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From charming cottages to the famous setting of the TV show Downton Abbey, the Cotswolds Villages are a truly magical part of England that often find a place on many people’s bucket lists. The name ‘Cotswolds’ is believed to come from ‘cot’, meaning sheep pens, and ‘wolds’, indicating rolling hills, but one thing is certain – a visit to the Cotswolds is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
Situated in southwest England, the Cotswolds are renowned worldwide for a reason. Often described as the embodiment of quintessential England and a hub of romanticism, the area spans just over 800 square miles (2,000 square km) and marks the English portion of the Avon Valley, bordering Wales.
Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966, the Cotswolds encompass five counties – Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire – and consist of approximately 80% farmland. Known for its stunning beauty, the charming villages with their honey-coloured stone and expansive lavender fields make it a destination not to be missed for all UK travellers.
Comprising numerous towns and villages, divided into north and south, some of the top villages to explore in the Cotswolds include:
With a plethora of delightful attractions throughout the Cotswolds, there is something to cater to everyone’s taste, including:
Perfect for walkers of all levels, a stroll along the Cotswold Way offers breathtaking views and excellent dining options. Starting in Chipping Campden, the trail stretches for 100 miles before reaching Bath.
Many famous shows and movies have featured the iconic Cotswold buildings and stunning landscapes. In Downton Abbey, Bampton stands in as Downton Village, with key structures like St Mary’s Church and the Bampton Library. You can also spot filming locations from Bridgerton – Badminton House in Gloucestershire served as Clyvedon Castle, while Gloucester Cathedral was used for Hogwarts scenes in the Harry Potter films.
For a hassle-free way to explore the Cotswolds, consider joining Golden Tours Cotswolds Tours, where you can visit some of the most renowned villages and towns with ease.
