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The Cotswolds is a must-see destination for any traveller. If you looking for the quintessential English landscape then this area has you covered. From thatched roof houses to authentic English pubs, huge stately homes and historic castles you can easily lose a week exploring the numerous towns on offer.
Whether you're doing a weekend trip from London or a 2 month trip around the entire UK we have chosen a couple of must-see spots for you to visit.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold is a great place to stop off and explore for half a day. Originally a historic market town built to take advantage of the trade routes it is now home to authentic English pubs (try the Kings Arms for a great Sunday roast), cosy second-hand stores and local farmers markets held on the second Thursday of every month.
It is also the highest town in the Cotswolds at 800ft. What sets this town apart from other towns nearby is the impressive layout of the town square and surrounding buildings which are mostly historic townhouses. It is a must for photographers. Make sure to check out some of the local galleries and walks nearby also.
A great place to stop off and explore: Stow-on-the-Wold | photo: Jonathan (CC BY-SA 2.0)
The Slaughters
The villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter are a great detour for those seeking to get off the tourist trail. Although the names might induce panic in some the term "Slaughter" actually derives from the old English word "Slohtre" meaning muddy place. As with many towns in the area they are largely unchanged for the last century which makes for good exploring. The Slaughter brook runs directly through both towns and is a great place for an afternoon walk.
If heading to Lower Slaughter, check out the 12th Century Church of St Peter and the Old mill museum. For those lovers out there "Corpse hill" road was once voted the most romantic street in Britain, so check it out. Looking to head to Upper Slaughter also? Easy just head upstream. The walk should take you around 25 mins. Manor house is worth a visit at the end of your walk.
Chipping Norton
Considered to be the retail and business centre of the Cotswolds Chipping Norton is a great place to stop for a coffee or Lunch. One of the largest towns in the Cotswolds the area is not only a great place to stock up on your groceries but also the place to rub shoulders with a celebrity or two. Notable residents include Jeremy Clarkson, David Cameron and Rachel Ward. The term "Chipping" is quite popular in the area and is derived from the term "ceapen" or Market.
This town is great if you want to see how the locals live. Check out Bliss Mill nearby for what we think is one of the great photo ops of the whole area. The town itself provides free public parking on New Street and High street. Make sure to check out the markets on Wednesday also to grab yourself a bargain.
Great Tew
Located about 5 miles North/West of Chipping Norton this town is a hidden gem with one of the great pubs of the Cotswolds. The town is tiny in comparison to others and consists of some thatched cottages, village green, local school and a historic 16th Century pub. Walking around you may have a "double take" thinking you`re in a movie set. It is that pristine.
A stop at the Falkland Inn for a beverage is a must. This 16th Century pub with traditional fittings hosts a great beer garden in the summer and cosy open fireplace in the winter. Step inside and you will feel like you have taken a giant leap back into the past. Overlooking the town on the hill is Great Tew estate. Take advantage of the free parking for a wander up to explore the huge grounds.
Bourton-on-the-water
Probably the best known out of all of the Cotswold villages this historic town will keep you occupied for hours. Its location along the water and the frequency of stone bridges that transverse it have led it to be named the "Venice of the Cotswolds". Highlights of the town include the Cotswold motoring museum (see if you can spot any Spaceships there!), the Dragonfly maze (good place to lose yourself) and the model village of the town itself. The model village was built in 1937 and is a 1/9 scale replica of the town. Well worth a look for people of all ages and a great place to take some funny snaps.
A must-see on your trip to the Cotswolds: Bourton-on-the-Water | photo: KotomiCreations (CC BY-NC 2.0)
On the fourth Sunday of every month, there is also a Farmer's market which is always worth checking out if you're doing a weekend trip in your Spaceship. You will find some great pubs and a good range of coffee shops littered along the High Street also.