Blenheim Palace
A historic English Baroque style house and gardens. Blenheim is the only non-royal, non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace. It was designed by architect Sir John Vanbrugh and built between 1705 and 1722. The land on which it was constructed was given as a gift from Queen Anne to the 1st Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill. He was the military commander who led troops to victory over the French in the Battle of Blenheim in the War of the Spanish Succession (1704). The palace was also the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill.The style adopted and design decisions made by Vanbrugh were controversial at the time, but make for a dramatic sight today. The palace is now a World Heritage Site and open to the public, although it remains home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family.The public have free access to public rights of way through the Great Park area of the grounds, which are accessible from Woodstock and from the Oxfordshire Way. You can see the Column of Victory from these areas (see the 'Free Blenheim' website link below for more information).If you choose to pay the entrance fee, there is more than enough here for a full day out. The palace is linked to the gardens by the Blenheim Park miniature railway. You’ll find walled gardens, art exhibitions, a large maze and of course the magnificent house interior itself to explore.Note: The ancient 'Harry Potter Tree' can also be found in the grounds. The 300 year old Cedar of Lebanon tree is next to Blenheim Bridge. This is where part of "Order of the Phoenix" was filmed.
Blockley
A large Cotswold village (or perhaps small town) that remains unspoilt and more of a ‘best kept secret’ than many of the more traditional Cotswolds destinations.Blockley has links back to the wool industry in the 9th century but it moved with the times to become a centre of the silk industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. The mills took advantage of the waters of the brook which runs through the village. Blockley was also one of the first villages in England to produce its own electricity thanks to the power of this brook.Most of the mill buildings remain, albeit converted into housing. The small mill workers’ houses are a characteristic feature too, lining the narrow steeply-sided valley beside the main stream and up the High Street.Blockley’s church and vicarage were regularly featured in the UK ‘Father Brown’ television series since they were used as the fictional St Mary's Church and Father Brown's residence respectively.The motorbike sidecar manufacturer Watsonian Squire are based here too and they provided some custom-built outfits for the filming of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
Bourton House Garden
Bourton House and its Brewhouse, Stables and Coach House were built in the late 16th century. The Grade I listed Tithe Barn on site is dated 1570. The 3-acre garden and 7-acre walled pasture are open to the public and there is a café.Attractions include an abundance of plants, imaginative topiary and several spring-fed water features. A raised 18th century walk provides a view of the Cotswold landscape.The 'drive-to' button takes you to the car park which is opposite the house and grounds.
Bourton on the Hill
A hillside village with some great views down onto Moreton in Marsh. Something of a victim of the A44 main road, but still retaining a great deal of character and some lovely 17th and 18th century cottages. St Lawrence’s Church dates back to 1157.Good for a scenic 'drive-through'. Home also to Bourton House Garden and Batsford Arboretum (detailed via separate screens).
Broad Campden
A beautiful small Cotswold village. Numerous thatched cottages and houses built from the traditional Cotswold stone. C R Ashbee, the architect responsible for much of the Arts and Crafts movement lived here for a time. He was responsible for renovating the 12th Century Norman Chapel house in the village.A great place for walking - the Diamond Way, Monarch’s Way and Heart of England Way all pass through here near to the local pub! These long-distance routes provide scope for shorter circular walks around local countryside if you are so inclined. The pub itself was featured on the UK television series ‘Father Brown’.
Broadway
A large and beautiful Cotswolds village featuring a showpiece High Street edged with picturesque 17th and 18th century stone buildings. Well worth exploring. You will find a variety of attractions here - antique dealers, art galleries, tea rooms and independent shops. If you have children on board there’s an excellent activity park / playground just off the High Street too (see weblink below).At the height of the stagecoach trade, Broadway had over twenty coaching inns and several coaches passed through between Oxford and Worcester daily. One of these former inns (Tudor House) now houses the Broadway Museum and Art Gallery. This community museum explores the history of Broadway and the collection includes artefacts curated by the Ashmolean in Oxford. Various touring or temporary exhibitions are featured here as well (check the website link below to see what’s going on during your visit).A railway station was opened in 1904 and although mainline services no longer survive, it is now part of the Gloucestershire Warwickshire heritage railway running roughly 14 miles to Cheltenham Racecourse.The Gordon Russell Design Museum is another Broadway attraction. Housed in the now Grade II listed company workshops, it celebrates the work of the renowned 20th century arts and crafts influenced furniture designer, Sir Gordon Russell. The company that he founded in Broadway expanded to employ over 200 craftspeople. The firm became recognised both nationally and internationally as a major contributor to 20th century design.Needless to say, Broadway remains a popular (i.e. busy!) stopping point, but there are quite a few car parks so don’t let that put you off.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
Broadway Tower
Completed in 1798, Broadway Tower stands 55 feet (nearly 17 metres) high, but attains amazing prominence by its location on Broadway Hill. This puts the tower over 1,000 feet (300 metres) above sea level and ensures that it can be seen from miles around. The view from the top of the Tower across many adjoining English counties can be truly dramatic. You may even glimpse the Welsh mountains on a very clear day.The Tower was the idea of the famous 18th century landscape designer, Lancelot “Capability” Brown. He created it as a focal point for George William the 6th Earl of Coventry, looking out from his land at Croome Court in Worcestershire, about 15 miles away. It was constructed by architect James Wyatt. His “Saxon Tower” folly is an unusual combination of turrets gargoyles and battlements.Today, Broadway Tower & Park is a family-owned Cotswold destination set within a 50-acre estate. With tickets you can climb the tower, look around the museum and explore the Deer Park. There’s a café on site and a real-life nuclear bunker to explore too!
Burford
Well worth a visit. A really picturesque, if sometimes bustling little town with a famous High Street leading down toward the River Windrush.There’s an impressive medieval bridge, ancient architecture, charming alleyways to explore as well as lots of browsing shops (particularly antiques!) and eateries. The Tolsey Museum on the High Street recounts the town's social and industrial past.Note: If you want a quieter view of the pretty river, try the churchyard of St John the Baptist Church (Lawrence Lane, just off the High Street).
Castle Combe
An unblemished collection of Cotswold stone cottages. Another village vying for the title of England’s prettiest! The view from the bridge across By Brook at the bottom end of Main Street is one of the most photographed places in the Cotswolds. At the top of the same street is a 14th Century Market Cross where wool was once sold.St Andrew’s Church dates from the 13th century. The church houses a 15th Century faceless clock which is reputed to be one of the oldest working clocks in the country. It strikes a bell in the church tower.
Castle Combe Race Circuit
A motor racing circuit based on the perimeter track of a former World War II airfield. The track first opened for racing in 1950. Castle Combe has staged many different motorsport events over the years, but being so close to the village, the track has more recently been limited in the type of events that it can host because of noise regulations.Today, as well as holding ‘trackdays’ for cars and motorbikes, Castle Combe Circuit holds a large number of car shows.
Charlbury
A largely unspoilt town set in the Evenlode Valley, surrounded by the remains of the ancient Wychwood Forest and encircled by the Oxfordshire Way walking route.Charlbury grew from initially being a small clearing in the Wychwood Forest to a prosperous market town, thanks to its reputation as a glove making centre during the 18th and 19th centuries.Buildings in the town centre are built in the characteristic local Cotswold stone. In Sheep Street you can find the Good Food Shop, owned and run by the local community. There is also a community website which publicises local events and provides visitor information (see below).
Chastleton House
A fine example of Jacobean architecture built between 1607 and 1612 by wool merchant, Walter Jones. Owned by the same increasingly impoverished family until 1991, the house remained basically unchanged for 400 years as the interiors and contents gradually succumbed to the ravages of time.Arguably, the house (or garden?) is the birthplace of British Croquet, at least in a formalised 'official' sense! The rules of the game were first collated and published by former resident of Chastleton, Walter Whitmore Jones in the 19th century.Chastleton is a National Trust site and well worth a visit, but be advised – at the time of writing there was no café on site.The 'drive to' button will take you straight to the car park.
Chedworth Roman Villa
Considered one of the most extensive and complete Roman villas in England, this building was occupied from the late 2nd Century to the mid-4th Century.The villa was rediscovered by the Victorians over 150 years ago and today Chedworth is a National Trust site that provides great insight into life during the Roman period in Britain.There are extensive mosaic floors on display as well as Roman hypocaust systems and bath house rooms. A small museum houses a range of finds and artefacts from the villa and there’s a small café too.
Chipping Campden
A beautiful and well-known town which means that it can get busy, but it is well worth a walk around.The Heart of England Way, Diamond Way, Monarch’s Way and Cotswold Way walks all converge here with a stone pillar located near the Town Hall denoting one end of the Cotswold Way, the other being Bath over 100 miles away.The open-sided Market Hall is probably the most famous sight here but you can also find a mix of shops, including premises actually useful to locals as well as tourists. Eateries abound and make this place a useful pitstop.This town and places nearby have historically been a centre for the arts and crafts movement. You can find out more at the Court Barn Museum.The Old Silk Mill in Sheep Street is worth a visit to see various modern-day artisans at work and to buy their unique products.Silversmith Robert Welch is based here (workshop in the Old Silk Mill and shop in the centre of town).
Chipping Norton
The highest town in Oxfordshire! Known as ‘Chippy’ to locals.A real / living Cotswold town with plenty of shops and eateries, a museum, medieval Guildhall, ancient churches and a theatre.Good Cotswold architecture here and plenty of opportunities for the antique browser … er I mean people who like browsing antiques not really ancient shoppers …Although both would be welcome I’m sure!Bliss Tweed Mill (pictured) stands just outside the town. Now luxury apartments, this fabulous structure was built in 1872 for cloth manufacturer William Bliss, to make fine tweed cloth from locally produced wool. Take a walk across the common if you’d like a good view of its magnificence!
Cirencester
Badged as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ this market town features a number of architectural sights (huge parish church, medieval town hall) as well as an array of eateries and independent shops.The Cotswold Show and Food Festival is hosted here in Cirencester Park. There’s the remains of a Roman amphitheatre and a major Roman museum (The Corinium Museum).
Cotswold Lavender
A family-run farm in a lovely location dedicated to all things lavender (and now also camomile!).They started growing lavender here in 1999 and the farm now raises more than 40 different varieties with over half a million plants in total.The plants start to flower around mid-June and the farm website advises that the best time to see them is early to mid-July. The farm is open to visitors during this period.The lavender is harvested in summer, distilled on the same day by traditional methods and then aged for a year before use.Dependent on what is going on at the time of your visit, you can learn about and potentially observe key aspects of the process.
Cotswolds Distillery
Founded in 2014 this is the first full-scale distillery in the Cotswolds. The company crafts a range of single malt whiskies, gins and liqueurs, including the award-winning Cotswolds Dry Gin and Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky. There are distillery tours as well as a shop and the potential to attend gin, whisky and cocktail masterclasses. Tastings available too, although best for passengers only!
Cotswold Falconry Centre
First opened in 1988, the Cotswold Falconry has developed into one of the leading Bird of Prey centres in the UK.You’ll find various aviaries here with vultures, owls, falcons, hawks and more on show. There are also a number of daily flying displays to watch. Wild British birds of prey can be found in and around the site too.You can book an ‘experience’ session to engage first-hand in handling some of these magnificent birds.Do check the website – at the time of writing, bookings were required in order to visit. Oh and see if you can spot founder Geoff Dalton’s classic Morris van on the history pages while you’re at it!
Eastleach Martin
Eastleach Turville and Eastleach Martin are idyllically linked by a road bridge and small stone slab ‘clapper’ footbridge spanning the narrow River Leach.As is often the case, you can find an ancient church here. There’s one at Eastleach Turville too and they almost face each other across the river! Two separate manors meant that the villages developed independently at first.The pedestrian bridge is known as Keble's Bridge after the poet John Keble who was curate here in the 19th century.Eastleach Martin (known by locals also as “Bouthrop”!) is a small place, but its crammed with scenic listed buildings.Visitors are welcome, but as with all other rural locations, please respect the villagers and be careful where you park your car.
Eastleach Turville
Eastleach Turville and Eastleach Martin are idyllically linked by a road bridge and small stone slab ‘clapper’ footbridge spanning the narrow River Leach.As is often the case, you can find an ancient church here. There’s one at Eastleach Martin too and they almost face each other across the river! Two separate manors meant that the villages developed independently at first.This is a small place, but its crammed with scenic listed buildings. Well worth a calm walk around including a stroll across the bridge.Visitors are welcome, but as with all other rural locations, please respect the villagers and be careful where you park your car.
Easton Grey
A small pretty village with a 16th century bridge over the Avon and a Grade II listed church with a 15th century tower.
Evesham
Evesham is a riverside market town situated on a peninsula in a meander of the River Avon. It was originally founded around a large 8th-century abbey but this, like many others, was destroyed during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries. The end of the line came for Evesham Abbey on 30th January 1539 when troops entered the abbey church during evensong. The abbey’s Bell Tower does survive however and it is worth seeing ats it stands over 100 feet high. It’s worth hearing too as ‘Lichfield’s Bell Tower’ now contains one of the finest sets of bells in the country. They number 14 in total with the most recent being added in the early 1990’s.A major feature here is of course the River Avon. There are shops and eateries available as well as a preserved art deco cinema. Abbey Park has a Victorian bandstand where you can hear music on Sunday afternoons from June to September. There’s a Heritage Centre too. This is housed in the 14th century Almonry (once the home of the Abbey's Almoner). It displays historical information about the town, including the Battle of Evesham in 1265.The Vale of Evesham is somewhat famous for market gardening and the area is known for its production of fruit and vegetables, particularly asparagus.
Fairford
A market town with shops to browse, eateries and pretty bridges over the River Coln. Not so much of a tourist trap as other equivalent locations, despite being a scenic place.There’s a market every Wednesday and the Fairford Town Crier “cries” in the Market Place on the 1st Wednesday each month. The High Street is very attractive, there are footpaths near the river and the parish church of St Mary’s features 28 medieval stained glass windows to admire.The airbase near town is well-known and hosts the spectacular Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT). Arguably, the biggest military air show in the world. The town itself hosts The Fairford Festival every June.
Gloucester Warwickshire Railway
Operated by volunteers this railway operates steam and heritage diesel trains between Broadway and Cheltenham Racecourse through some amazing scenery.Its about 14 miles each way and the stations are Broadway, Toddington, Hayles Abbey Halt, Winchcombe, Gotherington and Cheltenham Race Course.Toddington Station is home to the Locomotive Departments and the North Gloucestershire Narrow Gauge Railway.Winchcombe Station is the administrative headquarters and home to the Carriage & Wagon Department and the Railway's Engineering Departments.Note: Hayles Abbey Halt can be used to visit Hailes Abbey, but there’s no car parking and it’s a request stop that not all trains will respond to! (check the website for more information).
Guiting Power
A very picturesque little village on a tributary of the river Windrush. There are a couple of pubs here for refreshment / food (The Hollow Bottom and The Farmers’ Arms) along with access to the Warden’s Way walking route.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
Hailes Abbey
An English Heritage site, the abbey was founded in 1246 by the Earl of Cornwall. Significant ruins survive and are a point of interest among beautiful scenery here.Charges apply of course but there’s an audio tour available and a small museum to look around.
Halford
The Fosse Way thunders through here crossing the River Stour, but off the main road you’ll find an attractive historical village marking the edge of the Cotswolds.
Hayles Fruit Farm
The farm was originally planted in 1880 by Lord Sudeley. The Harrell family have been farming here since 1950. One of the original Bramley apple trees from 1880 is apparently still going!There’s plenty on offer for visitors here. Fishing, pick your own fruit, a nature trail, tea shop, farm shop and campsite.The farm is situated directly on the Cotswold Way. Caravans, motor homes and tents are welcome. Online booking is available via the website..
Hidcote Bartrim
A small pretty hamlet. Just how pretty? You can tell perhaps from the way that the National Trust now own all property in the village!It’s a small place but you can park at the National Trust Hidcote Manor Garden venue and then use the Monarch’s Way footpath to stroll the short way back to the hamlet for exploring.
Hidcote Boyce
A small, pretty and unspoiled Cotswold hamlet close to good parking at the National Trust’s Hidcote Manor Gardens.
Hidcote Manor & Garden
A National Trust site, Hidcote features an Arts and Crafts inspired garden created by the American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston. Many of the plants were collected by him from trips abroad.You’ll find a café and secondhand bookshop on site. Various events are held throughout the year (check out the website for more information).Worth mentioning - The Monarch’s Way footpath is accessible from the car park and you can use it to stroll the short way into Hidcote Bartrim. There are a set of thatched stone cottages in the hamlet that were home to Johnston’s gardeners. These are now also owned by the Trust and rented out.
Kiftsgate Court Gardens
A family-run visitor attraction that has been developed over 3 generations (Heather Muir, Diany Binny and Anne Chambers).Positioned on the edge of the escarpment, the garden runs down a steep hillside and there’s much to see including the ‘Kiftsgate rambling rose’.There’s a tearoom and plant / gift shop and you can book a stay on site at the Lodge or Courtyard accommodation.
Kingham
A peaceful place with a large village green and some lovely 17th and 18th century cottages, some of which are thatched.The Kingham Plough and The Wild Rabbit offer high calibre food and there’s an annual Big Feastival food festival held at a local farm owned by Blur bassist Alex James.A number of walks are available from here – see the links below.
Little Barrington
Created as an estate village, this pretty and unspoilt little place has a Grade I listed church. There’s a Grade II listed pub (The Fox at Barrington) on the way to Great Barrington too. Although at the time of writing, this was closed for refurbishment.Great and Little Barrington are frequently paired together and known as Barrington or The Barringtons collectively. Both are worth a drive through.
Lower Slaughter
A picturesque and unspoilt little village full of Cotswold stone. A little more famous than Upper Slaughter, there’s a converted watermill here with museum, café / ice cream parlour and craft / art products for sale.Nothing grisly in terms of butchery behind the name – apparently ‘slaughter’ is a development of ‘slohtre’ meaning muddy!I wouldn’t say wellies are a ‘must’ but there is the small river Eye here, so perhaps crossing that may have something to do with it, though it’s more of a stream really.
Lower Swell
Only referred to as ‘Lower’ Swell due to its relative location south of Upper Swell – the height of the villages is very similar.The Heart of England Way long distance footpath passes through here and there’s a stretch of it connecting Upper and Lower Swell set mercifully off the road.The River Dikler runs through here and you’ll find pretty stone buildings but this place really is impacted by the road. I’ve (not without noting the irony) marked it as primarily a drive-through sight.
Maugersbury
A pretty hamlet full of Cotswold stone. Half Moon House is our photo above - a very distinctive Grade II Listed 19th century property.
Mickleton
A village marking the join between the Vale of Evesham and the Cotswolds. There are some modern houses here but also a pretty collection of traditional houses.
Minster Lovell
This pretty village of Cotswold stone and thatched roofs lies on the picturesque River Windrush. There’s a timber framed pub here, ancient church and what was once a decidedly grand manor house.The ruins of Minster Lovell Hall are now an English Heritage site (weblink below). The remains of the 15th century Oxfordshire manor house include a fine hall, tower and nearby dovecote.The ‘drive to’ button will take you to a small car park from which you can explore the sights.
Miserden
This is an attractive little village with streamside and woodland walks on offer. The ‘drive to’ button above takes you to Miserden village car park.The village is part of a family-run, rural estate overlooking the Golden Valley. The estate features a 17th century manor house and encompasses 850 acres of woodland, farmland and gardens. You can pay admission to look around the gardens and there’s a café, camping and air bnb accommodation on offer here too.
Moreton In Marsh
A pretty market town, but one of those potentially very busy hotspots! Lots of roads converge / pass through.There are antiques, galleries, eateries and lots of Cotswold stone here. There’s also a quirky little aviation museum here which may come as something of a surprise.
Rollright Stones
An ancient site with 3 main elements: The King's Men stone circle (circa. 2,500 BC), the King Stone (circa. 1,500 BC), and the Whispering Knights (circa. 2,500 BC). All are made of the local Cotswold limestone.The site is normally open to the public daily all year round. A very small entrance fee applies, the funds being used to maintain the site.
Sapperton
A small picturesque village with many of the buildings built or rebuilt by the Bathurst family in the Cotswold Arts & Crafts style.The header to this screen shows the entrance to the 18th century 2-mile-long underground canal tunnel on the Thames and Severn Canal. When built, it was the longest in England. It is currently out of use but there are plans to restore it.
Slad
A small and beautiful village set within the lovely, albeit hilly, countryside of the Slad Valley.Poet Laurie Lee spent his childhood here. He returned later in life and is buried here at the church where there’s a stained glass window in his honour.Lee’s autobiographical book ‘Cider With Rosie’ (1959) is set here and locations within the book are still recognisable. The novel is an account of Lee's childhood in the village in the period soon after the First World War. It records the traditional village life which disappeared with the advent of new developments, such as the coming of the motor car (oh dear).The Woolpack pub became Laurie’s local when he moved back to the village years later as an adult and pleasingly it still survives today.The Laurie Lee Wildlife Way celebrates Lee’s work and you can find 10 ‘poetry posts’ along the route which makes it quite a nice voyage of discovery.
Stanway House & Fountain
A Jacobean Cotswold manor house inhabited by the same family since the 16th century. The site features a fine water garden created in the 1720s. This is now home to the tallest gravity fed fountain in the world! Pretty cool from an engineering perspective…Engineered by David Bracey of The Fountain Workshop Limited, the fountain is fed from a 100,000 gallon reservoir 580 feet above the garden ‘canal’ in which the fountain resides.There’s a restored 13th century water mill on the estate too. Not just restored, but in use and actually producing stoneground Cotswold flour from local wheat.There is much to commend this place – do look at the website for public opening hours however, as it is only open during the summer season and then only for few days each week.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
Stow On The Wold
One of the major stop-off points in the Cotswolds it can get busy but it’s a pretty place and well populated with antiques, art galleries and other shops to wander around. Eateries here too of course and it’s also a great place for sourcing picnic supplies!There’s a farmers’ market on the second Thursday of the month all year round. The market will also be present on the last Thursday of the month through summer until September.Note – Stow’s horse fair (traditionally May and October) is quite a spectacle but can result in thousands of travellers attending the town, making it very crowded. Also, not all of the usual amenities remain open during the fair.
Stratford Upon Avon
I’m assuming that I don’t really need to say too much about this famous town… Ever heard of it? No?Shakespeare, river, canal, bus tours, ghost walks, theatres, buskers / street artists and some lovely buildings. Lots of eateries and seasonal events. You get the picture!Aware that I’m talking with those who may be mechanically inclined – its worth sharing with you a favourite spot that could be overlooked - The MAD museum (see link below). Full of fantastic automata and well worth a look, particularly if the weather isn’t great during your visit.I’ve also put the Butterfly Farm and Gelato shop links in here – not because of any affiliation but because our little one enjoys both!If you don’t want to park in the heart of town, there’s Stratford Greenway car park to consider. The Greenway is a hard surfaced bridleway based on an old railway line and it forms a 5-mile section of the West Midlands Cycle Route, which links Oxford to Derby via Birmingham. Worth a look with railway carriage café and other things to discover. Importantly for our purposes, you can park (still pay and display but contactless now which is easy) and walk into Stratford along a riverside footpath. We tend to find it a nice way to enter the town. The town is at most a mile from the car park. There are some steps over a bridge, occasionally some goose poo, but otherwise very easy going!If you fancy a longer walk into town, you could park in Wilmcote and walk the 3 miles or so of canal instead ...
Swinbrook
A small village on the River Windrush complete with stone walls, pretty church, cricket pitch with wooden pavilion, and a pub next to the old stone bridge.In the 20th century Swinbrook became closely associated with the "Mitford sisters"— the six daughters of David Freeman-Mitford, 2nd Baron Redesdale. They were described by The Times journalist Ben Macintyre as "Diana the Fascist, Jessica the Communist, Unity the Hitler-lover; Nancy the Novelist; Deborah the Duchess and Pamela the unobtrusive poultry connoisseur".Their father had Swinbrook House built 1.5 miles or so north of the village in 1926 and 4 of his daughters (Nancy, Unity, Pamela and Diana) are buried in Swinbrook churchyard.
Tyndale Monument
This striking structure (often called ‘Nibley Monument’) was completed in 1866 in memory of the writer William Tyndale who is thought to have been born nearby. He translated the New Testament into English in the 1500’s…. and later burned at the stake in Belgium on the orders of Henry VIII.The tower is 111 feet (34 metres) tall and contains 121 steps which lead up to a pleasing view all around, but especially looking down to the River Severn.The hill on which the tower stands is accessible via a steep path just to the south of North Nibly. The path follows a rough bridleway which is part of the Cotswold Way. There is limited parking in a layby. If this fails perhaps park in North Nibly itself.The door to the tower is apparently always open, but if it is locked for some reason a key is available from a cottage in the village - details are given on the notice board.Note - You can celebrate your special occasion by illuminating the monument! Take a look and book your illumination via the website!
Uley
The village features many typical Cotswold style houses. A steep footpath from the village church climbs up through some woods to Uley Bury.
Uley Bury
Uley Bury is England’s largest Iron Age hill fort. It dates from around 300 B.C. and stands some 750 feet (235 metres) above sea level. A circa. 1 mile perimeter track leads around its ramparts, with impressive views over Uley and the Severn Vale, weather permitting. Note – there are no facilities on site.A steep footpath from the Uley village church climbs up to the bury through some woods.Alternatively, if you use the ‘drive-to’ button above, this will take you to a small car park on the lefthand side of the B4066, 1 mile north of Uley. From here there is a small unsigned track that provides easier access. You can also follow the Cotswold Way from here to Uley Long Barrow, a 3500 BC burial mound.
Upper Slaughter
Nothing grisly in terms of butchery behind the name – apparently ‘slaughter’ is a development of ‘slohtre’ meaning muddy!I wouldn’t say wellies are a ‘must’ but there is the small river Eye here, so perhaps crossing that may have something to do with it, though it’s more of a stream really.A picturesque and unspoilt little village full of Cotswold stone. A little less famous than Lower Slaughter. There was apparently once a castle, but all that can be seen of it today are the remains of the motte and bailey.
Upper Swell
Only referred to as ‘Upper’ Swell due to its relative location further north than Lower Swell – the height of the villages is very similar.The Heart of England Way long distance footpath passes through here and there’s a stretch of it connecting Upper and Lower Swell set mercifully off the road.The River Dikler runs through here and you’ll find a reservoir too. There’s a small 12th Century church and pretty stone buildings but this place really is impacted by the road. I’ve (not without noting the irony) marked it as primarily a drive-through sight.
Westonbirt
A little stone village with red telephone box down some scenic little country lanes.
Westonbirt Aboretum
Home to 2,500 different tree species and 5 national tree collections, Westonbirt is a sizeable attraction. There’s a treetop walkway here and cafe too. Younger ones will enjoy the Gruffalo sculptures and ‘Superworm Trail’.In fact, the family and I will take a trip soon to gather a few pics!Do check the Arboretum website or telephone them if intending to travel here. At the time of writing, all visits must be pre-booked.
Wilmcote
Definitely once the home of Mary Arden (Shakespeare’s mother). Unfortunately, like William, she’s unavailable for visitors now but you can see where she spent her time …In fact, that’s the slightly controversial bit! The house first identified as Mary Arden's was bought by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in 1930 and refurnished in the Tudor style (see header photo). It has since been agreed that it actually belonged to a neighbour(!). With some blushes, presumably, it has been renamed ‘Palmer’s Farm’ after Adam Palmer who actually lived there …The house that is now thought to have belonged to the Arden family is Glebe Farm…..But, good news - the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust had bought that in 1968 for preservation anyway without knowing its true provenance!Anyway – enough of that….The Stratford canal passes through the village, there’s an ancient church and some eating / drinking places here too.You could park and walk the 3 miles or so of canal to Stratford if you wanted to avoid some of the hustle and bustle driving into the centre?
Winchcombe
A living, breathing Cotswold town with plenty of shops and eateries. Access to various long distance walking routes here too.It feels less of a tourist museum exhibit than some of the more traditional hotspots, its not as picture perfect from all angles, but there is a lot of Cotswold character here including the gargoyles pictured above!Well worth a look around.
Yanworth
A small farming estate village that is part of the Stowell Park estate. Set on a hilltop with great views into the Coln Valley.There’s a children’s play area, some lovely old buildings and a red telephone box here.You can find an ancient church close by (circa. 1200, just separate from the village in the yard of Church Farm).
Adlestrop
Adlestrop is a very small village in the valley of the River Evenlode.A railway passed to the southwest and until Dr Beeching’s famous cutbacks in the 1960’s there was a station here. This was featured in Edward Thomas's 1917 poem "Adlestrop". It describes a journey that Thomas took on the Oxford to Worcester express. The train made a stop at Adlestrop railway station. Thomas did not alight from the train, but his poem describes the moment of calm while stationary here.One of the station signs and a bench that used to be on the platform are now in the village bus shelter (pictured in the header for this screen). A plaque on the bench quotes Thomas's poem.Adlestrop has a thatched village shop that serves teas during the summer. The ‘drive to’ button will take you there. This little village is quintessentially English and the architecture is very Cotswolds. There isn’t much here, but that’s kind of the point!Several footpaths pass through this tranquil place, offering potential for a countryside stroll. Jane Austen's uncle was apparently vicar here, and the author is said to have been a frequent visitor.
Arlington Row
A wonderful set of rustic cottages in the village of Bibury (pronounced “buy burry”). The cottages were originally built in the late 14th century as a wool store, then converted into weavers houses in the 17th century. They are owned by the National Trust now and Grade I listed, although at least one of them seems to be operated by the Trust as a holiday cottage.Come here and you’ll find yourself in one of the most beautiful villages in England. Do be aware however - you won’t be the only ones here taking photographs. It will be busy!Arlington Row is off limits to non-resident vehicles. There is a limited amount of free roadside parking available on ‘The Street’ and a small car park opposite Bibury Trout Farm.
Asthall Manor
A Jacobean manor house situated in the beautiful Windrush valley. There’s a sizeable garden as well as woodland and meadows here.This remains a private house, but the garden tends to be opened for the National Garden Scheme, and occasionally for other events during which there is a pop-up café. Do check the website to see if anything is going on before turning up and expecting to be able to enter.The rather notorious Mitford sisters lived here for a time (1919 – 1926). They were described by The Times journalist Ben Macintyre as "Diana the Fascist, Jessica the Communist, Unity the Hitler-lover; Nancy the Novelist; Deborah the Duchess and Pamela the unobtrusive poultry connoisseur".
Batsford Aboretum
Batsford Arboretum was donated to a charitable trust, The Batsford Foundation, in 1983 by the then owner, the 2nd Lord Dulverton.The collections at Batsford cover a wide range of plants from around the world but they have an emphasis on the Far East. There are nearly 3,000 labelled specimens on site.Batsford has held the National Collection of Japanese Flowering Cherries since 2002. Other collections include acers, bamboo, magnolia, pinus, quercus and sorbus.Batsford also takes part in the International Conifer Conservation Project run by the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh and takes in plant material from a number of other gardens including Kew, Bedgebury and Westonbirt to ensure their future survival.The site includes a garden centre / shop, café and a woodturner’s workshop. There’s a children’s trail through the grounds too.
Belas Knap
Belas Knap Long Barrow is a well-preserved Neolithic burial chamber dating from approximately 3000 BC.The site is now owned by English Heritage and it is open to the public. Don't worry parking and entry are free.The barrow is about half a mile's walk away from the small parking area (there is a bit of a hill climb and two stiles to deal with).
Bourton On The Water
A lovely picturesque place – the River Windrush is shallow here and runs through the middle of the village with numerous pretty stone bridges crossing it. There’s plenty of traditional Cotswold architecture and nice places to eat and drink. Also, lots of visitor attractions here too, including the model village which is a perfect replica of Bourton … even to the point of containing a miniature model village!The downside? Well yes, Bourton can get awfully busy at the height of tourist season and most of the shops are very much aimed towards the tourism industry. Nevertheless, a recommended stop-off if you can avoid peak times and / or peak season. This village can look particularly beautiful in winter, especially on the run up to Christmas with the Christmas tree in the middle of the river.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
Cold Aston
A pretty Cotswold village with ancient church and plenty of Cotswold stone.There’s a pub here with food and accommodation too.
User Guide
Thanks for your purchase.If you've used the Enthusiast Atlas, then most of the same principles apply here.If not, its worth viewing the user guide for the Atlas before then topping up with the Cotswolds Experience 'Quick Guide' video below.
Shipston on Stour
Located to the north of the Cotswolds, Shipston on Stour is a lively small South Warwickshire town. Shipston used to be called ‘Scepwaeisctune’, Old English for Sheep-wash-Town, as it was formerly an important sheep market. This is celebrated today through the annual Wool Fair. Shipston’s history as a coaching staging post is evidenced by the number of old coaching inns which remain.There are plenty of independent shops here and some nice places to eat and drink.
Minchinhampton
A charming market town. You’ll find narrow streets and picturesque stone cottages in the centre here while perhaps avoiding some of the overcrowding that is becoming so prevalent in the more mainstream Cotswold destinations. There are some award-winning eateries in town and some independent shops to browse too.The National Trust manage much of the common land surrounding Minchinhampton and, as you would expect, it remains a largely unspoilt haven for plants and insects. Minchinhampton Common offers beautiful views over the Severn Estuary into Wales and further into the Cotswolds. Lovely for a stroll or a picnic.Well worth a look!
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
This isn’t a huge safari park, but it is a really good size to wander around on foot with children and there are plenty of attractions on offer.Giraffe, Camels, Tapir, Lions, Rhinos, Zebra, numerous primates and smaller mammals along with reptiles and birds.There’s an adventure playground, narrow-gauge railway, on-site café / restaurant and refreshment kiosks. You are still welcome to bring your own picnic.The Giraffe Walkway is worth a particular mention, as it puts you at eye level with these magnificent creatures.The Cotswold Wildlife Park Conservation Trust raises funds for the conservation of animal species and endangered environments and to educate and inform the public, including visitors to the Wildlife Park, about conservation.
Diddly Squat Farm Shop
Most of you will have heard of this place and perhaps seen the Clarkson’s Farm programme on Amazon Prime?Opened in 2020 by Jeremy Clarkson and Lisa Hogan, the Diddly Squat Farm Shop sells mostly local produce … er .. and a good deal of rather snazzy branded merchandise if you’re tempted
North Cotswolds Milk Vending Machine
Ok, so .... a little unusual I know.Listen - its in some nice scenery ... it sounded fun and ... well, I found a cow icon to put on the map. What can I say?!This is a family-run dairy farm and the milk is pasteurised on site. The cows graze the lush hills of the Cotswolds during the warmer months and are housed during the worst weather, just a short distance from the milk vending machine and farm shop.Note - once you have purchased one or more milk bottles, you are free to access the vending machine at any time.Emergency shopping supplies, local produce, an excuse for a pretty drive?!Note - Diddly Squat farm shop has a 'milk juice' machine too.
Overbury
A well preserved estate village with some lovely buildings, a church and some walking routes.
All Things Wild
Here you can find outdoor and indoor live animal attractions. There are play areas including a real helicopter and other land vehicles to touch and explore.Kids will enjoy walking around the ‘Dino Field’ through the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods and for an extra 50p per person you can take a grey Fergie tractor-towed ride through the gigantic dinosaurs!We went when our little one was very small – I recall having to do the tractor ride twice!
Compton Verney
There is much to wander around at this charity-owned site. You can see the house of course, the private Grade I listed church and a quirky thatched ice house.There’s a very good cafe / restaurant and lovely "Capability Brown" designed grounds including a small forest to explore. Nowerdays there's also a children’s play area and sculptures.Compton Verney houses 6 permanent art collections, hosts a wide array of visiting art exhibitions (we loved our trip to an automata exhibition a few years ago) and there is a full calendar of outdoor events here too.If you're going to be a frequent visitor, a membership card may make sense.Well-behaved and carefully controlled dogs are allowed in the grounds.
Upton House & Gardens
A National Trust site which was once Lord and Lady Bearsted’s 1930s country retreat. Lord Bearstead inherited his wealth from his father, a co-founder of the Shell oil business, but he and his wife went on to become well known philanthropists of their time. The gardens were commissioned by Lady Bearsted and designed by Kitty Lloyd-Jones.There’s a sizeable art collection here as well as the house and gardens to admire. Being part of the National Trust, seasonal events abound.
Winderton
An unspoilt hamlet with ancient church and lovely buildings - plenty of thatch and stone! There’s a red telephone box here too.
Tysoe Windmill
The windmill is situated atop an impressive hill and dates from the early 18th century. The structure is a 12 sided, barrel shaped stone tower.The mill was in action until 1915 when it was struck by lightning. In 1935 the sails were replaced and further restoration was carried out in 1951. The final restoration took place during the late 1960’s to the mid 1970’s. More recently the sails and stocks were sadly removed for safety reasons.Quite a walk from the road, so most likely you may want to drive past or pause and take in the view from a distance. If not, its walking boots time!
National Herb Centre
The National Herb Centre was established in 1997 with the aim of providing everyone with an opportunity to see, enjoy and learn about herbs.There is a garden centre, bistro café / restaurant and play area, plus display gardens and nature trails.
Radway
A pretty village situated on the edge of the Cotswolds.The reason that I have marked this place as a potential stop-off point rather than just as a scenic drive through opportunity is that the Battle of Edgehill, one of the early major engagements of the English Civil War, was fought in fields around the village and there’s a free interactive exhibition housed here near St Peter's Church.The Castle At Edgehill (previously Edge Hill Tower) is worth a look too. It’s basically a pretend castle built in 17th century(!), but its said to be built at the place where the king's army stood before the Battle of Edge Hill in 1642. Also… its now a pub that serves food with a great view!Note - I’ve had some ‘hit and miss’ results with the Radway Exhibition website(!) In some cases, your phone may flag a security concern with the site for some reason … In others its works fine and shows you the useful website of this small organization. In case it doesn’t work, I have rounded up a few more links for you to explore instead! Its also worth typing the exhibition web address into your laptop in a further attempt to access information.
Painswick
To give you an idea of age, ‘New Street’ appeared on the scene in the 1400’s!This place is known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds’ and it is one of the finest and best preserved Cotswold towns. Also worth noting that it is surrounded by some of the Cotswolds' most beautiful countryside, located as it is at the mid-point of the Cotswold Way.A walk around will not disappoint – lovely buildings everywhere. Some nice shops and eateries too. The church of St. Mary has a famous churchyard containing very grand tombstones and some 99 yew trees.Check out the links below for more information.
Wychwood Wild Garden
A woodland and garden site covering some 12.5 acres. You’ll find a peaceful walking / exploring opportunity here. There’s a stream, artificially engineered ‘canals’ with small waterfalls and a pond complete with healthy duck population.It is a private garden, owned and managed by a local charity and “offered as a place of peace and tranquillity to local residents, guests and visitors to the area”.
Painswick Beacon
Painswick Beacon marks the site of an Iron Age hill fort. There are gorgeous views of the Cotswold Hills, the Forest of Dean, the Severn Vale and even the Brecon Beacons.The ‘drive to’ button takes you to the car park, but it is also possible to walk up to the beacon from Painswick itself following the Cotswold Way.
Ablington
A quiet pretty little village with access to the river Coln.There are very narrow (beautiful) lanes here. I’ve marked it as a potential ‘drive through’ location, but you could just pause a moment to take it in. The quiet river, glimpses of the Tudor manor house.There are some magnificent ancient barns here and if you wanted a classic car photo opportunity, there’s an old red telephone box. Keep an eye out too for the magnificently named “Potlickers Lane”! A dead-end road that runs alongside the river.
Dyrham Park
Now a National Trust site, Dyrham Park was created in the 17th century by William Blathwayt, an English diplomat, public official and Whig politician of the time.The baroque mansion house can be seen inside and out. It still houses Blathwayt’s collection of fine art and Dutch Delftware.Meanwhile, there are downloadable self-guided walking trails through some of the 270-acre (110 hectare) ancient parkland which is full of trees and great views.Seasonal events are hosted – worth a check of the website to see what’s going on.
Laycock
A well-preserved pretty village now entirely owned by the National Trust.The ‘drive to’ button takes you to the Trust’s car park which serves both the village and the Abbey.The village’s unspoilt streets and historic cottages frequently make appearances on the small and big screen. Productions include Downton Abbey, the BBC’s Pride and Prejudice and Cranford programmes, The Other Boleyn Girl, Harry Potter and Wolfman.The Fox Talbot Museum charts the history of photography and hosts various photography exhibitions.
Laycock Abbey
A National Trust site. The abbey was founded by Ela, Countess of Salisbury in 1232. It has been many things over the years including an Augustinian abbey and a private home.This place has become known as the Birthplace of Photography since William Henry Fox Talbot created the first photographic negative here in 1835.More recently (and this may get younger members of the family more interested) Lacock Abbey has taken a starring role as parts of Hogwarts for two of the Harry Potter films.Other notable productions making use of the site include Wolf Hall, Cranford, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice and Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.The ‘drive to’ button takes you to the Trust’s car park which serves both the village and the Abbey.
Snowshill
Such a pretty little village! It can get busy at peak times for this reason. Lovely cottages and an ancient church. There’s Snowshill Manor to visit nearby too.The first 'drive to' button above takes you to the village centre, but the second one takes you to the Pipers Grove car park just outside the village. There's pay and display National Trust car parks available close by if required.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
Bicester Heritage
Located on the former RAF Bicester site (though the airfield pre-dates formation of the RAF), this venue has been reborn as a business park, active airfield and test track with historic origins and time-warp character.More than 30 of the businesses here specialise in the restoration and sale of historic vehicles and aircraft.
Gilks' Garage Cafe
A family business dating all the way back to 1904 when George Gilks set up a Blacksmith Shop in the Market Square, Kineton. The present site has been occupied by the Gilks business since the 1940’s. It was at one point a dealership for Rootes Motors, selling Hillman cars.The garage showrooms are now a themed café. There’s an electric car charging point in the off-street car park and cycle parking too. A site for numerous car meets and themed events.Gilks are proud of their all-day breakfast, but they also provide light lunches, daily specials, fresh sandwiches, snacks and a variety of cakes baked on site.Do check opening times as they can vary across the week.Why not visit as part of one of our Quick Trips (link below)?
Little Oak Vineyard
The first vines were planted in 2005 and the first wine was made available for public consumption in 2010 when 370 bottles were made. The vineyard has continued to grow / expand since then. There is now a Cotswold Gold brandy available as well as white and sparkling wines.In June 2020 Little Oak Vineyard entered a ‘50 Great Sparkling Wines of the world’ competition hosted by Wine Pleasures. They were awarded a GOLD and are justifiably proud of this achievement.There is a shop on site. Vineyard tours and wine tastings are available.You can even lease some of the vines here to gain certain exclusive benefits and wine entitlements!
Woodchester Valley Vineyard
A family owned “boutique” vineyard and winery producing a range of still white, red, rose and sparkling wines. The vineyard was established in 2007 and the winery followed in 2016. A selection of grape varieties have been planted on 3 vineyard sites across the Cotswolds.Tastings, sparkling afternoon teas and vineyard dog walks are available in addition to an on-site shop.Guestrooms are on hand should extensive sampling result in the need for a longer stay!
Farmington
Farmington features typical Cotswold architecture and a triangular village green complete with octagonal pump house. There’s a Grade I listed church here with an unusual clock – it has no hands!
Ilmington
A pretty little village with properties tending to be built using ironstone and therefore slightly darker in colour than many Cotswold buildings.There’s a church interior worth checking out here! Remodelled by the Robert Thompson of Yorkshire (better known as the ‘mouseman’), it contains 11 of his trademark carved mice hidden around the place. See if you can spot them all – St Mary’s tends to be open daily from 9am.
Withington
A larger pretty village straddling the river Coln and a disused railway line. Although I’ve marked this place as a scenic drive-through, you could pause to take a stroll.The ‘drive-to’ button is designed to deliver you to the older part of the village.
Bibury
Famously quoted by William Morris as the most beautiful village in England. Unfortunately, this has made Bibury (pronounced “buy burry”) very busy during peak season. The sights are worth seeing, but try to pick a quiet time if you can.Arlington Row is the main draw (see separate screen) but the rest of the village is picturesque and worth a look. The river Coln flows prettily through here. There’s a Saxon church complete with a stone Cotswold sheep head and you can visit Bibury Trout Farm where literally millions of brown and rainbow trout are spawned each year.There is a limited amount of free roadside parking available on ‘The Street’ and a small car park opposite Bibury Trout Farm.
Buckland
Let’s be honest – this is a little outside the Cotswolds … but I’ve marked this as a potential ‘drive through’ location as it is very unspoilt down these pretty narrow lanes. There are some walking paths here, a medieval church and a 17th Century manor house (now hotel and restaurant).Mollie’s Diner is nearby too if you find yourself in the area.
Mollie's Motel & Diner (Oxfordshire)
A 1950’s inspired diner venue intended to be “England’s modern-day answer to the American Dream”. A highly (and effectively) stylised destination combined with motel facilities.There is an app through which you can explore diner availability and manage your reservations. Details of the menu on offer is available through the excellent and very polished website.
Classic Motor Hub
Classic car sales, storage, events and a coffee shop.Based at the historic site of RAF Bibury in the Cotswolds, the Classic Motor Hub is a 5-acre site now dedicated to classic motoring.The Hangar is an original aircraft shelter and much of the airbase hard standing remains in use. Just perfect for classic car gatherings! Good idea or what?!
Cotswold Farm Park
Founded by farmer Joe Henson in 1971 to help protect rare breeds of farm animal, this venue is now fronted by his son, real-world farmer and television (BBC Countryfile) personality Adam Henson.As you’d expect there are plenty of animals to see and touch here. Also play areas, wildlife and woodland walks along with a variety of places on site to eat and drink.There are camping pitches, lodges, glamping facilities and pods for overnight stays as well. Take a look at the website for more information.
Elmley Castle
An attractive village with a large number of half-timbered cottages. The church has interesting sculptural features too. The pub here (Queen Elizabeth) is now community-run.The earthwork remains of the Norman and medieval castle, from which the village derives its name, are located in the deer park, just over half a mile south on Bredon Hill. Walking routes abound and the ruins are on public land.
Snowshill Manor & Garden
A National Trust site badged as “the unconventional home of the eccentric Charles Wade”. He purchased the house just after the First World War and had it restored, turning the farmyard into an Arts and Crafts garden.The main house really seems to have been a way to house his eclectic collection while he lived in the smaller Priest’s House in the farmyard!There are thousands of objects on show here. Wade apparently amassed these items with three essential criteria in mind, ‘design, colour and craftsmanship.’ He created his own coat of arms bearing the motto ‘Let nothing perish’, clearly the motto of a collector! Perhaps something old car owners can relate to?!
Tetbury
Previously home to King Charles, when he was still the Prince of Wales, this town has some lovely buildings including the striking Market Hall pictured above.Antique and interior design shops abound along with eateries and also the Tetbury Goods Shed Arts Centre.
Caffeine and Machine
Coffee house, licensed bar / restaurant, boutique B&B and living art gallery (including featured car).Caffeine & Machine aims to provide a destination meeting place for all those who “appreciate moving things”. A hub for everyone from supercars to rat rods, vintage bikes to drift cars and everything in between. Cyclists are welcome too.Sometimes, depending what day it is and what is going on in the “Yard”, tickets are required and prebooking is often recommended. Take a look at the ‘Carpark Workings’ area of the website or give them a call for details.
Cotswold Motoring Museum
This destination is situated in the highly picturesque, but frequently busy Cotswold destination of Bourton-on-the-Water.There are a few pay and display car parks nearby. I've included a 'drive to' button that will take you to one of the larger sites. The museum is a short walk via a walled pedestrian footpath into the town centre from here.The museum was founded in a characterful disused mill building by enthusiast and private collector Mike Cavanagh in 1978.Mr Cavanagh retired in 1999, but the museum has continued to develop while retaining a small and quirky character.The collection includes vehicles, toys / pedal cars and automobilia (plenty of original enamel signs to admire here!).For younger enthusiasts it should be noted that television’s ‘Brum’ lives here. The original 'live action' series made great use of the museum setting as well as Mike Cavanagh himself at the beginning and end of each show.Why not visit after taking Cotswold Character Tour 1 (link below)?
Fish Hill Picnic Place
A strange name – you’ll find wild flowers, pretty Beech woodland and ancient limestone quarry works here rather than any water!There’s a half-mile limestone trail to follow with rewarding hilltop views from the ‘toposcope’. The Cotswold Way passes through here too.The picnic site is open daily (vehicle access 8am until dusk), admission is free and there’s a visitor information point and toilets on site.
Waterhay Car Park
One of the quieter corners of the large Cotswold Water Park site. There are some curvy benches here and plenty of flat grass space for picnic blankets.Footpaths can be accessed through to Ashton Keynes, Clayhill Meadow and a long circular route around Cleveland Lakes, taking in the various bird hides there.You’re also next to a very small, tranquil stretch of the River Thames. The Thames Path National Trail can be used to walk to the North Meadow National Nature Reserve and the town of Cricklade.Note – a 2.1 metre / 6.8 feet height restriction applies to this car park (see photo). Due to its location, the car park can be susceptible to flooding during winter or after heavy rain.The car park is pay and display, but low cost and you can become a member of the water park to get free parking across the wider site if you plan on regular trips.
Freedom of the Press Winery
Located in a unit on a farm above Minster Lovell, this winery takes in grapes from 3 different vineyards to make small batches of still wine.The owners warn on the website that this is a small and informal working space – “You may arrive to see pumps in action and hoses over the floor - that’s us making the wine”.Nevertheless, in the spring / summer season they do keep regular opening hours and you can visit to buy bottles to take away or purchase wines by the glass to enjoy on-site.Don't just turn up - Have a look at the website or give them a call for more information prior to setting off to avoid disappointment.In addition to their own wine, they also carry wines from other small producers.Events take place from time to time, including formal tastings which must be pre-booked.A new and interesting destination to add to your list?
Dover's Hill
Superb views! Not surprising given that the site is 230 metres (over 750 feet) above sea level on the North Cotswold escarpment.You'll find large open fields and native woodland walks along with the start (or end?) of the Cotswold Way.The Cotswold “Olimpick Games” are held here every year. They date back as far as the 1600’s and include such prestigious and politically correct events as shin-kicking, morris dancing and tug-of-war.The National Trust provide a decent car park (open dawn until dusk, unfortunately no toilet facilities). There's a useful information board and from the car park you can take an easy walking path onto the site and to the best viewpoint.Butterflies and wild flowers abound at the right time of year and there’s plenty of opportunity for a picnic (there are some seats, no tables but lots of space for a blanket / folding chairs etc.).
Stanton
An unspoilt little place with a free village car park.The Cotswold Way passes through here and there are some lovely traditional Cotswold buildings.It's worth a quick stop as the High Street is off the through route and you'll miss out on some of the best buildings if you don't take a peek.Why not visit as part of Cotswolds Character Tour 1? (link below).
COTSWOLDS SCENIC DRIVE 1
This lovely circular route starts and finishes in Stow on the Wold.There are lots of opportunities for good views and stopping off points if you wish.(Do watch the video for a few navigational tips!)
COTSWOLDS PICNIC DRIVE 3
You can wander around Burford, see the sights and collect your provisions, before then committing automotion through the Barringtons, Eastleach Turville and Fairford. A couple of 'throughpoints' are used, to ensure that you keep off the main roads.Note - a 2.1 metre / 6.8 feet height restriction applies to this car park. Also, due to its location, the car park can be susceptible to seasonal flooding.
COTSWOLDS PICNIC DRIVE 2
Call in for some picnic supplies at Stow on the Wold, then amble your way through places including Adlestrop, Evenlode and Blockley to dine at the Fish Hill Picnic Place.The route makes use of some 'throughpoints' to ensure that you stay off the main roads.
COTSWOLDS PICNIC DRIVE 1
The destination is a picnic site with truly stunning views (see the Dover’s Hill screen for more details).Do check the video for a tricky right turn in Ebrington. Google is correct in that the road doesn't change name, but it is definitely a right turn and not straight ahead. On a corner too - so have your wits about you while the Google audible directions remain silent!
Sezincote
This place is quite unexpected!The slogan on the website is “India in the Cotswolds” and you can see why. The house was apparently the idea of one Colonel John Cockerell (grandson of the diarist Samuel Pepys). The Colonel made his fortune in the East India Company, but didn’t live long enough after his return from India to see the project through. His brothers took up the project, building an outwardly Indian looking house in an exotic Mogul style incorporating a combination of Hindu and Muslim architectural features.The interior is at odds with the exterior appearance, being more of a classical Greek Revival style. The water gardens are however very much in keeping and feature a series of connected spring-fed pools, ending with the Island Pool in the valley bottom before the water flows on into the river Evenlode.The poet John Betjeman was a regular visitor here. You might find it worth a look too?!Do check the website before you travel to confirm (seasonal) opening hours and to pre-book your visit if you wish to tour the interior of the house.
