Explore the Enchanting Cotswolds: A Quintessential English Retreat
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
The Cotswolds, a picturesque region of rolling hills and charming villages, is a must-visit for tourists seeking the essence of rural England. With its stunning landscapes, historic towns, and rich cultural heritage, this area offers unforgettable experiences amidst nature's beauty.
A brief summary to Visit The Cotswolds
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or summer months for the best weather and vibrant blooming landscapes.
- Take advantage of local walking tours for a deeper insight into the history and culture of the area.
- Be sure to sample local specialties, such as Cotswold cheese and traditional cream teas.
- Consider renting a bicycle to explore the scenic cycling routes throughout the countryside.
- Check local events calendars for festivals and markets that showcase local crafts and produce.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards the town of Cirencester, which serves as a central hub in the Cotswolds. From Cirencester, follow the A435 towards Cheltenham. After approximately 10 miles, take the A40 towards Oxford. The Visit The Cotswolds office is located in the town of Stow-on-the-Wold, which is a short drive from the A40. Look for signs directing you to Stow-on-the-Wold, and once in the town, follow the signs to the Tourist Information Centre, which is situated in the main square.
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Public Transportation
To reach Visit The Cotswolds using public transportation, take a train from your location to Moreton-in-Marsh station. From there, you can catch a local bus or taxi to Stow-on-the-Wold. The bus service, operated by Stagecoach, runs regularly and will take approximately 15 minutes to reach Stow-on-the-Wold. Make sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time to confirm times and routes. Tickets for the bus can be purchased on board, typically costing around £2-£3.
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Walking
If you are already in Stow-on-the-Wold, the Visit The Cotswolds Tourist Information Centre is easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the town square, which is a central landmark, and the information centre is located right there. The walk from anywhere in the town should take no more than 10 minutes.
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Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, Stow-on-the-Wold is bike-friendly with several cycling routes available. You can rent a bike from local shops in nearby towns such as Bourton-on-the-Water and cycle to Stow-on-the-Wold. The route is approximately 3 miles and offers beautiful countryside views. Ensure you have a bike lock and be cautious of road traffic. Bring your own water and snacks as there may not be many stops along the route.
Discover more about Visit The Cotswolds
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Haresfield Topograph
7.5 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Walk The Cotswolds
8.7 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Eastgate viewing chamber
14.4 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Visit Cotswolds Online
17.3 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
17.3 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
17.6 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Siccaridge Wood
18.3 km
Explore Siccaridge Wood: A serene nature reserve near Cirencester, offering beautiful trails and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.
Coleford Great Western Railway Museum
18.4 km
Explore the rich history of rail travel at Coleford's Great Western Railway Museum, a charming destination for history enthusiasts and families.
The Garden at Miserden
18.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Somerset Monument
18.6 km
A towering Victorian tribute to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, commanding panoramic views over the historic Cotswold landscape.
Highgrove Gardens
18.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Highgrove Gardens, a masterpiece of horticulture and sustainability nestled in the Cotswolds.
Rodmarton Long Barrow
19.7 km
Uncover the ancient secrets of Rodmarton Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial site that invites you to journey through time in the heart of the English countryside.
National Trust - Ashleworth Tithe Barn
20.0 km
Explore the historic Ashleworth Tithe Barn, a beautifully preserved medieval structure showcasing England's agricultural heritage amidst stunning countryside.
Jet Age Museum
20.0 km
Discover the rich history of British aviation at the Jet Age Museum, where technology meets nostalgia in a captivating experience.
National Trust - Horton Court
21.2 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Horton Court, a stunning manor house and holiday home in South Gloucestershire.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nympsfield Long Barrow
6.2 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic burial chambers of Nympsfield Long Barrow, set amid stunning Gloucestershire countryside and steeped in mysterious legends.
Coaley Peak
6.3 km
Coaley Peak offers sweeping Cotswold views, ancient Neolithic heritage, and vibrant wildflower meadows on a tranquil hilltop reserve.
Haresfield Beacon & Standish Wood - National Trust
7.0 km
Discover sweeping Cotswold views and ancient woodlands atop the dramatic Haresfield Beacon escarpment near Stonehouse.
Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
7.0 km
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with ancient chambers and stunning Severn Valley views at Uley Long Barrow, Gloucestershire.
Cam Peak
7.2 km
Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
7.2 km
A hauntingly beautiful, unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion hidden in a tranquil Cotswold valley, offering a rare glimpse into architectural ambition and a haven for rare bats.
Selsley Common
7.9 km
Explore Selsley Common’s ancient limestone grassland with rare orchids, historic barrows, and sweeping views over the Severn Valley in the Cotswolds.
National Trust - Woodchester Park
8.0 km
Secluded Cotswolds valley with lakes, wildlife, historic boathouse, family trails, and scenic café views in a National Trust haven.
Garden Cliff
8.1 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views and serene natural beauty at Garden Cliff, a peaceful overlook above the River Severn in Westbury-on-Severn.
National Trust - Westbury Court Garden
8.5 km
Discover England’s only restored 17th-century Dutch water garden with historic trees, elegant canals, and tranquil waterside walks.
Museum in the Park
9.1 km
Explore Stroud’s heritage and art in a historic wool merchant’s house, with engaging exhibits and a serene Walled Garden in Stratford Park.
The Malthouse Collective
9.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and artisan crafts in Stroud’s vibrant Malthouse Collective, where history and creativity unite.
Sim's Clock
9.5 km
Explore the historical Sim's Clock in Stroud, a charming landmark that reflects the town's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Made In Stroud
9.6 km
Discover authentic handmade gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Stroud’s creative community.
Dr Jenner's House
10.0 km
Step into the home of Edward Jenner, the pioneer of vaccination, and explore the historic site where smallpox was defeated.
Essential places to dine
Miller & Carter Gloucester
9.7 km
Experience expertly cooked steaks and warm hospitality at Miller & Carter Gloucester in the heart of Quedgeley’s Olympus Park.
Fagin's
10.1 km
A charming family-friendly English pub in Brookthorpe serving hearty steaks, classic carveries, and warm hospitality in a relaxed setting.
Eat Unique
11.2 km
A peaceful village restaurant in Churcham, Gloucester, offering distinctive dishes in a cozy, rural setting.
Wilder
11.5 km
Discover an intimate fine dining adventure in Nailsworth with inventive tasting menus and expertly paired wines at Wilder.
The Long Table
11.7 km
A pay-as-you-can community restaurant in Stroud serving locally sourced meals that nourish both body and spirit.
Côte Gloucester
13.8 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
13.8 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
The Barge
14.0 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
The Tall Ship
14.0 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Greek on the Docks
14.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
Settebello Trattoria
14.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Aroma
14.2 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Topoly's
14.2 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
14.4 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
14.5 km
Gloucester’s premier gluten-free Thai restaurant blending authentic flavors with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy city-center setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Adana Collective Antiques
9.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Duffle Vintage
9.6 km
Authentic 60s and 70s vintage fashion in intimate, inspiring room settings.
Moonflower Too
9.6 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Butterfly Ball
9.6 km
Discover mindful gifts and spiritual treasures in Stroud’s welcoming Butterfly Ball shop, a hub for creativity and community since 2011.
The Little Gift Shop
11.4 km
Curated gifts and local treasures in the heart of Nailsworth's independent retail scene.
Gloucester Quays
13.7 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Gift Company
13.7 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Upstairs Downstairs
14.1 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
King's Walk
14.4 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Chez Rose
14.5 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Pilgrims Gloucester
14.5 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
14.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Westgate Retail Park
14.6 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Handmade Cotswolds
14.6 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts and unique artisan gifts in the heart of Stroud’s vibrant Cotswolds community.
Cotswold Creates
15.5 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bumble Bee
8.6 km
A charming gastropub in Gloucester blending traditional warmth with quality seasonal dining and real ales in a relaxed setting.
Barn Owl
9.5 km
A friendly, family- and dog-welcoming pub in Quedgeley offering classic British fare, cask ales, and a warm, spacious setting with outdoor gardens.
The Weighbridge Inn
12.6 km
Historic 17th-century Cotswolds pub famed for its unique 2in1 pies, local ales, and warm, rustic charm.
Avenue
12.6 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Gloucester serving classic fare and drinks in a welcoming Victorian setting with a vibrant community spirit.
Three Oaks Inn
13.1 km
A welcoming gastropub in Gloucester’s Robinswood, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and community spirit.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
13.8 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
TANK
13.8 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
Cotswold Mobile Bar Hire
13.9 km
Bringing bespoke, fully stocked mobile bars with rustic charm and quirky inflatable pubs to your Cotswold events.
Our House Bar
14.2 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Café René
14.3 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
One Eyed Jacks
14.4 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
14.4 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
The Drunken Duck
14.5 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
14.5 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
14.5 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Capones
8.0 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Trio Nightclub
9.5 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
14.3 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
ATIK Gloucester
14.4 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
14.4 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Under the Prom
24.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Thirteen Degrees
24.8 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
24.9 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
24.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
24.9 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
The 21 Club
25.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
25.1 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
2 PIGS
25.2 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
The Lion - Bar & Nightclub
25.5 km
A vibrant bar and nightclub blending historic charm with lively nightlife in the heart of Chepstow.
The Club, Monmouth
25.5 km
Discover the heart of Monmouth's pub culture at The Club, where great food, drinks, and sports come together for an unforgettable experience.
