A Guide to the Cotswolds
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The Cotswolds are a group of beautiful villages in the counties of Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire. The Cotswolds are famous for its picturesque villages, stone buildings and stunning countryside. I love visiting there as its one of the most beautiful places in the UK.
Burford
The first place I visited was Burford, A charming town that has the High street running through the centre. I have been to Burford many times and love the gift shops, cafes and traditional pubs. The high street was built on a hill with the River Windrush at the bottom. From the top of the hill the views of the Cotswolds are picturesque. As I explored the village I wandered through some of the side streets to find quaint cottages and gardens, some of the gardens were open for visitors to walk around and explore.
In Burford there are lots of antique shops and gift shops selling a wide range of beautiful pieces. there is also an old fashioned sweet shop that I couldn’t resist! There are plenty of tea rooms and pubs to get something to eat and drink. I can recommend The Bay Tree for lunch or Huskins for Afternoon tea.
Nearby there is the Cotswold wild life park a firm favourite for all the family and brings back many childhood memories.
Bourton-on-the-Water
A quaint village that is has the river Windrush winding through it. It is beautiful to explore, surrounded by picturesque cottages and gardens. Bourton-on-the-Water is known for its low foot bridges which were built between 1654 and 1953, that are throughout the village.
Something that is very popular in Bourton-on-the-Water is the Model village. Previous landlord to the Old New Inn created it in the 1930’s. This is a replica of the village and every time a new cafe or shop is owned in the village the model village is updated.
Another place to visit in Bourton-on-the-water is the Cotswold Perfumery, it was established in 1966 and has been making perfumes for over 50 years. They you can also take a class in making Perfumes but make sure you book in advance.
Chipping Norton
This market town is well known as a producer of wool. more recently it has become know for Diddley Squat Farm that opened in 2020 and is owned by Jeremy Clarkson. Selling handmade honey, jams candles and lots more.
There are a number of lovely places to eat in Chipping Norton, I can recommend the Blue Boar for a traditional Sunday roast. But there are lots of other great pubs and cafes.
Chipping Norton is the start of the Cotswold Way, A walking trail that ends in Bath, that is 102 miles long. With beautiful views of the British countryside.
Moreton-in-Marsh
A 10 minute drive from Chipping Norton is Moreton-in-Marsh. A market town situated on the Fosse Way, (a Roman road, that was built by the Romans). I stopped at a tea room for a cream tea at Rixy’s, which was delicious. There are lots of local shops that I really enjoyed exploring.
Visiting the Cotswolds is a perfect way to spend the weekend. There is something there for everyone. a good mix of family activities or a leisurely break away. There are lots of lovely restaurants, tea shops or traditional pubs. You can also enjoy sometime exploring the local shops. I would highly recommend a visit to the Cotswolds if you get a chance. x
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