The 20 best things to do in the Cotswolds (updated 2025)

What is it? A prominent landmark with more than 1,000 years of royal history, and a knockout playground.

Why go? It’s tricky to sum up why Sudeley Castle is so worth visiting in a few words, but here goes. This place is absolutely steeped in history: Richard III used it as a base during the War of the Roses; it was one of Henry VIII’s royal residences; his sixth wife, Katherine Parr, is buried here; and it was where Queen Elizabeth I celebrated after defeating the Spanish Armada. If these walls could talk! But it’s not just about history — Sudeley is a fantastic family spot, with an award-winning outdoor adventure play fort featuring levels, slides, bridges, and hideaway holes.

Address: Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5JD

Opening Times: Daily from 10am to 5pm (April to October)

Time Out tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and spend extra time exploring the beautiful gardens and secret woodland paths.

What is it? A brewery and taproom that puts community front and centre.

Why go? Unlike many Cotswolds breweries with centuries of history, this one sprang up during lockdown, born from a group of friends curious about beer. Now, Cotswold Lakes Brew Co crafts a small but mighty range of gluten-free beers. The taproom hosts monthly events like open mics, quizzes, brewery tours, and silent discos, plus tasty pop-up food trucks. With a ‘Beer. With Purpose’ ethos, they’re committed to sustainability—brewing with surplus loaves is just one way they’re doing it. Cheers to that!

Address: Cotswold Lakes Brewing Company, Old Station Yard, Poulton, Cheltenham GL53 9PH

Opening Times: Thursday–Sunday, 12pm–8pm

Time Out tip: Plan your visit around one of their lively monthly events to soak up the community vibe.

What is it? When you think of a treehouse, you might picture splinters, bugs, and chilly nights. But they can also be peaceful hideaways set among the trees. TreeDwellers in Cornbury, northeast Cotswolds, are modern treehouses elevated above the forest floor—surrounded by nature but not actually built in trees. These beautifully curved pods on stilts combine sleek design with luxury, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, underfloor heating, and ultra-fast wi-fi that rivals the city.

Why go? More than just stunning architecture, TreeDwellers offer serious comfort. Soft beds, Sonos sound systems, and a welcome hamper filled with cheese, wine, Oxford-roasted coffee, and bath bombs make it an indulgent retreat. Nearby, explore Wychwood Forest’s unique ‘forest megaphone,’ pop into the friendly Plough Inn, or visit the ancient Rollright Stones a short drive away. For a magical experience, head out onto the deck after dark to enjoy the incredibly clear night sky.

Address: Cornbury Park Estate, Wychwood Forest, Oxfordshire, OX7 6AR

Opening Times: Bookings usually run Friday to Sunday or midweek; check availability online.

Time Out tip: Turn off all lights and spend an evening stargazing—this spot boasts some of England’s darkest skies.

What is it? A literal land of birds, from ones we recognise today to Jurassic-era creatures. 

Why go? This isn’t any old bird-watching gig, where you spend hours waiting behind your binoculars in a chilly hutch somewhere – no, Birdland is a cracker of a day out. These nine acres of gardens and woodland is home to a flabbergasting 500 birds, from owls and waterfowl to flamingos and penguins. Want to feed the penguins? Sure. Keen to witness an Owl Parliament? Absolutely. But maybe the most exciting discovery will be the life-sized dinosaurs lurking between the trees – a chance for a proper Jurassic journey. 

Address: Birdland Park and Gardens, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BN

Opening Times: Daily, 10am–5pm (March to October)

Time Out tip: Arrive early to catch the bird feeding sessions.

What is it? The town’s cultural calendar is jam-packed with four world-class fests throughout the year

Why go? Sure, Cheltenham is a lovely town in its own right, but undoubtedly one of its biggest draws are the brilliant roster of festivals which take place throughout the year. For the Bookworms, the Literature Festival is a 10-day event of talks, discussions and activities from some of our most pivotal and exciting writers. For budding physicists, biologists and chemists, the Science Festival features talks and workshops to help answer some of our biggest questions about the world, and with Professor Brian Cox and academic and author Alice Roberts previously being on the lineup. Then there’s the Jazz Festival, which is considered one of the best in Europe, and the Music Festival, a tradition running since 1945 showcasing Cheltenham’s love of classical music. 

Address: Cheltenham Town Centre, Gloucestershire, GL50

Opening Times: Festival dates vary; check individual festival websites for details.

Time Out tip: Book tickets early—these popular festivals sell out fast, especially for headline events and workshops.

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.

Address: Arlington Row, Bibury, Gloucestershire, GL7 5NL

Opening Times: Open year-round (public access)

Time Out tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the cottages in the best natural light for photos.

What is it? Beatrix Potter’s House of the Tailor inspired one of the author’s most-loved characters

Why go? This tiny little shop and museum was originally the place where Potter, one of England’s most lauded children’s authors, got the inspo for one of her most widely adored characters, the Tailor of Gloucester. Inside are displays bringing the Tailor to life, along with fun little souvenirs and volunteers who’ll surely be able to answer any excitable questions you might have.

Address: The Tailor of Gloucester, 9 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2NZ

Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00am–4.00pm; closed Sunday and Monday.

What is it? A town often considered the ‘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. For some great, posh food, head to 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. 

Address: Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7

Opening Times: Shops and eateries generally open 9.00am–5.30pm; amphitheatre open year-round, daylight hours

Time Out tip: Visit the Roman amphitheatre early morning or late afternoon to enjoy it with fewer visitors and softer light.

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. 

Address: Daylesford Organic Farm, Kingham, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire OX7 6AJ

Opening Times: Farm shop and café 9.00am–5.30pm daily; cookery courses and spa by appointment

Time Out tip: Book a cookery course well in advance — they’re incredibly popular and offer a unique way to connect with sustainable food.

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 (£8) 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.

Address: Abbey House Gardens, Abbey Row, Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 9AT

Opening Times: April–September, daily 10.00am–5.00pm

Time Out tip: Check the schedule for ‘Clothing Optional’ days before visiting to avoid surprises, unless you’re up for an unusual experience.

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.

Address: Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1AB

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.

Address: Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AQ

Opening Times: Shops and attractions generally open 10.00am–5.00pm daily; farmer’s market on fourth Sunday, 9.00am–1.00pm

Time Out tip: Visit early to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll before the village buzzes with tourists.

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, this is a year-round treat. 

Address: Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QS

Opening Times: Daily 9.30am–5.30pm (last entry 4.30pm)

Time Out tip: Book a spot on the winter illuminated trail for a magical evening walk in the cold months.

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 at Tisanes 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.

Address: Tisanes Tearoom, High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7AA

Opening Times: 10am–5pm daily

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.

Address: Hayles Fruit Farm, Church Lane, Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham, GL54 2HP

Opening Times: PYO and café open daily 9am–6pm (seasonal)

Time Out tip: Visit in late summer for the best pick-your-own fruit selection and homemade cider.

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.

Address: The Wild Rabbit, 59 West Street, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5EL

Opening Times: Pub: 12pm–11pm daily; Rooms check-in from 3pm

Time Out tip: Book a table by the fire on a chilly evening for the ultimate cosy dining experience.

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.

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.

Address: Whichford Pottery, Shipston Road, Whichford, CV36 5ED; Cotswolds Distillery, Stourton, Shipston-on-Stour, CV36 5HQ

Opening Times: Whichford Pottery Café: Thu–Sun 10am–5pm; Cotswolds Distillery: Daily 10am–4pm (tours by appointment)

Time Out tip: Book your distillery tour in advance to secure a spot and ask for cocktail recommendations at the bar.

What is it? Gloucestershire’s only five-star hotel

Why go? If you’re after that quaint, rural, Cotswold vibe on an incredibly grand scale, look no further than Ellenborough. The 15th century manor house has been gradually restored to its historic five-star glory, now boasting a newly-added spa garden and private lodge, as well as a host of plushly decorated rooms and a laid-back, elegant menu at The Restaurant. The best part? It’s surrounded by 90 acres of ‘gram-worthy parkland and Cotswold countryside. What better place to switch off is there than that?