Best Things to Do in the Cotswolds – 2025 Travel Guide

Why visit the cotswolds?

Looking for the best things to do in the Cotswolds? Good choice. This is your straight-talking guide to what’s worth your time, where to stay, and which villages are actually worth pulling over for. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a longer countryside adventure, or even just a Cotswold day trip from London, this guide will show you exactly what to do in the Cotswolds - from wandering through picture-perfect villages to visiting iconic spots like Blenheim Palace and Broadway Tower. You’ll find the best villages in the Cotswolds for both quick visits and overnight stays, plus practical advice on where to stay in the Cotswolds based on your route, interests, and travel style. From scenic walks to traditional pubs, and postcard streets to historic day trips, here’s everything you need to plan the perfect Cotswolds itinerary.

To top it off, some of England’s most iconic historical sites - including Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Shakespeare’s birthplace, and the University of Oxford - are just a short drive away. These make for excellent day trips from the Cotswolds, and really cement it as a great place to ingrain yourself in British history, whilst also providing an opportunity for a tranquil retreat.

Let's dive in.

How Many Days Should You Spend in the Cotswolds?

Spending three to four days in the Cotswolds is the perfect way to escape the hustle of everyday life, retreat to the tranquility of a charming village, and explore the region’s highlights at a relaxed pace.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a glimpse of traditional British villages and culture, consider staying in a nearby city like Oxford, Bath, or even London, and taking a guided tour of the Cotswolds for a convenient day trip.

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds – Best Villages and Places to Base Yourself

When planning your stay, consider the specific attractions you wish to visit, as the Cotswolds covers a broad area (787 square miles) with diverse landscapes and villages. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability at these sought-after accommodations. 

Some of the nicest villages to stay in are Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Broadway, but there are many many more places you could choose. Alternatively, staying in a nearby city like Oxford, Bath, or London is also an option, but only recommended if you’re planning on visiting the Cotswolds for a day trip.

Getting Around the Cotswolds – Do You Need a Car?

Public transport around the Cotswolds can be patchy at best due to distance between attractions and also the nature of the small villages and towns that make up the region. Having access to a car is strongly advised. If you're visiting from abroad, consider renting a car from the airport or a nearby city to make exploring easier.

Alternatively, consider taking a private tour from wherever you're staying to remove the stress of driving on unknown narrow country roads, see some great hidden gems that you might otherwise miss and get some expert knowledge on the region.

Best Things to Do in the Cotswolds – Must-See Attractions

Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most charming and picturesque villages in the Cotswolds. The village runs alongside the river Windrush, with several low, elegant bridges connecting the town together 

Notable attractions here include The Model Village, a tiny scale replica of the village itself, made entirely from Cotswold stone and the Cotswold Motoring Museum, a great  collection of vintage cars.

Bourton-on-the-Water is an excellent base for scenic riverside walks and visits to nearby villages like Lower Slaughter and Stow-on-the-Wold as it’s right in the heart of the countryside. Whether you fancy a gin and tonic at a traditional country pub or a classic afternoon tea in a cozy café, this charming village offers the perfect setting to unwind and soak in the Cotswold charm.

Blenheim Palace

Hidden in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, just outside the border of the Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace is one of England’s most impressive and historically significant stately homes. The palace is A UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Additionally the palace is brimming with history, notably being the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Blenheim Palace offers a great mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you're marveling at the grandeur of the palace, learning about Winston Churchill’s early life, or exploring the vast and meticulously maintained grounds, there’s something to captivate every visitor. The palace also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from festivals and concerts to seasonal displays and Christmas light shows in the gardens.

Broadway tower 

Standing proudly atop Broadway Hill, the Broadway Tower is one of the Cotswolds' most unique landmarks. This 18th-century folly stands proudly at 1,024 feet, and offers a unique blend of history, breathtaking views, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re captivated by the tower’s story, looking to enjoy a day of hiking, or simply in search of a beautiful spot to relax and take in nature, this Cotswold landmark is a must-see.

While Broadway Tower is the main draw, the village of Broadway itself is also worth a visit. This picturesque village is brimming with character, and just a short walk down Broadway hill from the tower. The high street is lined with quaint shops, cozy tearooms, and art galleries, making it the perfect place to relax after your visit to the tower. The village has long been a hub for artists and writers, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit that has thrived here for generations.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Just on the edge of the Cotswolds you’ll find the birthplace of Shakespeare and a town that brings literature to life in the most enchanting way. Whether you’re a Shakespeare enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys exploring charming English towns, there’s so much to see and do here.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not just about visiting Shakespeare’s birthplace, it’s a living, breathing celebration of his work. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is the town's crown jewel and a must-visit for any fan of Shakespeare's plays. As the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company, this theatre hosts world-class performances of Shakespeare’s works, as well as other classic and contemporary plays. Whether you’re attending a performance in the modern, state-of-the-art auditorium or taking a behind-the-scenes tour, the theatre experience here is unforgettable.

What makes Stratford-upon-Avon truly special is its ability to blend its rich literary heritage with a welcoming, small-town charm. The cobbled streets are lined with independent shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs, where you can take a break and soak in the town's atmosphere. The town's market square and surrounding areas are perfect for exploring on foot, with each corner offering something new to discover. There are a great number of walking tours, both self guided and private that will give you a much greater appreciation for both Shakespeare and this small town.

Outdoor Things to Do in the Cotswolds – Nature, Walks and Wildlife

Cotswold wildlife park 

The Cotswolds is home to an amazing wildlife park, with a great range of animals from all over the world including a petting zoo, this is one of the best attractions in the Cotswolds for adults and children alike. The park is run by a charity (like most zoos in the UK) and supports several international conservation projects aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. The park also provides great opportunities for education about wildlife, with informative talks, demonstrations and workshops throughout the year.

The enormous grounds and great range of animals mean that visiting the park is likely to be a full day affair, you can find out more about the animals that the park look after, but some of the highlights include giraffes, lions, and penguins, check out this live penguin cam!

Hikes and walks

The Cotswolds is home to some of England’s most pristine countryside. This coupled with the large number of beautiful villages worth visiting, makes a country walk through the Cotswolds a fantastic way to spend a day. 

There are several hikes or walks that you could go on, just pick 2 villages and pick a route (just watch out for areas with little to no service if relying on google maps). 

The most prestigious trail in the Cotswolds is the Cotswold Way. This 102 mile stretch starts in Chipping Campden, winds through several scenic villages (including Broadway!) and ends in Bath. The trail can be broken into many small stretches between distinct villages, each a few miles long; depending on your appetite for adventure and long walks, any leg of this journey would be a great way to spend some time in the idyllic countryside.

Top Day Trips from the Cotswolds – What’s Nearby and Worth Visiting

One of the beautiful things about the cotswolds is that whilst you’re escaping the buzz of everyday life and roleplaying as the latest Bridgerton cast member, you’re only a stone’s throw away from some of the historically significant places nearby.

Roman Baths

The Roman Baths offer a fascinating insight into life during the Roman Empire, and can be found in the city of Bath, at the very southern edge of the Cotswolds.

The Baths are one of the most popular and historically significant attractions in the UK, partially due to their age (built around 70 AD) but also for how well preserved the site is compared to others around the globe. This ancient site was built around 70 AD and was once used for public bathing, socializing, and religious rituals. 

Visitors can explore the Great Bath, a large pool fed by the natural hot springs, as well as the surrounding rooms and the impressive ruins of the ancient bathhouse. There is also a museum that you can explore which contains a great number of artifacts from the time period and much more information than can be put into one article.

The Roman Baths provide an unparalleled opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Roman Britain. The combination of ancient architecture, fascinating artifacts, and interactive displays makes it an educational and captivating experience for all ages. There are a large number of private, guided tours of the baths along with the rest of the city at large. 

For more information about the Roman Baths, and a full guide to Bath - check out our guide!

Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a monument riddled with mystery. Standing for over 4000 years, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK, as well as being a UNESCO World Heritage site, and only a short drive from the Cotswolds.

While we don’t know a great deal about why the site exists or how it was built, it has been associated with ancient ceremonies, notably as the sun perfectly aligns with the stone during the summer and winter solstices. Note that if you’re planning on visiting this site the solstice periods can be extremely busy so you may want to avoid those specific days.

There are several tours from nearby cities, but driving to the site is also a good idea if you don’t want to spend a full day. There is a visitor center, which features interactive exhibits and a museum, that stand alongside the stones so there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the mysteries of Stonehenge.

Oxford

Whilst not in the Cotswolds, Oxford definitely matches the beautiful aesthetic, and is full of incredible history, it would be a mistake not to come and explore this famous city when visiting England, let alone when you’re staying so close.

Explore some of the University of Oxford's famous colleges, where some of the world’s brightest students come to study, watch rowing races down the thames, explore the famous undercover market and buy some cute mementos to remember your travels. Alternatively dive in with a punting experience (think Venetian Gondola driven by Oxford University students), a river cruise with afternoon tea or just a humble walking tour. 

There are also fantastic plays hosted nightly in the New Theatre, an amazing range of restaurants and bars and so much more. 

A day might not be enough to get a full feel for one of England’s most prestigious cities, but it is definitely worth adding to your trip.

Warwick Castle

If you’re looking for a bit of medieval thrill, look no further than Warwick Castle.

Dating back to 1068, this is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in England. Originally built by William the Conqueror, the castle offers a fascinating look at medieval life with its impressive towers, grand halls, and eerie dungeons. Walk the grounds, learn about the castle’s role as a royal residence, climb Caesar’s Tower and look over the serene landscapes. 

The castle brings history to life with interactive exhibits, live jousting tournaments, and thrilling dungeon experiences and falconry displays, making it great fun for all of the family. Whether you just grab an admission ticket or a full guided tour or immersive experience, be sure to book ahead! 

FAQs About Visiting the Cotswolds

What is the best time to visit the Cotswolds?

The best time to visit the Cotswolds is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–early November), when the weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner. Summer is the most popular season but also the busiest, while winter is quiet and cozy but with limited daylight and opening hours.

Can you visit the Cotswolds without a car?

Yes, you can visit the Cotswolds without a car, but it's challenging. Public transport is limited between villages. The easiest way to explore without driving is by joining a guided day tour from London, Oxford, or Bath.

How many days do you need in the Cotswolds?

You need at least 3 days in the Cotswolds to explore multiple villages, enjoy countryside walks, and take nearby day trips. A single-day visit is possible but will only give you a small taste of the region.

What are the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds?

The best villages in the Cotswolds include Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, Broadway, Lower Slaughter, and Stow-on-the-Wold. These offer classic architecture, riverside views, and plenty of local charm.

Where is the best place to stay in the Cotswolds?

The best places to stay in the Cotswolds are central villages like Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, or Bourton-on-the-Water. For day-trippers, Oxford and Bath are excellent base cities.

Is the Cotswolds family friendly?

Yes, the Cotswolds is family-friendly, with attractions like the Cotswold Wildlife Park, model villages, and easy countryside trails. Many pubs and tearooms are child-friendly, and some B&Bs cater specifically to families.

Is the Cotswolds expensive to visit?

Visiting the Cotswolds can be affordable or luxurious depending on your choices. While some hotels and restaurants are high-end, there are plenty of budget-friendly B&Bs, free walking routes, and public attractions.

What should I pack for a trip to the Cotswolds?

For a Cotswolds trip, pack comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, layers for changing weather, and a phone with offline maps. If you're driving, bring a physical map just in case - mobile signal can drop in rural areas.