How To Spend A Day In The Cotswolds.
The Cotswolds are a group of rolling green hills covering the west of England. Unspoilt landscapes, charming stone villages and thriving wildlife make the Cotswolds a natural haven that attracts ramblers, birdwatchers and English literature students – Shakespeare’s birthplace in nearby Stratford-upon-Avon is just another feather in the cap of this cultural treasure.
The Cotswolds make an ideal excursion for a long weekend or bank holiday. In order to make the most of your time, we have put together our guide to a perfect day out so that you can make the most of this fabulous UK location which is so popular with tourists from across the world.
9am.
Arrive early and sit down to breakfast in one of the famous Cotswolds tearooms. Life in the Cotswolds runs at a leisurely pace – no fast food here – ‘home made’ and ‘locally sourced’ are two phrases you’ll hear oft repeated, and this care and attention is reflected in every delicious bite.
11am.
Lace up your walking boots – no trip to the Cotswolds is complete without exploring the area on foot. The scenery between Chipping Campden and Painswick is particularly beautiful, and punctuated by peaceful villages where you can pick up souvenirs from the local arts and crafts shops – don’t miss out on Cotswold pottery, or the chance to sample the local cheeses. The Cotswold Way is one of the most popular routes or, for tailor-made walking holidays, contact one of the respected resident tour guides such as Cotswold Journeys.
1pm.
Pause for lunch in one of the traditional Cotswold pubs. Stow-on-the-Wolds is home to one of the oldest public houses in Britain, the Eagle and Childs, which has been refreshing thirsty walkers since 947! This is just one of many great watering holes; wherever you wander, expect a warm welcome, hearty fare and an open fire.
3pm.
Satiated, it’s time to head back out. Why not spend the afternoon immersed in the Cotswolds’ rich history? Embedded in the caves near Charleton Abbots are over 100 limestone tombs dating back from the Neolithic era. The landscape at Sudely is littered with medieval castle ruins. From grand Roman villas to quiet abbeys and old-fashioned hamlets, unchanged for centuries, you will feel as though you have stepped back in time. But be on your best behaviour, as Stow-on-the-Wold still displays its village stocks!
6pm onwards.
After a fascinating day on your feet, it is time to relax and soak up the atmosphere in a country inn. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also picturesque spots for camping, including Hayles Fruit Farm. Relax and unwind in the friendly company of the locals, perhaps over a pint of Cotswold Real Ale.
With so much to see and do, it is easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a holiday itinerary. To help you out, we have picked just some of the best attractions and eateries in the Cotswolds that will give you a taste of the beauty, local character and rich heritage of the area. For more inspiration please visit SightseeingToursLondon.co.uk who offer London to Cotswold Day Tours.
