best cotswolds places to visit

The Cotswolds: The 20 Best Places To Visit

The Cotswolds epitomise the very best of the English countryside: gorgeous villages of honey-coloured stone nestling in the hills, surrounded by green fields that have been farmed for centuries.

Covering over 2,000 square kilometres and the second largest protected landscape in England, visitors to the Cotswolds will be spoilt for choice with things to see and do.

Here’s our list of twenty of the best places to enjoy if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in this beautiful part of the country.

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One of the principal towns in the Cotswolds, Burford sits on the River Windrush eighteen miles to the west of Oxford.

Its high street of golden stone buildings is typical of the area. Notable landmarks include the Grade I listed parish church of St John the Baptist, the beautiful Burford Priory and the 16th century Tolsey building, once a meeting place for medieval merchants and now home to a museum charting the town’s history.

Burford is a great location for shoppers, with a treasure trove of antiques shops and up-market boutiques. After flexing your credit card, why not take a break in one of its excellent restaurants and spend the night at a historic inn.

2. Castle Coombe

Not one of the more famous Cotswolds villages – which reduces the number of tourists – but one of the prettiest.

Castle Coombe is one of several Wiltshire villages in this list. It is divided into two main areas: the By Brook next to the river, and Upper Castle Coombe, on higher ground to the east.

The village has a collection of picturesque landmarks including a market cross, two water pumps and a parish church with what is reputed to be one of the oldest working clocks in England. There is also a luxury hotel and a golf course, and on the edge of the village something a little different – the Castle Combe racing circuit, where you can try out different vehicles or test the limits of your own.

3. Cirencester

Lying on the lower slopes of the Cotswold Hills, Cirencester is sometimes referred to as the “Capital of the Cotswolds”.  It has been an important town for centuries and the local Corinium museum traces its long history through artefacts including Anglo-Saxon gold, Roman mosaics and medieval sculptures.

Visitors with some time to spare should head west to Cirencester Park, the country house of Earl Bathurst, to view its collections of art and spectacular gardens. As well as the pleasant walks and grottoes, the park contains the tallest yew hedge in England. The million tons of clippings produced by its annual pruning are used in the manufacture of drugs to treat cancer.

4. Upper and Lower Slaughter

As well as having the most interesting names in the Cotswolds (Slaughter is actually derived from the ancient English word for muddy), Upper and Lower Slaughter are amongst the area’s most beautiful villages. They are also extremely old: they were mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086.

Both Slaughters lie on the banks of the tiny river Eye, a tributary of the Windrush. A ford crosses the water at its widest point and several stone footbridges connect the two sides of the communities. Amongst the historic buildings are the Old Mill at Lower Slaughter, now open to the public and housing a museum, tea room and gift shop. There is limited parking  in the villages, but they are easily reached on foot via a pleasant stroll from Bourton-on-the-Water.

5. Bourton-On-The-Water

As its name suggests, Bourton lies on a river, the Windrush, which meanders its way through the heart of the village flanked by long, wide greens. The several bridges which arch across the water have given Bourton its nickname of “The Venice of the Cotswolds”.

The river is at the heart of village life and provides the unlikely venue for an annual game of medieval football. Both the goals are placed in the river itself, making this the wettest  football match you’re ever likely to see. Year-round attractions include a one-ninth scale model of the village (complete with its own model village), the Cotswold Motoring Museum, and Birdland Park and Gardens, home to avian life from penguins through to parrots.

6. Chipping Norton

Fondly known as “Chippy” to the locals, Chipping Norton still runs much as it has since the 13th century. Unlike some of its neighbours it remains a ‘real’ town, not yet overshadowed by the demands of tourism.

There has been a market here since the 13th century, while the 15th century saw the town thrive with the profits of the wool trade. The great church of St Mary, with its richly decorated interiors, provides evidence of its former wealth and status.

Even older than the church and market are the Rollright Stones, an ancient megalithic stone circle just to the north of the village. The circle is comprised of three monuments known as the King’s Stone, the King’s Men and the Whispering Knights. Legend has it that a local witch petrified the king and his men when the king failed a challenge, and that the King’s Stone comes to life when the church clock strikes midnight.

7. Winchcombe

A haven for walkers, Winchcombe sits on no fewer than seven different long-distance footpaths: the Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire Way, Wychavon Way, Windrush Way, Warden’s Way, St Kenelm’s Way and St Kenelm’s Trail. Keen ramblers should visit in May when the town holds its annual walking festival.

For lovers of locomotives, Winchcombe also has a station on the restored heritage Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Nearby Sudeley Castle (shown above) with its nine beautiful gardens is well worth a visit, but check the website before you go: it remains a private residence and is only open to visitors at particular times of the year.

8. Broadway

Sometimes referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds”, Broadway’s pretty high street is lined with a variety of shops and cafés and is known as a centre for arts and antiques. Visitors planning to stay in the town will find a variety of accommodation, including the grand Lygon Arms, a historic inn dating back to the 17th century.

As well as plenty of places to eat and shop, Broadway offers two museums, the Ashmoleon and the Gordon Russell Museum, dedicated to the twentieth century furniture maker. Just outside the village the imposing Broadway Tower has a long and fascinating history. Used in its time as a beacon, a residence for famous artists, and a wartime look-out point, it is today open to visitors. Climb to the top to enjoy stunning views of the Cotswold scenery.

9. Moreton-in-Marsh

One of the Cotswold towns to be served by its own railway station, pretty Moreton-in-Marsh has a small high street lined with golden-coloured buildings. A handful of antiques, craft and gift shops are supplemented by several good cafés and hotels.

The nearby Batsford Arboretum houses England’s largest private collection of trees and shrubs, as well as glass and woodturning studios where visitors can observe the craftspeople at work. The venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including photography workshops and treasure hunts.

10. Stow-on-the-Wold

The small market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is thought to have originated as an Iron Age fort. In later centuries several fairs were established there and the large market square that still stands at its centre testifies to its former importance to regional trading.

Today, Stow has many fine antique shops, art galleries and crafts shops. A farmer’s market is held in the town square on the second Thursday of every month, and May and October see hundreds of visitors arrive for the Gypsy Horse Fair, held in open fields just ten minutes’ walk from the town centre.

The picture postcard village of Bibury lies on the banks of the river Coln in Gloucestershire. Named “the most beautiful village in England” by the famous designer and artist William Morris, perhaps Bibury’s most photographed cottages are those found at Arlington Row.  These were once the homes of weavers and wool was washed there before being taken to nearby Arlington Mill. In recent times they have been used as locations for television series and films including  Stardust and  Bridget Jones’s Diary.

This is a village to look at and enjoy. There is little in the way of amenities, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier spot to while away a quiet afternoon.

12. Cricklade

Everything you need to know about Cricklade can be summed up by the town’s Latin motto, i n loco delicioso -“in a pleasant place”.

Founded in the ninth century, today its main claim to fame is its large nature reserve, North Meadow. Here, the unique habitat formed by the regular winter flooding of the rivers Thames and Churn provides a home for eighty per cent of England’s snake’s head fritillaries – a pretty, purple flower which blooms in late April to early May.

In June, the annual Cricklade Festival welcomes thousands of visitors from across the region to enjoy a day of free entertainment including live music, dancers, magicians and puppet shows.

13. Tetbury

Tetbury’s history as an important market for the Cotswold wool and yarn trade has shaped one of those eccentric traditions beloved of English provincial life – the annual Tetbury Woolsack Races. Participants carry a 60 pound sack of wool up and down the steeply sloping Gumstool Hill to raise money for good causes. Visit on the last Monday of May to join the thousands of spectators cheering them on.

Both Charles, the Prince of Wales and Anne, the Princess Royal have estates near Tetbury. You can sample some of the produce from the former in the town’s own Highgrove Shop. Whilst in the town centre be sure to check out the historic market hall and the “Chipping Steps”, once home to a medieval jobs fair.

14. Malmesbury

The market of Malmesbury in Wiltshire lies in the southern reaches of the Cotswolds. It is perhaps best known for its ancient abbey which provides the resting place for Athelstan, grandson of Alfred the Great and the first king to rule the whole of England. The abbey guest house was constructed in 1220 and now houses The Old Bell, which claims to be the oldest hotel in the country.

The last two weeks of August see the Malmesbury carnival come to town, with the finale procession held on the first Saturday in September. Over thirty events take part around the carnival itself, including a recent attempt to break the world record for the largest pillow fight.

15. Stanton

Built almost completely of golden Cotswold stone, Stanton is considered to have some of the most distinguished architecture of any of the Cotswold villages. Its parish church, St Michael’s and All Angels, is a Grade I listed building with the oldest parts dating back to 1200. Other notable buildings include the Elizabethan Old Manor Farmhouse and Stanton Court, a manor house built early in the seventeenth century.

The 102 mile footpath, the Cotswold Way, runs through Stanton. Visitors climbing the steep hill from the village to the Mount Inn will be rewarded with a real fire in winter and spectacular views from the terrace in summer.

16. Cheltenham

Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, the elegant Regency town of Cheltenham has been a spa resort ever since its mineral springs were discovered in 1716.

The town is a great destination for culture vultures. Its main museum and art gallery, the Wilson, hosts regular exhibitions and events throughout the year, while music lovers can sample from three regular festivals – the Cheltenham Music Festival, Jazz Festival and the somewhat more niche Ukelele Festival of Great Britain.

For sports lovers, the Cheltenham Cricket Festival features Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, whilst March sees Cheltenham Racecourse host yet another Cheltenham Festival, the National Hunt horseracing meeting.

17. Chipping Campden

Another of the Cotswold towns to have a rich history in the wool trade, today Chipping Campden is a popular destination for tourists looking to sample its independent shops, cafés and restaurants. Cultural attractions include a literary and music festival, while there are many pleasant walks through the town and surrounding countryside.

Chipping Campden has hosted the annual Olimpick Games since 1612, with sports including the painful skin-kicking, the destructive piano smashing, and the inexplicable “dwile flonking”, involving two teams of dancers and a wet rag. Fireworks, a torch-lit procession and dancing mark the end of the festivities, which take place on the Friday after the Spring Bank Holiday.

18. Northleach

Founded in the eighth century, the small market town of Northleach near Cheltenham has  a population of fewer than 2,000 people. The compact town centre has changed little in over 500 years: small alleys lined with half-timbered houses lead off the marketplace, and it is rumoured that a maze of tunnels and vaults lie beneath the streets.

Most of the shops in Northleach are independently owned and offer everything from bread and cakes to dolls houses and music boxes. Visitors looking to extend their stay will find a good selection of accommodation, pubs and restaurants.

19. Snowshill

The tiny village of Snowshill, with its fewer than 200 inhabitants, makes up for in beauty what it lacks in size. It is also one of the most fragrant of the Cotswold villages, home to 35 acres of lavender fields at Snowshill Lavender. Visitors to the farm can purchase lavender products, plants and local crafts.

Just outside the village lies Snowshill Manor, built in the 16th century and now owned by the National Trust. Built in Cotswold stone, it is notable for housing the collection of one of  its former owners, Charles Paget Wade. Wade’s tastes were nothing if not eclectic, and visitors can view objects including alarm clocks, toys, musical instruments and 26 sets of Japanese samurai armour.

Our list closes with something a little different…

The otherwise unassuming town of Bladon is notable for one reason: it is the resting place of probably the most famous Englishman of the past 100 years, wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Generations of Churchills lie in the small churchyard of St Martin’s. Winston’s wife, Clementine, who died twelve years after her husband is buried in the same grave.

Now that we’ve whet your appetite for the Cotswolds, why not take a look at our gallery of ten stunning Cotswolds cottages.

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30 Best Places in the Cotswolds To Visit – Don’t Miss No. 9!

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Wondering where to go in the C otswolds ? With its scenic walks, picturesque villages, quaint tea shops and bags of history, it’s little wonder travellers flock from far and wide to soak up this little patch of heaven in Southern England . In this guide, I’m going to share all the best places to visit in the Cotswold to help you plan the perfect trip.

COTSWOLDS ESSENTIALS Rough Guides The Cotswolds Accommodation:  Booking.com Car hire – Rentalcars.com

Cotswolds places to visit – handy map

The Cotswolds is an area surrounded by the Cotswolds Hills. It spans Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, South Warwickshire and Somerset. It reaches Bath , Cheltenham and almost to Oxford . Driving from one end to the other would take two hours but you could spend weeks spotting all the famous attractions along the way. Driving from London to the Cotswolds takes around two hours.

To get a better idea, see this map of the best Cotswold destinations:

This post is designed to give you inspo about some of the beautiful places to go in the Cotswolds but if you’re looking for itineraries and how to plan a trip, head over to my Cotswold weekend itinerary . If you’re on a tight schedule check out my Cotswold day trip itinerary . For the most idyllic locations, read my guide to the 20 most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds !

Best places to go in the Cotswolds

With no further ado, here are the most beautiful places in the Cotswolds including towns, villages, stately houses, gardens, landmarks and other points of interest. From hidden UK gems to major tourist attractions, here are the highlights…

1. Arlington Row

This adorable row of Cotswold cottages dates back to the 1300s. They were originally built for the storage of wool belonging to the nearby monastery but, several centuries later, were converted into homes for the weavers. They’re still lived in by locals today (who I doubt still work in weaving) apart from Number 9 which can be booked as a holiday cottage. You can book on the National trust website from £800pn (ouch!). Fun facts about Arlington Row :

• The Arlington Row houses feature in British passports alongside Big Ben and the White Cliffs of Dover. Weirdly, they’re painted blue in the image. As you can see here, they’re definitely not blue.
• Apparently, a resident with a bright yellow sports car was pressured into getting rid of it because it was spoiling peoples’ photos!

Arlington Row puts Bibury on the map but don’t just snap the pretty cottages and leave. Quaint Bibury is a beautiful Cotswold destination in its own right, described by William Morris as the most beautiful village in all of England.

When in Bibury, make a stop at William Morris Tea Room filled with quirky clutter and homemade cakes. Other things to do in Bibury include crossing the River Coln by footbridge, seeing wildlife in the National Trust Wildfowl Reserve and sampling local delicacy, trout, at Bibury Trout Farm.

Another of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds is Tetbury, a civil parish with 1,300 years of history built on the site of an ancient hill fort. Tetbury is known for its antique shops and bizarre emblem of a dolphin (apparently – it looks more like an evil sea monster to me!). These quirky decorations can be found dotted around the town.

Tetbury is a short drive from Highgrove House & Gardens, the official residence of Princes Charles.

Read next: Things to do in Tetbury

4. Moreton-in-Marsh

Pretty Moreton-in-Marsh is one of the best places to go in the Cotswolds because you can experience all the charm of the region yet it’s never as crowded as Bourton-on-the-Water. With over 1,000 years of history dating back to Saxon times, Moreton is brimming with history: you can still see the building where King Charles I hid during the Civil War. Don’t miss the Curfew Tower with its original clock and bell as well as Redesdale Hall holding regular antique markets. After a couple of hours on your feet, stop at cute tea shops including The Marshmallow .  You won’t find anywhere more picturesque than this cafe, or anywhere with better cakes! For a luxurious place to stay, check out the White Heart Royal for £200pn . This 4* star hotel is inside an old 17th-century coaching inn. For the best place to stay on a budget, the Swan Inn has rooms from £80 .

Tip – if you don’t want to drive, Moreton is one of the easiest places to reach by train. From there, you can book on a Cotswolds day tour .

5. Chipping Campden

Between Moreton-in-Marsh and Broadway is Chipping Campden , a quaint market town in the Cotswolds with buckets of history and buildings made of golden Cotswold stone. Nearby is Hidcote Manor Gardens, known as one of the UK’s best ‘arts and crafts gardens’ with rooms of manicured hedges and landscaped gardens. In Chipping Campden, you can learn about the history of the region through crafts and paintings at The Court Barn , and silk goods at the Silk Mill . There are plenty of places to stay in Chipping Campden .

6. Broad Campden

En route to Chipping Campden, you’ll likely drive through Broad Campden. Although there’s not much to do in this tiny settlement, it’s one of the prettiest places in the Cotswolds, in my humble opinion. Pay a visit to St Michael & All Angels Church and admire what the locals have done with their gardens. The topiary is something else!

7. Chastleton House

This Grade I listed building is just 10 minutes from popular Moreton-in-Marsh. You can go inside the 400-year-old house, wander the gardens or just view it from outside (which I did as I’m cheap). It’s one of the best places in the Cotswolds for a combination of grandeur and rolling countryside. House and garden entry costs £10.50 per adult.

8. Cirencester

Although it’s not as idyllic as some Cotswolds spots, don’t overlook Cirencester. With 20,000 residents, it’s known as the ‘capital of the Cotswolds’. You could consider basing here for the varied, affordable accommodation options. Visit the many Cirencester pubs, boutique shops, galleries, the Corinium Museum, take a walk along the Thames Path, and try your hand at watersports at Cotswold Waterpark.

9. Cotswold Lavender

How stunning are these lavender fields? This is THE most beautiful place in the Cotswolds between June and August! Entry to the lavender fields is £7 and you can visit between June and early August. The very best time to visit Cotswolds Lavender is early to mid-July when the lavender stretches as far as the eye can see. There’s also a cafe on-site and a gift shop where you can purchase every lavender-related product under the sun. Afterwards, pop in at Snowshill, another gorgeous village known for Snowshill Manor and Gardens.

10. Winchcombe

This small settlement six miles from Cheltenham has a long history and several points of interest. It’s thought that the body of Saxon King Offa’s murdered son was hidden here, and that a note from heaven was received by the Pope alerting him to its whereabouts. As a result, the body was enshrined in the Winchcombe Abbey which became a pilgrimage site, bringing money and notoriety to the area. Today, you can learn about the history at Winchcombe Museum and tour the churches (St Peter’s and Saint Nicholas). For food and drink, don’t miss The Corner Cupboard and Food Fanatics , a luxury groceries and cafe. Finally, stroll along Vineyard Street, one of the prettiest areas of Winchcombe. The name dates back to when tobacco plants were grown here after the decline in the wool trade.

11. Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is probably the   most popular place to visit in the Cotswolds. I haven’t personally been here in a while as it’s SO crowded at weekends. Still, it’s a must-see place in the Cotswolds so take my advice: swing by early then escape to quieter corners of the Cotswolds. Walk the tiny bridges over the shallow rivers that trickle through town, then indulge in the trinket shops and cafes. I like  Bakery on the Water where you can grab a tasty lunch for a fraction of the gastropub prices. Other things to do include admiring Bourton in miniature format at the Model Village, seeing more than 500 species of bird at Birdland and having a pint at the Cotswolds Brewing Company. For a luxurious place to stay in the centre of town, choose the  Dialhouse (£250pn ) . For a budget option, stay at Old Manse Hotel (£70pn) .

12. Burford

Towards the Oxfordshire side of the Cotswolds (east), pretty Burford is a real gem. A busy road runs through the main street of Burford so it isn’t the most beautiful Cotswold town in terms of location – but the attractive buildings more than make up for it. You can easily escape the traffic in the cosy cafes or go walking in the surrounding countryside. There are some fantastic walks in Oxfordshire which aren’t too far from the Cotswolds. Tip for visiting Burford: get your fill of English tea and cake at Huffkins !

Read next: things to do in Burford

13. Minster Lovell ruins

Right on the edge of the Cotswolds beside large town, Witney, is this impressive set of 15th-century ruins. Belonging to the seventh Lord Lovell, these ancient ruins have an ominous history. Francis Lovell seemed to disappear without trace, puzzling historians, but in the 18th century, it was rumoured that an underground vault was discovered below the ruins. Word has it that in the room was found a skeleton sat at a desk surrounded by paper and pens. No one has found the vault since it was mentioned in 18th-century documents, so his fate remains a mystery! The ruins are free to visit. There’s parking at the end of the lane leading to the ruins. Pretty Minster Lovell village is also worth a wander.

The tiny village of Lacock in the southern Cotswolds is regularly used as a filming location for period dramas because it’s so quaint and picturesque with almost nothing pointing to the modern-day. Clear away the cars and you really could be in the 1800s! Lacock has a few Cotswold must-sees for TV and movie buffs. Spot scenes from Downtown Abbey and the Other Boleyn Girl , as well as Harry Potter’s parent’s house from a flashback scene in The Philosopher’s Stone .

15. Lacock Abbey

While Lacock village is indeed beautiful, it’s Lacock Abbey that draws the crowds. With more than 800 years of history, it’s a fantastic place in the Cotswolds for history buffs. Founded in the 13th century by the Countess of Salisbury as a nunnery, it was also once the home of William Henry Fox Talbot who helped invent parts of the photography process. Now you can visit an exhibition on photography and its history or simply stroll the grand grounds. If you’re into Harry Potter, there’s an extra reason to visit Lacock Abbey. There are several Harry Potter filming locations at Lacock Abbey . Don’t miss the grand cloisters (shaded corridors with large windows looking onto grassy quads) and enclave rooms that served as Snape’s Potions classroom and Quirrell’s Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. Entry to Lacock Abbey is £10 or free for National Trust members.

16. Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold is another Cotswold town with gorgeous tearooms and country pubs. This medieval settlement has an atmospheric Market Square with original stocks and an ancient cross, while St Edward’s Church has become quite the photo spot due to the tree roots growing around the doors. While visiting Stow, don’t miss the many tearooms. The Old Bakery Tearoom and Lucy’s Tearoom are both known for their freshly-baked cakes and traditional English dishes. While in Stow, you can also browse the many antique shops as well as Fosse Gallery. Stay in the Porch House, the oldest inn in Britain, for £130pn .

17. Broadway

Broadway is one of the bigger villages in the Cotswolds, located within Worcestershire. It has 2,500 residents and plenty of pubs, shops and cafes. Browse the art galleries, visit a few antique shops and stop for a decadent meal at Russels of Broadway. If you’re travelling Britain on a budget and fancy hearty local cuisine, grab lunch at Russell’s Fish & Chips instead. Check out the Lodge Broadway , one of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds.

18. Broadway Tower

Just five minutes’ drive from Broadway lies Broadway Tower. The bird’s-eye view from the top is unrivalled at 312 metres above sea level. There’s also a cosy cafe once you’ve climbed the tower and explored the surrounding countryside. Another thing to do is discover the past during a bunker tour of Broadway Tower.

19. Upper Slaughter

Not far from Stow-on-the-Wold is a village called Upper Slaughter. For the ultimate picnic spot, nab the bench at the top of the hill. It’s one of the quieter places to go in the Cotswolds, perfect for escaping the weekend crowds. For me, it brings back childhood memories of paddling in the brook at the bottom.

Read next: things to do in Upper Sla ughter

20. Lower Slaughter

Down the hill from Upper Slaughter is creatively named Lower Slaughter. Both the slaughters names’ originate from the word slough which means ‘muddy place’. Luckily on a sunny day, there’s no mud to be seen, just a picturesque Cotswold village with pretty bridges crossing the steam. There’s more to do in Lower Slaughter than Upper including drinking in the garden of the Slaughters Country Inn . The streams and bridges create a Bourton-on-the-Water vibe but with fewer crowds – phew!

21. Kingham

If you visit the Cotswolds by public transport, Kingham is one of your best points of interest. The train from Paddington takes just 1.5 hours. Kingham is a pretty village surrounded by lovely countryside. One of the highlights for foodies is the White Rabbit , a Michelin-starred pub serving gourmet European cuisine.

22. Daylesford Organic

Just outside of Kingham is this garden centre and organic kitchen. Even though spending a day at a garden centre wouldn’t usually be my cup of tea, visiting Daylesford is a real experience. Not only are there various fancy shops to browse, but there’s a coffee and Prosecco bar, a dining area, cookery school and floristry events. Even though the prices may make you wince (£7 yoghurt, anyone?), it’s an entertaining place to visit. Locals come dressed to the nines to sip Prosecco and browse the goods on offer.

23. Castle Combe

Down in the county of Wiltshire, you’ll find another of the most beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds. Castle Combe is so picturesque it hardly looks real. The old-fashioned houses and little bridges built for horses and carts have hardly changed in centuries. There are just over 300 locals so during summer weekends the tourists outnumber them. Aside from wandering the peaceful streets, other things to do in Castle Combe include eating and drinking at the country pubs and cafes. Visit Michelin-starred restaurant, the Bybrook, enjoy tea and cake at the Old Stables or go for decadent afternoon tea at Rectory Tearoom .

24. Painswick (the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’)

Located on the west side of the Cotswolds near Stroud is Painswick, often called ‘the Queen of the Cotswolds’ due to its traditional architecture and picturesque scenery. Visit St Mary’s Church and wander the paths lined with yew trees. Rumour has it that 99 yew trees were planted but the locals believed the devil would destroy the 100th if ever it was planted. The church officials went ahead and – indeed – a few years later, one tree toppled due to floods. Whether it was down to the curse or a coincidence, we can’t be sure! There’s not a huge amount to do in Painswick but wandering the streets and admiring the scenery is enough. Check out the Loovre Gallery inside a refurbished public toilet! Hikers visiting the Cotswolds can make the most of the many walks near Painswick , one of which I’ll mention in a moment.

25. Rococo Gardens

Fans of historical gardens will enjoy visiting the Rococo Garden near Painswick, an impressive 18th-century garden with distinctive ornamental buildings. The surroundings are so visually appealing, it’s even been voted one of the best 50 wedding venues in the UK… If you have a small fortune to splash, of course! Seasonal events take place at the Rococo Gardens including art exhibitions for adults and discovery trails for children. There’s a fancy gift shop selling all kinds of flower-themed bath products and goodies, and a cafe with a huge range of teas and cakes. Entrance is £9.30 for adults and £4.25 for children.

26. Slad Valley

After visiting Painswick, take a 10-minute drive to the majestic Slad Valley. Of all the places in the Cotswolds I’ve visited, it boasts the most impressive scenery. This area in the west Cotswolds is intertwined with local author, Laurie Lee, who set his famous novel, Cider with Rosie in the region. Take a hike in the sweeping valley between Painswick and Stroud, along the Laurie Lee trail. Follow signposts engraved with chapters of his book. Finally, stop in Slad village for a pint at the Woolpack Inn . There’s a stained glass window dedicated to Lee and you can even see the chair where he used to sit.

27. Sheepscombe

It may not be the biggest or most exciting place in the Cotswolds but if you visit the Slad Valley, take a quick drive through Sheepscombe before heading home. This hilly village set on several levels is full of beautiful Cotswold cottages. At the heart of the village is St. John the Apostle Church and a small war memorial. As well as being only 1.5 miles from Painswick, it’s 6 miles from both Stroud and Gloucester.

27. Gloucester

Although the city of Gloucester is just outside of the Cotswolds, many parts of Gloucestershire fall within the region so you may pass through as a pitstop. By far the most impressive feature of Gloucester is the majestic Gloucester Cathedral. With 1,300 years of history and some impressive Harry Potter filming locations , it’ll blow you away. Gloucester city centre isn’t so impressive and parts feel quite rundown. I prefer nearby Cheltenham. However, one worthwhile area to visit is Gloucester Docks where there are lots of restaurants and cafes with impressive views.

At the meeting point of the Five Valleys lies Stroud, a pleasant market town surrounded by quaint Cotswold villages. Alongside scenery and walking opportunities, there are a few fun things to do in Stroud. Follow the historical trail spotting monuments around the town, purchase fresh produce at the Shambles Market, or take a 3.5-mile walk in nearby Woodchester Park (run by the National Trust).

30. Cotswolds walks and hikes

If you’re looking for gorgeous places to visit in the Cotswolds, don’t overlook the rolling countryside. There are plenty of walking trails in the Cotswolds , a few of the best being:

• The Cotswold Way – this 100-mile route from Bath to Chipping Campden takes 10 days. Maybe it’s not the one for a weekend trip but I hear it’s glorious with countless tearooms and country pubs along the way.
• Rollright Stones Walk – this 8km hike along a section of the Shakespeare Way departs Chipping Norton and arrives at these mysterious stones within a sweeping valley.
• Windrush Way – this 13.5 mile circular trail can be done in a day if you’re feeling energetic. Pass Sudeley Castle and Westfield House on your journey from Winchcombe to Bourton-on-the-Water.

Don’t miss my pretty Cotswold villages blog and my tried-and-tested Cotswolds weekend itinerary !

Thanks for checking out these Cotswolds places to visit!

I hope these beautiful places in the Cotswolds have provided you with some travel inspo! They’re all gorgeous spots so whichever you pick, you’re going to have a fantastic time. If you have any questions, shoot me them in the comments.

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

If you’re looking for England inspo, check out some of my other posts:

• Backpacking the UK and budget tips
• How to spend a weekend in the Cotswolds
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• The best walks in Oxfordshire
• Wittenham Clumps walk in Oxfordshire
• My London archives
• How to spend a weekend in Bristol
• How to spend a weekend in Norfolk
• The ultimate day trip to Brighton
• How to spend a weekend in Manchester
• The perfect weekend in Dorset
• 2 day Lake District itinerary
• The perfect Margate day trip from London
• Things to do in Liverpool in winter

See you next time for more adventures,

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING THE UK Getting there & around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices with other modes of transport. For buses , I use busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Pack the latest copy of Lonely Planet UK . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . See all my suggestions on my resources page .

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

9 thoughts on “ 30 Best Places in the Cotswolds To Visit – Don’t Miss No. 9! ”

I always love posts like these. It’s usually hard to find top destinations for places in Europe. Especially places that would be suitable for a weekend trip. I didn’t know much about the Cotswolds, but if I ever visit I know which post to consult. Thanks!

Your post brought back so many memories. I lived in England for 3 years and the Cotswolds was one of our favourite places. We loved Bourton-on-the-water and my hubby deems the fish and chips there the best he’s had in all of the UK! We also LOVED Bibury and the Broadway tower 🙂 I would love to go back and enjoy another afternoon tea among the charming buildings 🙂

Great photos – they make me home sick after emigrating from the UK for 6 years. I have fond memories of visiting the Cotswolds to stay with family as a child.

The Cotswolds has been on staycation list forever but still haven’t made time to visit. This post is seriously making me want to road trip there soon (and also re-watch Bridget Jones’ Diary – haha).

OMG! I’ve been wanting to visit the Cotswolds for a while now and this is pushing me even more! Love the view of Castle Combe, the photographer in me got chills. And the cozy little Inn with the fireplace, ugh, love it all!

Completely agree that we rarely explore what’s on our doostep in favour of further afield! 25 countries later and I’ve still not seen any of the Scottish Islands despite being Scottish! Your photos are like something from a fairytale and everything you imagine English countryside to be – definitely adding to the bucketlist!

Thank you for featuring Chipping Campden in your review, we are so lucky to live and work here.

lovely write up. I want to take a ay tour for photo stops only at these places. Can you guide me as to which travels can cover these. I only have a day in London. 1.Burford . 2, burton on water. 3.Lower slaughters.4. Arlington row, 5. casle combe is a must. 6. if possible St Edwards & the yew trees.

Hi Banumathi! Thanks for reading and commenting; i hope you get all your pics! I am not sure off the top of my head but if you are short of time, I would recommend a tour with GetYourGuide or Viator. Their itineraries should give you the info!

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20 Stunning, Drool-Worthy Places to Visit in the Cotswolds!

Last Updated: August 11, 2022

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Looking for a list of the most beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds ? Look no further… Below you’ll find a detailed roundup of my favourite Cotswolds towns, villages, and attractions. Enjoy!

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated with the little part of England we know as the Cotswolds.

With its buttery limestone buildings wedged into rolling green hills, the Cotswolds are an irritatingly wonderful piece of the world with  everything this silly Canadian girl dreamt England would be – charming cottages, adorable pubs, and enough ahh-worthy sights to keep you drooling for weeks on end.

I’ve had the pleasure of road tripping around the Cotswolds twice now, along the way adding many new spots to my ‘retire here with 15 dogs’ list.

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And so, I figured it was finally time to round up some of my most delightful finds around the Cotswolds for you! You know, in case you, too, want ideas on where to retire with 15 dogs.

There really are countless incredible places to visit and fun things to do in the Cotswolds, whether you’re after a quiet escape in the countryside or a more vibrant getaway with fun attractions and activities. The question of “which Cotswold village is best” really depends on a lot of factors, so I’ve decided to cover all the bases.

Below, you’ll find my favourite places to visit in the Cotswolds –a Cotswold bucket list with everything from vibrant and exciting hot spots to sleepy and picturesque escapes. Enjoy!

PS: Click here for a full list of beautiful places to visit around England !

The Best Places in the Cotswolds for a Vibrant and Lively Escape

I’m a bit of a restless traveller, so my preferred getaway is a place that not only offers swoonworthy landscapes and sights, but also opportunities for fun and interesting things to do .

The following places in the Cotswolds are ones I felt had the best of both worlds: scenic views along with plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and more.

1. Cirencester

Confusingly pronounced as Siren-sester, this beautiful Cotswold town is known as the Cotswolds’ capital, and one of my favourite places to visit (and eat) in the area.

Despite its status as capital, Cirencester feels far less crowded than some of the smaller villages in the Cotswolds, which get congested with coach tours throughout the day.

This means that you’re able to explore more or less in peace, with plenty to see around its warm colourful streets as you gallivant and salivate.

One of the best things to do in the Cotswolds is to simply walk around and enjoy the atmosphere, so eager explorers will also be happy to know that the town is filled with hidden courtyards crammed with adorable boutiques, cafes, and independent retailers, along with The Church of St John the Baptist, by far the most beautiful church I’ve visited in the Cotswolds.

Don’t miss its wide range of interesting artifacts on display, like a golden goblet crafted for Anne Bolelyn.

Of course, I have to mention that Cirencester harbours a special little secret too: a rich Roman history which you can trace at the Corinium Museum, through special plaques scattered around town, and even a quick visit to the former Roman amphitheatre (once a seating space for 8000+ people, now a leafy green space ideal for strolling).

2. Bourton on the Water

While undoubtedly one of the busiest towns in the Cotswolds in terms of tourism, I can’t omit the adorable Bourton on the Water, affectionately dubbed the Venice of the Cotswolds thanks to the scenic River Windrush which cuts through town.

Besides offering the classic Cotswold charm with beautiful houses and peaceful green spaces, Bourton on the Water wins for me in terms of delightful, surprising and quirky attractions.

The Miniature Village for instance is a wonderfully detailed recreation of the village, built to a 1:9 scale with the local Cotswold limestone, complete with miniature trees, miniature displays in the shop windows and a (very meta) miniature version of the Miniature Village which, upon close inspection, has its OWN miniature village. I’ll give you a second to process that.

If you’re travelling with kids (or are a kid at heart), this is probably one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds!

Another fun attraction is the deceptively challenging Dragonfly Maze, which mixes a traditional maze with a scavenger hunt/riddle of sorts. It’s really good fun, even for a pair of adults.

Combined, all these things make Bourton on the Water one of my favourite villages in the Cotswolds, certainly for those travelling with kids (or still feel about 5 on the inside, like me).

Last but not least, visit during the August Bank Holiday weekend and you’ll get to witness the annual Football in the River match, which yes, is exactly as it sounds….. they play football in the river. Click here for a video!

The charming town of Tetbury is (in my mind) one of the loveliest places in the Cotswolds, and if you don’t trust my peasant opinion, know that the town has some royal backing too, as Tetbury is the swanky homebase of none other than Prince Charles, future king of England.

So…. *puts on crown* you know, it’s a pretty nice place.

And while Tetbury is the second largest town in the Cotswolds, its size has done nothing to erode its charm.

A quick stroll through the beautiful streets of Tetbury and you’ll find an endless stream of lovely boutiques, including a flagship shop for Prince Charles’ luxury brand, Highgrove, and even a quirky and free police museum, complete with eerily lifelike figures that snore.

Another highlight of course are the medieval Chipping Steps, one of the oldest parts of Tetbury, which consist of a steep set of stairs lined with centuries-old cottages. If you’re lucky (and unfathomably rich), I even saw a few up for sale…

4. Broadway

As its name hints, Broadway’s starring attraction is its High Street, a spacious wide road filled with wonderful boutiques, restaurants and antique shops to rummage through and throw money at. No doubt, this is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds if you’re looking to do a bit of shopping!

During my first Cotswolds road trip, this was the first “busy” town we visited and while I was initially deterred by the bustle of it compared to the sleepy villages we had been hopping through…

However, I was soon won over with Broadways’ wonderful assortment of cute shops, like Blandford Books, where I picked up a new summer read, and Broadway Deli, with its fully stocked shelves of enticing local goods.

After a quick bite at the ridiculously adorable Crown & Trumpet, I was won over: Broadway is a busy Cotswold town, but one with a lot of vibrant hub bub – perfect for a getaway that’s a bit more fast-paced.

PS: Broadway Tower is located nearby, and it’s well known as one of the most scenic places in the Cotswolds to nab an excellent view!

5. Wotton under Edge

Wotton under Edge was another wonderful surprise on my recent trip.

Frequently missed by travellers, this small off-the-radar Cotswold town is one with plenty of surprises to offer those who stop by.

Not only does Wotton under Edge have a delightful High Street studded with lovely shops, but it also has the unexpected bonuses of charming pink-washed buildings, hidden almshouses, a heritage center with a free museum, and a fascinating 13th century inn, “The Ancient Ram Inn”, beloved by ghosthunters for its connections with the paranormal . Oooooh. If you’re looking for something a little less terrifying, the nearby Wotton Hill supposedly offers stunning green views.

Random fact: Wotton under Edge was the first market town in Gloucestershire to install CCTV. So… now you know.

6. Chipping Camden

As one of the best preserved towns in the Cotswolds, Chipping Camden is a must-add for any Cotswold bucket list.

There’s a little something for everyone here: history lovers can geek out over the sprawling history of this quaint market town, which still has its original 17th century market hall in tact for nosy perusal.

Shoppers will be delighted to find an elegantly curved High Street with a lovely assortment of shops…

And sports lovers can even make a trip for the annual “Cotswold Olimpicks” (not a typo) which happen every spring, with delightful sporting events including “shinkicking”.

PS: For those of you keen to explore the Cotswolds on foot…….. very far on foot…. Chipping Camden is also the starting point of the Cotswold Way, a walking route that spans 100 miles all the way down to Bath.

7. Stow-on-the-Wold

The delightful Stow-on-the-Wold was one of my favourite Cotswold towns we visited during my 1st trip!

No lie – this town is everything you want the Cotswolds to be – quaint cottages charmingly stacked along narrow streets, yet with an ample selection of restaurants, pubs, and shops for some additional things to do.

Especially noteworthy is the sprawling market square, once the hotspot for buying/selling sheep, and the nearby Gypsy Horse Fair which comes to town twice a year.

If you have the time, make sure you don’t miss the St Edward’s Church, which is home to a magical little door flanked by yew trees. I didn’t find out about it until after my visit, and I pretty much kicked myself twenty times.

8. Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton is another market town famous in the Cotswolds for its lively atmosphere and picture-perfect facades.

Historic buildings like beautiful Almshouses and centuries-old pubs fill the town, all sprinkled with delightful pops of colour and life in the form of fun independent shops.

Amusingly, Chipping Norton has a few ties to the pop culture world too. For instance, one of my favourite actors, Wentworth Miller (yes from Prison Break!) was born here, and Jeremy Clarkson (of Top Gear fame) also calls the town home.

And if the name itself doesn’t sound familiar, odds are you would at least know some of the music created in Chipping Norton. That’s because once upon a time (in the 90s), the Chipping Norton Recording Studios were a bustling hub for music recording at their humble location on New Street. Famous hits like “I Just Died in Your Arms Tonight” by Cutting Crew were recorded here!

Sorry if that song is now forever stuck in your head again for the next decade.

Beautiful Burford has a lot going for it: for instance, it has an elegant sloped High Street that is lined with some of the prettiest stone houses and storefronts in the Cotswolds.

But make no mistake: Burford is more than just a pretty face – this town also has an abundance of historical gems scattered throughout town, like Reavley Chemist – England’s oldest pharmacy, a medieval stone bridge that dates back centuries, and little pops of half-timbered whimsy.

We arrived during golden hour for a quick stop in Burford, but I was lucky enough to catch the town in its prime: late Spring, when wisteria season meant plenty of elegant purple and white wisteria draped across those honey-coloured cottages we love so much.

Does it get any prettier than this?  Not tough to see why I consider the Cotswolds one of the best Spring destinations in Europe.

The Best Sleepy and Picturesque Villages in the Cotswolds

If it’s a relaxed and peaceful getaway you’re looking for, then the following Cotswold villages will likely be of interest. These photogenic gems are the definition of lovely, although a bit lacking in excitement/things to do. Regardless, I still consider them some of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds for a quick escape. So, here are some of the best quiet places in the Cotswolds (in no particular order)…

If you’ve heard of the Cotswolds, odds are you’ve heard of Bibury, perhaps one of the most photographed villages in the entire country.

The scenic houses of Arlington Row are a sight synonymous with the Cotswolds name, and for good reason – they embody all the charm of the Cotswolds in a single frame.

For that reason, it has become a tourist magnet for visitors from all around the world: the Japanese Emperor Hirohito once stayed here during his grand European tour, and it is even said that Henry Ford even once tried to buy a row of these houses to ship back to Michigan because he loved them that much.

… But anyways, for those of us without the funds to um, transplant an entire village across continents, a quick visit and photograph will have to suffice. Or a few thousand photographs even… I swear Cotswolds pictures take up 90% of my hard drive.

I do think Bibury is one of the prettiest corners of the Cotswolds, but be warned that there isn’t a ton to do here besides scenic strolls, photo opps and eating/drinking at one of the local pubs. If it’s a relaxing escape you’re after though, perhaps that’s all you need!

11. Castle Combe

Nestled in a picturesque valley in Wiltshire, you’ll find the achingly perfect Castle Combe (pronounced Coom, like coom to this village), one of the loveliest villages in the Cotswolds.

With its photogenic array of classic Cotswold stone houses and bridge, it may lay claim to one of the most picture-perfect photo opps in the entirety of the Cotswolds.

And if the village looks familiar, that might be because it has featured in numerous films, including Stardust and War Horse. So, while it may not be the most exciting place to visit in the Cotswolds, I’d say it’s indisputably one of the prettiest.

PS: If you fancy a… fancy place to stay, Castle Combe is home to one of the most luxurious hotels in the entirety of the Cotswolds. We had a quick walk around the Manor House grounds and let me just say, it would be a dream to stay here. Click here for photos to see what I mean.

12. Snowshill

I still remember driving into Snowshill for the first time. The grass was so green, it looked photoshopped.

And as we glided past the honey-coloured stone houses lined with radioactively green grass, a classic red phone booth caught my eye and I was just about ready to hurl myself out the car.

Which I did, for photos’ sake… of course.

While there isn’t a ton to do in Snowshill, this picturesque village does have one main attraction going for it: the nearby Snowshill Manor and Garden, which stores the bizarre and eclectic treasures of Charles Wade, a man who sought to turn his manor into an extraordinary world away from the monotonous lull of regular life.

To be fair though, if my regular life looked like this, I would be pretty okay with that…

13. Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter

Just before my 1st Cotswolds road trip, a friend of mine told me “you HAVE to visit the Slaughters”, and for a second I thought that was her way of telling me, not so subtly, that she wanted me to die.

This is not the case. Against all odds, the Cotswold Slaughters (Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter) are both exceedingly lovely little villages that frequently rank among the cutest villages in the Cotswolds.

And while they really have no made-for-tourist attractions like some other Cotswold villages and towns in the area, what they offer up is a simple and quiet idyllic charm.

Both hugging the banks of the River Eye, Lower Slaughter is home to a restored flour mill and a beautiful bridge that makes the ideal backdrop for scenic photos.

And Upper Slaughter, which is home to lovely almshouses and a unique ford crossing, has the unique distinction of being one of only a handful of “Doubly Thankful Villages”, having lost no men during either of the world wars.

In fact, George Collett, the village’s local handyman, was part of select few who served in both.

And as for the name?  Well, they’re said to come from the old English word ‘Slohtre’, which simply means “Muddy place”, rather than… “murder”.

14. Adlestrop

Adlestrop doesn’t often make top lists of places to visit in the Cotswolds, but to me, it was one of the quaintest and most adorable villages I’ve been.

From classic cottages crowded with green ivy and colourful flower beds to the friendliest village cat named Buster, who apparently sadistically loves attending funerals so he can get cuddles, this tiny rural village (with, admittedly, no attractions for tourists at all), is a lovely little spot to admire the quiet charm that makes the Cotswolds so special.

Fun fact: Jane Austen spent some time in Adlestrop and it’s said that the village inspired her when writing ‘Mansfield Park’.

Cotswolds Attractions to Check Out

Besides adorable towns and villages, there are also several wonderful attractions nestled in the Cotswolds as well. Here are some I’d recommend visiting.

15. Berkeley Castle and Butterfly House

What’s a list of pretty places in the Cotswolds without a castle thrown in?

Well, if you’re a princess wannabe/castle junkie like me, the Cotswolds is home to the world-famous Berkeley Castle, a must for your Cotswolds attractions bucket list.

This Norman Castle has been inhabited by the same family for over 9 centuries, which is (by the way) a longer time than any fortress in England can brag about. History creeps through every brick of this beautiful property, where King Edward II was supposedly murdered, so if you want your dose of morbidity, there you go.

Free guided tours are available to all visitors, along with a tropical butterfly house and beautiful walled garden.

Plus, a visit here also means a visit to filming sites for various famous productions, including The Other Boleyn Girl and Poldark.

Last but not least, the Edward Jenner Museum is a short walk away from the castle and is dedicated to Berkeley’s most famous resident: Edward Jenner, who pioneered the smallpox vaccine that would go on to save millions of people from the deathly disease.

16. Chedworth Roman Villa

I know that Roman ruins aren’t what you typically think of when you imagine the Cotswolds, but nonetheless, the Chedworth Roman Villa is here for you if you want to get a little nerdy with Roman history!

This property (owned by the National Trust) is one of the largest of its kind in Britain, with a lengthy history going all the way back to the 2nd century. A visit here means getting to check out ancient mosaics, sophisticated underfloor heating systems, and artifacts that have remained here for over a thousand years.

17. Highgrove Royal Gardens

Just outside of Tetbury is the royal residence of the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles… and while “stopping by” sounds like a great recipe for getting stopped by security (trust me, we actually tried), we normals can actually explore the beautiful gardens of the property through pre-arranged tours!

Tours have been running at Highgrove for 24 years now, and as you might expect, the grounds of this palace are immaculately stunning. Click here for more details!

18. Sudeley Castle

Not far from Winchcombe is where you’ll find the historic Sudeley Castle, which, throughout the past thousand years, has acted as the backdrop to stories from some of the most prominent people in history, including Henry VIII, Anne Bolelyn, and Queen Elizabeth I.

Katherine Parr, AKA Henry VIII’s wifey number 6 is even buried here.

And while Sudeley Castle has the unique distinction of being one of the few castles left in England that is still a residence, it is nonetheless open to the public most days of the year, so you can come see the 10 unique gardens and beautiful rooms of the castle for yourself.

PS: a random but wonderful fact: Sudeley Castle is where you’ll find the world’s largest collection of rare breed pheasants – 16! Click here for more details on how to visit.

19. Blenheim Palace

Grand architecture, stunning grounds and history come together at Blenheim Palace, known best as the birthplace of Winston Churchill (and actually, a little known filming location from Harry Potter! ). This makes it probably one of the most exciting attractions you can visit in the Cotswolds.

As the only non-royal home in the country to have the title of “palace”, it also happens to be one of the biggest houses in all of England. The estate is in fact so expansive that it even has its own miniature railway… It’s a busy place, so it would be a good idea to get a ticket in advance here.

You can also book a variety of tours to Blenheim that combine your day with other Cotswold villages! Here’s a Downtown Abbey themed one.

20. Broadway Tower

Last but not least, at 312 metres above sea level, Broadway Tower is the second highest point in the Cotswolds, which of course means it’s a wonderful place for views.

That said, this tower is far more than just a scenic viewpoint. Beyond just a pretty spot for photos, Broadway Tower actually houses a 3-story museum, a nuclear bunker from the Cold War, a stylish visitor center, and a cozy cafe.

Other Cities to Visit in/Near the Cotswolds

Alright, now onto the final section! I want to conclude with some cities and towns on the fringes of the Cotswolds that, while often lumped together with the rest of the spots on this list, aren’t part of the actual Cotswolds proper. It would be a shame to leave them out of this roundup though, so here they are!

I had always known Gloucester for its cathedral, but as I discovered on my recent visit, this city has a lot more than just that to offer.

Gloucester Cathedral is, naturally, a highlight, and reason enough to visit on its own, but all around town, you’ll find beautiful half-timbered buildings and pretty historical streets, a legacy of the city’s 2000+ years of history.

Itching for something a little cooler? Gloucester has seen a vibrant revival in the past few years, with over a dozen Victorian warehouses near the city’s docks converted into space for a variety of shops, museums and bars. Needless to say, Gloucester is a must-see.

I adore Lacock.

*brief pause for snickering*

Okay, but really. Lacock is the best. This little village just outside of the Cotswolds feels like stepping back in time, so much that it’s a favourite among TV and film productions, including two of the Harry Potter films .

Lacock Abbey is of course a beautiful must-see, but for me, wandering around the streets, perusing the fun honesty shops in front of local homes and just soaking in the atmosphere is more than reason enough to visit again and again.

Last but not least, we have Bath.

…. I…. LOVE this city.

Sentimentally, Bath was one of the first places in England I ever visited outside of London, and I fell in love with it almost right away.

This historic city is filled to the brim with scenic streets to prance through, and wonderful viewpoints for days… not to mention some truly lovely spa hotels nearby. Add to that amazing knockout attractions like the Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths and you have a winning recipe for a weekend break. Click here for a guide to spending 2 days in Bath!

Did I miss any of your favourite places in the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are definitely one part of the world I’d never tire of visiting. I know there are plenty more Cotswold towns, villages and more to visit, so let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any of your favourites!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

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🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

14 thoughts on “20 Stunning, Drool-Worthy Places to Visit in the Cotswolds!”

I went to a few of these when I was 12 or 13 (I remember Bath for sure), but I have been obsessing over the Cotswalds lately thanks to Pinterest showing me pins from blog posts there. I’m hoping to go one day soon – it looks beautiful. Thank you for sharing – saving this for when I go back!

So many great spots to check out around the Cotswolds. Top of my list are all of those forts, castles, and villas!

This is a great list, Thanks for sharing such an useful Information 🙂

I have been 4 times but haven’t been to all of these so I’m saving this for my next visit, thanks!

I loved Bibury and Castle Combe when I went to the Cotswolds! I actually stayed in a cottage in Bibury, and it was amazing! Unfortunately it rained on all the days I visited other villages, so I want to go back and visit again when the weather is nicer.

Hi, Lovely photos of the Cotswolds… I have made some notes for future visits. I have been to Cheltenham, Gouchester , Bath, Staveley, Churchdown, and Chipping Norton before (where Michael Palin fell off his bicycle as bicycle repairman). I too am an avid traveller from Canada… older than you perhaps, from Vancouver BC. I’ve been to over 30 countries. I did count them up once, but have forgotten the exact #. I will weigh in on that later. I am tracing my family tree with a thought to going back to the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands. I got to your site by typing in Google “prettiest places in England” and got stuck on #1, the Cotswolds because I remember how lovely it was. I did do a tour of some of the Cotswolds, but it was a too quick. It was my first trip out of North America with my Aunt for my cousin’s wedding in Churchdown. We hit Gloucester and Cheltenham because Churchdown is a tiny town with nothing but farms around. We walked out to find a 7-11 to pick up some supplies only to find all we could get was eggs from the local farmers! LOL. There was a pub in the B&B we stayed in so all was fine. I jotted down some of the villages/cities you mentioned that look so cool. I am also interested in Ashton Under Lyne where my Nana was born, Manchester where my great great Grandfather was born and Sussex where my Maternal Great Great Grandmother and Great Great Grandfather were born… Roscommon Ireland where my paternal great great great Grandmother was born and Tietsjerkstradiel Friesland in the Netherlands where my Maternal Grandfather’s mother was born. So confusing, I know. Also my cousins are half Italian because my Dad’s sister married an Italian. He was born in Montreal, but his parents were both born in Campo Basso Italy. Have you been to any of these places? The Sussex ties were Uckfield & Blackboys, with relatives in Brighton and Tunbridge Wells. The Manchester end mentioned Salford, Bolton and Oldham… there were mentions of trips to Liverpool, Blackpool, and the Yorkshire Dales as well as “the Moors” . For Ireland… my Mum’s Dad was half Irish, the consensus was Cork, but on having my DNA tested, it’s more likely Donegal. I have been both places, but need to go armed with dates etc I’ve collected from ancestry. Sorry… I am running on. I just love your site so much. I am going back in to explore more! Keep up the good work! Susan 🙂

I’ve lived in The Cotswolds are my entire life, so I love seeing it pop up on bucket lists. You’ve picked two of my favourite places – Cirencester, my home town, and Bourton-on-the-Water. But I’d also add nearby Cheltenham to this list, it’s just on the outskirts of the Cotswolds, and one of my favourite towns.

I live in the Cotswolds so I’m always happy to see posts about it! Bourton-on-the-Water is my favourite village to visit here. Followed by Bibury. Cirencester is actually my home town and I’m happy to hear you like it as much as I do. Especially all the back streets and eateries.

As someone who lives in the Cotswolds I love reading up on what others think of this gorgeous areas. Love that you included Broadway and Broadway Tower, such a great spot to watch the sunset.

Wow wow WOW! What a fantastic article! As a resident of the Cotswolds, it’s so great to see other people adoring this beautiful place in the world!

Your Brunch as Jacks looks to die for! super jealous of that, I may have to pop in one day soon!

You’ve given really great info which is super helpful, and your photographs are so gorgeous! Even though I live here, there’s still more and more to explore!

Wow this is such a wonderful read! The cotswolds is jam packed of beautiful places to visit and you’ve really shown that here, and gone the extra mile to explain each one to help anyone toying with the idea of visiting this amazing area!

There is much More to explore. Lavenham, bornplace from Harry Potter, Kelsey, A fine small community, Much Wenlock, the locks in the canals like the one in Devizes. And much More as you Can see on my website http://www.engelse.jouwweb.nl

Thank you for this amazing piece on Places to Visit in the Cotswolds; I love your writing style and feel every line of your writing.

Hi there We are a group of retired Aussies presently staying in Bourton on the Water, using it as a base to tour the Cotswold over 3 days (I know hardly enough time – but you know places to go things to do ….) I have found your blog most informative and I will go out on a limb here and say the best of mannny! A very unseasonable hot September in 2023.

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The 13 best things to do in the Cotswolds

From cosy pubs to fruit picking, here's our full guide to a perfect weekend in the Cotswolds

If you find yourself dreaming of a UK staycation with cobbled streets, wide open fields and cosy little pubs, then you’re probably dreaming of somewhere in the Cotswolds. The whole thing is an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, and it’s huge, covering everywhere from Stratford-upon-Avon to southern Bath, so there’s plenty of spots to get down on your bucket list. 

Here you’ll find the likes of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and Warwickshire, so it’s worth considering what you want to get out of your trip when choosing where to go. Fancy a long, arduous hike and a night in a B&B? Or do you fancy spending your days popping into shops and cafés in town? Our list of the best things to do in the Cotswolds lists everything from antique shopping to lavish retreats, and exactly where to go for them. Here are the best things to do in the Cotswolds. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds 🌾 The best places to visit in the UK 🥾 The best hikes in the UK

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Best things to do in the Cotswolds

1.  Get all the chocolate box village feels at Arlington Row

What is it?  Possibly the prettiest village in the whole of England. 

Why go?  When visiting the Cotswolds, a trip to Arlington Row in Bibury is a must. William Morris described Bibury as ‘The most beautiful village in England’, and it is most definitely one of the most photographed. Constructed in the 14th century, this quaint row of stone cottages is as typically ‘Cotswolds’ as you can get.

2.  Visit Cirencester - the Cotswolds largest town

What is it? A town often considered t he ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’

Why go?  Like many of its neighbours, Cirencester is often stupidly pretty. But it’s also very inhabited, and there’s tons of activities to get stuck into. For one thing, it was actually once a Roman settlement (and even has one of the largest amphitheatres in Britain). This is the largest town in the whole of the Cotswolds. If you want to upgrade your stay? Sleep at Barnsley House , which has its own private cinema, a spa and banging food. If that wasn’t enough food, round the corner is uber-posh  Made by Bob . But if you’re not quite hankering for a full meal, just grab some bits to go from its deli counter and snack on cheese, meats and cakes in your room later. 

3.  Pick up organic treats at Daylesford farm shop

What is it?  Nestled between Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton, Daylesford is probably the most famous organic farm shop in Britain. 

Why go?  Founded in 2002 by Lady Carole Bamford, Daylesford is now one of the most sustainable farms in the UK. You may have grabbed a coffee or salad at one of their few London outlets, but the 2350-acre Cotswolds Farm is something else entirely. This is real farm to fork eating – meat and poultry, fruit and veg, homemade bread. Even their cheese, milk and yoghurt are made onsite at the creamery. If you want to really get stuck in, book a Daylesford cookery course. Learn nose-to-tail butchery or how to forage for your dinner. Afterwards, unwind at the onsite Bamford Haybarn Spa. 

4.  Stroll around Abbey House Gardens

Temporarily closed for refurbishment. 

What is it?  Abbey House is a privately owned country house garden in England’s oldest town – Malmesbury.

Why go?  Open daily from April through to September, Abbey House Gardens is one of the main attractions in Malmesbury – a town with Iron Age origins. A Grade I listed building, it was extensively renovated during Tudor times. However, public admission (£12.50) is to the gardens rather than the house itself. The owners are both keen gardeners and keen naturists, and they hold ‘Clothing Optional’ days throughout the year. Check this before you go, or you might see more than you bargained for on the grounds of Abbey House. Refreshments are provided at Coy Carp Cafe, so-called because diners can watch and feed a great number of the fish while enjoying a cup of tea.

5.  Go antique shopping in Stow-on-the-wold

What is it?  Stow-on-the-Wold is a quintessentially English, historic town. 

Why go?  With a reputation for having some of Britain’s best antique shops, Stow-on-the-Wold pretty much encompasses everything you might be after in a picture-perfect Cotswolds town. Small, cute and abundantly characterful, Stow-on-the-Wold was once known for its wool trade – its large Market Square once saw up to 20,000 sheep being sold at one time. Check out St Edwards Church, famous for the gorgeous north door, flanked by two ancient yew trees. It’s not hard to believe the rumour that this Fairytale-esque feature inspired Tolkien’s ‘Doors of Durin’ in Lord of the Rings. With a surprising number of superb delis and restaurants for such a small town,  The Old Butchers  is the local favourite. As the name suggests, it’s a former butchers and now restaurant, serving meat and seafood in equal measure.

6.  Get a waterside selfie at Bourton-on-the-Water

What is it?  Bourton-on-the-Water is a large village lying within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Beauty.

Why go?  Often voted one of the prettiest villages in Britain, Bourton-on-the-Water is worth the detour to see its lovely high street, which the River Windrush runs through. Little arched stone bridges run across the water, and in December, a lit Christmas tree is erected in the middle of the river. Get those waterside selfies in and check out the nearby Dragonfly Maze (an elaborate hedge maze). Birdland Park and Gardens is down the road, for any penguin or parrot fans, and the village holds a cute farmer’s market on the fourth Sunday of each month.

7.  Explore Westonbirt Arboretum’s rare and exotic foliage

What is it?  One of the most well-known and important arboretums in the country.

Why go?  Just three miles from Tetbury, Westonbirt Arboretum forms part of a Grade I listed site on the register of Historic Parks and Gardens of special historic interest. Established in Victorian times, it actually backs right onto Prince Charles’s Highgrove Estate. Spread over 600 acres and with 18,000 trees and shrubs, it’s divided into ‘The Old Arboretum’ and ‘Silk Wood’. The latter is essentially traditional woodland, whereas The Old Arboretum is meticulously designed with stately avenues and rare and exotic trees. Beautiful in spring, summer, autumn and winter (an illuminated trail runs throughout the Old Arboretum every December), this is a year-round treat. 

8.  Sink a drink at The Wild Rabbit

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What is it?  A super fancy Chipping Norton pub with rooms and a lush menu. 

Why go?  Just down the road from Daylesford is (also Bamford-owned) cosy inn The Wild Rabbit. Intended to be a home away from home, the rooms are luxuriously decked out, and the popular restaurant serves Daylesford-farmed produce. Roaring fires, Egyptian cotton bedlinen and an organic menu – it's the quintessential posh English pub.

9.  Have a cuppa at trad Tisanes Tea Room

What is it? A traditional tearoom in a pretty 17th century stone building.   Why go? Traditional English tearooms are few and far between these days, and this Cotswolds establishment will transport you straight back to the 1940s. The Broadway setting is as picturesque as one might expect, and the menu is comfortingly classic – and well-priced, too. Pick up a cured ham sandwich, a scone and jam and choose from an extensive array of over 30 different teas. While in the area, pop into The Gordon Russell Museum . Celebrating the work of the renowned furniture designer, the museum was opened in 2008 by Sir Terence Conran and is housed in the original Grade II listed drawing office and workshop. The shop stocks a tempting array of work by local craftsmen and women, including stylish home furnishings.

10.  PYO at Hayles Fruit Farm

What is it?  A fruit farm covering roughly 100 acres of glorious Cotswolds countryside.

Why go?  Hayles Fruit Farm has a history dating back to 1880 and kept in the same family since the 1950s. It started out growing apples and Cob nuts, and these things continue to thrive - but now the repertoire has increased to include pears, plums, strawberries, raspberries and gooseberries. Aside from being able to hit the PYO fields with a punnet, visitors can camp and fish on site and enjoy a (very) freshly sourced meal at their cute cafe. Try their homemade apple juicer and cider before leaving.

11.  Visit Kelmscott Manor, William Morris's countryside retreat

What is it?  The Cotswold retreat of William Morris and his friends and family.

Why go?  If it’s good enough for William Morris, it’s good enough for us. William Morris loved Kelmscott Manor so much that after his death in 1896, his wife Jane purchased the house. His daughter May spent much of her adult life there, and the entire family are buried on the grounds of nearby St George’s Church. Morris drew inspiration from Kelmscott Manor for many of his most significant designs and writings. With its beautiful gardens, barns, meadow and stream, it’s not difficult to understand Morris’s attachment to the house, which is filled with furniture, original textiles, pictures and paintings, ceramics and metalwork. Fans of Morris’s distinctive textile designs will love the gift shop (pick up a cushion or throw) and there’s an onsite tearoom, too. A must for Pre-Raphaelite aficionados.

12.  Wander around the pretty village of Whichford

What is it?  A village and its surrounding area, home to a pottery workshop, salvage yard and loads of neat spirits.  

Why go?  Head to family-run  Whichford Pottery  to see their cosy café and pick up a hand-thrown, frost-proof flower pot. Round off with a trip to local  Cotswolds Distillery  for a tour, a tasting, or to pick up a bottle of gin, whisky or - if you dare - absinthe.

13.  Get the member’s club treatment at Soho Farmhouse

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What is it?  Soho Farmhouse is a member’s club in 100 acres of scenic Oxfordshire countryside.

Why go?  Fortunately, you don’t have to be a Soho House member to stay at this glorious farmhouse. ‘Farmhouse’ probably gives the wrong idea – with a Cowshed spa, onsite country pub, boathouse (with indoor and outdoor pools on a lake), multiple restaurants, cookery school, farm shop, kitchen garden, and cinema, this is more of a resort. Weather permitting, go horse riding, play tennis, or go rowing. If it’s raining, huddle up by the log fire in the main barn with a stiff drink. The hotel accommodation ranges from studio cabins (complete with little wood burners and porches) to bell tents or even an entire farmhouse.

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14 Best Places In The Cotswolds You Should Visit

The Cotswolds is still one of my favourite areas in England to explore! Imagine, rolling green hills, quaint little villages and a huge amount of history. There are so many places in the Cotswolds that you’ll almost be spoilt for choice.

And you know what, that’s what I love most – there’s a surprise around every winding road. Over the years, I’ve visited the Cotswolds around four or five times, each time exploring some new picturesque hamlet or village that’s nestled in the region.

Now, whether it’s your first, fifth or fiftieth time exploring the pretty spots in England , I’d always recommend a little gallivant to the Cotswolds. It is a stunning place.

That being said, it can be tricky to narrow down the little villages and places in the Cotswolds to visit, especially on a shorter trip.

That’s why I wanted to show you some of my firm favourites to see. Some are larger villages , some smaller towns and some are just countryside spots, but what they all have in common is they are some of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore.

Take a look below at some of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore. You’ll have an epic time visiting England. 

Nestled on the banks of the River Coln, Bibury is a gorgeous little village that has one of the most famous streets in all of the Cotswolds, Arlington Row .

Famed for its crooked little cottages, you’ll feel like you’ve been thrown back a few centuries to a time gone by. Arlington Row is just stunning.

Though be warned, it can be a little busy during the day so plan your visit in the morning or late afternoon when it’s a little quieter.

Once you’re here, pop into the Catherine Wheel which serves up some piping hot British pub grub that I’m almost sure you’ll enjoy. Just make sure to leave some room for sticky toffee pudding.

Read more on finding Arlington Row

2.) Stow-on-the-Wold

The market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to visit that’s perched right on top of a hill.

Once you’re here, make sure St Edward’s Church, see the Fosse Gallery and pop over to the Farmer’s Market that’s held every second Thursday of the month. For a yummy bite to eat, pop into Lucy’s Tearoom for some freshly baked scones with lashings of clotted cream and strawberry jam.

Oh, and relatively close by is the stunning (Jacobean) Chastleton House which was built in the early 17th Century. It’s a great place to visit for an afternoon, especially if you want to see a historic house that has been left untouched by modern life.

3.) Kingham

Around 4 miles from Chipping Norton, Kingham is a tiny little village that has hundreds of people living there. Once you’ve arrived, make sure to pop into The Kingham Plough for a tasty lunch and see St. Andrew’s Church (yep, there are quite a few of these in the Cotswolds).

4.) Naunton

Based on the River Windrush, Naunton is a sleepy little village that’s a perfect stop-off point as you venture further towards Stow-on-the-World.  To get one of the best views of Naunton, climb (or ramble) the hill which overlooks the village itself.

There’s been evidence of a village here since the Doomsday Book recorded it as Niwetone (almost 1,000 years ago), which means there’s lots of history to soak up. If you visit on a Sunday, pop into The Black Horse Inn for a yummy roast dinner.

5.) Castlecombe

About 5 miles from Chippenham, Castlecombe is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to visit, which is split into two parts.

Firstly, explore the narrow valley of the By Brook then head towards Upper Castle Combe that’s quite a bit higher up.

Once you’re here, make sure to check out the Market Cross and St. Andrew’s Church, before heading for a stroll in this almost fairytale-like English village.

Read more: The most quaint places in England to visit

6.) Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is one of the picturesque places in the Cotswolds that’s perched on its northern fringes.

When you visit here make sure to visit the wool church as well as the historic marketplace that has been covered way back since the 17 th century.

Look to see if you can find the marker stone that signifies the start of the long-distance footpath of the Cotswold Way, it’s a great place to go on a ramble or trek through the countryside.

If that’s not your thing, take a stroll around the town and visit the Old Silk Mill located on Sheep Street and the Court Barn Museum. Set in a 17th-century farm building shows local arts and crafts that are perfect to visit, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Oh, and for a tasty lunch, pop into Badger’s Hall Tea Room who have the best afternoon tea in town!

7.) Broadway

A few miles south-west of Chipping Campden is the village of Broadway . It is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore, especially id you want to see one of the larger villages in the area.

Once here, make sure to pop over to the Broadaway Tower which was built way back in the 18th Century as a spot to view beacons that were lit on special occasions.

Also, make sure to explore Snowshill Manor, which was built in the 16th Century. Once inside, you’ll see a treasure trove of artefacts from all over the world. If you need somewhere to rest your head, check out the gorgeous and historical Abbots Grange Hotel.

Read more: What to see in Broadway

8.) Bourton-on-the-Water

Perched on the River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore ‘ye olde England’.

With a heap of historical properties (dating hundreds of years back), it really is a stunning place to walk around and spend a few hours discovering its hidden gems.

Once you’re here, make sure to spot the tiny little bridges across the river, too.  Oh, and you can visit the quaintest model village that’s been in the town for decades. If all that exploring has your tummy rumbling, pop into Bakery on the Water which we went to on our last visit.

They have the best pasties (a little like a meat pie) and buns that are so yummy.

Read more: What to see at Bourton-on-the-Water

9.) The Slaughters

The Slaughters (upper and lower) are two tiny twin villages that are picturesque and some of the best places in the Cotswolds to experience a quieter way of life.

Now, don’t be fooled by the pretty macabre name, It has nothing to do with the modern interpretation of the word.

Historically, it is the Anglo-Saxon word for mud that was used to describe this area way back when.

Once here, make sure to explore the Old Mill Museum and take a stroll between the little cobbled streets that make this place so special.

Read more: What to see around the Slaughters

10.) Burford

Burford is one of the Cotswold’s smaller medieval towns that’s perched on the River Windrush (similar to Bourton-on-the-Water).

Standing at the top of Burford’s High Street will give you a pretty good view of how many medieval buildings are actually in this town.

While you are visiting, make sure you visit the Tudor market house of Robert Reavley (number 124). It’s the oldest pharmacy in England It has existed here since 1734. Oh, and make sure to pop into the Tolsey Museum and see local artefacts from the region.

If you’re looking for some proper pub grub, head into The Royal Oak and make the best homemade pies.

Burford really is one of the best places in the Cotswolds to explore, especially on a sunny day.

11.) Painswick

Around 8 miles south of Glocester, Painswick is a gorgeous town of steeply winding streets that is stunning.

Once here, you should visit the Church of St. Mary; it was built in the 14 th century and has lines of yew trees. There are 99 trees and there is a local legend that the devil will not allow more than that (who knows why?).

Also, if you feel like a little ramble, walk part of the Cotswold Way as the footpath passes through the village and carries on further into the countryside. If you’re hankering for a bite to eat, pop into Falcon Inn for a classic Sunday roast.

12.) Tetbury

Tetbury was a somewhat accidental find whilst we were scouting some new spots to explore. Thankfully, our last trip remedied this when we decided to stay a few nights in Tetbury itself.

Perched in the southern part of the Cotswolds, Tetbury is one of those quaint English towns that seems to have a little bit of everything. 

Whilst wandering around Tetbury, make sure to see Chipping Steps, a rather higgledy-piggledy street (filled with the quaintest houses) that’s so beautiful.

For a stunning and quintessentially English place to stay, pop into The Royal Oak Tetbury (where we stayed). They have the most gorgeous rooms.

Oh, and if you’re travelling from the west, pop into  The Wild Duck Inn in Ewen , they have some of the nicest food in the area (and some of the best Scotch eggs I’ve tried). Also, if you have time (and it’s a sunny day), head over to  Westonbirt Arboretum  for a little wander through the forests.

Read more: What to do in Tetbury

13.) Lacock 

Lacock is one of the gorgeous places in the Cotswolds that actually might feel quite familiar to you?

Over the last few years, Lacock has featured in a few big movies which have been shot on the pretty little lanes (Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, to name a few).

Once you’re here, make sure to explore Lacock Abbey, the historic home of Henry Fox Talbot (the inventor of the photographic negative). Also, make sure to see the 600-year-old tithe barn and head to King John’s Hunting Lodge for one of the best lemon drizzle cakes around. 

Read more: What to see whilst in Lacock

14.) Winchcombe

Filled with Jacobean mansions, an ancient church (decorated with medieval gargoyles) and Victorian almshouses, Winchcombe is a beautiful town to explore.

Winchcombe’s origin dates way back to Saxon England where it was once a key meeting point of 5 ancient trails. Even today, these trails can be followed, especially if you’re a keen rambler. Just make sure to take one of the short trails (that can get steep) towards the Neolithic tomb of Belas Knap.

Also, whilst you’re in the area, pop over to Sudeley Castle, with its grand banqueting halls and gardens. It has had many owners during its lifetime including the last of Henry VIII’s six wives, Katherine Parr.

Just remember that it’s often closed in the winter months between December to February.

Read more: Beautiful places to see in the south of England

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The Cotswolds

Undulating gracefully across six counties, the Cotswolds region is a delightful tangle of golden villages, thatched cottages, evocative churches and honey-coloured mansions. In 1966 it was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surpassed for size in England by the Lake District alone.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real The Cotswolds. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Arlington Row

Bibury's most famous attraction, this ravishing row of rustic cottages – as seen in movies like Stardust – was originally a 14th-century wool store,…

Corinium Museum

Most of this wonderful modern museum is, of course, dedicated to Cirencester’s Roman past; reconstructed rooms, videos and interactive displays bring the…

Cotswold Falconry Centre

Home to over 150 birds of prey (owl, vulture, eagle and, of course, falcon), this exciting spot stages displays of the ancient practice of falconry at 11…

Sudeley Castle

During its thousand-year history, this magnificent castle has welcomed many a monarch, including Richard III, Henry VIII and Charles I. Half a mile…

Painswick Rococo Garden

England's only surviving rococo garden, half a mile north of Painswick, was laid out by Benjamin Hyett in the 1740s as a vast 'outdoor room'. Restored to…

Minster Lovell Hall

The main sight in Old Minster is Minster Lovell Hall, a 15th-century riverside manor house that fell into ruins after being abandoned in 1747. You can…

St John the Baptist’s Church

Burford's splendid church, near the river, took over three centuries to build, from 1175 onwards. Its fan-vaulted ceiling, Norman west doorway and 15th…

Batsford Arboretum

Created from 1880 onwards by Bertie Mitford (Lord Redesdale), and later briefly home to his famous granddaughters, the Mitford sisters, these exotic 22…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 of the best things to do in the cotswolds.

Cotswold Wildlife Park

Younger visitors in particular will enjoy this hugely popular wildlife centre, 3 miles south of Burford. Its vast 250-species menagerie includes penguins,…

Daylesford Organic

A country-chic temple to the Cotswolds' organic movement, 4 miles east of Stow, the sprawling Daylesford operation was kickstarted 40 years ago when a…

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With endless views, excellent food and natural beauty, if you’re thinking about visiting the Cotswolds, you’ve come to the right place.

There is simply so much to explore and learn about the Cotswolds, from Cotswolds museums to great historic houses, or simply a walk through the streets and back lanes within the beautiful stone towns and villages.

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From the best places to stay, to hidden Cotswold gems, the Visit The Cotswolds blog is the go-to place for finding fun things to do, places to explore and much, much more…

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The Cotswolds is an absolute must-visit for all travellers, whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for new avenues to explore during your fifth (or even tenth!) visit to the Cotswolds. Often considered the “most beautiful street in England,” Arlington Row, Bibury is easily one of the most iconic sights (and most photographed) in the Cotswolds and a hot favourite for those seeking a UK getaway.

With picture-perfect little cottages, Bibury is a charming, typically Cotswold, village just a short drive from Cirencester.

Beyond Bibury’s iconic cottages, there are so many awe-inspiring views to wake up to and capture during your visit – here are just a few of our favourite suggestions:

Walk The Cotswold Way

This National Trail is a famous walk, offering 100+ miles of scenic strolls and panoramic views of the countryside.

The Most Romantic Street in Britain

Lower Slaughter, a popular postcard-worthy Cotswolds village, is home to ‘the most romantic street in Britain’.

Check out Lavender Season

A total sight for sore eyes, if you’re visiting late April/early May to August, get your camera at the ready for the Cotswolds’ local lavender in bloom.

Warwick Castle

This medieval castle is located on the bend of the River Avon, in the town of Warwick – first built by William the Conqueror in 1068.

Looking for the best places to visit in the Cotswolds? No problem, head to our blog for our top picks and latest news.

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10 Places to Visit in the Cotswolds

Picture-perfect villages, chocolate-box houses, and a pastoral landscape dissected by dry stone walls, ancient churches, and the occasional herd of sheep: the Cotswolds is the quintessential English countryside. Peppered with market towns and quaint villages, there’s lots to love about this region. If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds , here are the best places to visit during your stay.

Bourton-on-the-Water

One of the most famous locations in the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is genuinely idyllic. Its old, golden sandstone homes are set beside the River Windrush, and the town has a real variety of activities for visitors. Whether it’s scones with jam and cream in the tea rooms or a pint of English ale in the pubs, there’s plenty to please hungry travelers here.

Families will love the Model Village, where a Bourton-in-miniature is open year-round, and the Dragonfly hedge maze is a beautiful place to get lost with the kids. Birdland Park and Gardens has flamingos, penguins, parrots, and owls, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection has a vast collection of rare 20th-century cars and nostalgic toys.

Thanks to its position on a vital ridgeway between London and Worcester, Broadway became a bustling village during the 1600s as stagecoaches would stop here overnight on their travels. Today, thousands of tourists stay here overnight to see its pretty Cotswold stone houses, browse its antique shops or attend the races at Cheltenham.

Rub shoulders with historical figures at the Lygon Arms Hotel, a former manor house that hosted the likes of Charles I and Oliver Cromwell, and hike up to Broadway Tower for a view. The castle-like tower is the second-highest point in the region, offering glorious views over the surrounding countryside and even out to the Welsh mountains, and was designed by famous landscape gardener Capability Brown.

Charming Bibury attracts snap-happy visitors from all over the world to take pictures of one thing: Arlington Row. Now owned by the National Trust, this row of terraced cottages is one of the most photographed spots in all of the Cotswolds, as the honey-hued stone and gabled facades set against the rustic backdrop make for a beautiful scene. The homes were initially built in the 1300s as a wool store, but were later converted into weavers’ cottages and are still lived in by locals today. 

Beyond these private homes (be respectful with your camera if you do decide to visit), there’s the historic St Mary’s Church where you can see a Saxon gravestone, Norman doorway, and medieval window. Plus, Bibury Trout Farm offers the chance to catch your dinner and cook it.

This market town on the edge of the Cotswolds, near Oxford, is a little-visited highlight. Its center is all honey-colored houses and shops, with excellent old pubs and hotels set inside ancient coaching inns, and surrounding the town is a host of brilliant attractions. For "Downton Abbey" fans, Cogges Manor Farm will feel familiar—it was used as Mr. Mason's small-holding during seasons four and five, and Keira Knightley visited to film "Colette" here, too. 

The Witney Blanket Hall is a fascinating museum to the town’s major trade—hand-woven blankets—and the 15th-century ruins of Minster Lovell Hall are a pleasant 2.5-mile walk away, along the River Windrush.

Another famous "Downton Abbey" filming location, there's a lot more to Bampton than the church and village green that featured in Julian Fellows' period drama. This gorgeous little village, also known rather quaintly as Bampton-in-the-Bush, has beautiful, historic architecture, some great traditional pubs, and the brilliant West Oxfordshire Arts gallery where you can see and buy works from local creatives. Don't miss afternoon tea at The Cake Element Bakery.

If the aforementioned show is your focus, though, head to Bampton Library where there’s an exhibition on the filming that took place here, and nearby you’ll spot Lady Grantham’s home and the church where Mary and Matthew were married. There are often volunteers inside who appeared as extras in the show.

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

Perfect for a family day out, the Cotswold Wildlife Park offers 160-acres of land to explore. Roaming its pastures and enclosures are big mammals and brilliant birds, from giraffes, lions, and rhino to colorful parrots, flamingos, and penguins. 

The highlight for kids will be a stroll through the Madagascan Walkthrough, where cheeky ring-tailed lemurs hop about the trees and rope swings freely as you walk among them. Don’t miss their feeding time at midday, or the penguin feeding displays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

A majestic Georgian town, Woodstock is a hub for many visitors to the Cotswolds. Here you’ll find the splendid, historic St Mary Magdalene Church, with its intriguing zig-zag patterned doorway and a musical clock that chimes four times a day (9 a.m., 1 p,m., 5 p.m., and 9 p.m.). Local history can be learned at the Oxfordshire Museum, and compelling tales from the wars are told in the Soldiers of Oxfordshire exhibit. 

But the ultimate highlight in Woodstock is Blenheim Palace—the spectacular stately home of the Duke of Marlborough. Get a feel for how the English upper classes once lived inside the palace’s exquisite rooms, then spend an afternoon strolling the verdant grounds.

Sudeley Castle

This self-proclaimed “hidden gem of the Cotswolds” is a genuine delight. Its manicured gardens and the impressive castle make a beautiful setting, but moreover, its history is fascinating. The castle was home to Henry VIII’s last surviving wife, Queen Katherine Parr, and Henry himself, as well as Queen Elizabeth I, Richard III, and Anne Boleyn have all owned, lived in, or stayed at the castle. 

Today, it’s the home of Lady Ashcombe and her children, who are restoring the castle and its grounds to their former glory. Its architecture is a classic example of Tudor building, and inside there are fascinating exhibitions, royal paintings, and exquisite antiques. Queen Katherine Parr is now buried in St. Mary’s Church on the grounds of the castle—the only English queen to be buried on private property.

Cirencester

Considered the capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester was the second-largest city (after London) during Roman times. That means there’s some fascinating history to behold, including the remains of an old Roman amphitheater that once held 8,000 spectators at a time. Today, the town is a thriving little market town with plenty of independent boutiques and restaurants to keep you busy for days.

Get Roman history lessons at the Corinium Museum, visit a craft center and gallery set inside a Victorian brewery at New Brewery Arts, and don’t miss visiting the imposing, Gothic-style Parish Church of St. John Baptist. For walkers, there are 3,000 acres of green space to enjoy at Cirencester Park.

If food is on your agenda, Kingham is the place to go. This tiny, picturesque village doesn’t look like much to write home about on the surface, but spend some time in the local pubs and shops and you’ll come home a convert. The Kingham Plough is the best spot for dinner, with legendary local producers on the menu and carefully crafted dishes. There are rooms for overnight if you opt to base yourselves here, too—it’s the ultimate retreat after a day of walking in the gorgeous countryside nearby. 

But the highlight around Kingham is Daylesford Organic Farm, just 1.5 miles north of the Plough. Here you’ll find absolutely sensational produce for sale, from ciders to cheese to freshly-baked breads—all made locally. They even have their own skincare range, so come with your credit card and be prepared to stock up on souvenirs.

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15 prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve visited the Cotswolds, seeking out the very best Cotswolds villages. If you follow me on Instagram then you’ll know about my obsession with the Cotswolds!

My favourite Cotswolds villages comprise a range of utterly charming, postcard-perfect settlements.

From honey-toned buildings crafted from local stone and flowing streams providing a soothing soundtrack, to old pubs that are packed with character and a warm welcome.

Many of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds are found across all the Cotswolds counties, including Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, and Worcestershire.

I’ve visited these areas so many times, that I definitely feel like a local at this point! The villages of the Cotswolds are definitely one for your UK bucket list and I’d recommend visiting more than once to really unearth all the hidden corners.

From the incongruously named Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter to central Stow-on-the-Wold and delightful Bourton-on-the-Water , here is my handpicked selection of the most beautiful Cotswolds villages to include on your itinerary.  

I’ve also included a map of Cotswolds villages at the end of my guide, to help you plan your route and itinerary.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

15 best Cotswolds villages

1. castle combe.

Best for: A village stood still in time

Where to stay:

• The Castle Inn
• The Old Museum
• The Manor House Hotel and Golf Club

Top tour to book: Lacock and Castle Combe – Afternoon Private Tour

This has to be my personal favourite village in the Cotswolds. Located close to Chippenham, Castle Combe owes its name to a long-gone fortress that formerly dominated the landscape.

Now, Castle Combe still boasts a 13th century church, known for its faceless clock, as well as an ancient market cross.

One of the highlights of a visit to Castle Combe is the warm welcome extended by locals. They are quite rightfully immensely proud of their position as one of the most pretty Cotswolds villages of all.

During dry weather, items such as cakes, sweets and flowers are often offered for sale by villagers from outside their picturesque, honey coloured homes.

Castle Combe has been used as a film location for Dr Doolittle, Stardust and War Horse, among others.

The motor racing circuit on the edge of the village and two pubs provide more reasons to visit. Or you can simply wander to the bridge and soak up the scenic views. 

Read my guide to visiting Castle Combe . I’d also really recommend staying in the impossibly magical Manor House – have a watch of my reel for more insight into my stay.

2. Bourton-on-the-Water

Best for: The Venice of the Cotswolds

• The Lansdowne Guest House
• The Old New Inn
• The Lamb Inn

Top tour to book: Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds

Few planning a Cotswolds itinerary would miss Bourton-on-the-Water off their list. It’s widely regarded as one of the best places in the Cotswolds to visit – and I can see why.

This pretty spot spans the River Windrush, and is famed for its series of low bridges. Bourton has an interesting selection of independent shops, and also has several places of interest to its name.

I’d recommend a visit to the Model Village, which is a scaled replica and dates from the 1930s. While at Birdland, kids and adults alike can fawn over the likes of owls, parrots and King penguins.

Bourton is also home to the Cotswolds Motoring Museum, with its displays of vintage and toy vehicles.

Once a year, during summer, the village hosts a football match played in the shallow waters of the river. It’s a local tradition that has been followed for well over a century.

Have a read of my guide to visiting Bourton-on-the-Water .

Best for: History

• The Angel at Burford
• The Bay Tree Hotel
• The Highway Inn

Top tour to book: Cotswolds: Walks and Villages Guided Tour

Positioned around 20 miles from both Oxford and Cheltenham, Burford is sometimes described as the gateway to the southern part of the Cotswolds.

It is also located on the River Windrush, but this time the waters are found at the bottom of the sloping high street.

I adore all the quaint little shops and cafés dotted around the village, plus Burford is where you can find England’s oldest pharmacy. Established in 1734, Reavley’s is still thriving.

This is one of the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds for historians, as St John’s church has a memorial to one of Henry VIII’s barber surgeons. 

There is also the Tolsey Museum, housed in a 16th century building. Annually, Burford hosts Levellers Day, commemorating the three radicals who were executed in the churchyard here.

Personally, I’d recommend settling into one of the cosy cafés and watching the world go by. Read more tips in my Burford travel guide .

4. Lower Slaughter

Best for: The most romantic street in England

• The Slaughters Manor House
• The Slaughters Country Inn
• Mill Stream Cottage

Top tour to book: Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Tour

Although its name can sound rather brutal, the term ‘slaughter’ has its roots in the Old English term for the wet, muddy lands by the River Eye on which this Gloucestershire village stands. There are two footbridges spanning the waters.

The River Eye is actually a tributary of the River Windrush, that runs through Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water .

It’s possible to walk from Bourton to both Lower and Upper Slaughter, which can make your visit easier as there isn’t a huge amount of parking in either village. 

I managed to find a little spot in a layby on the side of the road, but I definitely got lucky there!

The mill in Lower Slaughter is listed in the 1086 Domesday Book. The Old Mill is now open to the public as a museum.

While there isn’t a lot else to do in Lower Slaughter, the attractions of this Cotswold village include the Slaughters Country Inn, a typical English hostelry serving food and drinks.

Those who want to stay over can choose between the pub and Slaughters Manor House in Upper Slaughter – a luxury Cotswolds hotel where the current building dates back to the 17 century.

I love this impossibly romantic village – have a read of my Lower Slaughter travel guide .

5. Upper Slaughter

Best for: Cottage core vibes

Where to stay: Lords of the Manor

Upper Slaughter is just a mile from Lower Slaughter, and is just as appealing. It is one of the country’s only ‘Double Thankful Villages’, meaning that it lost no souls during World War I or World War II.

A Norman castle once dominated the landscape, and the Slaughters Manor House is now a hotel.

Eyford House is also one of the village’s draws, as it once won the title of ‘England’s Favourite House ’ as awarded by Country Life magazine.

The 1.5 acres site features a pretty garden abundant in ornamental trees and shrubs. While the Queen Anne style house is said to have inspired Milton’s Paradise Lost . 

If you want to stay the night, I’d really recommend booking a room at the Lords of the Manor Hotel .

Get access to my Cotswolds travel guide

I have curated all of my Cotswolds knowledge and recommendations into one comprehensive guide, complete with an interactive map, filtering options and itineraries. 

It’s available to buy through Rexby and you can preview parts of it for free. Get in touch if you have any questions about my Cotswolds guide!

6. Cirencester

Best for: Shopping

• Barnsley House
• The Fleece at Cirencester
• Wild Thyme & Honey

Although it may seem relatively small in contemporary terms, Cirencester was, during the Roman era, Britain’s second biggest town.

Just 80 miles from London, it’s popular with visitors from all over the globe, who flock to see this historic market town on the banks of the River Churn. 

Cirencester was famed for wool production during medieval times. Even today, the sizable church of St John the Baptist looms over the bustling market square.

Regular markets take place on Mondays and Fridays, and antiques, crafts and farmer’s markets are also held here.

The Royal Agricultural University was formed in Cirencester in 1845. It was the world’s first academic institution dedicated to the subject.

I’d recommend staying in Cirencester if you’re looking for a good base to explore the Cotswolds from.

Discover my guide to visiting Cirencester .

Best for: Picture-perfect cottages

• The Swan Hotel
• Cotteswold House
• Swallows Nest

On the banks of the River Coln, a tributary of the mighty Thames, is Bibury . It is only around seven miles from Cirencester and is another of my personal favourites.

Again, this is one of the nicest villages in the Cotswolds, featuring the honeycomb-toned stone homes typical of the area.

The National Trust is now responsible for part of Bibury. This includes a line of weavers’ cottages dating from the 1600s and a water meadow known as Rack Isle.

Arlington Row’s cottages actually date back even further, as the thoroughfare dates from the 1300s.

Once upon a time, locals living in Arlington Row hung their wool on racks after washing to dry – hence the name Rack Isle. Today, visitors can see the flora and fauna that flourish at this nature reserve.

Read my Bibury travel guide to discover the best things to do and where to eat.

8. Stow-on-the-Wold

Best for: Cafés and pubs

• The Kings Arms Hotel
• Number Four at Stow
• The Porch House

Compared to other beautiful Cotswolds villages, Stow-on-the-Wold may seem like a buzzing metropolis.

The settlement was first established during Norman times, and is now close to the point where seven major roads converge.

Fosse Way dates from Roman times, and is one of the routes that passes by the town.

This and the abundance of accommodation, pubs and shops makes Stow-on-the-Wold one of the Cotswolds’ most popular places to stay.

With an elevation of 800 feet, it is also the highest place in the area. Visitor amenities and attractions in Stow include a clutch of characterful pubs, the market square, St Edward’s church, and the stocks.

I’d recommend stopping by The Hive for a delicious Cotswolds brunch .

There is also a range of art galleries and an antiques centre. Plus, several quirky shops including the Borzoi Bookshop, an independent retailer first established over four decades ago. 

Read my guide to visiting Stow-on-the-Wold .

Best for: Vintage shopping

• The Royal Oak Tetbury
• The Surveyor’s House
• The Hare & Hounds Hotel

Today Tetbury capitalises on its Royal connections – it is home to the private residence of King Charles III and his wife Queen Camilla.

It is also one of the largest towns in the Cotswolds. During the Middle Ages, Tetbury was a hub of  yarn and wool production.

The site is where an Anglo-Saxon monastery once stood. Preceding the construction of that in 681, there was an ancient hill fort.

Numerous former wool merchants’ homes in Tetbury remain much as they were during the 1500s and 1600s. 

Visitors to Tetbury are often first introduced to the term ‘chipping’ here, which means market. You can still climb the old, cobbled steps that lead to what has since been turned into a car park.

The stores here are also a draw, and include the shop at nearby Highgrove as well as the antiques dealers, boutiques, interiors and vintage retailers in town.

10. Chipping Campden

Best for: Pretty gardens

• Eight Bells Inn
• Cotswold House Hotel and Spa
• The Ebrington Arms

Chipping Campden is noted for its high street. It comprises an elegant sweep of buildings, each of which dates from anywhere between the 1300s and 1600s.

This is still very much a bustling market town, attracting locals who shop here as well as visitors who come to marvel at this charming Cotswolds location.

The Market Hall is now overseen by the National Trust, who are also responsible for the beautiful Hidcote Manor Gardens.

Chipping Campden boasts a couple of churches, various gardens and Court Barn, a craft and design museum. 

If you fancy a walk from Chipping Campden, I’d recommend walking to Broadway Tower or visiting Dovers Hill for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Little Oak Vineyard is also incredibly popular, and serves lunch as well as offering wine tastings.   

11. Painswick

Best for: Walkers and hikers

• St. Michaels Bistro

When considering where to visit in the Cotswolds, Painswick is often high on the list.

This pretty village is constructed from the local honey-toned stone, and was important during wool trading times.

The Cotswold Way runs right through Painswick. As the village is located around the halfway point, many walkers stop at the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’ to rest and recuperate.    

Painswick is now famed for the yew trees in the churchyard and Painswick Rococo Garden, an oasis originally created for the owner of the Painswick House, in whose grounds the garden still stands.

12. Broadway

Best for: Picturesque scenery

• The Lygon Arms
• Dormy House Hotel
• The Fish Hotel

Once a popular stop for stage coaches travelling to London or Oxford, Broadway is home to several convivial inns.

A blend of Cotswold stone and period homes lines the High Street, which is also fringed by horse chestnut trees.

Several notable people have been associated with Broadway, including author J. M. Barrie, textile designer William Morris, and Oliver Cromwell, who stayed at the Lygon Arms the night preceding the Battle of Worcester.

Broadway’s draws include the Gordon Russell design museum, St Eadburgha’s church, Broadway Tower, and a good kids’ adventure park. 

13. Snowshill

Best for: Gorgeous views

Where to stay: Willow Vale

I’d recommend visiting Snowshill for the spectacular views over the Severn Vale, as well as its typical honey coloured stone buildings.

The Cotswold Hills surrounding the village on three of four sides give the village a cosy and welcoming feel.

A National Trust property, Snowshill Manor, houses a Charles Wade collection comprising a wide variety of items including toys, bicycles, clocks, musical instruments, and even Samurai armour.

The gardens are just as beguiling as the manor house. They are packed with colourful, fragrant blooms during spring and summer. 

Due to its position in the valley, Snowshill’s village green is often the first place to see snowfall during winter, hence the name.

The village also has a popular pub, the Snowshill Arms, and a pretty churchyard.

14. Asthall

Best for: A stately manor house

Asthall is nestled in the Windrush Valley, close to Burford – I’d recommend visiting primarily for the beautiful Asthall Manor.

The 17th century, Jacobean Asthall Manor was once home to the Mitford sisters, and it’s said that much of Nancy’s Love in a Cold Climate was written in the village, when they spent time away from the family seat in Northumberland.

Akeman Street in Asthall is home to an ancient Roman settlement, and the village once acted as an important link between St Albans and Cirencester.

The church here dates back to the 1100s, although the Mitford sisters are buried in nearby Swinbrook rather than at St Nicolas’s. 

In the grounds of Asthall Manor, fans of art can find the ‘on form’ sculpture garden.

Those who don’t mind venturing a little further might like to visit nearby Kilkenny Lane Country Park, a beauty spot that’s particularly popular with families. 

15. Kingham

Best for: Foodies

• The Kingham Plough
• Monument Cottage
• Keen Cottage

Kingham was once selected as ‘England’s favourite village’ by Country Life magazine, and is now known as a foodie destination – which is exactly why I visited.

The annual ‘Big Feastival’ is held nearby at the farm of Alex James from Blur. The two pubs – The Wild Rabbit and the Kingham Plough – are favourites with gastronomy fans.

Kingham is a great place to stay if you’re arriving by public transport from the capital, as the station is just a mile from the centre and offers mainline services to London.

The village also has a picturesque, cottage-fringed green, a church, and a shop.

With easy access to the walking and cycling trails that lead from the village, Kingham is also popular with active types who come to enjoy the fresh Cotswolds air and peaceful, scenic landscapes of the area. 

Map of Cotswolds villages

Below I’ve created a map that shows you where all the best villages in the Cotswolds are located. Handy for when you want to visualise the locations or plan a route.

I’d recommend grouping the villages located in a given area and allowing plenty of time to explore. Personally I think it’s best to embrace the slower pace of life that exemplifies the Cotswolds so well.

It’s not possible to squeeze every beautiful village into one short list, but my favourite Cotswolds villages are all covered here. Let me know your favourites in the comments!

You may also like:

• Cotswolds travel guide
• Best things to do in the Cotswolds
• 15 best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds
• Best afternoon tea spots in the Cotswolds
• 14 best spa breaks in the Cotswolds

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

All I can say is WOW Jessie! This blog is so visually amazing.. From the incredibly written and helpful text, to the outstanding photographs!

This could be one of my favourite looking posts I’ve seen!

Thank you for sharing this incredible place in the world!

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12 of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 26.03.2024

If asked to picture a quintessential rural England , chances are your mind’s eye will conjure a  Cotswolds  landscape. Covering a stretch of south-central and southwest England and the West Midlands, the region is strewn with handsome hamlets nestled in river valleys, and elegant history-rich towns that radiate English country charm. Read on to discover the 12 prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit.

1. Blockley — a picturesque village with glorious gardens

2. bourton on the water — the venice of the cotswolds villages, 3. burford - gateway to the cotswolds, 4. castle combe — one the prettiest cotswolds villages in england.

• 5. Chipping Campden — one of the best Cotswolds villages

6. Cirencester — the capital of the Cotswolds

• 7.  Stanton — thatched fabulousness

8. Stow-on-the-Wold — scenic shopping

9. the slaughters — pastoral perfection.

• 10. Stratford-Upon-Avon - Beauty and the Bard

11. Broadway - quaint Cotswolds village allure

12. bibury - timeless english architectural charm, free online resources with our staycations cotswolds guidebook.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Cotswolds , your essential guide for visiting Cotswolds .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

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The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days  / from 1350 USD

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Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Built on a series of terraces above the valley of the Knee Brook, beautiful Blockley offers a window into England’s medieval landscape. Speckled with grazing sheep, the open pastures on the hill opposite the village look pretty much as they did back then when sheep were brought to Blockley to be sheared before their wool was woven in mills at the bottom of the valley.

In time, the woollen mills were converted to process silk, a legacy you’ll see today during a scenic stroll around the village’s maze of paths. Look out for the Old Silk Mill and the Ribbon Mill buildings.

Row after row of Cotswold quaintness in Blockley © Andrew Roland/Shutterstock

Testifying its idyllic English charm, Blockley’s Vicarage and St Peter Church were used as locations in the  Father Brown  TV series. As for other sights, Blockley is known for its elegant English country gardens.  Mill Dene Garden is a must-visit for romantics and horticulturists. This is an especially great place to visit in the spring,

With a beautiful stream, and a garden terraced into the steep valley, the panoramas offer awe-inspiring views across the rolling Cotswold landscape. There’s also a Fruit Garden and herb potager, plus an enchanting grotto to relax in.

Where to stay in Blockley

• For a relaxing family break: Pearl Cottage
• For a charming atmosphere: Middle Rose

Find more accommodation options to stay in Blockley

Thanks to the elegant 18th-century bridges that cross the River Windrush that flows through its heart, Bourton-on-the-Water is known as the Venice of the Cotswolds and one of the most romantic places in the UK .

While it’s definitely one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit ( and England as a whole , for that matter), it’s also home to attractions that will keep the whole family happy. Among them is the Old New Inn's fun Model Village  that depicts Bourton as it was in 1937. You can also book a stay at the inn — the rooms ooze warm and welcoming country elegance.

No bridge is too far in Bourton on the Water - the Venice of the Cotswolds villages © Reimar/Shutterstock

Set in nine acres of woodland,  Birdland  is another child-pleasing Bourton highlight. Home to over 500 birds - from owls and pelicans to flamingos and ibis - it also boasts England’s only King Penguin breeding group.

With an area devoted to parrots (the Pandemonium of Parrots), a Jurassic Journey woodland experience replete with life-sized dinosaur models, plus the indoor Discovery Zone it’s easy to spend an entire day here without hearing a single “I’m bored!” complaint.

Where to stay in Bourton on the Water

• For location: The Lansdowne Guest House
• For couples: Chester House Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bourton on the Water

Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds (it’s part of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds region),  Burford  boasts an outstandingly beautiful high street, with attractive 17th- and 18th-century houses descending to a packhorse bridge over the River Windrush.

Halfway down the hill, the 16th-century Tolsey building houses the  Tolsey Museum . As you descend, look out for the oldest pharmacy in England -  Reavley's . This establishment has operated as a chemist since 1734 and dispenses tried-and-tested traditional remedies to this day.

Burford high street in the Cotswolds © Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

The vista around the river is dominated by a huge cathedral-like church, considered so important that its substandard 19th-century restoration prompted William Morris to found the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. If you fancy basing yourself in Burford,  Burford House comes highly recommended. Here you'll find a 17th-century Cotswold stone inn with exposed beams, leaded windows, cosy log fires and four-poster beds.

Where to stay in Burford

• For stylish stays: The Fox at Barrington
• For price and quality: The Royal Oak Burford

Find more accommodation options to stay in Burford

Tucked in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in northwest Wiltshire, Castle Combe is often called “the prettiest village in England." It's certainly one of the best Cotswolds villages to visit. With no new houses built here since the 1600s, Castle Combe has a decidedly fairy-tale feel - honey-hued houses, a faceless 13th-century clock, and a picture-perfect bridge over a babbling river.

Little wonder, then, that it's long been used as a home base for all manner of movies and TV shows, from  Bridgerton  and  The Wolf Man to  Stardust  and  War Horse . It also featured in the original Dr Doolittle film.

Quaint Castle Combe village - one of the best Cotswolds villages to visit in England © Shutterstock

As for what to do in crazily quaint Castle Combe, after snapping an obligatory shot of the bridge, head up The Street from Market Place and follow the footpath onto the woodland trail - a lovely 5.5-mile loop along which you might spy woodpeckers, owls and buzzards.

Then head back to Market Place to enjoy a well-earned pint in the most picturesque of surroundings. Take your pick from  The White Hart  or  The Castle Inn , both of which also serve great grub, and have stylish rooms to overnight in.

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5. Chipping Campden — one of the best Cotswolds villages

Situated at the start of the national  Cotswold Way Trail, Chipping Campden is the quintessential Cotswold town, with its buildings and old-time ambience having been preserved by the fastidious Campden Trust since 1929. No messy telegraph and power cables sully the attractiveness of the high street here — all wires are buried underground or else brought into the backs of houses. Intrusive shop fronts are banned too.

The ancient market hall of historic Chipping Campden © Peter Nadolski/Shutterstock

Another of  Chipping Campden’s  quirks (and attractions) is the huge variety of architectural styles that have endured through the centuries. Here many architectural pleasures await from the 1627  National Trust Market Hall  that looks like an Italian Renaissance loggia (but with Cotswold-style gables) to the dramatic Jacobean gatehouse to Campden Manor House, also known as  Old Campden House .

The town is also dappled with boutiques devoted to exquisitely-made crafts, in part a legacy of the  Guild and School of Handicrafts , which was established in East London in 1888 before moving here in 1902. Head to  Robert Welch’s  on the Lower High Street to see contemporary incarnations of the Guild’s design excellence ethos.

Otherwise, visit the  Court Barn Museum of Craft and Design  to learn about the Guild and buy beautifully-made pottery, textiles and jewellery. As might be expected of Chipping Campden, this makes for an exceptionally scenic shopping experience.

Where to stay in Chipping Campden

• For delicious English breakfast: Badgers Hall
• For unique character: Eight Bells Inn

Find more accommodation options to stay in Chipping Campden

Back in the day, when it was founded in the 1st century AD, Cirencester was the second largest city in Roman Britain — only surpassed by London in size. Today it’s a thriving market town in which locals are well-used to unearthing Roman pottery in their gardens.

Talking of which, visit the  Corinium Museum  to marvel at incredible archaeological finds representing Cotswold life over the course of 12,000 years - it’s an enthralling experience for all ages, kids included.

The mega-pretty Cirencester Park Mansion © KayRansom/Shutterstock

Other Cirencester sights include  Cirencester Park . Known locally as The Mansion, and set in a 3000-acre woodland and pasture park, it's screened from the town by the tallest yew hedge in the world, no less.

Cirencester is also a great place to shop, not least for craft lovers.  New Brewery Arts , for example, is one of the finest centres of contemporary craft in southern England, with a gallery and studio shops to peruse, and a coffee house to kick back in.

Where to stay in Cirencester

• For B&B: The Old Brewhouse
• For an ambient atmosphere: Wild Thyme & Honey

Find more accommodation options to stay in Cirencester

7.  Stanton — thatched fabulousness

Could a village  be  more perfect?  Stanton  is definitely one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit and (you know the drill by now) that’s really saying something. A parish in Gloucestershire’s Tewkesbury Borough, Stanton sits sleepily on the slopes of Shenbarrow Hill, its narrow streets framed by impossibly attractive thatched stone cottages.

Head to the 17th-century  Mount Inn  to enjoy a post-walk, locally-brewed pint, and stirring views towards the Malvern Hills and Welsh mountains. Arty types might want to check out the summer schools held in  Stanton Guildhouse , with expert-led courses on everything from making stained glass and pottery to woodturning and watercolour painting.

Picture book perfection - an impossibly pretty thatched cottage in Stanton © PJ photography/Shutterstock

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After exploring Stanton, head to  Snowshill Manor and Garden . Stanton and Snowshill are connected by a wonderful walking trail  that will make you feel like you've stepped into the pages of a picture book. This charming - and unique - National Trust property was designed by eccentric Charles Wade, who was hugely influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement.

His playful passion for hand-crafted objects is clear to see from the curios on display - everything from unusual musical instruments to flamboyant masks.

The highest and one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages, Stow-on-the-Wold is also a high point for visitors seeking a spot for retail therapy. And it was ever thus here - the town has been an important trading centre since Roman times. 

Stow-on-the-Wold's famous Market Square before traders and shoppers descend © Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

With a huge market square showing the scale of sheep trading that took place between 1107 and the 1980s, Stow is rich in classy antique shops, galleries, delis and independent boutiques peddling country style products. Check out the wooden stocks that once served as a warning to wrong-doers while here.

A lively Farmers Market is held on the square on the second Thursday of the month. Stow is also within easy reach of  Batsford Arboretum  and the  Cotswold Falconry Centre , both of which delight kids and adults alike.

Where to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold

• For a central but quiet location: Stow Lodge Hotel
• For lovely cosy stays: Lucy's Tearoom

Find more accommodation options to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold

If compelled forced to pick  the  prettiest Cotswolds villages, The Slaughters (Lower and Upper) might just nab the number one slot. Connected by the tiny River Eye stream, a tributary to the river Windrush, both villages boast traditional Cotswold limestone cottages, with the Eye flowing and tinkling beneath a series of stone bridges.

Fascinating fact - while the name might conjure images of a bloody historic battle, Slaughter actually derives from the Old English word for a miry, muddy place - a “slough” or “slothre” - which describes the land on which the villages lie.

Lower Slaughter’s Old Mill  is a must-visit beacon of loveliness, with a long history to boot - the 1086 Doomsday Book records a mill on this very site. Today it houses a museum, craft shop and tearooms, plus a parlour famed far and wide for its homemade ice cream. 

Lower Slaughter - one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages. Probably. © Andrew Roland/Shutterstock

To reach Upper Slaughter, follow the lane that follows the Eye upstream, looking out for the Elizabethan manor house on your right as you approach the village. Set in 8 acres of gardens and parkland with a river meandering through its gorgeous grounds, this 17th-century former rectory is now  Lords of the Manor Hotel  - well worth staying in if you fancy living it large, aristo-style.

10. Stratford-Upon-Avon - Beauty and the Bard

If you’re visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, chances are you’ll want to take in all (or at least some) of its many Shakespearean sights. We’ll begin at the beginning by suggesting a visit to the  Bard’s Birthplace  on Henley Street.

Next up, put Shakespeare’s life in context by exploring the award-winning  Tudor World Museum , before heading to the site of his  New Place  home. Demolished in 1759, it’s been reimagined so visitors can walk in Willy’s footsteps, with artefacts relating to his life here exhibited in neighbouring  Nash’s House .

Lost for words - Bard's beautiful birthplace building in Stratford upon Avon © Alicia G. Monedero/Shutterstock

To see where Shakespeare first put quill to paper, you could join an informative, interactive tour of his schoolroom. Alternatively, if you’re pressed for time, nothing beats the convenience (and fun) of an  open-bus tour around Stratford-upon-Avon. Several other Shakespearean attractions can be enjoyed close to town, among them  Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and  Mary Arden’s Farm .

Home to Shakespeare’s grandparents and the childhood home of his mother, Mary Arden, the farm has plenty to entertain the whole family - from falconry displays and nature trails, to “meet the animals” experiences and 16th-century-style entertainers.

• For historic charm: The White Swan Hotel
• For modern stays: Baraset Barn Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Stratford-Upon-Avon

Wedged into an outlying corner of Worcestershire five miles west of Chipping Campden Broadway is a handsome medieval village at the foot of the steep escarpment that rolls along the western edge of the Cotswolds. It seems likely that the Romans were the first to settle here, but Broadway’s zenith was a stop for stagecoaches plying between London and Worcester.

This has defined much of the village’s present appearance – its long, broad main street framed by honey-stone cottages and former coaching inns shaded beneath chestnut trees. It’s undeniably attractive and, like Campden, can attract more visitors than is comfortable – but unlike its neighbour, Broadway feels less able to absorb them.

Pretty cottages along High Street, Broadway, Cotswolds © Shutterstock

Ordinary, everyday life exists here somewhere, away from the tearooms, souvenir shops and neatly mown roadside lawns, but in truth, there’s not much sign of it. Visit the two outstanding museums, and enjoy an early morning stroll while the streets are empty.

Then move on great walks leading up to the iconic hilltop Broadway Tower and around peaceful Stanton village, there are interesting stately homes at Snowshill and Stanway, and ruins of a medieval abbey at Hailes.

Where to stay in Broadway

• For luxury: Abbots Grange Manor House
• For couples: Russell's

Find more accommodation options to stay in Broadway

Hidden away on the B4425 between Cirencester and Burford, at the point where the road crosses the River Coln, the village of Bibury – like Broadway, Burford and Bourton-on the-Water – is a hugely popular Cotswolds tourism honeypot. Winningly attractive (and famously dubbed among the prettiest Cotswolds villages), it draws crowds by the coachload.

Set back from Bibury’s main road is the focus of every photographer’s attention. Arlington Row , originally built around 1380 as a wool store, was converted in the seventeenth century into a line of cottages to house weavers working at nearby Arlington Mill. It was this glimpse of hound’s-tooth gables, warm yellow stone and wonky windows which is now immortalized in the UK passport as an image of England.

Cotswold cottages in Bibury © Shutterstock

By a tiny bridge over the River Coln stands the Bibury Trout Farm . Unsurprisingly popular, since it’s the only paying attraction in a heavily touristed village, the fishery has footpaths leading out across a network of ponds to scenic picnic spots.

Outside of London, England is known for its idyllic countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with our tailor-made Refreshing English Countryside Break .

Where to stay in Bibury

• For stunning surroundings: The Swan Hotel
• For the attention to detail: Sycamore

Check out the maps listed below to discover the highlights and best places to visit while walking and driving in picturesque Cotswolds locations. You'll find full descriptions of the routes, plus much more, in the Rough Guide Staycations Cotswolds guidebook.

• South Cotswolds full-day excursion
• Cirencester to the Churn Valley tour
• Towns and Gardens around the North Cotswolds

Ready for a trip to the Cotswolds? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Cotswolds or The Rough Guide to England .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: it's not for nothing that Castle Combe in the Cotswolds is known as “the prettiest village in England” © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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15 Stunningly Beautiful Cotswolds Villages to Visit 2024

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The Cotswolds is home to some of the most unspoilt and historic villages in England. Famed for their honey-coloured stone, cosy pubs, quaint cottages and traditional tea rooms, it’s no wonder the Cotswolds is one of the most charming places to visit in the UK.

Made up of picture perfect towns and enchanting villages , the Cotswolds are ideal for day trips, Airbnb stays , hot tub getaways or glamping breaks , so plan ahead and visit as many of these beautiful Cotswolds villages as you can.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to yourself. This helps towards the upkeep of this website for which I am grateful.

Whilst in the Cotswolds , you might also like to check out:

• 15 Best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds
• 8 Cottages in the Cotswolds with Hot Tubs
• 10 Top Glamping Spots in the Cotswolds

15 Best Villages in Cotswolds

1. castle combe.

The chocolate box village of Castle Combe is situated in the idyllic countryside of Wiltshire.

It is often called the ‘prettiest village in England’, and has even featured in several films, including Dr Dolittle and the War Horse.

Castle Combe’s popularity stems from the village being untouched by time.

Since the 1600s, there have been no new houses built in Castle Combe, so the ancient and well preserved honey stone cottages remain the standout architectural feature of this quaint village in the Cotswolds.

Unfortunately the ‘Castle’ in Castle Combe no longer exists, but the village is still home to one of the most majestic buildings in the Cotswolds, the ivy covered Manor House Hotel .

Situated past the bridge, this beautiful estate is photogenic from every angle, and has a Michelin star restaurant and 18 hole golf course to keep you busy.

The village itself is also home to St Andrew’s Church, famous for housing one of the oldest working clocks in the country, and The Old Rectory Tearoom , one of the best places to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Cotswolds.

Making Castle Combe one of the must visit Cotswolds villages.

2. Bibury Village

Home to Arlington Row, the small but picturesque village of Bibury is so famous it features on the inside cover of the British passport.

Owned by the National Trust, the postcard view of Arlington Row is unsurprisingly one of the most photographed locations in the whole of England.

Once you’ve photographed Arlington Row from every angle, head to Bibury Trout Farm .

As one of the oldest trout farms in the country , and with 15 acres of countryside, it is the perfect place for budding fishermen.

You can learn how to catch your own dinner or purchase some of the trout and deli products to take home.

The riverside village of Bibury is best visited in Spring, when the quintessential cottages are covered in blooming flowers and the weather warms up enough to enjoy the creamy ice creams on offer from the local ice cream van.

If you fancy a quirky stay nearby then check out this luxury Shepherd Hut with a hot tub on AirBnB .

3. Stow-on-the-Wold

Originally a market town, Stow-on-the-Wold’s unique Saxon name means ‘holy place on the hill’.

In the middle ages the village was the centre for the wool trade, hence the towns narrow alleyways which were originally constructed to help shepherds herd their sheep to market.

Nowadays the Cotswolds town is filled with fascinating architecture from beautiful 16th century churches, to unique crooked houses. As well as stunning cottages that can be rented or beautiful glamping sites that can be enjoyed .

The Cotswold village also has plenty of excellent shops to explore, including local butchers, galleries, craft and antique shops, as well as several spots for afternoon tea and scones.

Stow-on-the-Wold has a number of historic places to stay such as the Kings Arms Inn and the Porch House , one of England’s oldest inns and a historic landmark in England .

Stow-on-the-Wold is situated close to Bourton-on-the-Water and Upper Slaughter , (two other beautiful villages in the Cotswolds you must visit) and only half an hour from the town of Bampton , where the popular TV show Downton Abbey was filmed.

Submitted by Christina from Travel2Next

4. Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is one of the largest Cotswolds villages, and with great road access it’s easy to visit if you’re planning a UK road trip .

Compared to the other prettiest Cotswold villages, Chipping Campden is lively and has more of a buzz.

Locals regularly put on charity events in the village centre and tourists are encouraged to join in. 

There are a range of places to eat in Chipping Campden, including the famous Badgers Hall Tea room and the Eight Bells Inn , which has been feeding, watering and accommodating guests since the 14th century.

The best attractions in this village in the Cotswolds are the magnificent Hidcote Manor Gardens , run by the National Trust, and the impressive Kiftsgate Court , with breathtaking views across the whole of the Cotswolds.

Submitted by Kathryn from Wandering Bird

Situated in North Oxfordshire, Burford is known as the gateway to the Cotswolds and attracts plenty of tourists and locals to this Cotswold town.

It is one of the most beautiful villages in England, filled with traditional pubs, quaint tea rooms and quirky independent shops.

Burford Cotswolds is filled with great places to eat, notably the Bakery on the Hill , and Lynwood & Co. Café .

If you plan to stay a few days in the Cotswolds book a night or two at The Bull at Burford – a family-run hotel with 600 years of history, a must do experience for your Cotswolds bucket list.

Submitted by Darek from Darek and Gosia

6. Broadway

Close to Worcester, is the large Cotswolds village of Broadway. With 2,500 residents, there are several highly-rated restaurants and cafes making the village a great stop to add to your Cotswolds itinerary .

The streets of Broadway are lined with golden Cotswold stone which contrasts beautifully with well positioned classic red phone boxes.

So despite being slightly larger than many Cotswolds villages, Broadway has no shortage of English charm.

One of the most famous attractions in the Cotswold village is Broadway Tower , a 312 metre Saxon tower overlooking the rolling English countryside.

There is a £5 entrance cost, which includes the exhibits and entrance to the top of the tower, and once you’ve worked up a sweat, you can head to the onsite Morris & Brown Cafe, to indulge in a pick me up.

One of the best dinner options in Broadway is The Swan Pub , where you can tuck into world class cuisine including an exploding chocolate dessert!

Submitted by Rose from Where Goes Rose

One of the most charming and beautiful Cotswold villages is Lacock.

The tiny village can be walked from top to bottom in less than ten minutes, but its untouched medieval vibe has over the years caught the attention of many film crews.

From period dramas to blockbuster movies, Lacock has featured in many of the nation’s favourite films and shows.

The main attraction is Lacock Abbey , a 13th century property with sandy cloisters and large chambers.

It has served as a Harry Potter filming location over the years as its magical ambience can easily be mistaken for that of Hogwarts.

Elsewhere in the Lacock village, you can enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at a traditional British pub or browse the honesty boxes containing products made or grown by locals.

Lacock is so stereotypically quaint and British, you can’t help but love this village in the Cotswolds.

Submitted by Laura from What’s Hot?

8. Minster Lovell Village

The Cotswolds village of Minster Lovell is home to the picturesque ruins of a 15th century manor house.

The undiscovered gem of Minster Lovell hall was built in 1430 by William, Baron of Lovell who at the time, was one of the richest men in England.

Today, the hall, a tower and a dovecote sit in crumbling golden ruin along the banks of the River Windrush in a beautiful rural setting.

Passing the Old Swan , a stunning hotel and the ideal place to stay in Minster Lovell, a narrow road leads across the river and through the local playing fields, where each Sunday a game of cricket will be in full swing.

Further on past a row of immaculate chocolate box houses, the ruins open up in a small hidden field, making the perfect spot for a picnic in a stunning Cotswolds setting.

Submitted by Paul Healy from Anywhere We Roam

Kingham is a secluded village in the Cotswolds that has maintained its unspoilt, honey-stoned charm.

Beside a wide open green and rows of chocolate box houses, a Norman church stands tucked away behind weathered old trees.

It’s beautifully atmospheric, but it’s the dining scene that sets this diminutive Cotswolds village apart from other charmers in the area.

The local pub – The Plough – is operated under a Heston Blumenthal prodigy who has reinvented classic dishes on their innovative menu.

It’s the perfect country pub to enjoy after a long day hiking in the nearby bucolic countryside.

For another unforgettable dining experience, the Wild Rabbit with its Michelin starred chef churn out culinary masterpieces – made with local ingredients – in a relaxed unstuffy setting.

Both the Kingham Plough and the Wild Rabbit have rooms and Kingham is within easy access of London via a direct train line , making it one of the best Cotswolds villages to visit.

10. Lower Slaughter

Don’t be put off by the village’s ominous name, especially if you’re a vegetarian or vegan traveler .

You’ll be happy to know that Lower Slaughter is not a reference to a ye’ olde slaughterhouse.

It actually comes from an Old English word “sloh”, which can mean “marsh” or “bog”. OK, so maybe that doesn’t sound so appealing either.

But in this case, it refers to the lovely wetlands that surround Lower Slaughter village and the River Eye that runs through it.

The river, and the stone footbridges that cross it, are a main feature of the village and a big part of its charm.

In fact, a few years ago the road that follows the stream was even named the ‘most romantic street in Britain’.

You can follow this quaint path all the way to the next most beautiful village in Cotswolds, which is fittingly named Upper Slaughter .

Submitted by Wendy Werneth from The Nomadic Vegan

11. Bourton-on-the-Water

The ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds.

The River Windrush flows through the village with five low arched bridges, creating a peaceful and beautiful natural environment.

Whilst strolling along the quaint walkways you’ll find children paddling in the river and families feeding the ducks on the river banks whilst enjoying their fish and chips.

The Cotswolds village is filled with charming stone buildings, housing the Cotswold Motoring Museum , Birdland Parks and Gardens , and the model village which even has a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water for you to explore.

In the evening you can join the Bourton Ghost walking tour , and visit one of the many pubs and restaurant in this must visit village in the Cotswolds.

One of the best places to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water is the Chapel Cottage .

Submitted by Heather Raulerson from RaulersonGirlsTravel

12. Painswick

Best known as ‘the Queen of The Cotswolds’, Painswick is a romantic village away from the tourist hotspots in the area.

Painswick village sits halfway along the Cotswolds Way National trail , making it a great base for hikers.

The beautiful Cotswolds village is built from honey coloured stone quarried from the nearby Painswick Beacon, and is a great place to sample locally brewed ales.

Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds Hills, Painswick has England’s sole surviving complete rococo garden, which was famously used as a place for lavish events.

The best time to visit the Rococo Gardens is in early Spring when you can witness the world renowned white snowdrops.

If you plan to stay in the Cotswolds village for a few days, choose the small 16 room boutique hotel, The Painswick , with incredible views of the rolling hills.

Submitted by Jasmine Buckley from The Life of a Social Butterfly

13. Upper Slaughter

Situated between Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold , Upper Slaughter is widely considered one of the most beautiful villages in the UK.

Upper Slaughter is a must visit place on a road trip around England due to its most famous attraction, the majestic 17th century Manor House .

Best visited on a sunny day, when it’s easy to spend a few hours roaming the manicured gardens and taking in the picture perfect views.

Upper Slaughter also has several alms houses and fords dating back to medieval times and even a beautiful old school house, that is well worth a visit.

One of the best places to stay in this Cotswold village is the Lords of the Manor Hotel , rated one of the Top 200 hotels in the UK, and one of the best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds.

14. Winchcombe

One of the most underrated and prettiest villages in the Cotswolds is Winchcombe, close to Cheltenham.

The main attraction is the almighty Sudeley Castle and Gardens . Over a thousand years old, Sudeley Castle is known as the ‘hidden gem of the Cotswolds’.

On site there are ten magnificent gardens to explore, and the beautifully restored St Mary’s Church.

Which is uniquely home to the tomb of Queen Katherine Parr, the only English queen to be buried on private land.

Step back in history further and explore the rest of Winchcombe, made up of traditional coffee shops, restaurants and pubs, making for a wonderful day out in the Cotswolds .

Submitted by Vicky from Day Out In England

15. Chedworth

The quaint village of Chedworth is off the beaten track for most tourists.

However, located only seven miles from Cirencester (the capital of the Cotswolds) it is well worth making the short trip to this beautiful Cotswolds village, especially to visit its main draw.

Chedworth Roman Villa , is preserved by the National Trust and is one Britain’s largest remaining Roman Villas.

Decorated with intricate mosaics, the site is a must for history buffs.

The village of Chedworth is nestled in a valley and is home to only 700 people.

The easiest way to reach the village is by car, as trains no longer run there, and buses are infrequent.

However, Chedworth village is also accessible via the Monarch and Macmillan Way walking routes. With hikers usually stopping to fill up at the famous Seven Tuns pub .

Chedworth village is perfect for a day trip from Cirencester or Gloucester, but if you want to stay longer and soak up the peace and quiet, there are several guesthouses in this Cotswold village.

Submitted by Jenna Rank from I Know the Pilot

Villages of the Cotswolds Map

Lastly, if you want to view all the most beautiful Cotswold villages on a map, have a peek at the one I’ve created below.

It should help you plan where to stay in the Cotswolds and which of these best villages to visit in the Cotswolds together. Enjoy!

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22 of The Cotswolds Best Villages You Must Visit [Plus Things to Do & Map]

The Cotswolds best villages are full of honey-coloured limestone buildings with deep-pitched roofs, topped with heavy stone tiles. All this nestled in gently undulating countryside, with shallow streams running through the valley filled with trout hunted by egrets and kingfishers. 

To see the Cotswolds best villages, get off the main roads and away from the towns. The most adorable villages are found on the quiet country roads that fill the gaps on the map. This comprehensive guide of hand-picked villages provides you with everything you need to know about the best villages in the Cotswolds. I’ve even included individual guides for many of these charming villages so you’ll know the best things to do and places to visit in the Cotswolds.

Here are the best villages in the Cotswolds you need to visit.

Map of the Cotswolds Best Villages and Top Things to Do

Don’t miss my cotswolds travel guide for more tips.

1.  Stow-on-the-Wold

Before you leave, make sure to experience the best Afternoon Tea in town. Pop into Lucy’s Tearoom and savour their exquisite scones and decadent cakes. You won’t regret it.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold .

2. Moreton-in-Marsh

Highlights include the Curfew Tower which is the oldest building in the village. Then there’s The Bell Inn which is considered to be the inspiration for the ‘Prancing Pony’, Middle Earth’s most famous pub in J. R. R. Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’.

Don’t be fooled by the bustling High Street, head towards St. David’s Church where you’ll see a lovely collection of cosy cottages covered with wisteria and other colourful flora. 

Located a few minutes from the town centre are other must-see attractions including the elegant Chastleton House, Batsford Arboretum for its 56 acres of beautiful parkland, Bourton House Garden for its award-winning gardens, and Sezincote House for a taste of Hindu and Muslim inspired architecture in this elaborate home. 

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh .

3. Bourton-on-the-Hill

4. Bourton-on-the-Water

There’s a lot to see and do in Bourton-on-the-Water, from getting lost in The Dragon Maze, to enjoying warm scones for Cream Tea at Bakery-on-the Water. The village’s main attractions include the Model Village, a one-ninth scale and perfect replica of Bourton-on-the-Water at the time it was built between 1936-1940. There’s the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection home to the famous sentient vintage car, Brum. 

Last but not least, there’s the Birdland Park and Gardens covering 9 acre and home to over 500 birds including flamingos, pelicans, penguins, cranes, storks, and waterfowl all in a natural water habitat.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water .

5. Lower Slaughter

You won’t need more than a couple of hours to explore Lower Slaughter. Start your visit with a gentle stroll along the banks of the River Eye which hug the village. Visit the Old Mill which is home to the Lower Slaughter Museum and where you’ll learn about the village’s history through the art of breadmaking. 

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Lower Slaughter .

6. Upper Slaughter

The main attraction here is Lords of the Manor hotel which dates from 1649. Wander the extensive grounds before enjoying their Afternoon Tea either in the lounge or in the garden.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Upper Slaughter .

7. Broadway

For the best fish ‘n chips around, head to go Russell’s Fish & Chips and order ANYthing. Their batter is so light, fresh and crisp. Then head to Tisanes Tea Room for a wonderful traditional Afternoon or Cream tea. This place is so loved that there is usually a queue out the door!

Located just 25-minutes from Stratford-Upon-Avon , Broadway is home to one of the Cotswold famous icons, Broadway Tower. Set within a 50-acre estate of parkland with wild deer roaming the ground, the spiral staircase for a whopping 360-degree view of the surrounding 16 counties.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Broadway.

8. Snowshill

While you’re here, visit the 16th-century country house Snowshill Manor to see the treasure-trove of tiny toys, Samurai armour, musical instruments all collected by its previous owner, Charles Paget Wade.

If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to head over to the Cotswold Lavender farm to wander the fields and pick up your favourite lavender-based gifts, soaps, toiletries and body products.

Located half-way down the High Street is the Tolsey, where medieval merchants had to pay their tolls. Hence the name Tolsey. At the opposite end of the village is the elaborate St. John the Baptist Church. Inside is the impressive mausoleum of Lawrence Tanfield, James I’s Chancellor of the Exchequer with his wife and the funerary plaque of Edmund Harman who was Henry VIII’s barber and surgeon. The plaque depicts four Amazonian figures, considered the earliest of its kind of native Americans in Britain.

Hungry? Not to be missed are the delicious homepage pies at The Royal Oak or the award-winning meals The Angel at Burford. It’s a hard choice!

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Burford.

10. Castle Combe

There are plenty of signature Cotswold stone cottages here which were once weavers’ cottages. As you enter the village from the north, look out for the striking yellow Grade II listed Dower House which appeared as the fictional Puddleby-on-the Marsh in the 1967 film Dr. Dolittle. Continue to the centre of town to see the old Market Cross, remnants of the Buttercross and the 15-century ‘wool church’, St. Andrew’s Church.

The most famous vantage point of Castle Combe is from Water Lane looking back towards town. Castle Combe really is a photographer’s dream.

Plan your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Castle Combe .

Just opposite Arlington Row is The Swan Hotel, a former coaching inn that overlooks the banks of the River Coln. Stop here for lunch in The Swan Brasserie or enjoy afternoon tea by the river. The chef’s freshly baked fruit scones topped with lashings of clotted cream and strawberry jam are to die for.

12. Blockley

The village is best explored on foot, with several enjoyable walks leading from the village to the beautiful surrounding countryside.

13. Woodstock

There are several gardens, temples, monuments and other points of interest to explore within the palace’s extensive grounds. Not to be missed is the majestic 300-year-old Cedar of Lebanon tree known as the Harry Potter Tree, which featured in ‘Order of the Phoenix’.

In town, you can also visit Sir Winston Churchill grave at St Martin’s Church who rests alongside other family members.

14. Chipping Campden

At the heart of this delightful village is the impressive 17th-century market hall which provided merchants and farmers of the time shelter as they sold goods like cheese, butter, and poultry.

From here it’s just a short walk to the majestic wool church of St James. As you pass the almshouses you’ll see a sunken cartwheel wash just opposite. From St James’ graveyard, you can see the remains of Old Campden House and Gateway. In 1613 Sir Baptist Hicks began building a new home in the very latest style, unfortunately, it was burnt to the ground by retreating Royalist soldiers, only this single fragment remains.

For a relaxing lunch or the best afternoon tea in town, head to Badgers Hall Tea Room located on the High Street. From here head to the Court Barn Museum to learn how the Arts and Crafts movement shaped life in the north Cotswolds.

If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to stretch your legs, Chipping Campden marks the start of The Cotswold Way, a 102 mile (164Km) long National Trail running between this small market town to the city of Bath in the south. 

Just north of Chipping Campden village is Hidcote Manor Garden. This not-to-be-missed garden is one of the best-known and most influential Arts and Crafts gardens in Britain.  Also located nearby is Kiftsgate Court Gardens famed for its roses, the creation of three generations of women gardeners. 

15. Naunton

The village has two churches, St Andrew’s Church, which dates from the 13th century and rebuilt in the 15th century, when a tower was added and Naunton Baptist Chapel. 

If you visit the local tourism board website, they mention that you can ‘climb the hill for a really good view of church and village’. When I visited I tried to find this mysterious vantage point but was on;y met with private land. The best view I got was from the main road B4068, which isn’t a safe place to stop. If you find a better route, please let me know! 🙂

If you have time, definitely visit the famous Cotswold Farm Park which has been helping protect rare breeds of farm animals since 1971. Specialising in historical farm animals, including those from the Bronze and Iron Ages, Roman, Viking and Norman periods, Cotswold Farm Park even supplied period-correct animals for Mel Gibson’s film, Braveheart.

16. Painswick

While you’re here, don’t miss taking a wander down Bisley Street, flanked by mostly fourteenth-century buildings and St Mary’s Church with a spire that dominates the village. Take your time to wander through the churchyard, where 99 yew trees, surround a collection of 17th and 18th-century table tombs. As the legend goes, there are exactly 99 trees, and the Devil himself brings death every time someone has tried to plant a hundredth.

Other places to visit in Painswick include the Painswick Rococo Garden, a short walk from the centre. Designed as a flamboyant garden in the mid-1700s, it also features a world-renowned collection of snowdrops.

17. Tetbury

Tetbury is a historic wool town which prospered from the wool trade. Many of the wool merchants’ houses remain largely untouched since the 16th and 17th century. Tetbury’s Grade I listed 17th-century Market House has been the heart of the town for centuries. Still today,  markets are held here every Wednesday and Saturday. 

Dominating the skyline is The Parish Church of St Mary’s with one of the tallest and most elegant spires in the UK.

The Chipping (which is now a car park) means ‘market’ and for centuries was the site of the mop fairs, where local farmhands, labourers and domestic staff offered themselves for employment.  The cobbled Chipping Steps are flanked by weavers’ cottages and where you’ll get some of the most iconic views of the town. 

Also worth visiting is The Police Museum in the Old Court House which houses the world-renowned Alex Nicols collection of handcuffs and restraints, together with Gloucester policing memorabilia.

A short 12-minute drive south of Tetbury village is Westonbirt, the National Arboretum with a staggering collection of plants and trees from all over the world. From towering Champion trees to rare and threatened trees, Westonbirt has it all.

18. Great Tew 

Set behind a marvellous stone gateway, don’t miss visiting St. Michael and All Angels for its beautiful blend of different architectural styles. Much of it from the 13th and 14th century.

19. Stanway

Stanway is a small crossroads village centred around Stanway House, a superb Jacobean manor and home to the tallest gravity fed fountain in the world at just over 300 feet. 

From its baroque gatehouse, 18th-century water garden, 14th-century Tithe Barn, Stanway is an absolute delight.  Even St Peter’s Church, which was rebuilt in the 12th century and restored in 1896 makes up part of Stanway estate. 

20. Winchcombe

Dent’s Terrace

Winchcombe, which literally means ‘valley with a bend’ is one of the Cotswolds best villages to visit. Winchcombe has several drawcards, from its long main thoroughfare lined with a stunning medley of mellow yellow limestone and half-timbered buildings, Dent’s Terrace with ten Grade 2 listed charming cottages, to the magnificent Sudeley Castle with its award-winning gardens and where the last of King Henry VIII’s wives, Katherine Parr, lived and is buried. 

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia, Winchcombe has a long and interesting history which reaches as far back as the Stone Age when people settled in the hills leaving a stone-lined, burial chamber known as the Belas Knap long barrow which you can visit. 

During the Middle Ages Winchcombe became a thriving wool town and centre for pilgrims who travelled to Hailes Abbey. Visitors travelled far and wide to see a phial that was said to contain the Blood of Christ – known as the Holy Blood of Hailes. It was so famous that Geoffrey Chaucer mentions it in The Canterbury Tales. Today, you can visit the tranquil ruins of Hailes Abbey and explore the beautiful surviving stonework. 

Just west of Wincombe is St. Kenelm’s Well, named after the son of a Mercian king Kenwulph. At only 7 years old, Kenelm became an Anglo-Saxon saint after being murdered by his foster-father Asceberht and sister Quendryth in their plot to gain power. 

As you leave Winchcombe, stop by Hayles Fruit farm to pick up some apples and pears or have afternoon tea before heading south to Cleeve Common to see the wild, windswept countryside from the highest point in the Cotswolds.

21. Kingham

Take a stroll around the village greens, bordered by elegant cottages from the 17th and 18th centuries before visiting St. Andrew’s Church, a Norman church with a fine old rectory built in the 17th century.

With two highly-rated pubs, the Kingham Plough and The Wild Rabbit, Kingham is great for foodies. If that wasn’t enough, each year Jamie Oliver and Alex James host The Big Feastival on August Bank Holiday.

Less than 2 miles from the village is the fantastic Daylesford Organic Farm selling premium deli items of all kinds and delicious, award-winning organic food in its village shop.

Despite its modest size, Kingham has its own train station with services from London taking just 90 minutes, making it the ideal destination for a day trip.

22. Chipping Norton

Start your visit in the Market Square where many of the original houses were rebuilt in the more fashionable Georgian style. Browse the antique shops, visit the medieval Guildhall, St Mary’s Church and a row of handsome almshouses, before heading to the Chipping Norton Museum to learn more about the history of the town dating back to the time of the Romans.

Chipping Norton offers a good choice of places to eat too. Located next to the theatre is The Chequers, an atmospheric pub with three softly lit beamed rooms with low ochre ceilings and log fires and an airy conservatory. Then there’s The Red Lion, the smallest pub in town and still a local favourite. Dating from 1684, The Red Lion serves local Hook Norton ales you can enjoy while playing on darts.

If you have time, I highly recommend visiting The Rollright Stones, located just 4 miles from Chipping Norton. This complex of three Neolithic and Bronze Age megalithic monuments provide a fascinating look at the region’s past. Each monument was erected during a period where there was a continuous tradition of ritual behaviour on sacred ground, from the 4th to the 2nd millennium BCE.

So, there you have it, the Cotswold best villages and what to do and places to visit in each of them. To help you plan your trip, check out my guide on how to get to the Cotswolds  and the most unique Cotswold cottages on Airbnb.

Want to see more of the Cotswolds? Join one of these top-rated tours.

• Cotswolds & Downton Abbey Locations
• Small-Group Tour of Cotswold Villages
• Private Cotswold Village Tour (for your group only)
• Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London
• Lunch in the Cotswolds Tour from London
• Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London
• Small-Group Day Trip to Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon from London
• Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath Full Day Trip from London

Visiting the UK? Check out my other posts

• Adorable Cotswolds Airbnbs: 26 Most Unique Airbnb Cottages in the Cotswolds
• 6 Unmissable Things to Do in Castle Combe [The Cotswolds Prettiest Village]
• 7 Wonderful Things to Do in Burford in The Cotswolds
• 14 Unique Things to Do in Broadway [The Jewel of the Cotswolds]
• 16 Best Things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh, The Cotswolds
• Top 12 Things to do in Stow-on-the-Wold, The Cotswolds
• 12 Best Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water, The Cotswolds
• 11 Lovely Things to Do in Lower Slaughter & Upper Slaughter, The Cotswolds
• How to Get to The Cotswolds from London, around the UK & Beyond!
• 16 Lovely Things to Do in Stratford-upon-Avon: A Detailed Guide to Shakespeare’s Birthplace
• 10 Unusual Things to do in London You Never Knew About
• B Bakery Bus Tour: The Best Afternoon Tea Tour in London
• 31 Fascinating Origins of London Street Names Revealed
• 25 Wonderful Phrases Shakespeare Invented that You Use Every day
• 30 Incredible Stories Behind English Idioms and Phrases You Use Every Day
• 20 Hidden Meanings of English Place-Names You Probably Didn’t Know
• Self-Guided Banksy Walking Tour in Bristol: Where to See 10 Original Banksy Art
• 29 Best Things to do in Bristol | The Ultimate City Guide

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Cotswolds Travel Guide (Best Tips, Itineraries & Map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: July 26, 2023

Our Cotswolds Travel Guide includes recommended places to go and things to do, accommodation options, tips and photos from one of the most beautiful regions of England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to the region!

LET’S PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE COTSWOLDS!

The Cotswolds are one of the most popular destinations in the south of England for both UK residents and visitors from abroad.

Spread across an area of 2000+ kilometres and several English counties including Gloucestershire, Somerset, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire the Cotswolds region was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966.

Famous for its English market towns and villages with quaint honey-coloured houses, the Cotswolds are the perfect destination for walkers, cyclists and those simply wishing to explore a quintessentially English destination.

In this guide, you will find links to all our articles about the Cotswolds to help you plan your visit to the Cotswolds and have the best time possible in this beautiful area of England.

Good to know – If you are visiting the UK and are located in London the Cotswolds are perfect for a day trip (though I highly recommend exploring the area for a few days if you can) You can find out more below.

Map of the Cotswolds

When is the best time to visit the cotswolds, what to see and do in the cotswolds, cotswolds podcast episodes, how to get to the cotswolds, best tours to the cotswolds from london, where to stay in the cotswolds, best experiences in the cotswolds, best travel books about the cotswolds, common questions when planning your visit.

The Cotswolds are a popular destination to visit in England at any time of the year . High season is from June to August and the area is crowded with visitors. If you are planning to visit Oxford this is the time of year when students are on holiday and a great time to wander the different colleges.

During the winter months (December to February) the Cotswolds are at their quietest. Expect cooler temperatures with the possibility of snow! If you are planning a winter trip check the weather and visit on cold, crisp days when the sun is out and the skies are blue. The days are shorter in winter so plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of daylight hours.

Spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) are ideal times of year to visit the Cotswolds. Enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves on the trees or the spring flowers as you explore the villages and countryside.

There are so many beautiful towns and villages to visit in the Cotswolds that one is really spoilt for choice.

If you are planning a Cotswolds visit the best way to organise your trip is to decide which villages and towns you want to see in the different areas.

The Cotswolds can be divided into northern (Gloucestershire) eastern (Oxfordshire) and southern areas (Gloucestershire and Wiltshire) each with its own must-see villages and towns.

Let’s not forget that some of the towns and villages that border the Cotswold region are also worth including in your itinerary.

The beautiful town of Stratford-upon-Avon is located on the edge of the northern Cotswolds region.

Blenheim Palace a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill and the historic university city of Oxford are both located to the east of the Cotswolds.

And the stunning city of Bath is located to the south of the Cotswolds.

Read more about these attractions below:

BEST VILLAGES TO VISIT IN THE COTSWOLDS

BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE COTSWOLDS

7 BEST COTSWOLDS TOURS FROM LONDON

BATH TRAVEL GUIDE

GUIDE TO VISITING BLENHEIM PALACE

OXFORD TRAVEL GUIDE

FAQs – Cotswolds Travel Guide

Option 1 – cotswolds by car.

The Cotswolds are in (my opinion) best explored by car (though parking can be an issue during the summer) as public transport options are limited.

There are excellent links to the area via the national motorway network and the M4, M5 and M40. 

The Cotswolds are located about 100 miles outside of London. Allow around 2 hours depending on traffic.

Option 2 – By train

London to Cotswolds

If you wish to take public transport it is possible to catch a train from London’s Paddington Station to Moreton in the Marsh in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Alternatively travel from Paddington on the Gloucester line alighting at Kemble Station in the southern Cotswolds region. Here you can pick up a bus outside the station to Morton in the Marsh, Stow on the Wold, Bourton on the Water and Tetbury. 

Check timetables and train prices at the trainline .

Option 3 – Take a tour

There are many day tours to the Cotswolds from London and other English cities . You will find more information below.

Read more – How to get from London to the Cotswolds (detailed guide)

If you prefer to take a tour of the Cotswolds and avoid the hassle of driving or public transport there are a few options to choose from.

We highly recommend booking a private driver tour guide to show you around the Cotswolds – our partner Victoria of Cotswold Teacup Tours can tailor-make your private tour around your interests. She can meet you in the Cotswolds or at Oxford train station and start your tour from there.

Unfortunately with a group day tour from London you will only scratch the surface of the area but if you are pushed for time or can’t push the budget for a private tour this may be your best option .

Often the tours combine visits to other popular destinations too. I have curated a selection of the best group day tours to the Cotswolds below from Get Your Guide who is our tour operator of choice.

We book the majority of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide when we travel. Their cancellation policy is very good and customer service exceptional and we have only ever had positive experiences when we book tours with them.

• Full-day tour of the Cotswolds from London – Visit 4 of the most beautiful Cotswolds villages during this 9-hour tour from London. There is plenty of free time to explore and even to enjoy a traditional pub lunch at Stow-on-the-Wold!
• Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds – A must for Downton Abbey fans this full-day tour includes visits to 2 Cotswolds villages as well as Blenheim Palace the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
• Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon, Cotswolds, and Warwick – Another full day trip with lots to see. This tour is perfect for those with limited time as it includes a number of the top sights in the Cotswolds.

Click for our guide to the 7 best tours to the Cotswolds from London

There are many wonderful accommodation options in the Cotswolds from quaint cottages, glamping and B&Bs to luxury 5-star hotels with spas.

Budget £75 – 130 for a double room in a B&B and £130+ per night for a boutique hotel.

Click the link below to book the perfect Cotswolds accommodation for your trip.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE COTSWOLDS

⭐️ UK TRAVEL PLANNING QUICK PICKS

• Most romantic hotel in the Cotswolds – The Painswick or Mad Molly’s Cottage
• Best hotel with hot tub in the Cotswolds – The Manor House Hotel
• Best hotel with spa –  The Lygo n Arms
• Best Country House Hotel –  Ellenborough Park
• Best pub with rooms in the Cotswolds – The Swan Hotel
• Best thatched cottage in the Cotswolds – Bells Cottage
• Best pet-friendly hotel – The Old Stocks Inn
• Best Cotswolds hotel for foodies – The Slaughters Country Inn

For other stays in England click here for my England Accommodation Guide

There are lots of fabulous experiences to have during your visit to the Cotswolds. These are my top choices:

• Explore Downton Abbey Filming Locations & Highclere Castle on a day tour from London.
• Join a walking tour through some of the prettiest villages of the famous Cotswolds, including Minster Lovell and Burford
• Take part in a Geo scavenger hunt of the Cotswolds Using a smartphone app and GPS technology follow a series of map pins that guide you to secret destinations and challenges.
• Tour of the Cotswolds from Moreton-in-Marsh – Showcasing the must-see villages that can be tricky to find on your own, the excursion visits Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden along with some lesser-known hamlets that many Cotswolds tourists miss. Start from an easy-to-find location at Moreton-in-Marsh train station!

If you are looking for more information to plan your trip to the Cotswolds there are a number of books which you may find helpful.

For walkers

• Short walks in the Cotswolds – All the walks are five miles or under in length and can easily be completed in less than three hours. 20 walks are included and use clear maps to show the route plus easy to follow walk descriptions.
• Cotswold Way: Chipping Campden to Bath – All-in-one hiking route guide and maps to the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile National Trail that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath, following the beautiful Cotswold escarpment for most of its course.

For those who love discovering hidden gems

• Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds – A captivating portrait of 20 of the greatest British gardens and the lords, ladies and gardeners who own and manage them.
• Secret Houses of the Cotswolds  – A personal tour of twenty of the UK’s most beguiling houses in this much loved area of western England.

Best travel guide books

• Lonely Planet Pocket Oxford & the Cotswolds – Get to the heart of Oxford & the Cotswolds and begin your journey with Lonely Planet’s guide!
• The Rough Guide to the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford – Discover this exquisite region of England with the help of this rough guide!

• What should you not miss in the Cotswolds?

Check out my guide to the best things to do in the Cotswolds which has all of the top things to do and places to visit.

• Which is the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds?

There are so many pretty villages to visit in the Cotswolds that it is impossible to choose just one! My favourites are Bibury, Bourton on the water and Lower Slaughter.

Read more in my guide to the most beautiful villages and towns in the Cotswolds.

• How many days do you need in the Cotswolds?

You can see some of the Cotswolds in a day but I recommend at least 2/3 days to explore the area.

• When is the best time of year to visit the Cotswolds?

As mentioned above if possible try to avoid visiting during the summer school holidays (July/August) as the Cotswolds can be extremely busy.

Parking can be even more difficult at this time of year too. I recommend booking your accommodation as much in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

Also, book restaurants ahead of time or you may struggle to get a table at popular pubs and eateries.

• What other places are there to visit near the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are located in the South West of England. Read more about the best things to do in this area of the UK here.

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

The Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Kids

T he Cotswolds is undeniably one of the most beautiful places to visit in England. There are loads of options if you’re looking for great things to do in the Cotswolds with kids. We are sure that the adults will enjoy these places too. 

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

With a fantastic mix of sprawling countryside, cute villages, and picturesque towns to explore (plus you’re a stone’s throw from having a great day out in Oxford !), there’s tons to do on a visit to the Cotswolds. It’s designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), meaning the land is preserved and protected from development. So strap on your walking boots, pack some snacks, and get ready to explore this beautiful part of the country. 

Things to Do in the Cotswolds with Kids

1. cirencester.

First up, the lovely market town of Cirencester is a great place to visit with kids. If you’re looking for somewhere with familiar shops and plenty of cafes and restaurants, this is the place to go. It’s known as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ due to its population and variety of attractions. 

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cirencester. Start by exploring the Corinium Museum , where children can discover Roman history and artifacts while enjoying the interactive exhibits. For outdoor activities, head to Cirencester Park, a sprawling green space perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. 

You could also pop into the independent ones, and take in the lively Cirencester atmosphere. If you’re in the Cotswolds for Christmas , there are some cute festive markets in Cirencester you should definitely explore. 

Jack’s Tea Room and Kitchen is lovely if you’re looking for a great place to stop mid-morning for some breakfast or brunch. For dinner, The Fleece should be on the menu as it’s one of the highest rated places to eat in the area. 

2. Barnsley

Onto the small village of Barnsley, which could win awards for its prettiness. Barnsley is a great spot to visit as it’s right in the heart of the Cotswolds. It’s surrounded by beautiful walks in all directions. This is a great place for a short walk in the Cotswolds for little ones. There’s plenty of nature and buglife to keep them busy.

Visit for the cute village vibes; there’s a church, a pub, and a luxury hotel called Barnsley House . It was once the home of the gardener Rosemary Verey, and its beautiful gardens are still well maintained to this day. 

3. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens – Burford

You can’t beat a trip to a wildlife park to see some amazing animals, especially if you’re bringing little ones on your day out in the Cotswolds. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is the perfect place to visit while you’re in the area since it’s one of the top zoos in England . 

The kids won’t be disappointed when they come across everything from bats to flamingos to giraffes to reptiles and much more. In fact, there are over 260 different animal species in the park.

Each day they offer zookeeper talks and feeding times so you can see the animals up close and personal! Don’t forget to hop on the little train that runs around the park. This is perfect for getting back to the exit when those little legs are tired after a fun day with the animals. 

4. Blenheim Palace – Woodstock 

Blenheim Palace is a must-visit while you’re in the Cotswolds, since it’s an absolutely stunning. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history and beautiful architecture to discover. It was listed as a Heritage Site in 1987, and the team who runs the Palace spends a lot of time and effort into maintaining the property. 

This was the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, so you know there is plenty of history in these walls. You can walk around the house and gardens, attend one of their many events throughout the year, and make memories on your day out in the Cotswolds . 

Blenheim Palace offers a host of activities for kids to enjoy. Start by exploring the stunning grounds and gardens, where children can run and play in the wide open spaces.

Take a stroll through the Butterfly House to marvel at the colourful butterflies fluttering around. The Pleasure Gardens have a giant hedge maze, a miniature train ride, and an adventure playground. 

Inside the palace, kids can join a family-friendly tour to learn about its rich history and grandeur. Blenheim Palace often hosts seasonal events and activities specifically designed for children. There’s nothing quite like Blenheim Palace at Christmas , when it’s arguably at its most beautiful, but it really is a spectacular visit all year round. 

5. Cotswold Farm Park – Cheltenham

You can never get enough of cute animals, so if the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens wasn’t enough, Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park has even more fun in that department. They boast over 50 rare breed British animals on their farm, and you can meet them all. You might even have a chance to feed them! 

The farm park is surrounded by beautiful woodland with bubbling streams, so if you want to explore beyond the farm grounds, this is a lovely spot. 

There is a lot to learn here, but there is also lots of fun to be had. Dare to go on the zipline, try driving a tractor, and learn to handle delicate (and insanely cute!) chicks with care. They offer many events throughout the year, like spring lambing and their Autumnal Harvest. You will find there is plenty of entertainment at the farm park. 

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds for kids of all ages. 

6. Broadway Village 

Broadway Village in the Cotswolds has a little bit of everything. There are great cafes and restaurants, independent shops, a beautiful countryside, a children’s activity park, and much more. Broadway Village is known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, and it’s a fantastic spot in the north of the area with plenty to do for the whole family. 

If a little retail therapy is in order, Broadway Village has unique shops offering fashion, handmade jewelery and homewares, flowers, and more. You’ll love picking up some gifts for loved ones that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t miss the Broadway Deli , which has lots of delicious foods for a Cotswold picnic! 

Broadway Tower

We highly recommend a walk out to the iconic 200-year-old Broadway Tower. While you’re there, definitely visit the nuclear bunker which was built to record nuclear activity in the Cold War.

It was apparently a total secret until it was decommissioned in 1991, and today is a great way to travel back to the Cold War to learn about this fascinating time period. This is an interesting spot for adults, and also a great place for kids of all ages to run around. There’s also a picnic area if you want to enjoy an afternoon snack. 

Are you planning a trip to the Cotswolds with kids soon? A day out there is a terrific idea with so many lovely activities to try and villages to visit. Pack a bag with some snacks and water, bundle up the kids, put your hiking boots in the car in case you fancy a big walk in the Cotswolds, and drive to this beautiful area of the country to see where you end up!  

About the author : Headed up by top travel blogger, VickyFlipFlop, DayOutinEngland.com is filled with guides and itineraries to England’s best days out. It’s searchable by interests, counties, cities and areas – and definitely not just for the kids!

The post The Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds with Kids appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

Other blog posts you might be interested in...

• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• A 2-week Norway road trip
• A complete guide to Helsinki
• A complete guide to Tallinn
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• The best things to do in Europe: the ultimate Europe bucket list

Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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Best attractions in Moscow: Top 31

There is an endless list of things to see in Moscow. Read our review, and you will learn about the main sights of Moscow, without seeing which your trip around the capital would be incomplete.

What to see in Moscow first of all?

In compiling our rating “interesting places in Moscow”, we took into account the reviews of tourists and recommendations of experienced guides. Arriving in the capital, you should definitely see:

1. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square

Moscow’s most famous and most visited sights. The towers of the Kremlin, decorated with chimes and five-pointed ruby stars, are considered a symbol of the metropolis. The construction of the Kremlin, as an object for the defense of the city, began back in the 12th century. Later it was reconstructed and rebuilt many times. If you do not know where to go in Moscow during national holidays, be sure to visit Red Square. Here are organized cultural festivities, all sorts of fairs and celebrations.

Official site: https://www.kreml.ru

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2. st. basil’s church.

The construction of the temple complex began in honor of the capture of Kazan by order of Ivan the Terrible. Initially the facade was painted in white and red, and the dome was gilded. After a fire in the 13th century, however, the temple “acquired” its present delightful multicolored domes.

Official website: http://www.patriarchia

3. Moscow City

The business center of the city, represented by futuristic modern high-rises. The project of the quarter is unique not only for our country, but also for all Eastern European countries. It was conceived as a domestic analogue of the business districts of New York and London. Among others, you will see here a building that is 235 meters high. By the way, each high-rise has its own name.

Official website: http://citymoscow.ru/

4. Cathedral of Christ the Savior

An Orthodox cathedral presented to the city to commemorate the victory in the Patriotic War. The construction work lasted more than 40 years, the idea was carried out by the famous architect K. Ton. Ton. During the Soviet government the temple was almost completely destroyed. However in 1994-1997 it was reconstructed and made one of the main historical monuments of the capital.

Official website: http://new.xxc.ru/

5. Novodevichy Monastery

Moscow’s most ancient monastery for the fairer sex. According to legend, it stands on a site where, in the days of the Golden Horde, women were selected to be sent into slavery. The temple was built over 500 years ago by order of Vasily the Third. Later in the Novodevichy monastery there were many persons of the royal family, women of boyar and princely blood. Some were imprisoned here at the will of others. In fact, the building is a reliable fortress with high walls.

Official site: http://novodev.msk.ru/

6. Church of the Ascension in Kolomenskoye

Just like many other of Moscow’s best sights, this one is on the banks of the capital’s river. It is believed that the church was erected by architect P. Small (Italian by birth). The building, cross-shaped with beams, was one of the first stone architectural masterpieces in Russia. The height of the bell tower is 62 meters.

Official site: http://www.mgomz.ru/

7. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

One of the main temples of Catholics in Moscow. The architectural style is neo-Gothic. The legendary building is decorated with colored stained-glass windows, ascending decorative figure towers and lancet arches. In addition to seeing the exterior and interiors, as well as church services, you can drop in here for organ concerts.

Official website: http://www.catedra.ru/

8. Kolomna Palace

The 17th century wooden building is located in Kolomensky Park. The interiors amaze numerous guests with its luxurious and expensive appearance. During the reign of Catherine II, it was decided to dismantle the structure. However, thanks to the detailed drawings of the building, later it was rebuilt in its original form. Today this palace is included in any reviews “ The best sights of Russia “ - every tourist should visit it.

Official site: http://www.mgomz.

9. Tsaritsyno museum-reserve

Don’t know what to see in Moscow in 1 day with the whole family? Come to this palace and park complex, which occupies an area of a hundred hectares. All the main buildings on the territory were created in pseudo-Gothic and Gothic styles back in the 18th century. At one time, the current museum was a residence for the royal family. Now there are concerts of folk and classical music, festivals and exhibitions. Many guests and residents of the metropolis come here for a quiet rest in the fresh air, to explore the amazing architecture and landscapes of Tsaritsyno.

Official site: http://tsaritsyno-museum.ru/

10. Kremlin in Izmailovo

If your trip to the capital involves an introduction to Russian architecture, head to see this 17th-century landmark. The current building was erected according to ancient drawings and sketches of the time as an attraction for travelers. Today, the territory of the Izmailovsky Kremlin has a temple, several taverns, a museum and craftsmen’s shops.

Official site: http://www.kremlin-

11. Krutitskoye podvorye

An example of 17th century architecture on Taganka. Originally there was a church here, after that a residence for the higher clergy. A visit to the patriarchal courtyard will allow you to understand what the metropolis was like a few centuries ago.

Official website: http://krutitsy.ru

12. Kuskovo Estate

A beautiful building, surrounded by an equally beautiful park. Previously, the Sheremetev family arranged theatrical premieres and society balls in the manor complex. Now there is a museum with exhibits made of ceramics. Besides, musical performances and all sorts of exhibitions are held here.

Official website: http://kuskovo.ru/

13. Bolshoi Theatre

The key ballet and opera scene of our country in different eras. The date of construction of the first building of the theater - 1825. Later it was restored and rebuilt several times. An ideal place for those interested in excursions in Moscow dedicated to the world of art.

Official website: https://www.bolshoi.ru/

14. State Tretyakov Gallery

The museum has become famous for its many exhibits (an average of about 180,000 specimens) - icons, prints, and paintings by the greatest artists of various years. More than 150 years ago the Tretyakov Gallery received as a gift a collection of paintings that belonged to the family of P. Tretyakov. The gallery is one of the brightest examples of what a person of any age and interest should visit in Moscow.

Official website: http://www.tretyakovgallery.

15. State Historical Museum

In the exhibition complex of 1872, built by order of Alexander the Second, numerous collections with artifacts from various centuries - from ancient times to the beginning of the 20th century - are offered to the attention of guests.

Official website: http://www.shm.ru

16. Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

Date of establishment - 1913. The exhibition contains about 700 items - unique ancient Egyptian specimens, products from the collections of Moscow University and the Cabinet of Fine Arts.

Official website: https://pushkinmuseum.

17. Nikulin’s Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard

At all times, only the most famous and talented circus artists and troupes have performed in this legendary circus. That is why the institution thrives to this day. In 1980 it was completely rebuilt, leaving only the facade of the former construction unchanged.

Official website: http://www.circusnikuli

18. Bunker 42 on Taganka

A specimen of the last century, located 65 m underground. It was built as an autonomous command post in case of a nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. Now a museum is set up here, on the displays of which the best guides in Moscow give their fascinating tours. There is also a restaurant open here.

Official site: http://bunker42.com/

19. Ostankino TV Tower

The 540-meter TV tower can be called one of the most recognizable symbols of the metropolis. It broadcasts throughout our country. Inside there are offices and studios of the main Russian TV channels. Guests are invited to buy a ticket for a guided tour. During the program you can go up to the observation deck, and enjoy the views of the entire city.

Official website: http://www.tvtower.ru/

20. Sparrow Hills

Talking about the main sights of Moscow, it is impossible not to mention briefly the key observation deck of the capital. From it you can see multistory buildings of the Moscow City district, Stalin’s high-rise buildings and the Moskva River. Here people ride bicycles, make morning jogs and simply have a walk. Besides it is a place for various celebrations and socially important events.

Official site: http://vorobyovy-gory.ru/

Moscow sights: what else to visit in Moscow?

Hotels in Moscow should be booked in advance. Otherwise, instead of viewing historical and cultural monuments you will be busy looking for accommodation. In addition to the above-mentioned sights, your attention in the city deserves such objects as:

21. Victory Park on Poklonnaya Hill

An object created to commemorate the great victory in the Great Patriotic War. On the territory of the exhibition complex there are museums, whose exhibits tell about the events of the terrible war. Not so long ago, a memorial was opened in the park square dedicated to the soldiers of World War I.

Official website: http://www.poklonnaya

22. VDNKH (ALL-RUSSIA EXHIBITION CENTRE)

A popular vacation spot for Muscovites and tourists from all over the world. Interesting museums, organized cultural, entertainment and business events, reconstructed historical pavilions, high quality of leisure are the reasons for the “attendance boom” of the modern VDNKh.

Official website: http://vdnh.ru/

23. Triumphal gates

The object was arranged to commemorate the successful conclusion of the Patriotic War. The architect Bove was in charge of the design of the arch. The location of the architectural masterpiece is Kutuzovsky Avenue.

24. Stalin’s Heights

The seven high-rises built in the 20th century in the style of “Soviet monumental classicism” or the opulent “Stalinist Empire”. Designed by Stalin himself, the original high-rise buildings were to be symbols of the greatness and power of the capital and the Soviet Union. During the years of the Soviet Union only the largest and most important figures in science and politics could get apartments in such prestigious buildings. However, the cost of real estate in these elite houses and today is incredibly high, even by Moscow standards.

25. Old Arbat Street

It’s hard to imagine a Russian who wouldn’t know about the capital’s main pedestrian street. There are many souvenir stores, cafes and museums of various kinds. You can order your own portrait from a street artist or listen to performances of musicians, spend time looking at local architectural treasures.

26. State Department Store (GUM)

One of the main sights of Red Square. The majestic 19th century building will welcome you with its numerous shopping aisles. Today GUM has author’s showrooms, historical stores and expensive boutiques of the most famous brands on Earth. If your aim is high-class shopping, and you can afford really expensive purchases, a walk through the department store will bring you a lot of pleasure.

Official website: https://gum.ru/

27. Hermitage Garden

A massive park area that locals most often choose for walking. The date of the complex’s foundation is the 19th century. There is now a summer concert stage and several theaters. Recommended for a visit at any time of the year.

Official website: http://www.mosgorsad.ru

28. MUZEON Art Park

A vast area consisting of walking paths, contemporary art objects, landscaped areas, outdoor exhibitions. The park is set up on the colorful Crimean embankment.

Official website: http://park-gorkogo

29. Moscow Zoo

The capital’s “menagerie” was created in order to conduct educational and research activities, to preserve various animal species. At the moment, the number of inhabitants is about 1,100 species and about 8,000 representatives of fauna from all over the world. A visit will be equally interesting for children and adults.

Official website: http://www.moscowzoo.ru/

30. Art-cluster “Red October”

A center for Moscow’s bohemians, located in the brick house of a famed confectionery factory. The city’s most famous celebrities and fashionable crowd gather here. The center has many exhibition halls, design studios, art galleries and workshops.

Official website: http://www.redok.ru/

31. Gorky Park

The park area is located on the bank of the Moskva River. Recently the area has been one of the main places for entertainment of locals and guests of the megalopolis - in the cold season there is an ice rink, in summer large-scale celebrations, skateboarding competitions, performances of environmentalists, vegetarian festivals, other entertaining and sometimes unusual events are organized here.

Official website: http://park-gorkogo.com/

We hope that those sights of Moscow, photos with names and descriptions of which you have now seen, have aroused your interest. When you come to the capital, be sure to find time to visit them.

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