Sleepy villages of golden stone, nestled amidst rolling green hills grazed by sheep; a holiday in the Cotswolds is the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life.
We've picked out some of our favourite places to stay in the Cotswolds to share why we love them. But if you've already settled on a destination for your holiday, why not check out our Cotswolds cottages?
1 | Burford – elegant and authentic
Sweeping downhill towards the gently flowing River Windrush, Burford’s High Street is a picture-postcard Cotswolds scene.
Lined by a continuous ensemble of eateries, all encased within striking 17th and 18th-century architecture, there are endless opportunities to indulge in a traditional afternoon tea. Burford is also celebrated for its shops, particularly its antiques and specialist boutiques.
You'll come across a wealth of sites of historic interest, just wandering the streets. Beautiful St John's church and the neighbouring almshouses are a sight to behold.
A stay in one of our Burford holiday cottages will leave you perfectly positioned for discovering the sights and testing out the eateries.
2 | Bibury – a storybook setting
Straight out of the pages of a storybook, Bibury is home to one of the Cotswolds’ most photographed scenes, Arlington Row.
Famously described by the celebrated artist William Morris as 'the most beautiful village in England', Bibury is one of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds for those who appreciate a good view.
Bathing in the sunshine along the tranquil banks of the River Colne in Gloucestershire, this dreamy village offers a slice of rural paradise.
Don't miss...
- Arlington Row – Iconic row of 17th-century weavers' cottages
- Bibury Trout Farm – One of England's oldest working trout farms where you can catch a fish, hire a BBQ and have a round of crazy golf
- Bibury circular trail – A picturesque walking trail taking in rolling hills, lush pastures and ancient routeways
- Rack Isle – Walk through an ancient water meadow
Find chocolate-box accommodation amongst our Bibury holiday cottages.
3 | Gloucester – retail therapy awaits
Shop 'til you drop in Gloucester – the best place to stay in the Cotswolds for shopping.
Those who enjoy independent boutiques should head to the Westgate Quarter, one of the oldest parts of the city, or if you’re looking for high-street favourites, then there are two shopping centres, Eastgate and King’s Walk. If you love a good bargain, the Gloucester Quays Outlet is the perfect place to pick up some designer labels at discounted prices.
As well as shopping, Gloucester is one of the best areas to stay in the Cotswolds for a rich variety of attractions, eateries and history.
Recharge after a shopping spree back at your pick of our Gloucester holiday cottages.
4 | Chipping Norton – romantic and picturesque
The perfect destination for a romantic escape in the heart of Oxfordshire.
Discover some of the best sights and attractions in the Cotswolds, using Chipping Norton as your base. Within this charming market town, which is famous for its wool and tweed production, there is a wide selection of tearooms, pubs and restaurants to dine out, as well as a theatre that hosts a variety of touring companies, stand-up comedians and films – perfect for a romantic evening.
Treat your partner to the romantic getaway they deserve; choose from our beautiful Chipping Norton cottages.
5 | Broadway – celebrate the arts
The pretty Cotswolds village of Broadway is a golden paradise.
Leafy horse chestnut trees, period stone buildings and lots of little shops, antique emporiums and tearooms line the main street. Home to a plethora of art galleries and museums, visitors are drawn here from far and wide to explore its artistic and historic roots, particularly in June when the village hosts the Broadway Arts Festival.
With its picture-perfect and timeless appearance, Broadway has attracted many influential artists, designers and writers over the years, including William Morris, John Singer Sargent and J.M. Barrie.
Pack your paints and pencils for an arty break in one of our Broadway cottages.
6 | Tewkesbury – step back in time
One of the best towns in the Cotswolds for lovers of history, step back in time when you visit Tewkesbury.
Marvel at over 350 listed buildings of historic interest, from half-timbered Tudor houses to extraordinary medieval architecture. Tewkesbury Abbey rises from the centre of this ancient riverside town, boasting the highest Norman tower in the country, as well as an ornate ceiling and exquisite stained-glass windows.
Take a wander along the town’s winding streets and intriguing narrow alleyways, dipping in and out of shops, tearooms and traditional pubs. Immerse yourself in the town’s fascinating history by exploring its historic attractions. On a fine day, a scenic boat trip along the river is a must, then as night falls, you can take in a show at The Roses Theatre.
Find an elegant place to stay amongst our Tewkesbury cottages.
7 | Cirencester – packed with family fun
When it comes to family holidays in the Cotswolds, Cirencester is a great choice, with its attractions and museums providing entertainment for all ages.
The second largest town in Britain during Roman times, there is lots of exciting history for little ones to discover at the Corinium Museum in town or Chedworth Roman Villa nearby.
After a morning of dressing up like a Roman soldier and browsing fascinating local artefacts, the whole tribe can lay out a blanket and enjoy a family picnic in the 3,000-acre Cirencester Park. Once rested and refuelled, more family fun can be found nearby at Cotswold Water Park where 170 interconnecting lakes offer a thrilling variety of water sports, including paddleboarding, canoeing, waterskiing, windsurfing and sailing.
Don't miss...
- Corinium Museum – Discover prehistoric tools, Roman mosaics, Anglo Saxon grave goods and medieval sculptures
- Cirencester Park – A beautiful deer park, perfect for a stroll and a picnic
- Cotswold Water Park – A family attraction with water sports, golf, aerial adventure courses, rally driving and angling
- Chedworth Roman Villa – The ruins of one of the grandest Roman villas in the UK
Whisk the family away to one of our Cirencester cottages.
8 | Stroud – let your taste buds lead the way
Stroud is one of the most vibrant towns in the Cotswolds to visit, boasting a bohemian vibe with an enviable array of independent and fair-trade shops, a lively arts scene, and a strong café culture. With a focus on local produce, there is an enormous choice of places to eat and drink tucked away amongst the narrow, cobbled streets.
Find more tempting treats at the weekly Stroud Farmers' Market, after which you can burn off the calories on a wander along Coaley Peak or Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons which offer far-reaching views across the Cotswolds. .
View our guide to Stroud for more things to do, and suggestions for places to eat, and check out our Stroud cottages to find a lovely place to stay.
9 | Chipping Campden – lace up your walking boots
One of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque towns, Chipping Campden offers plenty of opportunities to don your walking boots and enjoy adventures in the countryside.
Read our Chipping Campden guide to find out all about this enchanting market town. The 100-mile Cotswold Way National Trail begins in the centre of the village which winds its way from here to Bath, encompassing breathtaking views, historical monuments and an abundance of wildlife.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, this small market town is peppered with olde-worlde inns warmed by open fires, cosy tearooms and chic restaurants, many of which have been built from the honey-coloured limestone that the region is famous for. Some of the finest architectural heritage can be found here, including the impressive 17th-century Market Hall, Banqueting House, and the ‘wool’ church of St James.
Rest up your weary walking feet in one of our Chipping Campden cottages.
10 | Bath – explore with friends
If you’re looking for a fun-filled group getaway in the Cotswolds, then Bath is jam-packed with things to do.
The only city in the UK designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, there is an abundance of beautiful sights to discover, including the landmarks of No.1 Royal Crescent – an elegant Georgian townhouse which has been turned into a fascinating museum – and the well-preserved Roman Baths which are still filled with steaming spring water.
The restorative properties of Bath’s bubbling hot springs can be experienced at the Thermae Bath Spa where a roof-top pool offers panoramic views over the cityscape. After a pampering session at the spa, you can delve into the city’s past at one of its excellent museums and art galleries, enjoy some retail therapy, or spend a relaxed afternoon in one of the many trendy cocktail bars before taking in a show at the Theatre Royal Bath.
Don't miss...
- Roman Baths – Bath house where people bathed nearly 2,000 years ago
- Thermae Bath Spa – Britain's only natural thermal spa
- Theatre Royal Bath – Offering a year-round programme of the best theatre, comedy, opera, dance and pantomime
Fill your itinerary with fabulous days out when you stay in one of our Bath cottages.
Map of places to stay in the Cotswolds
Get your bearings with the help of the map below, where we've plotted our 10 favourite places to stay in the Cotswolds.
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Escape to the Cotswolds