Steeped in history, the Cotswolds gained many of its settlements from the mediaeval sheep trade. Its long history in the wool industry generated much wealth which resulted in building the many fine houses that the Cotswolds is so famous for today.
The landscape in the Cotswolds still holds much evidence of its history in the wool trade. With its dry stone walls that once formed enclosures for the sheep, buildings that were formerly factories for processing wool and market squares approached by narrow little alleyways where the sheep were once driven through to market.
Often referred to as the 'Heart of England', the Cotswolds is one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations with a huge choice of accommodation and iconic Cotswold cottages to rent. Attracting visitors from all over the world, all year round, this beautiful part of Central England is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. Its proximity to London makes the Cotswolds a perfect destination for weekend breaks in holiday cottages. Read more
This welcoming holiday cottage has a wealth of features including an inglenook with wood burner and walled garden for enjoying a glass of your favourite tipple in the sunshine, giving it all year round appeal. With a choice of three pubs, as well an a Victorian Brewery in the village, Rose Cottage in Hook Norton is perfect for exploring Central England including the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire and Shakespeare's very own Stratford-upon-Avon. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
The Cotswold Water Park is a perennial favourite for its superb amenities and beautiful surroundings. You'll love this waterfront holiday home facing Isis Lake, with deck and outdoor hot tub, two man kayak and stylishly furnished rooms. Green Woodpecker Lodge sleeps six people in three bedrooms and has a versatile layout that suits families and friends. You can stroll to South Cerney village with its well-stocked village shop and friendly pubs or stay on-site and make the most of the park's restaurant, play areas, tennis courts, table tennis pavilion and games room. Walking, cycling, fishing, and other watersports are all easily accessible, with equipment hire locally. Free use of a kayak on Windrush Lake is included.
This gorgeous stone cottage is in the grounds of the Grade II listed former Manor Farm in the Cotswolds village of Biddestone. It's utterly captivating, sleeping four people in two bedrooms with gardens lovingly tended by the owner. Guests love the location near the village green and within walking distance of the pub. Bath, Lacock, and Castle Combe are all within a few miles, and there are lots of opportunities for country walks, playing golf, and day trips to places like Bristol, Stonehenge, Westonbirt Arboretum, and Swindon's designer shopping outlet. Families and couples are welcome in all seasons.
Dairy Cottage is close to the centre of Churchill village and within walking distance of The Chequers gastropub, the church and other village amenities. Being just three miles from both Chipping Norton and Stow-on-the-Wold means it is an ideal for couples who want the benefit of being near these famous bustling market towns, whilst having a more peaceful base to return home to at the end of the day. Although the holiday cottage is well-equipped for self-catering, there are a wealth of local restaurants and pubs, with some particularly good ones including The Plough and The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, The Fox at Oddington and Daylesford Organic Farm Restaurant - all a short drive away. Churchill is also near The Slaughters, Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford and Woodstock (home to Blenheim Palace) and less than an hour's drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford and Cheltenham, making it the ideal base from which to explore the magnificent Cotswolds.
A two-bedroom cottage in a converted Victorian barn on a family-run farm close to Pershore and Worcester. Broad Iron sleeps four people and suits couples, families, friends and even solo visitors in the area for work. There is fishing onsite and lots of opportunity for walking and cycling through the countryside whilst on holiday. Rural Worcestershire is gorgeous in all seasons with a fantastic mix of space and easy accessibility to places like Worcester, Birmingham, Cheltenham, and Stratford-on-Avon.
Varden House is a welcoming barn conversion in rural Worcestershire, close to Pershore and within easy reach of Worcester. There is a wealth of things to do during your stay from fishing onsite to walking through ancient woodland, mountain biking in the Malvern Hills AONB, admiring abbeys, castles and heritage buildings, or exploring historic places like Stratford-Upon-Avon. Birmingham and Cheltenham are easy to reach by car, as are Cotswolds towns like Broadway and Chipping Campden. The holiday cottage sleeps up to six guests in three bedrooms and has a layout that suits families, extended families and friends.
Sycamore Lodge is in a beautiful location close to the Cotswolds and within easy reach of the North Wessex Downs. There are miles of footpaths and cycling routes to enjoy the surrounding Wiltshire countryside, with day trips including sightseeing and shopping in Bath, Bristol, Chippenham and Devizes. The traditional timber lodge sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms and is ideal for families who like lots of space and the opportunity to spend time exploring outdoors in every season.
Doverow Cottage is a charming two-bedroom Cotswold holiday cottage in Stonehouse, perfect for up to four guests and their dog. It was built in 1850 and has cosy features like wood beams and a log burner, offering easy access to beautiful countryside walks, nearby pubs, and Doverow Wood. Stonehouse boasts excellent amenities, including a farm shop, and is only three miles from Stroud. Village highlights include a great farm shop and a Norman-era church. The location is ideal for exploring the Cotswolds, with Slimbridge Wetlands, Painswick Gardens, Bath and Cheltenham nearby for fun days out.
A charming stone holiday cottage ideally situated in the lovely market town of Winchcombe in the heart of the North Cotswold's with excellent eating establishments and amenities on the doorstep. A great self-catering base for exploring Central England and its many attractions.
The Granary is a charming holiday cottage in Broadway, Cotswolds, ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking a peaceful getaway. Tucked away neatly behind The Old Grocery, this Cotswold stone property features a private courtyard garden, perfect for enjoying sunny breakfasts. Guests can explore nearby tea shops, boutiques, restaurants and pubs. Broadway is known as the "Jewel of the Cotswolds," offering stunning walks along the Cotswold Way and access to attractions like Broadway Tower and Snowshill Manor. Enjoy car-free adventures on the Gloucestershire Steam Railway or cycle through picturesque countryside, making The Granary a perfect self-catering base for relaxation and exploration.
The Old House, Broadway, the "Jewel of the Cotswolds," is a charming holiday cottage ideal for four guests. Featuring two ensuite bedrooms, original oak beams, and a sunny courtyard garden, it blends historic character with modern comforts and has been a feature of the High Street since the 1600s. Visitors can easily explore nearby cafes, pubs, and popular attractions that include National Trust properties and Broadway Tower. The area is perfect for keen walkers, offering a wealth of footpaths and bridleways to navigate. This delightful cottage is part of a trio, offering the option to accommodate larger groups. Experience the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds at The Old House.
Daisy Chain is a super holiday home on the desirable Lower Mill Estate in the Cotswold Water Park. It's right next to Somerford Lagoon with uninterrupted water views from all three levels. The house sleeps nine people in five spacious bedrooms, two of which have their own waterfront sundeck. Guests can use the estate's facilities that include a spa with a gym and swimming pools, tennis court and sports court, restaurant and village shop. The owners have provided a Canadian canoe with life vests, and there are lots of footpaths and cycling trails from the door. Cirencester is around a 15-minute drive away.
A holiday in the Cotswolds is a thing of joy. The Old Chapel is a beautifully converted period chapel in the quiet village of Cleveley and only a few miles from Chipping Norton and Soho Farm House. It sleeps five people in three bedrooms and suits couples, families or friends. Perfect for a country escape and beautiful walks from the doorstep. Enjoy sitting on the deck surrounded by a large private garden. The area is wonderfully rural yet within easy reach of Blenheim Palace, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Bourton-on-the-Water, Bicester Village, Shakespeare's Stratford-on-Avon, and the spires of Oxford. It's perfect for a holiday in any season.
A delightful holiday cottage in an enviable quiet position just a few minutes walk from the heart of the popular village of Broadway - one of the Cotswolds most desirable villages with excellent pubs, restaurants and independent shops to browse. Private off road parking and being dog friendly, with a garden that is enclosed
Stable Cottage is your ideal Cotswold escape, located in Painswick, the most beautifully preserved Cotswold wool town. This stylish converted stable sleeps up to four, making it great for couples, small families, or friends. With two ensuite bedrooms, a modern kitchen, and a cosy living, you will be delightfully comfortable in all seasons, including in warm weather when the private garden is excellent for relaxing or having a BBQ. Just a 10-minute walk away, you'll find the Oak pub and the chic Painswick Hotel for fantastic food and drinks. Explore Painswick’s charming streets, St. Mary's Church, and local trails like the Cotswold Way, and enjoy nearby attractions like Gloucester, Cheltenham Cirencester, and Sudeley Castle.
Holiday Rental for Groups of Families and Friends. Cotswold Spa House, Badminton, Gloucestershire, sleeps 10-25 in 7 bedrooms.
Holiday Rental for Groups of Families and Friends. Cotswold Manor House, Badminton, Gloucestershire, sleeps 10-28 in 6 bedrooms.
Stunning Grade II listed farmhouse sitting on the edge of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just a stone's throw away from the city of Oxford and the pretty market towns of Witney, Woodstock and Burford. Sleeping up to 20 people in seven gorgeous bedrooms, and with 3 reception rooms, 8 acres of gardens and paddocks, and a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, New Yatt Farm is perfect for a large family gathering or celebrating a special occasion. There are miles of stunning footpaths on your doorstep as well as stately homes, kids attractions and picturesque villages and towns to explore. Two well behaved dogs are welcome and short breaks are available all year round.
Croeso is a delightful 4-bedroom holiday cottage in the scenic Cotswold Water Park with stunning unobstructed quiet views over Swillbrook Lakes. Accommodating up to eight guests, it is perfect for families and friends seeking comfort with stylish furnishings and soothing artwork. Guests can enjoy two decks and two balconies, and a private hot tub along with access to site facilities that include a luxury spa with swimming pools and therapeutic treatments. Located near Cirencester, the estate is a haven for nature enthusiasts who enjoy walking, cycling, birdwatching, and water activities. Visit nearby attractions like Bourton-on-the-Water, the Cotswold Wildlife Park, and Cheltenham races for fun-filled days out.
Chiff Chaff is a beautiful family holiday cottage on the sought-after Lower Mill Estate in the Cotswolds Water Park. This spacious self-catering home accommodates up to eight guests across four bedrooms and features three bathrooms, private hot tub, direct lake access, and a waterfront deck (hot tub is on order!). Enjoy nearby amenities such as the Ballihoo restaurant, tennis courts, and Spa. With dog-friendly policies, it's perfect for the whole family. Explore nature trails, paddleboarding, and local attractions like Cirencester's Roman ruins and boutiques. Book your idyllic getaway at Chiff Chaff and experience the beauty of the Cotswolds!
Popular towns in and around The Cotswolds:
Bourton-on-the-WaterBroadwayBurfordCheltenhamChipping CampdenChipping NortonEveshamSouth CerneyStow-on-the-WoldStratford-Upon-AvonStroudTetburyWinchcombeSome local suggestions:
Dog friendly Cotswolds cottagesLuxury Cotswolds holiday cottagesLast minute Cotswolds cottagesRomantic Cotswolds cottagesOr search further afield:
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The Cotswolds represent 'quintessential England' and encompass six counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Warwickshire, along with Wiltshire, Somerset and Worcestershire.
Whatever the weather, the Cotswolds has plenty of great days out with its fine architecture, National Trust properties and gardens, arboretums, museums and pretty villages. There are fantastic, historic towns and cities including the Roman City of Bath, Oxford, Cheltenham and Stratford-Upon-Avon – the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
The Cotswolds offers lots of shopping with its local farmer's markets, antique shops, boutiques, gift shops, old-fashioned tea rooms and stylish coffee houses. It is also an incredibly dog-friendly area with plenty of pubs, restaurants, Cotswold accommodation, holiday cottages and attractions welcoming dogs.
Before booking your holiday cottage in the Cotswolds, you can find all the information you need for your trip here. For more tips, check out our complete Cotswolds Guide.
Every season delivers its own magic in the Cotswolds. The sparkle of winter frosts is accompanied by the smell of log fires providing a warm welcome in cottages and pubs. A visit in spring or summer allows for a myriad of footpaths like the Cotswolds Way beckon. Autumn is also pretty special, with places like Westonbirt National Arboretum showcasing a dazzling array of colours.
Summers in the Cotswolds are generally mild and warm with some infrequent hotter days. With more daylight, this means that you can spend much of your time outdoors when visiting the Cotswolds during this time. It is typically overcast with average temperatures of around 21°C, providing comfortable weather to enjoy the numerous activities in the county.
The Cotswolds in spring is utterly breathtaking with an array of daffodils and tulips popping up all over the gardens and countryside. Spring is a great time to get active in the outdoors as the temperatures drop to around 15°C, making for comfortable hiking weather.
Winter in the Cotswolds is great for those who are looking for a cosy, festive getaway with multiple Christmas markets popping up throughout the towns. Temperatures drop to a much cooler 7°C, however, there can be the occasional crisp, sunny day during winter.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you occupied on Cotswolds holidays, including walking and cycling the numerous paths and trails, shooting, fishing, golf and hot air ballooning. Horse racing is a popular pastime in the Cotswolds with the famous Cheltenham Festival, along with other renowned equestrian events including Badminton, Blenheim Palace and Gatcombe. That's if you can bare to leave the haven of our holiday cottages, of course!
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to the Cotswolds, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.
London: 83 miles
Birmingham: 69 miles
Glasgow: 351 miles
Liverpool: 160 miles
Bristol: 53 miles
Manchester: 150 miles
Leeds: 171 miles
Edinburgh: 357 miles
Newcastle: 260 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to the Cotswolds. Its excellent public transport links mean you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
The Cotswolds is one of England's greatest treasures. Stretching across six counties, its bucolic appeal is protected as the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the UK. From Bath to Berkeley and Stow-on-the-Wold to Stroud, there is something for everyone whether your tastes are sophisticated or simple.
The scale and diversity of The Cotswolds make it the sort of place you can visit year after year and always discover something new. Two thousand years of history are visible everywhere you look, from the miles of stone walls to the straight Roman roads and elegant Georgian architecture of Bath and Cheltenham.
If you want to stay in one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds then consider our Cotswolds holiday cottages in Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water and Broadway. However, if you want to be a little off the beaten tourist trail but still in the heart of the Cotswolds, consider Oddington, Kingham, Upper or Lower Slaughter, Bibury, Bruern or the Cotswolds Water Park for those who love water-based outdoor activities not fair from their holiday cottage.
The Cotswolds is mainly famous for its art and antique shops, having the largest offering outside of London. Its quaint villages, rolling countryside and tranquil atmosphere is another reason why the Cotswolds is so popular among tourists, along with the iconic golden stone that many buildings are constructed from. For a truly iconic experience, book one of our luxury holiday cottages that's straight out of a fairytale.
Living in the Cotswolds is known for being particularly expensive, as there are some of the most luxurious properties in the UK situated here. Its rural location and beautiful surroundings provide other reasons why this area is more expensive than others for self-catering accommodation in England.
However, when visiting the Cotswolds you will find that it doesn’t have to cost a lot. With the numerous places to explore in the outdoors, and plenty of towns and villages to stroll around, there are countless things to do here, as well as self-catering holiday cottages, that don’t need to break the bank.
There are a number of pretty towns situated in the Cotswolds, many of which offer their own unique setting. Although, one that stands out in particular is Castle Combe, known for being one of the prettiest villages in England.
The housing here hasn’t been developed since the 1600s, which is why the old cottages have such an ancient feel about them. The historic bridge in the village that hovers over a river and surrounding greenery makes it a picturesque town that is absolutely worth visiting.
