Nestled between Oxford and Bath, the Cotswolds beckons with its undeniable charm. This picturesque region, renowned for its honey-stone cottages, quaint pubs with rooms, and rose-filled gardens, offers a quintessential English escape. For visitors seeking a slice of Cotswolds magic, the challenge lies in choosing the perfect village. This article presents five captivating villages, each with its own unique appeal, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Just a short drive from Stow-on-the-Wold, Upper and Lower Slaughter exude an air of timeless beauty. The River Eye, winding through the villages, is crossed by two stone bridges and features a charming water mill. While the limited cafes and shops contribute to the area’s serenity, nature lovers will delight in the mile-long trail along the water, part of The Wardens’ Way. After a leisurely stroll, a pub lunch in nearby Bourton-on-the-Road awaits.
Painswick, known for its dramatic and breathtaking views, is a popular stop for hikers traversing the Cotswolds Way. Many make a detour to Painswick House, with its Georgian Rococo Gardens, a unique and surviving example of its kind in Britain. A stroll through the 99 yew trees that line the path to the 14th-century church, St Mary’s, adds a touch of mystique to the journey.
Burford, the gateway to the Cotswolds, captivates with its 12th-century church and charming streets lined with thatched cottages. PR maverick Matthew Freud has added to the town’s allure with the opening of Bull, a new establishment, and is rumored to be revitalizing The Highway Inn, located just a few doors down. Before departing, a visit to Burford Garden Centre is a must, where David Austin roses and locally crafted ceramics await as souvenirs.
Tolkien fans are drawn to Stow-on-the-Wold, specifically St Edward’s Church. The church’s wooden door, flanked by yew trees, is said to have inspired the Doors of Durin in Tolkien’s epic, The Lord of the Rings. Cutter Brooks, the beloved homeware shop known for its gingham towels, enamel glassware, and bobbin lamps, is scheduled to close soon, so a visit is recommended for those seeking unique treasures. For sustenance, D’Ambrosi deli offers a tempting selection, including miso salmon and spicy papaya salad.
Asthall Manor, once the home of the Mitford sisters, where Nancy penned chapters of Love in a Cold Climate, is now owned by Rosie Pearson. She organizes On Form, a sculpture exhibition held in the garden every other year. Following a visit to the manor, indulge in lunch at The Three Horseshoes, a pub-with-rooms under the Daylesford Stays banner, before a leisurely stroll along the River Windrush to Swinbrook. Here, four of the Mitford sisters find their final resting place at the Gothic St Mary’s Church.
