The Cotswolds, cottages a golden hue, with some of the prettiest scenery to be found anywhere in England.
V. Centuries old towns, like Stow on the Wold, Burford with its so antique shops. Everywhere houses covered in climbing roses such a delight in summer but nice at any time of year. Lots of accommodation, from cottages to hotels to bed and breakfast. Perfect for that short break, weekend or romantic break or Cotswold holiday.
Holiday in the Cotswolds
In the far south of the Cotswolds is Castle Combe, one of the most photographed villages of all. The long winding main street leading to an arch bridge over the River. A so picturesque village square, with water pump and ancient inns. Best visited in the glow of a summers evening when the crowds have gone, but consider yourself very privileged if you have the village to your self.
Arlington Row, Bibury. Dating from the 14th century, this row of enchanting stone weavers cottages, alongside the River Coln was originally a wool store built by the local Bishop. The adjacent water meadows, Rack Isle, and a river brimful of trout, maybe swans and ducks gliding by, add yet more the scene. (There is a trout farm upstream, part explaining the presence of so many specimen fish.) The rivers are some of the least polluted in the country. William Morris described the village of Bibury as “the most beautiful village in England”. Why not take time to explore it yourself on foot.? Arlington Row is cared for by the National Trust.
Golfing Breaks – Hoburne Cotswolds is the perfect place to use as a base to explore the Cotswolds. Nestled within this beautiful area, surrounded by no less than 4 lakes this Park has everything you need for the perfect get away. The park boasts 2 swimming pools, tennis courts, crazy golf course, and lots more.
Broadway often called the Jewel of the Cotswolds, whose wide main street climbs toward the escarpent. In spring the blossom of the chestnut trees is a delight to the eye. Or in the south Burford – one of the most attractive of the Cotswolds towns, also on side of a hill, leading down to the River. The main street with its fine buildings is a window shoppers delight. But one would need deep pockets indeed to afford many of the fine antiques on show in its numerous antique shops.
Stow-on-the-Wold, in the north of the region. An old market town a-top a hill with its original stocks. For centuries the large square was used for annual sheep fairs. Stow reminds me very much of the unspoilt hill top towns of France. Entering the square one does feel you are entering a different place, unlike anywhere else in the Cotswolds. A place to savour and let your senses take it all in.
Upper and Lower Slaughter. Joined by the meandering River Windrush, two of the most visited villages. Upper Slaughter with its Church of St Peter, Lower Slaughter with its Corn Mill, and ducks on the River. Like so many villages best explored on foot.
Take a Cotswolds walking holiday. Part of the delight of the Area is throwing away your guide book, and discovering villages and valleys off the beaten track for yourself. Driving, walking or cycling along country lanes with only the occasional partridge, hare or young rabbit for company. Leaving the stress of modern life behind, well for the duration of your visit anyway.
Visit nearby Bath. The city is an masterpiece of Georgian architecture. Designated a World Heritage Site. First settled by the Celts, whom legend had it discovered the hot springs’ medicinal qualities. Then occupied by the Romans, who promptly built their own temple and spa – Sulis Minerva.