Central
Cotswolds
From London
the central area of the Cotswolds is most popular.
Oxford and nearby Blenheim Palace is a major gateway to the region.
Burford
For many
people, Burford, another old wool town, is the gateway town into the
Cotswolds. One of the larger conurbation's, the main High Street descending
down to the river with some of its best 17th and 18th century frontages
is the main focus for visitors. Burford is a renowned centre for antiques,
teashops and gift shopping. |
Bourton
On The Water
Probably
the most popular village in the Cotswolds, and often referred to as
the "Venice of the Cotswolds" because the River Windrush
runs right through the centre. The sparkling water and the attractive
low bridges crossing it create a charming scene.
The
Slaughters
Only a
couple of miles from Bourton On Water, Lower Slaughter is just off
the Roman Fosse Way and a wonderfully conserved typical Cotswold village,
with a Water Mill and ducks on the stream - a wander alongside the
stream seems like a privilege.
Upper Slaughter is equally attractive with old cottages and farmhouses,
and a Manor House now a hotel |
Bourton On The Water |
Bibury
William
Morris called Bibury "the most beautiful village in England"
and it remains most attractive in its setting alongside the river.
The 14th century Arlington Row provides the focal point. This was
originally a wool store, then altered into weavers’ cottages
and is now restored by the National Trust. The low roofline and row
of gables give it true Cotswold style.
Stow
on the Woldl
Famous
as a centre for antiques, Stow-on-the-Wold, situated on the Roman
Fosse Way, has a long history and probably dates from a prehistoric
fortified settlement on top of the hill. The Market Square is large
and impressive and, surrounded by houses, shops and inns all built
in the local Cotswold stone, it gives the feeling of being the focus
of town life over many centuries. At nearly 800ft, Stow-on-the-Wold
is the highest of the Cotswold towns, approached uphill from all directions. |
Northern
Cotswolds
From London
most people venturing to the northern part of the Cotswolds, the furthest
part away from London, will combine a visit with Shakespeare's Stratford
Upon Avon or Warwick castle.
Broadway
Picture
perfect with its honey-coloured Cotswold stone buildings, Broadway
is one of the most picturesque of the Cotswold villages. Its chocolate
box looks you could be stepping onto a film set. With a wide range
of antique and high quality shops, spectacular scenery and with lovely
places to stay. Fish Hill provides the impressive backdrop to Broadway
and on top stands Broadway Tower, a 65 foot (20m) high folly. From
the tower spectacular views of 12 counties can be enjoyed.
Mourton
in Marsh
Located
at the head of the beautiful Evenlode valley, Moreton is a thriving
market town dating back 1000 years. Every Tuesday Moreton-in-Marsh
hosts the largest open-air street market in the Cotswolds
Snowshill
The village
is known for its exceptional unspoilt beauty and for the views over
the Severn Vale to the west. Charmingly set near the Worcestershire
border, the Cotswolds rise to over 900ft around the village on three
sides |
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