7 Cotswold Towns and Villages You Have to Visit

There are many quaint, traditional and charming villages in the beautiful Cotswolds, all with homes built from the warm, golden Cotswold stone, quarried in the area.

There are so many lovely destinations to choose from and to save a little time on your Cotswold holiday, here are seven of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds.

Discover 7 must visit towns and villages in the Cotswolds…

7 Towns and Villages in the Cotswolds

Bourton on Water

This charming village is often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” due to the fact that the River Windrush flows right through the centre of town.

Visit the Model Village, a mini-replica of the village itself. Enjoy the Cotswold Motor Museum, a car lover’s dream with vehicles on display from right through the 20th century.

Birdland Park and Gardens is a beautiful natural spot, inhabited by more than 500 birds. You can buy your tickets on the Birdland website.

Burford

Burford is a charming destination, especially for those who love antiques.

The town is also situated on the River Windrush with a traditional medieval bridge spanning the water.

In the town itself beautiful 17th and 18th century buildings are on display in the High Street and is a great place for exploring, looking for antiques to take home.

Chedworth

Perfect for lovers of history, Chedworth spreads itself along the side of a valley and in Chedworth Woods.

Just a mile from the village is located one of the best-preserved Roman Villas in Britain.

And, in the grounds of the Church of St. Andrews there is an ancient spring or water spout, just beside the gate leading to the churchyard.

Cirencester

This picturesque market town is often dubbed the “Capital of the Cotswolds” and was a popular place in Roman times, as it lies at the crossroads of three Roman roads.

Visit the Corinium Museum to see treasures from the town’s Roman past, including beautiful mosaics, medieval sculptures and Anglo Saxon gold.

Besides the history of the village, it is a great shopping destination where visitors can shop until they drop, especially with the indoor and outdoor markets in town.

The town also offers green and lovely spaces to rest while exploring, including Cirencester Park, St. Michael’s Park and the lovely Abbey Grounds.

Fairford

Nestled on the River Coln, Fairford was an important coaching town in the past, situated on the old London to Gloucester Route.

One of the best attractions of the town is the parish church, a “wood church” displaying a full set of 28 medieval stained glass windows depicting the story of the bible.

For those wanting a stroll in the fresh air, the River Coln offers beautiful walks in the quiet and lovely countryside.

Naunton

Those wishing for peace and quiet, head a little off the traditional tourist route and visit Naunton, a beautifully unspoiled destination.

It is the perfect spot to have a quiet day out, eating lunch in a village pub and then strolling along the long-distance footpaths that crisscross the area.

Painswick

Often known as the “Queen of the Cotswolds, this charming village in Gloucestershire offers some of the best preserved settlements in the region.

Painswick, located at the mid-point of the Cotswold Way, is surrounded by some of the best walking country.

There are several interesting spots to visit close by, including the Rococo Gardens and the lovely and picturesque villages of Edge, Slad and Sheepscombe.

This is but a small selection of some of the best and prettiest villages in the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds offer many fascinating and enjoyable locations, making it the perfect area to return, year after year.

Choose from our seven favourite villages in the Cotswolds and start planning your next getaway to the Cotswolds. Book your vacation with Manor Cottages.