The BEST places to visit in The Cotswolds (2024 UPDATE)

Last Updated on June 11, 2024 by Lauren Allen

Looking for the best places to visit in The Cotswolds? I’ve got you covered! After road-tripping through this beautiful area of England with a pal, I’ll share insider knowledge from my trip to the region. 

Ah, The Cotswolds… Dubbed an area of outstanding natural beauty, this region in England should sit atop everyone’s UK bucket list. Boasting picturesque villages, lavender fields, beautiful viewpoints and much more, there is a lot to see.

From the historical street of Arlington Row to the many hiking trails through the UK countryside, there’s something for everyone in this popular English destination. 

With so many lovely spots to explore, it can be hard to narrow it down, especially if you’re short on time. To help you decide, here is a list of the best Cotswolds towns to visit to ensure you make the most of your trip!

The best places to visit in The Cotswolds:

1 | Bibury

Located in Gloucestershire, Bibury is a picture-perfect village that is well worth a visit. In fact, it’s one of the most popular places to go in The Cotswolds for good reason… 

World-famous creative and textile designer Willaim Morris (AKA my favourite designer in the world) once called Bibury the most beautiful village in the country. Do I agree? Pretty much.

Although I do find this popular destination incredibly charming, I think there are many lovely villages in England. Regardless, this spot is a must-see if you’re exploring the region on a Cotswolds road trip.

Any trip to the village should start with a stroll along Arlington Row. Arguably the heart of the village, this street is without a doubt one of the most charming spots in the area, making it one of the best Instagram spots in The Cotswolds. The charming homes make a lovely backdrop for your travel snaps, trust me!

However, please be aware that this is a residential street. You should respect the privacy of the locals who live here by not peeking through their windows or touching the structures. 

Want to know something cool about this pretty residential street? It dates all the way back to the 14th century when it was constructed as a wool store. Many years later, it became a row of weavers’ homes. 

These days, people live inside each home, except one. Number 9 Arlington Row is a holiday home that can be rented out through the National Trust. It’s an ideal place to rest your head if you want to stay in the heart of one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest villages. 

Aside from admiring the town’s prettiest street, there are a few other things to do in Bibury. If you are into fish, you can visit the village’s trout farm. Here you can feed these lovely creatures, go fishing and wander the grounds.

If that’s not your thing, you can walk along the river, visit St. Mary’s Church or grab a bite to eat.

If you fancy doing the latter, there are a few spots in the area. The Swan Hotel comes highly rated and offers a wide variety of food and drink options in a cosy and traditional setting. 

2 | Lavender Feilds

If you are visiting the region in July, consider planning a trip to the local lavender fields. Thanks to its stunning photo opportunities and calming vibes, it’s one of the best things to do in The Cotswolds if you’re visiting at the right time. 

Located just two miles from Broadway, the Cotswolds Lavender is easily reached by car. This makes it a well-worthy stop on any road trip in The Cotswolds. Even more so if you are on the hunt for Instagram-worthy photo locations as this spot is breathtakingly beautiful!

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3 | Stroud

With lots of cute independent stores, Stroud is a treasure trove for shopping enthusiasts. In fact, it’s a must-visit if you love antiques thanks to The Malthouse Collective; a large antiques store offering everything from charming furniture to unique ornaments.

This adorable Cotswolds town also runs a popular market on Fridays and Saturdays. The Shambles Market (not to be mistaken for the picturesque street in York) is a fab place to pick up organic food, home decor, books and much more. 

The best time to explore Stroud is during the weekend when the market is in full swing. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time to visit.

As such, nearby attractions could be particularly crowded. If that’s something you prefer to avoid, visit during the week instead. 

If you’re looking to get out in nature, go for a stroll along the Stoudwater Canal. It’s a lovely spot for a walk, allowing you to take in the fresh air as ducks and swans swim alongside you. 

The Museum in the Park is another thing you can’t miss in Stroud. It’s a super informative (and free) museum offering lots of cool exhibits about history in the local area. It’s also home to a gorgeous garden which is the perfect spot for a serene stroll. 

4 | Castle Combe

When planning where to go in The Cotswolds, Castle Combe is one of the most popular spots. Perhaps the most famous village in The Cotswolds, this town is incredibly charming.

It’s also one of my favourite places in England (and I’ve travelled A LOT within my home country). I just love the quintessential English vibes that this village has to offer.

Located in Wiltshire, there are a few fab things to do in Castle Combe that you can’t miss! For example, checking out the Market Cross, visiting St Andrews Church and enjoying a snack from an honest store (how adorable). 

If you’re into cars and motorbikes, you won’t want to miss the Castle Combe Circuit. This unique Cotswolds attraction offers vehicle enthusiasts the chance to enjoy track races, passenger rides, driving experiences and much more. 

Furthermore, Castle Combe is home to some great traditional English pubs that offer a cosy environment to grab a drink. If you’re in the area on a sunny day, enjoying a pint with a view at The Castle Inn is a must.

You can also enjoy delicious food at a number of locations in town. For example, The Bybrook at the Manor House Hotel is a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Located inside the luxurious five-star hotel, it’s an ideal place to treat your tastebuds surrounded by a bit of luxury! Go on, you know you want to (wink wink).

Before you leave the village, don’t forget to walk around town with your camera. With so many photo opportunities, Castle Combe boasts some of the best Instagram spots in The Cotswolds. 

One place you can’t miss is Water Lane. With its historical bridge standing over the River Bybrook, it’s a famous photo spot in the heart of the village. As before, just remember to respect the locals as you snap away.

5 | Tetbury

Although it’s not as popular as the likes of Castle Combe or Burford, Tetbury is still worth visiting during your trip to the region. In fact, it’s home to some of the prettiest streets in The Cotswolds. 

It’s also one of the best places to visit for picturesque gardens. Highgrove House and Gardens are situated around a five-minute drive from the centre of town making it one of the best places to visit in Tetbury. 

Not only that, but this is the private home of the King and Queen of England. Although you can’t go inside, you can join a guided tour of the extremely impressive landscaped garden. The knowledgeable (and super friendly) guides take you to all the best spots so you can take in the true beauty of the stunning grounds. 

Alternatively, The National Arboretum boasts perhaps the most impressive plant collection worldwide. Due to this, it’s one of the best outdoor activities in The Cotswolds. If you’re a nature buff, this place is simply a must-see! 

If you fancy a bit of wine tasting in the English countryside, Larkhill Vineyard has got you covered! Here you can sip on delicious wines surrounded by beautiful scenery and a bustling atmosphere. 

With so many lovely things to do in the area, you could easily spend a few days in Tetbury itself. However, its close proximity to other Cotswolds villages is fantastic! 

6 | Broadway

Another one of the best places to see in The Cotswolds is Broadway. This beautiful Worcestershire village not only boasts some of the most picture-perfect homes in the region, but it also houses one of the region’s most visited attractions.

To admire the views from one of the highest points in The Cotswolds, head to Broadway Tower. Here you can discover the history behind the tower (which dates back to 1799) and view some work by world-renowned textile designer William Morris. 

Next up, end your visit at the top of the tower where you can enjoy countryside views for miles. Simply put, it’s one of the best things to do in The Cotswolds. Especially if you’re visiting in summer. 

Once you’re done at the tower, head into the village. Expect to find art galleries, pubs, cute places to eat and charming residential areas.

If you’re on the hunt for the best things to do in Broadway, consider visiting the village’s museum and art gallery or the Gordon Russel Design Museum. If you’re into art and design as much as I am, you’ll be in your element in Broadway! 

Prefer to get a little more hands-on? Then there are a couple of creative classes to get involved with. For example, you can attend a pottery class at Honeybourne Pottery Studio.

For something a little different, you can also go horseriding in Broadway. Just a short drive from the centre of the village, Jill Carenza Equestrian offers riding lessons in one of the most picturesque spots in the region.

You’ll be treated to stunning countryside landscapes as far as the eye can see. How lovely does that sound? 

7 | Painswick

Nestled between rolling hills and picture-perfect fields, Painswick is surrounded by breathtaking views of the English countryside. If you’re wondering where to visit in The Cotswolds, this spot is a worthy addition to your itinerary. 

Situated in the heart of Gloucestershire, it’s just a short drive away from Stroud. In fact, you can travel between both destinations in less than 10 minutes. 

Dubbed the Queen of The Cotswolds, Painswick is famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful landscapes and unique heritage. Across town, you’ll find Cotswold stone homes and Tudor timbers which just adds to the character of this beautiful town. 

While on the hunt for things to do in the area, St Mary’s Church is a must! This impressive Grade 1 listed building dates all the way back to 1040. How cool is that?

As you admire the exterior and explore the inside of the church, you can learn all about its interesting past. The church graveyard is also worth visiting to check out its many yew trees. 

Another one of the most popular things to do in Painswick is stroll around the beautiful Rocco Garden. Designed in the 18th century, it’s one of the most stunning gardens in The Cotswolds (and trust me, there are a lot). 

As you explore the gardens, you’ll find floral blooms, architectural delights and interesting sculptures. There are also lots of lovely little viewpoints offering aerial views of the surrounding areas. 

Before you leave, take some time to walk around town with your camera. Similarly to other destinations in The Cotswolds, Painswick is bursting with typical English charm which makes it incredibly photogenic. 

8 | Burford

If you’re on the hunt for a lunch spot, make sure you head to Burford! This medieval town located in Oxfordshire offers a great selection of bakeries, cafes and restaurants.

In a rush? Then grab a delicious sandwich from Bakery on the Hill to eat on the go. Alternatively, consider dining at The Lamb Inn, Priory Tea Rooms or Spice Lounge. These places are all highly rated by locals and tourists alike making Burford one of the best places to eat in The Cotswolds. 

However, great restaurants are not the only reason to visit Burford. It’s also a great spot to visit if you enjoy shopping. You’ll find several shops selling everything from clothes and homeware to souvenirs and postcards. Some of the best shops in Burford are: 

• Elm of Burford 
• Three French Hens 
• The Sweet Shop 
• Burford Antiques Centre 

Once you are all shopped out, treat yourself to a drink at one of the much-loved pubs on the high street. With its gorgeous ivy-covered exterior, The Cotswold Arms is perhaps the most popular.

Next up, spend some time visiting some of Burford’s top attractions. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens and Crocodiles of the World are a must-see if you’re into animals and wildlife. Both a family-friendly activities offering fun for all ages. 

If you prefer art, pay a visit to the Brian Sinfield Art Gallery. Offering an ever-changing selection of amazing art, this is one of the best free things to do in The Cotswolds (in my personal opinion). 

Before you leave, make sure you catch a glimpse of the three-arch bridge and spend a few moments admiring St John the Baptist church.

9 | Bourton on the Water

Unlike many popular locations in The Cotswolds, Bourton on the Water offers much more beyond pretty residential areas, eateries and picturesque views.

Known as the Venice of The Cotswolds, the River Windrush runs throughout the whole village and is enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. In fact, enjoying a picnic next to the river is a popular thing to do in town. Especially if you’re visiting on a nice day!

This well-loved Cotswolds village is also great for shopping. You can shop for perfume, jewellery, pottery and much more. 

Beyond shopping, eating out and drinking at the village’s top pubs, there are many other things to do in Bourton on the Water. For example, you can discover the history behind its famous bridges. Alternatively, there are several Cotswolds attractions worth visiting in town including:

• Cotswold Motoring Museum: A must-see for lovers of classic cars and rare vehicles. It also welcomes furry friends which definitely gives it some brownie points! 
• The Dragonfly Maze: Spending some time outdoors is a must if you’re treated to nice weather in England. It’s quite a rarity after all! If you’re exploring Bourton on the Water in summer, spending an hour or so at The Dragonfly Maze is a great way to pass some time. 
• Cotswolds Model Village: As another one of the top tourist attractions in The Cotswolds, the model village offers an interesting look into the unique craftsmanship of local creatives. 
• Birdland Park and Gardens: Home to a number of impressive birds, this place is worth visiting if you’re interested in nature and wildlife. 

10 | Stow on the Wold

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the English countryside, Stow on the Wold is one of the prettiest places to visit in England. It’s also one of the best spots to explore in The Cotswolds if you’re into art or antiques. 

With a number of galleries such as the Peter Martin Gallery, Fosse Gallery and Stow Art House, you’ll find a range of styles on display. Art lovers will truly love this charming Cotswolds town thanks to its diverse art scene. I know I did!

In terms of antiques, the Tara Antique Centre in the middle of town is a treasure trove of stunning trinkets, furniture and interior delights. No matter what you’re looking for, you are bound to leave this spot with a bag in hand! 

To visit perhaps the most Instagram-worthy church in The Cotswolds, stop by St Edward’s Church. Unsurprisingly, this place is one of the most photographed spots in the region thanks to its exterior. It’s like something out of a fairytale!

After snapping your perfect shot, stop for tea and cake at Lucy’s Tearoom. This family-run establishment offers handmade cakes baked from locally sourced ingredients in a traditional English setting. It’s also a hotel.

You’ll also find a wide mix of drinks on offer. During the warmer months, you can even choose to sit outside to enjoy the rare English sunshine!

11 | Moreton in Marsh

As one of the best market towns in The Cotswolds, Moreton in Marsh is one of the most convenient places to get to in the region.

With a centrally located train station, you can easily get to this part of The Cotswolds from London (and many other places across England).

This makes the town one of the best spots to base yourself on your adventure through the English countryside. With lots of lovely places to stay in Moreton in Marsh, it’s definitely a strong contender as a Cotswolds base.

Although it’s over an hour away from the likes of Castle Combe, it’s close to Chipping Norton, Broadway and Stow on the Wold. All places that are well worth exploring on a Cotswolds road trip! 

If you’re looking for things to do in Moreton in Marsh, there is a wealth of options. In fact, it’s a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts with a number of gardens, parks and animal centres. Some of the most popular are:

• Cotswolds Falconry Centre: A must-see for bird lovers, the falconry centre is home to many birds of prey including owls, falcons and eagles. 
• Bourton House Garden: Boasting a beautifully landscaped garden, nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss Bourton House Garden. Located just a five-minute drive from the centre of town, it’s super easy to explore!
• Sezincote House and Garden: Another breathtaking garden in The Cotswolds, Sezincote House and Garden also houses an incredible architectural gem. 
• Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre: An ideal place to enjoy beautiful views and shop for plants on a relaxing sunny day. Try not to fill your car with lots of new plant babies! 

More into art? Then pay a visit to The Moreton Gallery. This lovely spot displays lots of beautiful pieces including paintings, textile art and ceramic treasures meaning there’s something for everyone at this beautiful gallery. 

If you have an interest in planes and aviation, you can also pop into the Wellington Aviation Museum. Despite being small, this unique Cotswolds attraction is bursting at the brim with intriguing exhibits. You’ll discover lots of information about the RAF and the local WW2 Wellington airfield.

Lastly, there are lots of fab places to eat in Moreton in Marsh including Restaurant Henne, Redesdale Arms and Sakura Bistro.

12 | Bath

Whether or not Bath is in The Cotswolds is debatable. However, it’s a short 30-minute drive from Chippenham making it easy to visit on a Cotswolds road trip. It’s also a beautiful city bursting with historical attractions, great bars and stunning architecture. 

If you can, I highly recommend spending a day or two in Bath to truly appreciate what the city has to offer.

When I visited Bath, I spent two days admiring the lovely buildings, exploring the sights and checking out the best cocktail bars. In my opinion, it’s one of the top places to visit in England! 

Steeped in history, one of the must-see destinations in the city is The Roman Baths. Built in 70AD, this unique attraction is thousands of years old! That makes it all the more impressive as you admire the views from the balcony and discover more about its intriguing past. 

I highly recommend grabbing one of the free audio guides to take a deep dive into this historical attraction.

The baths are incredibly well preserved which allows travellers to truly appreciate the the sheer beauty that they have to offer. If you’re heading to Bath, you simply can’t miss it! 

Aside from the city’s top attraction, there are many other things to do in Bath, such as: 

• Admiring Pulteney Bridge: Constructed in the 18th century, Pulteney Bridge is an architectural gem in Bath. It’s also one of the most photographed spots in the city. If you’ve been, you’ll understand why.
• Dining at Sally Lunns: For a quintessential English lunch, head to Sally Lunns for a bite to eat in a beautifully charming setting. Make sure you try the Sally Lunns buns! It’s also one of the oldest buildings in Bath (which is pretty cool).
• Strolling down Bath’s prettiest streets: The streets of Bath are a haven for Instagram addicts and photographers. Some of the must-see streets are The Circus and The Royal Crescent. They’re the perfect spot for a stroll and are located just a stone’s throw away from each other. 
• Exploring Bath Abbey: You simply can’t visit Bath without spotting Bath Abbey. This impressive structure is centrally located making it easy to admire the exterior and wander inside. Tickets for adults cost just £6.50 making it one of the cheapest things to do in Bath.
• Enjoying a spa day at Thermae Bath Spa: If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Bath, don’t miss this spot! Thermae Bath Spa is a fab place to chill out after a busy day of sightseeing. They’re also open until 9pm so if you wish, you can even enjoy a stunning sunset view from their rooftop pool.

In terms of places to eat, there are a number of highly-rated restaurants in Bath including Noya’s Kitchen, Olive Tree Restaurant (which is a Michelin-starred establishment) and Ole Tapas.

I personally ate at Bandook, but if I’m honest, I was a little underwhelmed. I recommend trying somewhere else instead.

If you’re looking for a little tipple after a busy day, treat yourself to a cocktail (or five) at one of Bath’s best cocktail bars. My personal favourite is Opium Bar thanks to its unique interior and fab cocktail list. It also has a super chilled-out vibe making it easy to relax after a day of sightseeing. 

13 | Cirencester

Despite being known as the capital of The Cotswolds, Cirencester isn’t as popular as the likes of Castle Combe or Bibury. However, this picturesque market town is still well worth a visit.

In terms of things to do, you can spend some time exploring Cirencester Park, Abbey Park, New Brewery Arts Museum and the Cirencester Amphitheatre. There is also an open-air swimming pool if you’re looking to get a little active on your Cotswolds getaway. 

Next up, the Corinium Museum is a must-see as you explore town. It houses a unique collection of historical artefacts that date back thousands of years You’ll also discover more about Cirencester as you visit this well-loved museum. 

Cirencester is also a great option when considering where to stay in The Cotswolds. Thanks to its central location, it’s easy to drive to many must-see locations in less than an hour. How convenient is that? 

During my trip to The Cotswolds, I stayed at Patricia’s Retreat. Located inside Cotswold Water Park, this beautifully decorated holiday home had everything we needed for a lovely countryside getaway! 

The park’s on-site facilities boast both indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, a gym, a bar, a restaurant and fishing opportunities. This is ideal if you’re all explored out and fancy a day of relaxing activities. 

14 | Oxford

Another one of England’s most beautiful cities, Oxford is also one of my favourite spots in the country. Having gained a whole new appreciation for my own country during the pandemic, I truly fell in love with this incredible English gem.

Not only does the city boast impressive architecture, tons of history and some fab art galleries, but there is a charm to Oxford unlike anywhere else in the country.

Also, as a photography enthusiast, I was truly in my element as I wandered the picture-perfect streets with my camera.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Oxford, don’t miss the city’s medieval castle and the breathtaking countryside views from the top of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. They’re truly amazing! 

Harry Potter fan? Then you’ll love Oxford! The city is home to a number of Harry Potter filming locations. Many are located within Oxford University buildings such as the Bodleian Library and Christ Church.

If you like, you can join a complete guided tour of some of the best Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford. Your knowledgeable guide will share in-depth stories about each spot and you’ll have plenty of time to snap some photos. 

If you’re on a budget, you can check out the exterior of Radcliffe Camera and stroll around Christ Church Meadow.

If museums are more your thing, you can wander the halls of the Pitt Rivers Museum and explore the Museum of Natural History. All without spending a penny! How good is that?

On the hunt for a traditional English pub? Then check out Three Goats Heads! They have a no phones policy which encourages visitors to chat with their pals (or the staff). Although I didn’t completely stick to it as a solo traveller, I did think it was quite a nice touch.

Tips for visiting the best places in The Cotswolds

Now that you know the best places to visit in The Cotswolds that can not be missed, here are my top tips to consider.

Before finalising your ideal trip to the English countryside, you need to keep these things in mind: 

Travel by car

Travelling around The Cotswolds is best done by car. Although it is possible to visit via public transport, frequent train and bus services can be hard to come by in some areas. 

For ease and the ability to see more locations in a shorter time frame, I recommend driving. This way, there would be no need to worry about infrequent buses and potentially getting stuck in the middle of nowhere.

On the topic of driving, there are quite a lot of free parking spots in The Cotswolds. This makes it easy to stop off at many charming towns and villages without worrying about extra costs. However, please be mindful that you should not park in residents’ private driveways.

Wondering how to get to The Cotswolds from London? Check out this post for the ultimate guide!

Wear comfortable shoes

Whilst exploring The Cotswolds, it’s likely that you’ll do a lot of walking. There are many hills, cobblestoned streets and uneven surfaces. Due to this, you should wear shoes that will leave you feeling comfortable.

Don’t leave home without your camera!

With photo opportunities around each corner, you won’t want to leave home without your camera.

This region in England is incredibly photogenic and a haven for photography enthusiasts. With so many beautiful views in The Cotswolds, make sure you travel prepared!

Charge your devices and batteries overnight and travel with extra memory cards. That way, you won’t end up frustrated if either dies on you. 

Book attractions in advance

If you plan on visiting tourist attractions in The Cotswolds, it’s best to book in advance. If you turn up unannounced, you may be left disappointed.

Plus, booking attractions in advance means you can plan your time better and make the most of every single minute in The Cotswolds. Trust me, you’ll want to do that!

FAQs about the best places to visit in The Cotswolds

Conclusion about the best towns in The Cotswolds

So there we have it; the very best places to visit in The Cotswolds! From the majestic city of Oxford to the picture-perfect village of Bibury, there are many beautiful places to explore in the region. 

Dubbed an area of outstanding natural beauty, it’s somewhere that everyone should visit at least once! 

Have you ever been to The Cotswolds? Please feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.