WHERE TO VISIT IN THE COTSWOLDS

Travel

I’ve lived in the Cotswolds for 5 years, and although I might be a slightly biased, I can safely say it is one of the most beautiful parts of the countryside and I feel very lucky to call it home. It can be quite easy to take for granted the peacefulness in waking up to views of fields for miles and so I wanted to share my favourite places of where to visit in the Cotswolds . But actually writing this has really reminded me of how unique this place is, so if you haven’t already you really must visit. When planning this blog post it quickly became obvious that the Cotswolds holds some of the most fab hidden gems in the shape of walks, shops and eating spots. So I’m really excited to share with you my compilation of the ‘best bits’ in the hope that you two will come to share my love of this place!

Places to eat in the Cotswolds 

First and foremost let’s focus on food! I always think when visiting a new place it’s so handy to have recommendations for the best eating spots to avoid hours of trawling through Trip Advisor. First on my list is The Wild Rabbit in Chipping Norton. Describing this place as simply a pub would in no way at all do it justice. It’s serves up michelin star locally sourced food in a cosy and relaxed atmosphere. Or after a wander around Cheltenham and Montpellier I would definitely recommend taking a pit stop at No.131 for a cocktail or two! This place will definitely give you serious house envy with lots of different spots to settle down for an afternoon with a drink in hand.

The Wild Rabbit restaurant places to eat cotswolds

Cocktails restaurant no. 131 cheltenham

If you’re looking for a cute cafe for a coffee and a cake then you must stop at Coach House Coffee in Stow on the Wold. Plus, this market town will definitely have you dreaming after the iconic Cotswold stone. For those looking for a healthier option, you’ll find a delicious and nutritious lunch at Kindness & Co in Cheltenham. It’s quite recently opened and their extensive list of teas and guilt free sweet treats will definitely cure that afternoon pick me up fix! Huxley’s cafe and bar is another little gem tucked away in the quaint village of Chipping Campden. The cafe offers a menu boasting a very wide range of wines and a delicious selection of antipasti options, taking you through the afternoon and into the evening. Finally I couldn’t write this post without mentioning Soho Farmhouse. I think it pretty much embodies country chic, nestled in Oxfordshire it provides the perfect hideaway for a luxury weekend break.

cotswolds cafe coffee

Cheltenham cafe health nutrition

Cotswolds cafe food

Soho house swim cotswolds oxfordshire

Walks in The Cotswolds

As I already mentioned one of the many things I love about the Cotswolds is the expanse of fields. I love nothing more than taking our dog, Darcie, for a walk on a summer’s evening. So I think incorporating a walk into a trip to the Cotswolds is a definite must. Something on my to do list is definitely the Cotswold Way National Trail, offering over 100 miles of beautiful scenery this walk stretches from Chipping Campden to Bath! Perhaps worth just tackling it in small chunks and intertwining lots of coffee stops and food breaks!

Cotswolds walks countryside

If you did decide to go to Chipping Campden then it’s well worth a visit to Hidcote Gardens. This National Trust property has a garden split into ‘outdoor rooms’ with differing characteristics, housing an endless variety of vibrant coloured flowers, designed by horticulturist Lawrence Johnston. Well worth a visit.

Cotswolds gardens national trust

Shops in The Cotswolds

Many of the places I’ve already mentioned all host lots of cute shops perfect for an afternoon potter. But if you fancy something a little different then Daylesford in a great option, it has a rather gorgeous farm shop with a lovely homeware section. For something a bit different they also hold cookery classes in their state of the art professional kitchen teaching you to prepare delicious meals using all local produce. I’m sure it is a great place to visit all year round but Christmas at Daylesford is extra magical! This year I plan on going to their wreath making workshop and I feel a bit embarrassed to say its June as I write this and I am already looking forward to decorating for Christmas! 

Cotswolds garden farm shop

For all things stationery, gifts and many more cute bits and bobs take a trip to Meggie’s. Located in Stow on the Wold you can definitely while away a lot of time having a browse here. Or for something a little more exclusive head on over to Anton and K, they source French, Swedish and Continental decorative antiques and you’ll definitely be spoiled for choice with the gorgeous pieces on their website. If you have your eye on something they do have a warehouse in Winchcombe where you can view items by appointment. Cotswold Grey is another fabulous find located in Moreton-in-Marsh. They have such a great range of pieces and I love their furniture and lighting.

Cotswolds shop gifts

Furniture style design interior

Interiors furniture homeware cotswolds

 

So I think i’ll have to round this post up, but I might do a part 2 at some point as there are definitely lots more places that I would recommend! I hope this has inspired you to visit the Cotswolds or if you already live in/around the Cotswolds, it’s shed light on a hidden gem you haven’t previously explored. I’d love to hear any more recommendations you have so be sure to pop them in the comments.

Ps Fenton and Gregory are bringing out a book all about the Cotswolds so keep an eye on their Instagram for all updates and lots more recommendations. 

Sources: The Wild Rabbit  No. 131  Coach House Coffee  Kindness & Co  Huxley’s  Soho Farmhouse  Cotswold Trail  Hidcote Gardens  Daylesford  Meggie’s  Anton and K  Cotswold Grey  Hugo Lamdin

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *