Cotswold Blog - News and stories from the Cotswolds

From Leatherwork to Knife-Making: 5 Cotswold Craft Experiences Worth Gifting This Christmas

Some gifts don't need wrapping. Actually, some of the best gifts can't be wrapped at all. A day spent learning how to make something with your hands from scratch will likely stick with you longer than the memory of a random gift you once received in pretty paper.

Top 5 family activities at the Cotswold Lakes

The Cotswold Lakes provide the ideal setting for a family break, a place where outdoor adventures, peaceful moments and quality time come naturally.

Blenheim Palace: A Grand Tapestry of History, Nature, and Family Fun

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, Blenheim Palace stands as a monumental testament to British history, architectural grandeur, and exquisite natural beauty. offering something truly captivating for visitors of all ages, from the tiniest toddlers to the most discerning adults.

The Ultimate Cotswolds Family Adventure: Things to Do with Kids This Summer

If you're planning to spend the summer holidays in the Cotswolds with your little explorers, you're in for a treat. Whether your kids are budding scientists, animal enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, or budding artists, the Cotswolds offers a smorgasbord of activities to keep them entertained - and you, the parent, sane.

Camping in the Cotswolds: The perfect escape for your next short break

When it comes to idyllic countryside escapes in England, the Cotswolds stands out as one of the most picturesque and peaceful destinations you can imagine. If you're looking for a truly immersive way to experience it, camping in the Cotswolds might just be the perfect choice.

Sudeley Castle reopens for the new season

Sudeley Castle has reopened for the new 2025 season with 30 days for the price of one!. Families can enjoy as many returns as they wish within 30 days with the new return offer.

Exploring the Cotswolds with kids

Explore the 12 places you must visit in the Cotswolds - an adventure sure to delight the whole family. With storybook villages, rolling hills, and kid-friendly attractions, this region has it all to make your family break magical.

Exploring the South Cotswolds

A guide to what you need to know when it comes to the Southern Cotswolds. For places to eat, experience and explore, we've got you covered.

It's playtime at Westonbirt, a natural playground like no other!

At Westonbirt, The National Arboretum this summer, discover a range of things to do that offer a perfect blend of playful adventure for every member of the family. Everyone is invited to let their imagination run wild, using their senses as they explore and connect with nature surrounding them.

Animals keeping cool at Cotswold Wildlife Park

In the current heatwave sweeping Oxfordshire, keepers have been treating the animals under their care to some cooling enrichments.

Three days in the Cotswolds without a car

Visiting the Cotswolds, but don't have a car? Fear not! Exploring the Cotswolds car-free is not only possible, but it can be a rewarding and relaxing experience.

Celebrating wildlife superheroes at Westonbirt this spring

At Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, anticipation brims as they eagerly await the spectacle of flowers blooming and fresh leaves adorning the trees.

A View, a Brew, and Your Dog Too: 7 Dog-Friendly Pubs in the Cotswolds

With the Cotswolds being home to some of the most glorious nature walks, it would be a shame not to take advantage. The cool weather often calls for a lengthy walk to enjoy the frosty scenery, but there's nothing like rounding it off with a refreshing pint by the fireplace at the end.

Easter in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds come alive in spring, and Easter offers the perfect opportunity to experience this idyllic region at its most charming

The Cotswolds - A haven for property investment

Explore why investing in property in the Cotswolds can be a lucrative opportunity and the factors that make this region a haven for investors.

Find the hidden wonder of winter at Westonbirt

Wrap up warm and head to Westonbirt, The National Arboretum for a bracing walk in the next few weeks, whilst also discovering nature's hidden winter wonders

Cotswold Wildlife Park celebrates the birth of its fiftieth Zebra foal

Cotswold Wildlife Park has welcomed a rather significant addition to the Chapman's Zebra family just in time for Christmas. The birth marks a milestone in the Park's history as she is the fiftieth Chapman's Zebra to be born at Cotswold Wildlife Park.

Unusual Things to do in the Cotswolds

Discover a selection of the most unusual things to do whilst you're in the Cotswolds from ghost tours to bird of prey displays.

Free things to do in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire is a beautiful county in England with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're looking for historical sites, natural beauty, or family-friendly activities, you'll find plenty to do in Oxfordshire without spending a penny!

Best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples

Are you and your partner in need of a romantic getaway? Look no further than the enchanting Cotswolds, where relaxation and cherished memories await.

Unveiling the must-visit English Heritage sites in the Cotswolds

English Heritage, which cares for over 400 historic sites, historic house and buildings and monuments in England, has many properties in the Cotswolds. Here are some of the best English Heritage sites in the Cotswolds.

5 Unmissable National Trust Sites in the Cotswolds

Nestled within the picturesque rolling hills of England's Cotswolds region lie some of the country's most treasured historic gems and ancient sites preserved and protected by the National Trust. Here are 5 of our favourites.

Great Activities for Kids in and around the Cotswold Water Park

In the midst of the beauty and tranquillity of the Lakeland area of the Cotswold Water Park region there is plenty to do for both adults and children. As you would imagine, water sports is top of the list and the only problem you'll have is deciding what to do first!

The best places to see snowdrops in the Cotswolds

For those seeking to witness snowdrops in the Cotswolds enchanting spectacle in all its glory, there are several picturesque locations tucked away within the rolling hills and idyllic villages of the Cotswolds.

Family stays in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a great place for a family day out or a family holiday. So much to see and do for every member of the family to enjoy!

Find your inner child this summer at Westonbirt

As adults, many of us focus heavily on work and other commitments and somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing. We never seem to have time for pure fun, especially like we used to. But playing isn't just for kids...

The Gloucestershire Way - Part 2 - The magic of the Cotswolds

Part 2 of Philip's now three-part blog about the walking the Gloucestershire Way.

Explore the Cotswolds During Cheltenham Gold Cup Week

The Gold Cup races at Cheltenham are one of the most exciting events in horse racing. But there's more to explore in the Cotswolds during this time!

5 reasons to visit the Cotswold Water Park for a short break

We asked our Friends at Orion Holidays to tell us their 5 reasons for visiting the Cotswold Water Park for a short break.

Buying your dream home in the rural Cotswolds: Important considerations to make

The benefits of living in the rural Cotswolds, and some things to look out for when buying your dream home

Cotswold Strolls - Ilmington to Ebrington

A walk of approximately 8 miles from Ilmington to Ebrington in the Cotswolds

The Gloucestershire Way - Part 1 - Wales to the Cotswolds

This is a 100-mile walking route that travels from Chepstow in Wales, to Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire.

Relocating? 7 things you need to know when moving to the Cotswolds

What is it really like to relocate to the Cotswolds? What do you need to know before you make your move?

Your guide to camping in the Cotswolds

If you are organising a camping staycation in the Cotswolds, here is some valuable information to ensure that you have the best time possible during your camping trip

The Wysis Way - Part 2 - 'Blessed is the eye between the Severn and the Wye'

This is the second part of my blog about the Wysis Way, the Long-Distance Walk between National Trails the Thames Path, England and the Offa Dykes Path, Wales.

Cotswold Strolls - Ascott-under-Wychwood to Leafield

This time, Sue takes us on a walk from Ascott-under-Wychwood to Leafield - A distance of around 6 miles

Discovering the top 7 hidden gems of the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a beautiful region, famous for its natural beauty and there there are also lots of hidden gems just waiting to be explored!

The Wysis Way - Part 1 - Through the Cotswolds

Last year I decided to start walking between National Trails, as well as along them. This time it's the Wysis Way, a 55-mile (88km) walkway between the National Trails the Thames Path, and Offa's Dyke Path in Wales.

Cotswold Strolls - Chedworth village to Chedworth Roman Villa

Today's walk was from the village of Chedworth up to the Roman villa, a walk of 8 miles along the quiet roads.

Staycations in the Cotswolds

With the present International Travel situation where Airlines have been forced to cancel flights due to their and Airport Staff members having been struck by illness, travellers are looking at alternate holiday destinations. The Cotswolds more than offers a perfect alternative to travelling abroad.

Fancy trying clay pigeon shooting in the Cotswolds?

Have you ever fancied trying clay pigeon shooting? The Cotswolds has lots of clay pigeon shooting grounds to choose from, many offering clay pigeon shooting lessons.

William Morris and Family - Part 1 - Cotswolds Legacy

William Morris, a revolutionary writer, artist, and architectural conservationist, is credited with founding the Arts and Crafts Movement in the 19th Century.

Why not visit... Bourton-on-the-Water in Miniature?

Tucked behind the enigmatically named The Old New Inn in Bourton-on-the-Water, is an enchanting example of a world in miniature in the form of the Bourton-on-the-Water miniature village.

Cotswold Strolls - Stanton to Stanway

We wanted a nice easy winter walk to blow away the cobwebs and this one was just right. Stanton and Stanway are perfect examples of timeless Cotswolds beauty and the walk is straight and generally level.

Why not visit... Painswick Rococo Gardens?

Tucked just off the A46, north of the small town of Painswick, is Painswick House with its rococo gardens, hidden away in a small valley.

Birds, the Cotswolds and RSPB pin badge volunteering in the Cotswolds

Anna Canvin tells us about the work of the RSPB and appeals for help with RSPB pin badge boxes in the Cotswolds.

Walking the Thames Path - Part 2

Part 2 in Philip's Walking the Thames Path series of blogs.

Where is the source of the River Thames?

At approximately 215 miles the River Thames is the longest river entirely in England, but where is the source of the Thames?

Walking the Thames Path - Part 1

Having walked his first National Trail, the Cotswold Way, Philip decided to walk the Thames Path next...

Cotswold Strolls - Chipping Norton to Rollright Stones

Regular Cotswolds blogger Sue takes us on a walk from Chipping Norton to The Rollright Stones.

The launch of Cotswold Teacup Tours

Victoria Proffitt-White tells us about starting her new business, Cotswold Teacup Tours.

Wonky Food Co. to host Festive food evening

Kick off the festive season in the company of some of the Cotswolds' finest independent food and drink businesses

Does the Cotswolds Website have social media accounts?

The Cotswolds Website (www.cotswolds.org) has extremely popular and active accounts on Social Media.

Combe Mill Christmas Market - 2021

Combe Mill Christmas Market takes place on Saturday 11th December

The Cotswolds - its appeal and mental health benefits

My wellbeing and gifting journey over the last year inspired by the irresistable draw of the Cotswolds. Walking hundreds of miles, seeing thousands of sights. Touring with Mum to release her from lockdown, and give her lots of new memories. And importantly sharing to aid mental wellbeing, and using our experiences to support the fight against, and care for, life changing cancer and brain desease.

Gloucestershire Strolls - Icomb to Stow-on-the-Wold

Our walk through the Gloucestershire Cotswolds this time took us from the sleepy quiet of the small village of Icomb to the hustle and bustle of the market town of Stow on the Wold.

Donnington Brewery - A Cotswolds Institution

The Cotswolds stone buildings of Donnington Brewery are located deep within the Cotswolds, north-west of Stow-on-the-Wold, and only a 5 to 10 minute drive from the centre of the town. Some of the brewery's buildings date from 1291 when the mill was part of the Broadway Manor estate.

The Gateway to the Cotswolds

Many people know the Cotswolds for outstandingly beautiful villages but I find that many villages further South; some referred to as The Gateway of the Cotswolds can be a little over looked. So let's take a look at some of my most inspiring South Cotswold towns and villages.

Boost your Wellbeing at Westonbirt, the National Arboretum, this Summer

The past year has taught us that it is important to take time for our mental health and to remind ourselves to slow down and improve our wellbeing.

Cotswolds living here I come!

When I moved to the Cotswold in 2018, it was a move primarily to get my daughter into a secondary school with a great reputation. It wasn't until I moved in and started to explore that I realised just how lucky I actually am.

Countdown begins for re-opening of Woodstock Pool

It's almost time to dig out your trunks and swimming costumes with the re-opening of Woodstock Pool just two weeks away.

Meandering along the River Windrush

In his latest Guest Blog for the Cotswolds Website, Martin takes us on a journey along the River Windrush.

Cotswolds Strolls - Cleeve Hill to Winchcombe

Continuing our plan to stroll around the lanes of the Cotswolds, our latest effort took us from just below Cleeve Hill down to the beautiful town of Winchcombe.

What's on your dream Cotswold home wish-list?

When looking for a home in the Cotswolds what questions are you asking? What's the internet speed like? Is there room for a home office? How close are the neighbours?

A Serendipitous Cotswold Discovery

A surprise trip to the Cotswolds results in an enduring love for the area and frequent trips back to enjoy the beautiful towns and villages including Bibury

5 of the best family attractions to visit in the Cotswolds

Here we bring you 5 of the best family attractions in the Cotswolds.

A day in Painswick

A day in beautiful Painswick really inspired me. I created a summer scent blend of Clary Sage, Rose Geranium and Frankincense. The perfect balance of pretty floral, herby and earthy! Whenever I smell this candle I am taken back to the stunning streets of Painswick.

Buckland Manor Celebrates TripAdvisor Award

The team at Buckland Manor are celebrating after learning that the hotel and restaurant has just been named a Tripadvisor '2021 Travellers' Choice Award Winner'

Wandering about the Wolds

Although a very popular modern-day activity, walking has a long tradition in the Cotswolds. As a result, the Cotswolds hosts a very fine selection of ancient byways, Roman roads and drovers' lanes

Tetbury Goods Shed re-opens

On Thursday 20th May The Tetbury Goods Shed re opens and we are all very excited to be welcoming you back. It has been too long!

Cotswolds Roman Villa reveals further amazing secrets - Ad

The Cotswolds were one of the earliest places in Britain to be settled by the Romans, and that provides us with areas of historic importance today.

Fantastic foodie-finds in the Cotswolds

Susie Whitfield, founder of The Cotswolds Baking Workshop, shares her favourite 'foodie-finds' in this tasty guest blog post.

Drover Camping - Fun on Four Wheels in a Defender Camper

Why not get a camper van we thought? And, living in the Cotswolds, not an ordinary camper van, but a Defender camper conversion? Cool!

Cotswolds Strolls - Snowshill Manor to Broadway Tower (and back)

This is a nicely varied walk with lots to see and do. Start with a mooch around Snowshill Manor, then stroll through beautiful Snowshill village, wandering along the country lanes past Cotswold Lavender.

In Favour of The Cotswolds over the Côte d'Or

At first glance it might seem a big stretch of the imagination to make a comparison between the Cotswolds, an area in the UK famed for it's beauty, and one of the most famous wine regions in France, but for Candida and Graham the beautiful Cotswolds do not seem so very different in many ways.

Restoration of old Cotswold images

Brian Gibbs has been restoring some old photos of the Cotswolds, with amazing results!

Life is short, live the Cotswold dream!

The Cotswolds is currently one of the biggest property hot spots in the UK with 32% of homes selling above the asking price, with buyers searching for their new dream life.

Gourmet grazing - Picnics in the Cotswolds

Celebrated for its breath-taking countryside and famed for its fabulous food, the Cotswolds is the perfect place for a picnic. And while dining-in is out, the crème de la crème of Cotswolds cafes are going with the gourmet-grazing vibe.

Spring in the Cotswolds

One of the loveliest times to visit the Cotswolds is from March through to May. The beautiful Fauna and Flora of the lush hills arguably makes this one of the most scenic places in the UK.

Rocco the Rock Star visits Painswick - the Queen of the Cotswolds

This week Rocco and his pack visit the cozy town of Painswick, and explore a few of the best places to go with your four-legged companions in this magical Cotswolds town

Historic places to visit in the Cotswolds

If there is one thing that the Cotswolds definitely isn't short of, it is history. The area is rich in tradition and prides itself on keeping history alive with a range of museums and exhibits to visit whilst you're here.

Cirencester Adventure Trail

Walk amongst aliens, meet massive dinosaurs, have your photo taken with bears and venture on an African safari in Cirencester!

Bourton on the Water tourism charge will help fund bins and marshals

Cotswold District Council introduced the tourism charge on 8 March 2021 to spend on projects and activities in the village to manage the volume of visitors who come to enjoy what Bourton-on-the-Water has to offer.

Cotswolds Strolls - Ilmington Loop

Ilmington is a great place to start a walk as there are so many different ways to spin off from there

Six of the best independent shops in the Cotswolds

Six of the best independent shops in the Cotswolds including Cirencester, pulled together by boutique store Sassy & Boo who are champions of the high street

Rocco the Rock Star visits the very Royal Tetbury in Gloucestershire

This week Rocco visits very stylish market town of Tetbury and explores a few of the best places to go with your four-legged companions in this wonderful Cotswold town

Help! The Romans are coming!

It seems that the Cotswolds were as popular with the Romans as they are with tourists today. Rome invaded Britain in 43AD and it did not take them long to discover the Cotswolds (although the name Cotswolds is a post-Roman, Anglo-Saxon term).

Rocco the Rock Star's Mega Adventure in Marshfield

This week we feature the handsome market town of Marshfield, a particular favourite of Rocco and the gang because after completing the lovely circular walk they always get a special treat - a delicious DOGGY Marshfield farm ice-cream

UK average house price increase, including the Cotswolds

Homeowners in the Cotswolds have benefitted from the UK average house price increases over the past year, with overall sold prices in the Cotswolds seeing a 6.9% increase.

Rocco the Rock Star visits Castle Combe, Wiltshire

This week we feature Castle Combe, a particular favourite with our gang as it's just so pretty and so English

Promote your business on the Cotswolds Website

Information on how to feature your business on the Cotswolds Website and reach our worldwide audience

Cotswold Strolls - Temple Guiting to Guiting Power

Sometimes it's good just to stroll through pleasant, green surroundings and leave all the hurly-burly behind for a while and this walk between Temple Guiting and Guiting Power, two villages steeped in time, fits the bill nicely.

How to write the perfect blog post

Hints and tips for writing a blog post that engages with your audience and gets great search engine rankings.

Rocco the Rock Star visits Cirencester

This week we will concentrate on the lovely market town of Cirencester that is often referred to as a handsome town and we agree. We will explore a few of the best places to go with your four-legged companions in this wonderful town.

Women entrepreneurs of Gloucestershire

Despite the hardships & challenges this past year has thrown at us it is encouraging to see the positive approach of many using this time to start a new business or bolster an existing one. The Cotswolds is without a doubt the drawcard for these talented people to set up their various business interests.

The Cotswolds... A Children's Authors' Dream

As Authors of a series of quintessentially English Childrens books, that have been inspired by some wonderful walks with our dogs, we would love to share with you the magical, thought provoking and otherworldly places in the Cotswolds we visit with the gang.

Have you spotted a mistake on the Cotswolds Website? Please let us know

If you've spotted a mistake on the Cotswolds Website, please let us know.

The Hooley at Giffords Circus

2020 was to be a year of celebration and sadness for Giffords Circus. Celebration because it was the twentieth anniversary of the circus's creation by its founders Nell and Toti Gifford.

What day is market day in Moreton in Marsh?

Most Cotswold towns have a market, but what day is market day in Moreton-in-Marsh?

What day is market day in Cirencester?

What day is market day in the Cotswolds?

72 hours in the Cotswolds

Taking advantage of the lifting of lockdown measures during the summer of 2020, Inna Schutts decided to spend a few days in the Cotswolds, and her blog gives lots of ideas for people spending 72 hours in the Cotswolds.

Things I love about Gloucestershire

When we arrived in the UK it was my wish that we could set up home in the Cotswolds. As events unfolded we settled in Gloucester where I shall begin to share my thoughts....

Walk from Broad Campden to Blockley

We asked for people to send in some of their favourite walks in the Cotswolds. Since taking early retirement ten years ago, Sue and her husband, Tony, have become keen walkers in the area and she has sent us details of a lovely walk from Broad Campden to Blockley.

Linking to the Cotswolds Website

Are you featured on the Cotswolds website, would you like to link to us? Put one of our Cotswolds Website badges on your website

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity celebrates 'Air30' 30th anniversary year

2021 marks the 30th anniversary of the rapid response, pre-hospital emergency service provided by Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, which provides cover to critically ill and injured patients in the Cotswolds.

Why a Cotswold staycation rivals holidays abroad this Summer

Spending uninterrupted quality time with friends and family, a sense of relaxation, food and drink, stunning scenery - these are all the quintessential makings of a perfect holiday in the Cotswolds.

Become a Cotswold Blogger - Write a guest post for the Cotswold Blog

Are you passionate about the Cotswolds? Do you love writing? How about writing a post for the Cotswold Blog?

Council announces phased approach to remove 'pay by cash' option in car parks

Cotswold District Council will begin a phased removal of the option to pay by cash in all car parks across the District to protect the environment and reduce crime.

5 of the best, and most Instagrammable, wedding venues in the Cotswolds

We asked local wedding photographer Joab Smith for his favourite wedding venues in the Cotswolds

The Great Escape - City dwellers look to escape to the Cotswolds

"Let me out" I hear them cry. City dwellers craving fresh air, green fields, birdsong and neighbours who smile when they see you. Lockdown 2020 proved the catalyst for life changing decisions - lifestyle.

How far is Kemble from Cirencester?

Find out how far it is from Kemble Railway Station to Cirencester

Cast announced for new digital production of The Picture of Dorian Gray

The co-producers of the upcoming digital adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray have today announced the production?s full casting and creative team.

How big is the Cotswolds area?

How large is the area of England known as the Cotswolds?

How many people live in the Cotswolds?

What is the population of the Cotswolds?

Where is the "Gateway to the Cotswolds"?

The Cotswold town of Burford in Oxfordshire is known as "the gateway to the Cotswolds".

Where is the "Capital of the Cotswolds"?

Which town in the Cotswolds claims the nickname, "the capital of the Cotswolds"?

How many counties make up the Cotswolds area?

The Cotswolds covers an area of almost 800 square miles and mainly spans the English counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, but also North Somerset, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire.

Cotswolds prettiest villages: Best places to see (Travel Guide)

This video covers some of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds from the perspective of Sam Bella AKA The Travel Crush

How far is the Cotswolds from London?

The Cotswolds covers a large area so we will use Ealing or Paddington as our token start point and Cirencester as our destination when measuring the distance from London to the Cotswolds. By this measure, the Cotswolds is typically 80 miles from London.