Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are the very picture of the English countryside, a landscape of gently rolling hills and picturesque valleys that visitors can't help but be charmed by. Located mainly within Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, but also crossing into Somerset, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire, the Cotswolds has been officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it's certainly not hard to see why. The unspoilt landscapes are a perfect place for a holiday where you can relax, explore, and drink in the scenery of this beautiful location. The gorgeous settlements scattered through the Cotswolds are no less appealing than the countryside itself. The honey-coloured Cotswold stone quarried from the area is easy recognised and typifies the traditional cottages built in the villages and towns found here.

The Cotswolds are a year-round destination. Whether you are visiting their famous Christmas markets, exploring historic manor houses in the spring, lounging by the river in the summer or crunching through the leaves at Batsford Arboretum in the autumn, every season offers up incredible treats. Knowing where to start is the biggest challenge. Cirencester is dubbed the capital of the Cotswolds, so make sure you set aside a day to explore. The architecture, earthwork and remains of the Roman amphitheatre will appeal to history buffs, while New Brewery Arts is a delight – showcasing the best of British arts and crafts, you’ll struggle to leave without buying a gorgeous memento. Show-stealers such as Blenheim Palace and Warwick Castle should be high on the to-do list while Chipping Campden – and the rest of the market towns such as Chipping Norton and Winchcombe – are the perfect excuse for a lazy afternoon of exploring. Don’t forget that a trip to any town or village isn’t complete until you’ve visited a couple of the cosiest pubs. Grab a drink in The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold (said to be England’s oldest Inn) or pop into The Ebrington Arms to find out why it was voted the UK’s number one village pub. 

1. With a huge array of historical delights, including the steam railway, you’ll feel like you’re in another decade.  

2. Covering 800 square miles and straddling multiple boroughs, the area has an incredible amount of sights and experiences. 

3. Famous for its cheese, the Cotswolds has become a foodie destination. Every town is heaving with restaurants, cosy inns and charming tearooms. 

4. The Cotswolds has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Hop on a bike, get in a canoe or go for a walk to see why. 

5. Cream teas, pretty villages, lush green fields – this is what tourists expect when they come to England.