2025 Cotswolds Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

The Cotswolds is one of the most picturesque regions in England, known for its rolling hills, quaint villages, and charming stone cottages. This region, which stretches across several counties, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape into nature, history, and traditional English culture. The area is renowned for its beautifully preserved villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” where you can wander along the gentle stream that winds through the village. Another must-see is Chipping Campden, with its stunning wool market, while Stow-on-the-Wold offers antique shops and cosy pubs, making it an ideal base for exploring. For nature lovers, the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) provides a range of activities including hiking, cycling, and exploring the wildlife that thrives in the countryside. The Cotswold Way, a 102-mile walking trail, offers breathtaking views and takes you through lush woodlands, charming villages, and ancient stone walls. The region is also steeped in history, with its medieval castles, stately homes, and historic gardens. Don’t miss a visit to Sudeley Castle, once the home of Queen Catherine Parr, or Hidcote Manor Garden, a masterpiece of garden design. For a truly authentic experience, stay in one of the luxury country hotels, such as Barnsley House, offering a spa and stunning gardens, or the Lygon Arms in Broadway, which boasts a traditional English charm. The combination of luxurious accommodations, stunning scenery, and rich heritage makes the Cotswolds a perfect destination for a relaxing countryside retreat. Whether you’re seeking to unwind with a traditional cream tea, enjoy the tranquility of the countryside, or explore its rich history, the Cotswolds offers an idyllic escape into one of England’s most enchanting regions. #uktrip

The Cotswolds are a range of hills in southwestern and central England, known for their picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic sites. The area is characterized by its charming villages built from honey-colored limestone. The Cotswolds are also home to several historic sites, including Sudeley Castle, Snowshill Manor and Garden, and Chedworth Roman Villa. The Cotswolds are a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The area is also known for its many traditional pubs and restaurants, serving locally sourced food and drink. 🐟Fish and chips are a must-try in the area. 🚗*renting a car is required for this road trip: We took 1 day 1 night around the countryside to explore Cotswold, starting with a night visit to 📍castle combe (picture 2). Embrace the serenity of the small and quiet town. Spend the night around the area, and I recommend Cirencester for a peaceful and quiet night, before heading out the next day to 📍Bibury (picture 3). Visit 📍lower slaughter (pictures 1 and 6) to see the old mill (picture 1), and even engage in activities such as horse riding down the ancient town (picture 6). 📍Bourton-on-the-water (picture 4 and 5) is a serene small town where you can enjoy the beautiful views and stroll through the shophouses to thrift. 📍Broadway tower (last 2 pictures) is a lone standing castle built on a vast land of green hills. A must visit if you want a taste of the old England countryside. #ancienttownvibes #cotswold #cotswoldsmagic #countryside #oldtown #nature #hiking #horseriding #uk

Cotswolds like another world.. Landscape, culture and traditions. Cute cottages, little antique shops and historic churches and traditional tearooms. The Cotswolds’ rural communities are wonderfully preserved and it has everything for a tranquil lifestyle; Wildlife, protected land and charming historic villages. Escape to the Cotswolds, just for a night or two. The picturesque villages stunning backdrop for long walks or drives, everywhere you look there’s another scenic view. Especially lower Slaughter is very photogenic. Britain’s spectacular palace Blenheim is in the Cotswolds. 🪴 Getting There - Cotswolds is easy to reach by public transport, and there is a direct train between London Paddington and Moreton-in-Marsh take only about 90 minutes. By plane: London Heathrow is about a two-hour drive, from the airports of Bristol and Birmingham are just over an hour’s transfer away. Attractions - Historic villages, Tea rooms, Blenheim Palace Hotels - Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa or rent a cottage Food & Restaurants - Lucy’s Tea Room 🫖 #wecreate #england #mytripvlog #awesomepic ##passionpassport #2023travelwish #tripblazers #Seltravels #englishgarden #Englishcountryside #Cotswolds

Lovely old towns to visit in Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. Highly recommend to do road trip, if you are traveling from London, you could spend a day in Oxford first, next day can go from Bourton-on-the-Water -> Bibury -> Castle Combe and the destination could be Bath or Bristol. This is something you dun wanna miss!! #unitedkingdom #travel

Where’s the first place you’re going to head when the lockdowns lift? The Cotswolds would be an absolute dream. We have a few days in Whitby booked in the summer (🤞) and I’m looking forward to exploring the coastal towns on the East Coast. The staycation is going to boom this year and I hope my feed provides some British Inspiration for when it’s safe to explore! #themepark#nationalpark

Yulin Yutang said that the ideal life of Datong in the world is to live in the English countryside. There are a lot of exquisite and quiet rural villages in the UK, but if you can only choose one that you want to go, I will not hesitate to choose Bibury. Berbury is an old village situated on the banks of the Cologne River, 10.5 km from Cirencester, known for its brown stone cottages and steeply sloping roofs. It is not only hailed by British artist William Morris as the most beautiful village in England, but also the location of the film Bridget Jones's Diary, which can be regarded as a representative of English country towns. The tranquil Bibury has a nostalgic atmosphere: a series of riverside cottages, criss-crossing narrow streets, solid stone houses lined with buildings, and the 17th-century Arlington Mill. , bright flowers and plants, huts and houses, the ancient Baibori exudes a strong rural atmosphere, and everything has a charm of peace of mind. Walking here, it seems to break into the world of fairy tales, so beautiful that people forget all the troubles. Attraction Name: Bibury Bibury Attractions Address: Bibury

The Cotswolds is the definition of idyllic charm—rolling green hills, honey-colored stone cottages, and villages straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re wandering through Bibury’s postcard-perfect Arlington Row, exploring Castle Combe’s timeless streets, or enjoying a cozy pub in Bourton-on-the-Water, every corner feels like a dream. The landscape is dotted with ancient churches, scenic walking trails, and bustling market towns full of history. In autumn, golden hues make it even more magical. Whether for a weekend escape or a slow countryside retreat, the Cotswolds is pure English beauty at its finest. #travel #thingstodo

Bourton on the Water is a small village in the Cotswolds, located in the southwest of England. It is part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village features long and wide green spaces on both sides of its streets, with the Windrush River running through it, resembling a British countryside fairy tale with small bridges and flowing water. People generally describe Bourton-on-the-Water with its stone bridges spanning the river, weeping willows, countryside greenery, and historic stone houses, creating a warm and harmonious picture that feels like a paradise on earth. It's no wonder it ranks high on the list of the most beautiful villages in England and is known as the Venice of the Cotswolds! On both sides of the river, there are shops, restaurants, and places for English afternoon tea, each with its own unique charm. You can spend a beautiful day here with a day trip.

#europetravel Cotswold 丨 I really regret going to Cotswold... I regret not going earlier, ah ah ah! Cotswold is my dream house! Only here can we see the real Britain! 😭 🇬🇧 British son closes his eyes and rushes to Cotswold 👇 The voting area has an internal 🐎， train 🎫- 5% off) A series of riverside villages, winding streams, majestic castles, a sense of history, rural cottages made of heavy stones, narrow streets and alleys crisscrossed with moss covered stones, all revealing exquisite and historical beauty 🟢 Regarding transportation, taking the train to Moreton in Marsh, you can find the 801 bus stop in the parking lot at the exit- Take bus 801 and get off at Newsagent station in Burton on the Water in about 40 minutes. Recommend clocking in 📷 ▫️ Burton on the water ▫️ Bibury ▫️ Honey Town Stow on the old ▫️ Broadway Boardway ▫️ Chipping Campden, perhaps only by immersing yourself here can you truly experience the true English countryside #london#localguides #historicallandmarks #trip #travel

The Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty in the south of England. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes, beautiful villages and historic buildings. It’s a perfect place for a day out in the country or to take a break for a few days from the hustle and bustle of city life. So head down to the Cotswolds, breathe in the fresh country air and enjoy the great outdoors. #getgoing2025 #mountainhike #cotswolds #england

#europetravel Rolling hills, honey-colored cottages, and charming villages—The Cotswolds is the perfect countryside escape, offering a slice of classic English beauty. Whether you're after quaint market towns, scenic walks, or cozy tea rooms, here’s how to experience the best of this magical region. 🏡 Explore the Most Charming Villages Each Cotswolds village has its own unique charm. Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” is famous for its low stone bridges over the River Windrush. Bibury, home to the iconic Arlington Row cottages, is a must for postcard-perfect views. Castle Combe, often voted England’s prettiest village, is like stepping into a medieval painting. 📍 Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, Castle Combe 🚶♂️ Go on a Scenic Walk Through the Countryside The Cotswolds is perfect for walkers, with miles of trails offering breathtaking landscapes. Try the Cotswold Way, a long-distance route passing through rolling hills and ancient woodlands. For a shorter stroll, the Broadway Tower Walk rewards you with panoramic views from one of the highest points in the region. 📍 Cotswold Way, Broadway Tower 🛍 Visit Traditional Markets & Local Shops Don’t miss the weekly markets in towns like Stow-on-the-Wold and Cirencester, where you’ll find local cheeses, handmade crafts, and antiques. The Cotswolds is also home to beautiful independent bookstores, art galleries, and boutique shops, perfect for unique finds. 📍 Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester ☕ Indulge in Classic English Tea & Local Delicacies There’s nothing more British than afternoon tea in the countryside. Stop by The Swan Hotel in Bibury or Huffkins Tea Room in Stow-on-the-Wold for freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and homemade cakes. For something heartier, a cozy Sunday roast at a traditional Cotswold pub is a must! 📍 The Swan Hotel, Huffkins Tea Room 🏰 Step Back in Time at Historic Sites The Cotswolds is filled with stunning manors and historic landmarks. Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is an architectural masterpiece with vast gardens. Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe offers a mix of medieval history and beautifully landscaped grounds. 📍 Blenheim Palace, Sudeley Castle ⭐ Top Tips for Visiting the Cotswolds Travel by car – Public transport is limited, and driving lets you explore at your own pace. Visit in spring or autumn – Avoid summer crowds and enjoy the countryside in full bloom or autumn colors. Stay overnight – The Cotswolds is best experienced with a slow pace, so consider a cozy B&B or country inn. With its storybook villages, scenic countryside, and warm hospitality, the Cotswolds is a destination that feels like a fairytale. Whether you’re here for the nature, history, or simply a peaceful retreat, it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave. #europe #uk #cotswold

Bibury - The Cotswolds - The most popular village in the Cotswolds, which William Morris called "the most beautiful village in England". The landmark of this village is the cottage "Arlington Row", built as a sheepfold in the 14th century and still used as a residence! It is also famous as a landscape depicted on British passports, so just coming here makes you feel like you've conquered England! You'll feel a sense of accomplishment. 🚃 Take a bus from London city or Heathrow Airport via Cheltenham Station, take a day tour from London, or rent a car for about 2 hours from London. ✍️ It's a very small village with a population of about 600, but there are tourists all day long, so if you have the time, it's a good idea to stay the night before and enjoy a morning walk. #Cotswolds #ArlingtonRow #cotswolds #arlintonraw #overseastraveltrip

The Cotswolds offer an enchanting escape into the heart of rural England, where rolling hills, charming villages, and historic architecture create a timeless atmosphere. The region is renowned for its honey-colored stone cottages, quaint streets lined with boutique shops, and stunning gardens. Visiting places like Bourton-on-the-Water, with its serene river and picturesque bridges, or the medieval village of Bibury, often referred to as "the most beautiful village in England," is like stepping into a postcard. For those who enjoy history, the Cotswolds is rich with historical landmarks and ancient sites. Explore the medieval remains of Gloucester Cathedral, the majestic Sudeley Castle, or the stunning gardens at Hidcote Manor. The region’s long-standing tradition of wool production is reflected in the architecture of its towns, many of which boast beautiful market squares, ancient churches, and historic inns. Nature lovers will delight in the miles of walking trails that wind through the area, offering spectacular views of the countryside and the surrounding limestone hills. In addition to the peaceful atmosphere, the Cotswolds is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and birds of prey, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking through scenic countryside paths, exploring stately homes like Blenheim Palace, or enjoying a traditional cream tea in a cozy local tearoom, the Cotswolds offers something for everyone. The relaxed pace of life and stunning views make it the perfect destination for those seeking peace, beauty, and a genuine taste of English heritage. With its blend of natural beauty and rich history, the Cotswolds is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the essence of rural England. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the region’s welcoming charm and rich traditions ensure an unforgettable experience. #londontravel

#europetrip #cotswolds #countryside #travel The Cotswolds is a dream come true for anyone seeking beauty, charm, and tranquility. From the rolling green hills to the honey-colored stone villages, every part of this region feels like a masterpiece. Each village has its own story—whether it’s the fairytale allure of Castle Combe, the historic elegance of Burford, or the serene escape of Eastleach. What I loved most was the sense of stepping back in time. Strolling through cobblestone streets, exploring ancient churches, and relaxing by peaceful rivers felt like uncovering a simpler, more beautiful world. And let’s not forget the cozy pubs, tearooms, and welcoming locals that make you feel right at home. The Cotswolds isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to fall in love with. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, this timeless gem offers it all in abundance.

#europetrip #countryside #xmas2024 #cotswolds Exploring the Cotswolds felt like stepping into a postcard of quintessential English countryside. With its rolling hills, quaint stone villages, and historic market towns, every corner seemed to hold something magical. The area is a haven for nature lovers, with stunning walking trails, picturesque gardens, and scenic views that stretch for miles. The charm of the honey-colored cottages, cozy pubs, and local markets creates an atmosphere of peace and timeless beauty. Whether you're hiking, enjoying the local food, or simply relaxing in the serene surroundings, the Cotswolds offers the ultimate escape from the everyday.

beautiful village

Hey guys 👋, today I want to recommend a hidden gem in the UK - Cotswolds! This is the epitome of the British countryside, known as the "Heart of England," and is a must-see on your trip to the UK! 🌟 🚗 Transportation Guide • Self-driving: The towns in Cotswolds are relatively scattered, so self-driving is the most flexible way to explore each town at your own pace. • Public transportation: If you don't want to drive, you can take a train to Moreton-in-Marsh, then transfer to a bus, or join a local day tour. 🏰 Must-visit Towns • Bourton-on-the-Water: Known as "Little Venice," the river runs through the town, and the stone bridges are quaint, making it a great place for photos. • Bibury: Artist William Morris called it "the most beautiful village in England," and Arlington Row is a must-see attraction. • Stow-on-the-Wold: The highest town in Cotswolds, with bustling streets and antique markets. • The Slaughters: Two sister villages with well-preserved country cottages and charming natural scenery. 📸 Photo Spots • Arlington Row: A landmark building in Bibury, often featured in various travel brochures. • Model Village: A mini version of Bourton-on-the-Water, super cute. 🍽 Food Recommendations • English Afternoon Tea: In any town, you can find places offering traditional English afternoon tea and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. • Local Produce: Don't forget to try the local cheese and freshly baked bread, both of which are Cotswolds' pride. 🌿 Hiking Recommendations • Lower Slaughter to Upper Slaughter: The picturesque scenery along the way is a great way to experience the tranquility of the countryside. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations • Eynsham Hall: Stay in a manor hotel and experience the true English aristocratic life. 📅 Itinerary Suggestions • Day 1: Depart from London, drive or join a tour, first to Bibury, then to Bourton-on-the-Water, and stay overnight in a local B&B. • Day 2: Stroll around Bourton-on-the-Water in the morning, then head to Stow-on-the-Wold in the afternoon to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town. The beauty of Cotswolds is something you need to experience for yourself. Here, you can slow down and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the British countryside. Add Cotswolds to your travel list now! 🌳🌼🏡

#europetrip The Cotswolds, a quintessentially English region, is a haven of rolling hills, honey-colored stone villages, and timeless charm. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s perfect for leisurely strolls through idyllic towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold. Ancient churches, cozy tearooms, and bustling markets add to its appeal. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as Sudeley Castle or walk along the scenic Cotswold Way. With its thatched cottages, blooming gardens, and serene countryside, the Cotswolds feels like a step back in time. A favorite for romantics and nature lovers, it’s a tranquil escape brimming with English heritage.

I went on a bus tour of the highlights of the Cotswolds. The tour visited the four villages of Bibury, Stowe, Burford, and Broadway. In Burford, the bridge over the stream was impressive. There is also a famous bakery called Hawkins. The linen tote bags you can take home from there are popular. Bibury is a village praised as the most beautiful town in the UK. All the towns were really lovely. I liked Burford and Bibury in the first and second pictures ☺️ There are many other villages, so please explore the one you like. #OverseasTravelRecord

#NovemberTravelSupportEvent This is the Cotswolds in England that you can only go to by car!! It seems like a very gentle country even when driving, but it's not when playing soccer. It's really beautiful nature and so so so clean that even animals without owners are taken care of by the people nearby ㅠㅠ

If you want to quietly experience the Cotswolds' tourist attractions alone, I recommend 7-9 o'clock! After that, it gets crowded with bus tours and other tourists! In particular, you have to wait in line at the cafe and it gets complicated! The famous cafes open at 8 o'clock, so you can leisurely look at the bread and drink inside the cafe, or have a warm latte while looking at the canal🥹✨ The quiet Cotswolds are where you can really feel the Cotswolds:) I'll post a recommended accommodation post soon! ㅎㅎ

Amazing place to visit

Cotswolds, the town where most Brits dream of retiring! After visiting, I totally understand why people want to live here. It's a beautiful, tranquil, and romantic town. 📍The Chip Shed Grab some fish and chips, lay out a mat, and enjoy the romance. It's not frozen fish, so it's delicious! I recommend the cod. 📍Bakery on the Water This is the most famous cafe in Cotswolds. The terrace seats inside are great for photos and the atmosphere is lovely. I recommend the scones. Don't look at the map, just wander around. I met some beautiful horses thanks to this. Cotswolds is full of hidden gems to explore.🍀 I considered staying overnight, but a day trip is more than enough. There are many bridges in Cotswolds, so take a photo on one that you like.❤️

#myhiddengems The cotswolds region is massive area made up of meadows, hills, farms, and rivers. There are around 1500 plus square kilometers of unspoilt countryside to explore in this designated Area of superb Natural Beauty. The area is home to the famous honeycolored limestone called The cotswolds limestone. And this is the very stone you see cottages and houses here constructed with. Now with experience I can also tell that this versatile destination can make for a very relaxing family holiday or a romantic one for couples. Solo travelers like myself need no invitation. One of my personal favourite things about this country destination were the gardens. The Cotswolds are dotted with so many delightfully pretty gardens. Some of them with attached cottages and some spanning acres and acres on manicured land. This somehow turned into the highlight of my costwolds visit. Havind said so, there are also trips you can go for, to several other stately homes and castles, including Cerne House, Rodmarton Manor, Kiftsgate Court, and Sezincote House.#myhiddengems #countrydestinations #summerdestinations #cotswolds #cottages #englishholiday #100waysoftravel #england #singapore

#SoutheastAsiaFlightEvent 📍Cotswolds When I went to London, I visited Coach World, a village where British people want to live after retirement. Coach World was a really quiet and natural village with a lot of culture. Honestly, I like quiet villages like this more than the noisy 2 o'clock, so it was great for taking pictures and I could just enjoy the trip itself. #Cotswolds

#For those traveling to London, I sincerely‼️ highly recommend the #Cotswolds as a travel destination near London‼️ There are many famous places near London, such as the Cotswolds, Oxford, and Bicester Village. Since it is difficult to get to the nearby areas by public transportation, I recommend taking a tour to go to the places you want to go! The Cotswolds is famous as a popular place for British people to retire and live in the countryside, so if you are planning a trip to London, I highly recommend visiting this rural village with a warm landscape. #European travel

An excellent experience in Cotswold ! The little world and the famous street allowed you to take more than 100 photos. Only you need to check the GPS or download the map offline as the connection there is very weak

Tour of Britain, Ireland, Spain and Portugal (8) Looking for an English country town 2024.6.13 (Thursday) Oxford-Stratford The weather will be cloudy with light rain, 7-14 degrees. In the afternoon, we came to the Cotswolds to look for English country towns. The Cotswolds, "the heart of England", one of the three largest villages in Europe, and "the most beautiful town in the world". The quietly flowing Windrush River passes through the district and eventually joins the Thames. Burton-on-the-Water is a village in the Cotswolds district of Gloucestershire in southwestern England (Figure 1). It is located in a wide and flat valley with the River Windrash running through it. There are five stone arch bridges on the river (Figure 2), which were built between 1654 and 1953, so they are called the "Venice of the Cotswolds" (Figure 3). The town of Bibury is also a village in the Cotswolds, located on the banks of the Colon River (Figure 4). The historic Arlington Town House, built in 1380, is one of the most photographed scenes in the Cotswolds (Figure 5). The cow by the water has no iconic pattern and is in three sections of black and white, so it’s okay to call it a “panda cow” (Figure 6). Broadway Town, a model of English town, is a village in the southeasternmost corner of Worcestershire, England (Figure 7). A main street in the village is lined with lush vegetation and neat blocks (Figure 8). Green plants and flowers of various colors and honey-colored limestone buildings complement each other, and the layout is orderly. Many are listed buildings (Fig. 9) and date back to the 16th century. In the afternoon, we arrange to have English afternoon tea and then return to the hotel to rest. Stay in Stratford tonight and head to Liverpool tomorrow after visiting one of the attractions here.