Exploring the Cotswold Lavender Fields
If you’re looking for a quintessential day out in the Cotswolds this summer, you must add exploring the Cotswold...
The Cotswolds is one of the most stunning areas of outstanding natural beauty in the UK. There is a reason many people choose it for their staycations. But, how do you pick the best places to visit in the Cotswolds?
Start by thinking about who you are travelling with. Whether you are travelling with your family, friends, loved ones or pets, you will never be short of places to visit in the Cotswolds. From quiet hideaways to bustling towns, the Cotswolds is a region full of wonder and excitement.
Read on to find out more about our 12 best places to go in the Cotswolds…
Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Children
Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Friends
Pet Friendly Places to Visit in the Cotswolds
Romantic Places to Visit in the Cotswolds
Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most popular towns for families and children. The proximity to several family-friendly attractions makes it a must-visit destination with your children.
The bustling town is located along the River Windrush, with many traditional bridges on display. Throughout the summer months, it is common to see people paddling in the shallow depths.
If you are looking to provide your children with a learning experience, there are many educational things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water. Discover the skies at Birdland with some of the world’s most exotic species on display. Or get the little one’s problem-solving at the local Dragonfly Maze.
Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the best places to go in the Cotswolds with children. Whether you love shopping, relaxing or learning about the history of the Cotswolds, you will be sure to find something unique at Bourton-on-the-Water.
Stroud is one of the larger towns in the Cotswolds. Dating back to the 1300s, the market town was a central hub for high-quality wool. You can still see some of the historic mills along the town’s network of streams.
The town is surrounded by farms, parks and walking trails. If looking to give your children an immersive experience, the Cattle Country Farm Park is perfect for learning about the region’s agriculture. The little ones can get up close to famous farm animals and even get a chance at feeding some of the magnificent creatures.
To keep the adults entertained, Stroud is full of viewing spots, farmers markets and mouth-watering restaurants. Just because you are travelling with children doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spend a little focusing on yourself.
As the only city on the list, Bath is located just south of the Cotswolds. The city is full of history and has many opportunities to learn more about the Roman influence on the UK. Along the River Avon, Bath offers a beautiful city break with links to the southern Cotswolds.
What makes Bath such an attractive option for families is the links to Bristol and London. However, if you want to stay in the city, it is full of family-friendly activities and several stunning walks along the Cotswold Way.
With Roman Baths, famous Abbeys and a range of inspirational museums, Bath really is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds.
Just off the A40, Burford is in the northern half of the Cotswolds. The town is close to Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and has many exciting attractions to keep a group of friends entertained.
For those looking to escape city life, Burford is a quiet village with a lot of heritage. Take a trip to the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens and discover many of the world’s most unique animals.
Then, after a day of sightseeing, get jolly in some of Burford’s local restaurants and pubs. Try the charming Cotswold Arms, where youcan find local ales, food and live music.
As the highest Cotswolds town, Stow-on-the-Wold is a historical trading centre. With several roads converging at Stow-on-the-Wold, the region is one of the more well-known areas in the Cotswolds.
There are many things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold. As a group you can explore the town, searching through the many historical artefacts and inns. Take a trip to The Old Stocks Inn and enjoy a beer in what many class the oldest Inn in England. However, if you are looking to get out of the town, there are many hiking trails in the area.
Stow-on-the-Wold is a thriving town full of independent shops and eateries. You can relax, explore and be merry in one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds.
At the very top of the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden is a quiet town full of character. Home to the shin splitting Robert Dover’s Olimpick Games, you will never be short of something exciting to do in Chipping Campden.
Alongside the many pubs, Chipping Campden is perfect for a spa weekend with your friends. The Spa at Cotswold House offers a range of treatments and facilities to relax and enjoy your time in the Cotswolds.
Alternatively, if you want to try a boozy afternoon with your friends, the Little Oak Vineyard offers tours and wine tasting. It is one of the best ways to bond as a group in Chipping Campden.
In the centre of the Cotswolds, Cirencester is a wonderful town with huge green expanses on its border. Take your dog to a pet-friendly cottage and explore the local area without having to worry about where you can take your dog.
Along the Cotswold Way, you will never be short of walks in and around the town. You can even find several dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in the area. The Noel Arms Hotel is great if hoping to settle down after a long day of walking.
With the Cirencester Amphitheatre, Bibury Trout Farm and numerous dog cafes, Cirencester is one of the best places to go in the Cotswolds with your dog.
Located in the Northern Regions of the Cotswolds, Broadway is a picture-perfect town full of charming tea rooms and cosy pubs. Take your four-legged friends and head up to the famous Broadway Tower or explore the honey stone streets around the town.
If you want to sit down and relax, the Tisanes Tearoom is a great place to stop by with a well-behaved dog. You can choose from a selection of cakes, snacks and an assortment of hot drinks.
Although it doesn’t have as many amenities as other places in the Cotswolds, Broadway is a fantastic place for walking, running and relaxing with your family. You will find several picture-worthy cottages on your travels around the quiet Cotswold village.
Find the most charming pubs in Broadway with our blog: “9 of The Best Pubs in Broadway, Cotswolds“.
Heading to the yarn town of Tetbury is ideal for a weekend away with your dog. Just south of the central Cotswolds, surrounding Tetbury, is a green sea of rolling hills.
In the town itself, there are many dog-friendly cafes and pubs to stop by. In fact, The Blue Zucchini is a charming cafe that supplies dog treats for your loyal companions. However, if you are looking to get out for a walk, the Tetbury Town Trail is a stunning route around the outskirts of the town.
The historic town of Tetbury is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds if you are travelling with pets, friends or family. You can find out more about the area in the Tetbury Visitor Guide.
Dating back to the Iron Age, Bibury is one of the most magical places to visit in the Cotswolds with your partner. Home to the famous Arlington Row, you are constantly reminded of the quiet village life.
With a chance of making lasting memories, Bibury is home to many romantic activities. The quiet village allows you to keep away from the crowds, explore the historic community and dine with your loved ones in bespoke restaurants.
You can find many photo opportunities to take some quirky pictures with your partner. Or prepare a picnic and enjoy a day out in the Cotswold countryside with just you and your partner.
Surrounded by gardens and unique stone cottages, Moreton-in-Marsh is a spellbinding getaway perfect for couples. With many experiences, you can create lasting memories that are worth cherishing.
Moreton-in-Marsh is ideal to see the northern region and the green areas surrounding it. Take a horse riding class with your partner and gain a unique insight into the Cotswold hills. Or, if you want to stay in the area, drop by Sezincote House & Gardens for an afternoon at the impressive Indian style house.
Moreton-in-Marsh is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds. The green expanse and romantic experiences make it perfect for a couples weekend in the Cotswolds.
Based around a historical site, Castle Combe is a stunning village with many things to do in the area. Close to Bath and Chippenham, Castle Combe has many local amenities and things to do.
If you want to play golf, The Manor House Golf Club is close to the centre. Or, you can head out on one of the many beautiful walks that surround the town.
Whether you are travelling with pets, family, friends or by yourself, Castle Combe is a fantastic holiday destination in the south of the Cotswolds.
With the region one of the most popular UK destinations, there are many fantastic areas in the Cotswolds.
Enjoy the rolling green hills or head off on a journey exploring the many unique towns and villages.
If you want to immerse yourself in rich history and culture be sure to visit Stratford-upon-Avon too! You can check-out 12 of The Best Restaurants in Stratford-upon-Avon to help plan your trip.
Or for an unforgettable trip to the Cotswolds, read: The Magic of Summer Solstice at Stonehenge.
Whatever your reason for visiting, you will never be short of places to see in the Cotswolds.
Image Credits – Kotomi_ – (CC BY-NC 2.0); Charles Roffey – (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0); Airwolfhound – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Robin Drayton – (CC BY-SA 2.0); rodtuk – (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0); Billy Wilson – (CC BY-NC 2.0); Billy Wilson – (CC BY-NC 2.0); Mike McBey – (CC BY 2.0); Tanya Dedyukhina – (CC BY 3.0); John Menard – (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Hi, I'm Josh. I joined the Sykes team in 2019 and love all things travel. I enjoy spending my time travelling throughout the w...
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