10 Things to do in The Cotswolds, UK

Things to do in the Cotswolds; from honey-stone villages and scenic walks to historic houses and cosy pubs. Discover the best attractions, day trips, and hidden gems.

It is estimated that this area, some 90 miles southwest of London, alone attracts millions of visitors from all over the world annually, who conger to this extra special piece of paradise to experience the unsurpassed natural splendor that spans the five English counties of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire.

The area makes for some of the romantic breaks in the UK as well as the best UK Winter breaks too!

Spread over an area of nearly 800 square miles, the Cotswolds, or rolling hills as the ‘wolds’ are referred to, is said to be the most fascinating part of visiting the United Kingdom. So let us dive into our guide on things to do in the Cotswolds, a must on your UK bucket list.

Best things to do in Cotswolds, UK

1. Chipping Campden

This ancient but exquisite 17th-century market town is located on the northern boundary of the Cotswold escarpment. Chipping Campden, apart from being home to the lovely wool church, is also the gateway to the popular Cotswold Way walk.

Other attractions here are the Court Barn Museum, which enjoys a dramatic location in a 400-year-old farm building. Four miles away lies Hidcote Manor, showcasing one of the most creative gardens of the 20th century.

2. Explore the charming villages

Begin your Cotswolds trip to the county of Gloucestershire in order to experience what quintessential English village life is all about. Burford is just the traditional place to start your exploration, with shops and inviting pubs lined up on either side of the hilly streets.

Head next to the picturesque Bourton-on-the-water, with its many waterways and bridges, reminding the visitor of Venice. Continue up to the villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter and get immersed in their natural beauty, rather than getting taken back by their weird names.

3. Blenheim Palace

The magnificent interiors, sprawling gardens, and vast grounds should be reason enough to entice you to visit this beautiful palace.

Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, happens to be one of the finest and best maintained stately homes in Britain. The palace is a blend of traditional Baroque architecture, all due to the hard work of Capability Brown. This World Heritage Site makes for an excellent day out on a nice sunny morning.

4. Cotswold Way Trail

If ever there was a heavenly place on earth to explore on foot, then it has to be the one and only Cotswold Way. Just imagine, over 100 miles of surreal walking environment, through pretty villages, winding rivers, valleys, and past many a  historical site, with choices of gentle strolls or steep hikes, the Cotswold Way walk can be attained by all levels of hikers, including those on wheelchair.

There are as many as fourteen different circular trails, combined with endless miles of bridleways and footpaths in this paradise for walkers, also classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The walk is accessible around the year and can be done throughout the length from Chipping Campden to Bath or vice versa, or in segments as per convenience.

5. Cheltenham

The stunning Georgian architecture and a world-famous race course are reasons enough to spend at least one day in the attractive city of Cheltenham. This place apart from being the cultural hub of Cotswolds, also enjoys a rich cafe culture, with the Brewery Quarter occupying center stage.

Easily accessible by road and rail from London, Cheltenham can be made into an excellent base to experience other areas of Cotswolds as well.

6. Discover Harry Potter

The quaint little well-preserved village of Lacock is steeped in the traditional Cotswolds manner. This place is a doyen of many a filmmaker and happens to be the scene of the hugely popular Harry Potter series. Films like Lacock Abbey and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets are some of the well-known titles which were shot here, making this one of the best family breaks in the UK.

7. Cotswold Safari

For a change, try taking a walk on the wild side by interacting with giraffes, lemurs and white rhinos at the exclusive Gothic Manor House Lawns. The sight of the animals in this unique habitat against a backdrop of stunning gardens has to be seen to be believed.

The 120 acres of the reserve hold an astonishing 260 different species of animals, which hold a special attraction for children because of the child-friendly infrastructure on offer. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars.

8. Lygon Arms Spa

This hidden pleasure destination lies nestled in the Cotswold countryside far away from the rigours of everyday life. Situated on High Street, Worcestershire, this relaxing venue is just ideal for those looking for a variety of relaxing activities. The environs of the three-acre private garden, which houses the spa, lures guests with some of the most invigorating therapies on offer to add to the Cotswold experience.

9. Visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum

For a quirky and fascinating detour, the Cotswold Motoring Museum in Bourton‑on‑the‑Water is a must-visit. This small but captivating museum showcases an extensive collection of classic cars, vintage motorcycles, toy vehicles, and unique motoring memorabilia from the 20th century.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just curious about automotive history, the museum offers a charming glimpse into Britain’s motoring past. The displays are interactive and family-friendly, making it a fun stop for visitors of all ages.

Don’t forget to check out the adjoining model village, which adds an extra layer of delight to your visit.

10. Climb Broadway Tower

Broadway Tower, an 18th-century folly perched atop Broadway Hill, offers one of the best viewpoints in the Cotswolds. From its elevated position, you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views across the rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush countryside that make the region so picturesque. The tower itself has a fascinating history, once serving as a hunting lodge and a lookout point.

Surrounding the tower are scenic walking trails, perfect for a leisurely hike or a picnic while soaking in the beauty of the Cotswolds. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone wanting to experience the region from a truly elevated perspective.

Best Weekend Breaks in the UK

When to visit the Cotswolds

Cotswolds have their own appeal, no matter what the season. While winter is relatively free of crowds and has bargain offers, the spring season has its own charm. The long summer days make for spectacular light settings and peak crowds, while Autumn ushers in a period of peaceful atmosphere and vibrant colors, though the view will b

The Cotswolds kingdom, vast as it may seem, offers the visitor an in-depth look at the way of life of another era. The area is characterized by the gentle display of the blend of contemporary life and present-day charm, by way of festivals, vibrant as ever, and museums which are awe-inspiring in their own right. Simply enjoy the affluence of the carefully conserved place as the locals do, totally unfazed by the celebrity culture.