An area of outstanding beauty, the Cotswolds region and surrounds are a delightful tangle of sandstone villages, English thatched cottages, redolent churches and golden-coloured mansions. Undulating gracefully across six counties the Cotswolds spans almost 800 square miles. Check out our insider’s guide for everything you need to know about traveling to the Cotswolds.
When to Travel
A visit in Spring, March to May, sees the gardens of the Cotswolds at their most beautiful, with over 40 varieties of lavender lining the hills in shades of purple at Cotswold Lavender Farm in Snowshill. Late spring is historically dryer, and this offers a perfect opportunity visit after Easter and before the summer crowds arrive.
The best weather can be experienced during the summer months from June to August. It’s the perfect time to dust off walking boots for a ramble or hike across one of the many rolling hills. This is also when the various hotels, lodges and guest houses will be at peak occupancy so be sure to book early.
Autumn from September to November is a great time to visit as the turn of the season sees rust-coloured leaves line walking paths and ochre landscapes fill the horizon providing the perfect opportunity for photos. On a crisp, autumnal day, you can enjoy a walk around Batsford Arboretum taking in the kaleidoscope of seasonal colours.
The Cotswolds takes on a magical, otherworldly feel during the winter months from December to February. The crisp winter chill coupled with blue sky days bring an ethereal ambience, and the region is full of great activities to enjoy in the run up to Christmas.
In my opinion, the Cotswolds is beautiful and worth a visit no matter the time of the year. The very best pubs, hotels, restaurants and shops remain open all-year round, and each season has its own unique charm and beauty.
Where to Stay
Farncombe Estate – Perched high above the village of Broadway lies a glorious sprawl of forest and field, riddled with rambling trails and cycle routes, and home to Dormy House, Foxhill Manor and The Fish. Whether you’re looking to get the gang together for a getaway with a difference or enjoy a marvellous mini break with a loved one, this 400 acre playground is waiting for you.
Thyme – Thyme is an English country destination, nestled in the heart of the Cotswold village of Southrop. An enclosed collection of restored historic buildings form a peaceful hamlet environment, a ‘village within a village,’ that epitomises the understated & natural beauty of the surrounding area.
The Lygon Arms – the centrepiece of the picturesque Cotswold village of Broadway, The Lygon Arms, is a traditional inn with an enviable reputation for the finest cuisine and the best of 20th-century comforts. It has three acres of grounds which include lawns, flower gardens, and croquet lawns for the exclusive use of guests. Browse Broadway’s boutiques or ramble in the Cotswolds in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Lygon Spa is open to all guests. It boasts a well-equipped fitness centre, spa bath and heated indoor pool with a roof that can be opened in sunny weather. The Lygon Arms has undergone a multi-million-pound renovation, enhancing it’s utterly comfortable, intimate, inviting features.
Where to Dine & Drink
The Coconut Tree – experience an abundance of Sri Lankan flavours and discover a taste explosion
Ox Barn at Thyme – a family-run destination in the picturesque Cotswold village of Southrop. Ox Barn serves seasonal British dishes making the most of the kitchen garden and farmyard
The Wild Rabbit – set in the heart of the Cotswolds, serving locally grown, seasonal food in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The Wild Rabbit is a modern British Inn not to be missed
What Not to Miss
In short the Cotswolds are an English destination that every traveller should have on their bucket list. A place of natural beauty, wonder and awe, providing much respite and rejuvenation for both body and soul.
For a tailored experience that showcases the best Cotswolds has to offer, plan your upcoming trip with @luxurylondonguy today. With over 20 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, we offer insights and itineraries that take the stress out of travel, allowing you more time to decompress and discover new sites while you’re on the road.
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