Stories of Place – The Cotswolds
Stories of Place is an ongoing journal series exploring the places that shape the way we think about home. Whether close to home or further afield, each story reflects on the landscapes, buildings and quiet details that continue to inspire the homes we create.
The Cotswolds are a picturesque region in southwest England steeped in history that stretches back to prehistoric times. Traces of ancient settlements can still be seen in its Iron Age hill forts and the remnants of Roman roads. The name Cotswolds is thought to come from Old English, meaning sheep enclosures in rolling hills, a nod to the area’s agricultural heritage.
Today, the Cotswolds are celebrated for their picture-book villages, distinctive stone buildings and gently undulating countryside, interwoven with walking paths, bike trails and bridleways, earning the area official designation as an area of outstanding natural beauty. The National Trust offers a diverse range of places to explore across The Cotswolds, from historic houses and gardens, to ancient sites, set amongst a patchwork of commons, woods and valleys.
Charlbury, Chipping Norton
Bentham, Near Cirencester
Snowshill Manor & Garden, National Trust, Gloucestershire
Spanning several English counties—primarily Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, with parts of Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire—the Cotswolds are an ideal destination, whether you are planning a short visit or an extended stay.
The Cotswolds offers a rich tapestry of historic landmarks, idyllic landscapes, and characterful towns and villages waiting to be explored. Here we share some highlights of this beautiful region but there is much more to discover.
Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Burford, Oxfordshire
EXPLORE THE COTSWOLDS
Tucked away in Gloucestershire, Tetbury is a charming market town with strong royal ties—home to King Charles III and Queen Camilla at nearby Highgrove. Beyond its regal connections, Tetbury is renowned for offering some of the finest shopping in the Cotswolds. While its antique shops attract collectors from far and wide, visitors will also find a delightful mix of independent boutiques, cafés, and artisan food and drink spots.
Places to visit nearby: Cirencester, Westonbirt Arboretum & Castle Combe
To the northeast lies Bibury, often described as one of the most beautiful villages in England. Famed for its picture-perfect Arlington Row, this idyllic village captures the essence of the Cotswolds with its historic stone cottages and tranquil river setting.
Places to visit nearby: Fairford, Eastleach, Southrop & Kelmscott Manor
Nearby, the historic town of Burford offers medieval architecture, a sloping high street, and a vibrant mix of antique shops, independent boutiques, and cosy pubs. Just outside the centre of the town, Burford Garden Company is well worth a visit for its range of plants, homewares, art, and locally sourced food in a wonderfully relaxed environment.
Places to visit nearby: Charlbury & Asthall Manor
Another must-visit village is Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately known as the Venice of the Cotswolds thanks to its graceful low bridges arching over the River Windrush. Explore the vintage car collection at the Cotswold Motoring Museum, or simply wander the riverbank, browsing quaint shops and enjoying traditional tea rooms.
Places to visit nearby: Lower Slaughter & Kingham
To the north, Stow-on-the-Wold captures the region’s timeless appeal with its honey-hued buildings, narrow medieval lanes, and a charming market square surrounded by antique shops and cafés.
Just a few miles northeast of Stow lies Moreton-in-Marsh, a lively market town which has a direct rail link from London. Its broad high street is lined with historic inns, independent shops, and cafés, while the weekly Tuesday market, one of the largest in the region, adds to its bustling charm.
Places to visit nearby: Broadway & Chipping Campden
The Cotswolds are also celebrated for delicious food and drink, with lively farmers’ markets and farm shops offering fresh, seasonal produce. Across the region, traditional English pubs and historic inns offer hearty meals alongside locally brewed ales, while acclaimed restaurants serve refined dishes that highlight the very best of Cotswolds ingredients.
You can also discover a wide range of accommodation options in the Cotswolds to suit every taste and budget. From elegant luxury hotels and boutique inns, to charming bed-and-breakfasts and countryside cottages, The Cotswolds ensures a welcoming and comfortable stay for every traveller.
Burford, Oxfordshire
Burford, Oxfordshire
Barnsley, Gloucestershire
Living in the South Cotswolds, the natural beauty and rich history come together to inspire all that we do. Whether you are seeking a peaceful getaway, a cultural adventure, or simply a chance to relax and enjoy the countryside, the Cotswolds has much to offer. We hope this guide may inspire you to visit and discover this beautiful corner of our world.
For more Cotswolds inspiration, visit our gallery on Pinterest
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