Things To Do in the Cotswolds
There are so many things to do here in the beautiful Cotswolds, families and groups, young and old. You may have heard names of lovely villages and towns like Burford, Bibury, Broadway, Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Cirencester, to name but a few.
Historic & Cultural Places to Visit in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, have a rich heritage deeply rooted in their rural landscapes and agricultural traditions.
For centuries, farming shaped both its economy and its iconic scenery, with rolling pastures, dry-stone walls, and ancient hedgerows forming the backdrop of village life. The region became famous in medieval times for its high-quality wool, which brought prosperity and funded many of the grand stone churches and manor houses still standing today.
Today, the Cotswolds continues to balance modern agriculture with conservation, preserving the rural character and heritage that make it one of England’s most cherished landscapes.
You can explore ancient sites, grand estates, charming villages, medieval abbeys, art centres and museums, and King John’s Cottages is your perfect base. If you’re interested in history, here’s a quick list of historic and cultural places to visit in the Cotswolds.
25 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of England’s most magnificent stately homes.
Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Baroque architecture and exquisite interiors. Vast landscaped grounds by Capability Brown. Seasonal exhibitions and events. It’s not technically inside the Cotswolds AONB, but it’s part of the wider region and unmissable.
25 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Bourton-on-the-Water is rich in cultural attractions. The Cotswold Motoring Museum is nostalgic and enchanting, while the Model Village is a replica of a 1930s village. Visitors can also enjoy historical bridges and riverside architecture, creating a wonderful blend of heritage and charm.
25 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Chastleton is a well-preserved Jacobean house that feels as if it has not changed in 400 years. It is one of the most charming historic homes in England, featuring rare Jacobean interiors and “time capsule” rooms with original furniture. The gardens are beautiful too, with a topiary named “Jolly Roger.” The Coker family has lived here for 400 years, making this place special. Visiting Chastleton offers a more personal and genuine experience than touring grand palaces. It’s a peaceful way to step back into the 1600s.
25 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Lodge Park is the only remaining 17th-century grandstand built for deer coursing, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life. It features unique architecture from the 1630s and has a stunning roof platform with views of the countryside. Visitors can see exhibits about 17th-century sporting life and enjoy access to the Sherborne Estate for beautiful nature walks. It’s a great mix of history, landscape, and interesting facts.
35 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Broadway Tower is an eye-catching structure with superb views across 16 counties. It was built during the Arts & Crafts Movement and once served as a retreat for William Morris. You can take a tour of the nuclear bunker to learn about Cold War history. There are also beautiful walking trails to explore. It offers a blend of beauty, art, and history all in one place.
35 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Often regarded as the most beautiful village in England, Bibury features medieval weavers’ cottages, riverside walks, and historical mill buildings alongside the famous Arlington Row. It is perfect for photography and experiencing traditional Cotswold buildings.
40 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Chipping Campden is a beautiful and historic town in the Cotswolds. It is known for its lovely honey-coloured stone buildings, charming High Street, and rich Arts and Crafts history. Once a busy centre for the wool trade in medieval times, the town still shows its prosperous past through its grand old merchant houses and the famous 17th-century Market Hall. Today, visitors can shop in independent stores, visit the Court Barn Museum, and walk along the Cotswold Way. Chipping Campden is full of character and captures the timeless charm of the Cotswolds
45 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
One of the most significant castles in English history, Sudeley Castle is the only private castle in England with a queen buried on its grounds. It is the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr. The castle features Tudor history, romantic ruins, and award-winning gardens. It offers excellent exhibitions and is perfect for wandering, learning, and immersing oneself in centuries of stories.
45 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
A thriving market town with deep Roman roots, Cirencester offers a rich historical experience. The Corinium Museum features outstanding Roman mosaics, artefacts, and insights into local history. The Church of St. John the Baptist is one of the grandest wool churches in the region. Visitors can also explore the earthworks of the Roman amphitheatre. Here, culture, cafés, and the charming Cotswold ambience blend perfectly together.
45 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Hailes Abbey was founded in 1246 near Winchcombe. It was a Cistercian monastery known for housing a holy relic, the Holy Blood of Hailes. This relic attracted pilgrims from all over Europe until the Dissolution. Little remains of the abbey. It is a Grade I listed building and a monument.
1 hour by car from King John’s Cottages
Gloucester Cathedral is a breathtaking medieval masterpiece and was a Harry Potter filming location. It features cloisters, tower tours, and the Great East Window, one of the largest medieval stained-glass windows in the world. Visitors can explore royal tombs and a Norman crypt, experiencing a powerful blend of religious history, art, and architecture.
1 hour by car from King John’s Cottages
Cheltenham is famous for its elegant Regency squares and vibrant cultural scene, including The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum, and offers an architectural walk through its Regency buildings. Visitors can enjoy performances at The Everyman Theatre and a variety of festivals, such as those celebrating literature, jazz, science, and classical music, making it a perfect destination for culture lovers.
1 hour by car from King John’s Cottages
Painswick is a village renowned for its history, gardens, and arts, featuring St Mary’s Church and its 99 yew trees. The Rococo Garden is a rare and playful 18th-century design. Stroll through the quaint, narrow streets made of golden stone for a peaceful cultural escape.
Tetbury & Highgrove
1 hour and 5 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Tetbury features elegant Georgian townhouses and royal connections, including Highgrove Gardens, the private gardens of King Charles III (booking required). The Tetbury Market House dates back to 1655, and the town is known for its antique shops and rich heritage architecture. It’s a refined, regal cultural destination.
Sports & Fitness in the Cotswolds
Here’s a curated guide to sport and fitness experiences in the Cotswolds, including activities you can do, events you can watch, and beautiful outdoor spots perfect for staying active. The Cotswolds is a dream location for wellness, adventure, and sporting culture — from elite equestrian events to serene lakeside yoga.
40 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Bainton Bikes is an independent cycle-hire and tour company based in Oxford, with hubs spanning the Cotswolds, Cheltenham and wider southern England. Established in 2009, they offer one of the region’s largest and most varied fleets of bikes, as well as guided and self-guided tours and cycling holidays suitable for all ages and abilities.
45 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Cotswold Water Park is a paradise for active travellers with over 180 lakes offering every water sport imaginable. Open water swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking & canoeing, Sailing & windsurfing, Wakeboarding, Rowing, Aqua parks, Cycling and running routes around the lakes. Great for families, solo adventurers, or fitness lovers.
50 minutes by car from King John’s Cottages
Cheltenham Racecourse is located at Prestbury Park near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. It is one of the top places in the UK for National Hunt (jump) racing. The racecourse is left-handed, hilly, and known for its tough fences and uphill finish. These features challenge both horses and jockeys.
Racing in Cheltenham has a long history, dating back to the first recorded flat race in 1815 on Nottingham Hill. The main event of the racing season here is the Cheltenham Festival, which takes place every March. It attracts the best British and Irish jump-racing talent. One of the most important races at Cheltenham is the Cheltenham Gold Cup. This race is considered the top event for staying chasers and is often called the “Blue Riband” of jump racing.
The Cotswolds are famous for their rolling hills, quiet lanes, and sweeping countryside views, making them perfect for a cycling holiday. You can hire bikes or join guided rides. Here are a couple of the top cycling routes in the Cotswolds:
- Kingham, Stow-on-the-Wold & Chipping Norton loop.
- Stroud valleys (more dramatic hill climbs).
- Bourton-on-the-Water to Bibury and the Coln Valley route.
- Broadway Tower hill climb.
Perfect for those wanting movement and mindfulness. Many retreats and instructors offer:
- Paddleboard yoga
- Lakeside yoga sessions
- Wellness weekends
- Forest meditation walks
- Outdoor fitness classes
Golf Courses with Cotswold Views
The Cotswold region has excellent golf courses with beautiful scenery. Ideal for both seasoned golfers and casual players, here are a few in the area:
Outdoor Gyms, Trails & Fitness Routes
The Cotswolds are full of natural fitness opportunities and walking routes.
- Oxfordshire Way – Walking and Bridal Way
- The Wychwood Way – Walking and Bridal Way
- D’Arcy Dalton Way – Walking and Bridal Way
- The Slaughters & Upper/Lower Swell – peaceful running loops
- The Rollright Stones area – long-distance quiet trails
It’s an outdoor fitness lover’s dream. Throughout the year, you can also find fun runs, 10Ks, and trail races. Joining these sports clubs is an excellent way to experience the local community life in the Cotswolds.
Equestrian Experiences
In addition to the bridal paths mentioned earlier, the Cotswolds are home to numerous fantastic riding centres. You can enjoy guided horseback treks in locations such as Broadway, Chipping Campden, or Stow. The Jill Carenza Equestrian Centre offers riding lessons, and you can also take hacks through woodland and farmland. Don’t miss the chance to watch local pony clubs and eventing showcases, or attend seasonal country shows featuring equestrian displays.
The Cotswolds host important equestrian events like the Cheltenham Festival and the Badminton Horse Trials. You can also enjoy the Cotswold Point-to-Point races at Andoversford, which celebrate grassroots racing heritage.
Rugby, Cricket & Local Sports Clubs
Small village clubs are the heart of sports in the Cotswolds. During the summer, village cricket matches provide a perfect setting for a laid-back afternoon. One such club nearby is the Shipton-under-Wychwood Cricket Club. Additionally, there are local rugby games in Chipping Norton, Cheltenham, Stroud, and Cirencester.
Lido Swimming Pools
For a revitalising fitness day, consider these Cotswold lidos for summer swimming or cold-water sessions. The Chipping Norton Lido is just 15 minutes from King John’s Cottages. Sandford Parks Lido in Cheltenham is one of the largest outdoor pools in the UK and is located 50 minutes away from King John’s Cottages.
Country Shows, Fetes and Traditional Rural Sports
Throughout the year, many villages host agricultural fairs, country fairs, or village fetes. These events are both cultural and sporting, embodying the essence of the Cotswolds. At country fairs, you can enjoy activities such as dog agility contests, tug-of-war competitions, falconry displays, heavy horse demonstrations, and sheepdog trials.
Tennis Courts & Sports Centres
Tennis courts are key sporting facilities in nearby villages and towns such as Shipton-under-Wychwood, Chipping Norton, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Witney. You can reserve courts for casual games or take lessons.
Gardens and Arboreta to Visit in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds boast stunning gardens, serene estates, horticultural history, and fantastic shops
for plants, gifts, and inspiration. Here’s a carefully curated list of gardens to explore and garden
centres to enjoy.
A remarkable example of arts & crafts garden design, known for its “garden rooms,” unique plants, and striking structure.
A family-run establishment known for its romantic ambience and the famous Kiftsgate rose. Enjoy dramatic views and vibrant floral displays.
World-renowned collection of 15,000+ trees, perfect for serene walks, autumn colour, and spring blossom.
Beautiful Japanese-style planting, seasonal colour, and peaceful woodland paths.
Bonus: Next to Cotswold Falconry Centre.
Extraordinary Mughal-style house and exotic gardens, Sezincote House & Gardens is a unique gem in the Cotswolds.
An atmospheric terraced garden surrounding Charles Wade’s quirky manor of treasures.
Ten award-winning gardens, including a Tudor knot garden, Queen’s Garden, and wildflower areas.Ten award-winning gardens, including a Tudor knot garden, Queen’s Garden, and wildflower areas.
Unusual and whimsical 18th-century garden with follies, woodland walks, and spectacular snowdrop displays.
Renowned for pristine topiary, abundant borders, and beautiful design.
Peaceful 17th-century garden with a lovely nursery and café, overlooking the Golden Valley.
Guided tours of King Charles III’s private gardens — wildflower meadows, immaculate topiary, and organic planting.
Glorious fields of lavender (June–August), with a great plant shop and distillery.
Garden Centres to Visit in the Cotswolds
Garden centres in the Cotswolds have become popular destinations, as they often offer a variety of gifts, homeware, and cafes. These centres provide an excellent opportunity to experience life in the Cotswolds, enjoy a meal, and shop for holiday gifts. They make for an ideal stop when visiting local attractions. Not just ordinary garden centres; they have become favoured spots for locals and tourists, especially during the Christmas season.
Burford Garden Centre features an exceptional plant area, as well as beautiful homeware, books, interiors, and gifts. There’s a stylish café serving seasonal food, along with inspirational displays and curated collections. Ideal for browsing or meeting for lunch.
A welcoming, family-run garden centre with a loyal customer base. We offer an excellent selection of plants, seeds, tools, and gardening essentials, all at great value. Our friendly staff is always ready to assist you. Enjoy a cosy café atmosphere when it’s open seasonally.
Fosseway Garden Centre is well-stocked and offers everything for gardeners, along with a home and gift section. Enjoy the lovely café, which serves delicious lunches and cakes. Play mini golf and explore our seasonal displays.
Food and Drink
For special occasions, guests can hire Mike Fishpen, a personal chef who knows the kitchen well. He offers a wide range of menu options, including ready meals that guests can simply pop in the oven.
Farm Shops
Whether you’re buying food to cook at home, purchasing local produce as gifts, or simply browsing, the Cotswolds are filled with farm shops that often provide children’s entertainment as well.
A traditional village shop with elements of a farm shop. Fresh seasonal produce, local meats and groceries, and artisan breads add to its down-to-earth rural charm. It’s perfect for stocking up if you’re staying nearby.
Daylesford is one of the most renowned farm shops in the UK. This luxurious, beautifully designed destination offers a wide range of products, from organic produce to wellness items. It features an award-winning organic farm shop, an artisan bakery, sustainable groceries and cheeses, and an excellent butcher’s counter. Additionally, there is a cookery school and various cafés and restaurants on-site. Located next door is the Bamford Wellness Spa. Daylesford is a must-visit for food lovers, wellness seekers, and anyone who appreciates refined rural living.
Popularised by Jeremy Clarkson’s TV series Clarkson’s Farm (and his partner, Lisa Hogan), this quaint shop has become quite iconic. It offers “cow juice” (fresh milk), local produce, seasonal specials, and quirky merchandise. Diddly Squat Farm Shop boasts stunning countryside views and is often bustling with visitors, yet it retains its charming atmosphere. It’s a fun stop for fans of the show and curious visitors alike.
A beloved destination for food enthusiasts, specialising in smoked meats and fish. Enjoy hand-smoked salmon, bacon, and local game at our deli counter. We offer a selection of wines and local products in a rustic farm setting, perfect for picking up something special for dinner.
A charming rural café and farm shop that offers high-quality, simple produce. Enjoy homemade cakes and lunches, along with local ice cream. In summer, you can choose your own seasonal fruit. The café provides a peaceful countryside atmosphere, making it ideal for families or a relaxing stop.
Located at Adam Henson’s farm, this charming rural shop is connected to the working farm. It offers rare-breed meats, local produce, and gifts, along with seasonal fruits and vegetables. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect addition to a visit to the animals or the café.
A popular choice located near the Fosse Way, featuring locally sourced produce, a butcher, deli, and pantry section, as well as cakes, chutneys, and cheeses. It has a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere and is an excellent stop while exploring the central Cotswolds villages.
While not a traditional farm shop, this is a must-visit for local produce, especially cheese. They offer a vast range of British and local cheeses, charcuterie, wine, and artisan foods. Gift hampers are also available, and the knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect picnic supplies.
Although located at a motorway service station, it has transformed into a cultural icon. If you are travelling to the Cotswolds, you must stop by. You’ll find over 130 local suppliers offering fresh pies, cakes, meals, meats, cheeses, and pantry items. The stunning architecture features a grass roof, making it an ideal stop whether you’re driving north or south through the region.
Cotswold Cafes and Tea Rooms
Here are some notable cafés within a 30-minute drive from King John’s Cottages in the
Cotswolds, each offering something unique.
Located on a working farm at the junction of Bruern and Milton-under-Wychwood, this café combines a farm-shop atmosphere with a variety of homemade dishes. It serves breakfast, lunch and a selection of cakes. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, and there are options available for both vegans and those who need gluten-free meals. Bruern Farms Café is an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a relaxing country stop after a walk or bike ride in the area. Check out the shop next door for local produce to cook at home.
FarmED is a demonstration farm and education centre based at Honeydale Farm, Shipton-under-Wychwood. The focus is on regenerative agriculture, sustainable food systems, and linking “good food with good farming.” FarmED runs guided walks around the farm, workshops, and talks on topics such as beekeeping, pastured livestock, and soil health.
FarmED Café
FarmED has a farm-to-fork café on site. It serves breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes, coffee and seasonal produce grown mainly on the 107-acre farm. It supports vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free options. It’s dog-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and has baby-changing facilities.
Great for combining with a drive or walk in the Cotswolds countryside: relaxing café stop, then a wander around the grounds (or vice versa).
Ideal for your interest in creativity and sustainable living: it may spark ideas for your creativity, writing or agency (given your focus on innovation). If you’re staying at King John’s Cottages, the location is very convenient.
This bakery-café makes sourdough breads, pastries, and all-day brunch in a charming village. It welcomes dogs and has gluten-free options. It’s a great place for a relaxed mid-morning break, especially if you’re out exploring or cycling.
Located in the heart of Burford, this charming 17th-century building features a beautiful garden and a cosy atmosphere. The menu offers home-cooked dishes, including breakfasts, lunches, and cream teas, making it an ideal spot for a picturesque Cotswold lunch stop. Parking in Burford can be challenging during midday, so it’s advisable to allow a little extra time.
The café at Burford Garden Co. is a stylish, light-filled “glasshouse” that offers a fantastic spot for brunch, lunch, or a coffee and pastry break. It features a modern rustic ambience with seasonal menus that cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. The café tends to get very busy, so plan accordingly. Consider combining your visit with a quick stroll through the nearby garden centre and gift shop.
In the market town of Chipping Norton, this café-bistro offers a relaxed setting with a variety of solid food options, including breakfasts, light lunches, and cakes.
Visiting the lavender fields at Snowshill from June to August is a great way to relax. The air is filled with the lovely scent of lavender. This peaceful place is perfect for unwinding. You can enjoy a tearoom and gift shop during your visit. It’s a nice spot for taking mindful photos and gentle walks, creating a calming atmosphere.
Breweries and Distilleries
Founded initially as the Cotswold Brewing Company in 2005 by Emma & Rick Keene, specialising in craft lagers. In 2021, the brewery partnered with Jeremy Clarkson (of Clarkson’s Farm) to launch the “Hawkstone” brand.
The Beer Company! offers brewery tours that last approximately 2 hours, providing a behind-the-scenes look and sample tastings. What makes this experience special is its strong local identity featuring Cotswold barley in a beautiful countryside setting. Be sure to book your tour in advance, arrange for a designated driver if you plan to sample the beers, and consider visiting the taproom or bar area for a more relaxed experience.
Founded in 1849, this traditional “tower brewery” utilises a gravity flow brewing process from mash to fermenter. Highlights of the site include a free museum, a café called Malthouse Kitchen, brewery tours lasting about 2 hours and including tastings, and shire horses that make traditional deliveries. The brewery combines heritage and authenticity, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate business stories rooted in tradition and craft. It’s also a great place to visit with family.
Established in 2014, this is the first full-scale distillery located within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The journey of building a distillery in the Cotswolds, crafting spirits, and offering visitor experiences presents several parallels to your interest in creative business, especially since you run an agency. Enhance your visit by stopping at the on-site café and exploring their shop, where exclusive bottlings are available for purchase.
Wellbeing and Relaxation Places, Cotswolds
A stay here is the perfect space for total relaxation and well-being. Guests have exclusive use of our infrared sauna in King John’s Palace, subject to agreement to our safety and etiquette policy. For those who wish to hire a hot tub for their stay, we can provide the contact details.
Located in the serene village of Bourton‑on‑the‑Water in the Cotswolds, Cotswold Therapia is a holistic wellbeing studio run by therapist Sadie Brewin, offering a comprehensive range of services, including trauma-decoding using the unique Manse Method, breathwork, guided meditation, yoga, Qi Gong, forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku), and more. From private sessions and group classes to retreats and workshops, it’s designed to support emotional well-being, help relieve stress and physical tension, and promote a positive approach to life.
Visit one of the UK’s most luxurious holistic spas at Daylesford Estate. The spa offers classes such as yoga, Pilates, meditation, and breathwork. It features a thermal suite with a steam room and herbal sauna, along with outdoor relaxation areas. All treatments use Bamford’s natural organic products. This is a perfect place for a half-day getaway or a full wellness retreat.
Thyme is a luxurious, nature-inspired retreat that offers a cookery school, treatment rooms, meadows, and gardens. In addition, it provides yoga classes, floristry, and creative workshops. With its serene and almost spiritual atmosphere, Thyme is ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life and gentle inspiration.
Cotswold Water Park offers more than just sports; it also provides tranquil wellness experiences. Enjoy lakeside walks and nature trails, indulge in birdwatching, and participate in outdoor yoga or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) yoga during the season. You’ll find peaceful picnic spots and nearby lakeside spas. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for relaxation, gentle movement, and fresh air.
Barnsley House Spa is set in an elegant country house hotel, features a boutique spa and a peaceful garden setting. It has a hydrotherapy pool and relaxation areas, along with beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Rosemary Verey. Guests can enjoy luxury spa treatments and massages. The quiet environment is perfect for adults, making it an ideal choice for couples or those seeking solo relaxation.
Cowley Manor Spa is a modern, stylish spa set within a historic manor estate. It offers both indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, therapy rooms, and relaxation areas. Guests can enjoy the beautiful lakes and gardens, ideal for peaceful walks. The contemporary design blends seamlessly with the serene natural surroundings, creating a perfect setting to unwind for a leisurely afternoon.
A historic hotel with cosy yet luxurious spa spaces. Treatments using premium products. Steam room, sauna and spa lounge. Close to Broadway’s charming high street and countryside walks. An excellent combination of heritage and pampering.
In the Cotswolds, you can enjoy forest bathing sessions, mindfulness workshops, breathwork circles, and sound baths. Private yoga instructors can come to your accommodation, making it ideal for a personalised wellbeing day while staying at King John’s Cottages.
Animal-related Experiences, Cotswolds
Here are some wonderful animal-related places to visit in the Cotswolds, ranging from wildlife parks to hands-on farm experiences. Each one offers something a little different depending on whether you want cute animals, conservation, or something more adventurous:
One of the most popular attractions in the Cotswolds is a wildlife park. Here, you can see rhinos grazing in front of a manor house. You can walk through the lemur enclosure and see giraffes up close. The park also has beautiful gardens.
Attractions include:
- Walking through the lemur area
- Feeding giraffes from a platform
- Watching penguins being fed
- Taking a train ride around the park
- Enjoying the lovely gardens with a manor in the background
This park is excellent for families and animal lovers looking for a relaxing day with plenty to see.
If you love birds of prey, this place is a must-visit. They have over 130 species, including owls, eagles, hawks, and falcons. You can watch daily flying demonstrations and have hands-on experiences where the birds fly to your glove. The focus is on conservation, and the beautiful woodland surroundings make it educational, peaceful, and impressive.
Cotswold Farm Park is a hands-on animal experience created by TV farmer Adam Henson. You can meet and feed rare breeds. Enjoy special lambing season activities, tractor safari rides, and a petting barn. It’s great for kids and fun for adults too. The Cotswold Farm Park experience is perfect for those who love British farm animals and want to connect with nature.
Visit beautiful riverside gardens that feature over 500 birds. You can see penguins, flamingos, parrots, cassowaries, and owls. Enjoy Penguin Shore with daily feeding sessions. There’s also a dinosaur-themed walk for families and nature-rich pathways at Flamingo Point. A visit here pairs nicely with a walk through the village of Bourton-on-the-Water.
If you prefer interaction over observation, the area has excellent horse riding opportunities. Cotswold Riding at the Jill Carenza Equestrian Centre in Stow-on-the-Wold and trekking in Broadway or Chipping Campden. You can hike through rolling countryside and along quiet bridleways, enjoying exceptional views while riding gentle horses.
A boutique experience where you can walk alpacas through the countryside. Enjoy alpaca walks and feeding sessions with these extremely calm, gentle animals. Perfect for capturing unique photos.
Cotswolds Partners
Once you have confirmed your stay, we will send you details on additional local partners and eateries and assist with any other planning you may need.
A Nearby Hidden Gem in the Cotswolds
Asthall Manor, located just 15 minutes from King John’s Cottage in Oxfordshire’s Windrush Valley, is a stunning early-seventeenth-century Jacobean manor house made of golden Cotswold limestone.
Asthall Manor is now a private residence that occasionally opens its gardens for events and exhibitions. The “What’s On” calendar includes Monday evening yoga sessions, workshops on sustainable practices such as soil health and beekeeping, and cultural events, including musical immersions and theatrical performances related to the Mitfords.
Each ticketed event grants access to the beautiful gardens, allowing visitors not only to attend but also to explore and enjoy the unique landscape.
General Information
- Oxfordshire Cotswolds – www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org
- National Trust Properties – www.nationaltrust.org.uk
- Bourton-on-the-Water, Family Days Out – www.bourtoninfo.com
The Cotswolds Through the Seasons: A Year-Round Guide
Experience the charm of the Cotswolds with activities suited to each season.
Spring in the Cotswolds
As the countryside awakens, enjoy the new life and vibrant colours of spring:
- Witness Lambing and Calving: In April, visit Langley Farm to see newborn lambs and calves.
- Wildflowers and Tours: Take a tour of The Cotswold Distillery and admire the beautiful spring wildflowers.
- Bluebell Spectacle: See the stunning carpets of bluebells at Foxholes Nature Reserve.
- Asparagus and Dancing: Head to the Evesham Vale for traditional morris dancing and to sample local asparagus.
Summer in the Cotswolds
Embrace the warmer months with outdoor adventures and festivals:
- Lavender Fields: Marvel at the blooming Cotswold Lavender.
- Fishing and Dining: Catch a trout at Bibury Trout Farm and enjoy a fresh BBQ.
- Water Fun: Try wild swimming or watersports at the Cotswold Water Park.
- Summer Festivals: Attend popular events like the Wilderness Festival or The Big Feastival.
Autumn in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds offer a spectacular backdrop of golden and russet hues:
- Autumn Colour: Visit Batsford Arboretum to see the magnificent display of autumn foliage.
- Country Show: Enjoy a traditional day out at Moreton Show.
- Farm Shop and Pub Walk: Explore Daylesford Farm Shop, followed by a scenic walk to one of the Bamford Pubs.
- Historic Day Out: Take the family to Blenheim Palace.
- Stargazing: As the nights draw in, go stargazing at the ancient Rollright Stones.
Winter in the Cotswolds
Cosy up and enjoy the crisp beauty of the quieter season:
- Traditional Pubs: Find a warm welcome at one of the Cotswolds’ famous pubs. Local favourites include The Farmer’s Dog, The Swan at Swinbrook, and The Crown or The Wychwood in Shipton under Wychwood.
- Country Pursuits: Try game or clay pigeon shooting at various local spots.
- Winter Walks: Enjoy a refreshing winter walk to Broadway Tower or along the historic Cotswold Way.
We invite you to join us at King John’s Cottages in the heart of the Cotswolds, where you can enjoy the culture and fun activities all year round.