon Arms (Broadway) – A historic coaching inn dating back to the 14th century, combining period charm with modern amenities.
- The Old Stocks Inn (Stow-on-the-Wold) – A boutique hotel in a 17th-century building, offering a perfect blend of traditional charm and contemporary style.
The Cotswolds is one of those places where you feel like time slows down in the best way possible. You’ll wander through little villages that look like they haven’t changed in centuries, sip on tea in a cozy café, or grab a pint in a pub that’s older than America. Whether you’re in it for the food, the history, or just the chance to switch off and relax, or a romantic getaway, the Cotswolds will totally charm you. So, pack your bags, bring your camera (trust me, you’ll want it), and get ready for a countryside adventure like no other!
Stay Risky,
– John
Photography by Serena Goh
