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
Full of traditional character and charm, Rose Cottage is a delightful self-catering retreat conveniently positioned just a short walk from the market square of Stow-on-the Wold with an excellent choice of pubs, restaurants, coffee houses and shops. An ideal location for exploring the Cotswolds and popular holiday destinations. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Farthing Cottage is a pretty stone Cotswolds cottage in an enviable position sitting in a quiet backwater with off-road parking and sunny garden, just two minutes stroll from the centre of the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Beautiful countryside, great restaurants, pubs and independent shops on the doorstep and a host of attractions within a short drive make this romantic retreat with log burner an excellent choice for exploring the Cotswolds.
Mutton Barn provides luxurious holiday accommodation with a wood-fired Hot tub and boasts a wonderful rural location with breathtaking views of Warwickshires spectacular countryside. A haven for wildlife, this impressive barn set in the Heart of England Forest is just 7 miles from Stratford upon Avon and is an ideal base for exploring Central England including Warwickshire and the Cotswolds.
A Grade II listed detached stone holiday cottage sitting in the highly desirable picturesque Cotswolds village of Lower Slaughter. With views over the old mill, restaurants within strolling distance and the little River Eye just fifty yards away, Rose Tree Cottage is an excellent self-catering choice for a Cotswolds holiday.
A charming Grade II listed Cotswolds stone house ideally situated on the Lower High Street of the beautiful Cotswolds town of Chipping Campden. Sleeping ten, this is an ideal self-catering place for friends and families to enjoy time together with excellent amenities on the doorstep, and an abundance of attractions within easy reach.
Beautifully presented, this welcoming holiday retreat for two provides a cosy self-catering base from which to explore the Cotswolds and its many attractions. Popular with walkers, cyclists and garden enthusiasts, there are also lots of houses and gardens to visit locally. There are good pubs and of course plenty of tea rooms! The village pub in Kineton serves excellent food and just a few minutes walk away. 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. Please note we have 2 lodges which sleep 6, these can be booked together to accommodate up to 12 guests.
Why would you even consider going abroad for your holiday with the beautiful Cotswold Water Park as an option? The 40-square mile nature reserve boasts over 150 lakes and has been carefully developed to protect the natural habitat for birds and wildlife while still being superbly comfortable for holidaymakers. Grey Heron Lodge is a waterfront holiday home with ample space for up to six people, with three comfortable bedrooms, an open-plan living area and a huge wrap-around deck, with private jacuzzi. Guests have use of onsite facilities that include watersports, play areas, and a bar and restaurant. They can fish next to the lodge, and the owners have provided a two-person kayak for them to use on Windrush Lake. Dogs and children are very welcome, making Grey Heron Lodge a firm favourite with families and friends, as well as couples who appreciate a great location, pet friendly accommodation and extra space. We have 2 lodges which sleep 6 that can be booked together to accommodate up to 12 guests.
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.
A comfortable welcoming one bedroom ground floor apartment in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon with its own private parking and gated entrance. Free Wi-Fi and well equipped to provide a comfy self-catering base from which to explore the many attractions on the doorstep and in the surrounding area including the Cotswolds and Warwickshire.
This comfortable early Victorian holiday cottage, with private off street parking, sleeps six people in three bedrooms and is a five-minute stroll from some of Stratford-Upon-Avon's favourite sights and attractions. It is perfect for families, especially those with a car, as it benefits from off-street parking. Spend happy days shopping, relaxing over a long lazy lunch, strolling beside the river and exploring Shakespeare's birthplace, seeing his grave, and discovering where his wife and daughter lived. Warwick Castle is only 20 minutes away, as is the north Cotswolds . 41 Shakespeare Street is a wonderful place to stay at any time of the year.
Monastery Barn is a gorgeous, detached Village barn located in the fringe Cotswolds/North Oxfordshire near Banbury, Chipping Norton and Stratford-upon-Avon. Accommodating up to 6 guests & 4 dogs. The courtyard provides parking for up to 4 cars and there is also a doggy safe/secure south facing enclosed garden. Our traditional Village Pub is in easy walking distance as are a number of local walks around the Village and fields including the Roman Road. Great pubs/restaurants and a host of market towns, local activities & attractions within a short drive.
Welcome to our self catering cottage in Pillerton Hersey, south Warwickshire. Off the beaten track yet very close to the Cotswolds, Stratford upon Avon, Warwick and a wealth of National Trust properties, other castles, gardens and attractions. Our cottage is a beautiful barn conversion nestling in the country garden on our smallholding. Peaceful, comfortable and well equipped, this countryside oasis is a true rural retreat. The property sleeps 3 people in one double, one single room and offers you everything you could want in a home from home. Situated on the edge of the small village we are surrounded by countryside and enjoy direct access to beautiful footpaths straight from our garden gate. Our small flock of Soay sheep and two ponies set the scene as you enter our drive and our bees provide a small taste of country bliss for you as part of our locally sourced welcome basket. A good selection of local dining pubs within easy reach. Welcoming hosts. Excellent reviews. Accredited by the Visit England and AA Visitor Welcome Scheme.
Sitting in a tranquil position set up a private road where a stream runs through the grounds, with Private parking (Having an EV Charger) and being dog friendly with an enclosed garden, this welcoming self-catering cottage is only a five minute stroll from the heart of the Cotswolds village of Broadway with its superb independent shops, pubs and restaurants. Lower Mill Cottage Two is a great base for exploring the Cotswolds and Central England.
The Lower Mill Cottages are situated, just up a private road, with private off road parking, also having access to an EV Charger. Set amongst very picturesque grounds with a stream running through, private parking and being dog friendly with an enclosed garden, these two Cotswold Holiday Cottages sit in an enviable idyllic quiet location just a few minutes stroll from the centre of Broadway - one of the Cotswolds most beautiful villages with an excellent choice of pubs, restaurants and independent shops. A great base for exploring Central England or simply relaxing.
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
Charming country cottage sleeping up to 18 in 4 bedrooms, with private garden, hot tub, and open fire. Stag & hen parties welcome – perfect for getaways with family and friends, special occasions, and relaxing breaks near Bath and Bristol
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.
Stunning Georgian-style home sleeping up to 27 in 7 bedrooms, with indoor heated swimming pool, hot tub, and landscaped gardens. Stag & hen parties welcome – ideal for large group stays, celebrations, and countryside escapes near Bath and Bristol.
Elegant period home sleeping up to 30 in 6 bedrooms, with landscaped gardens, covered outdoor hot tub, and open fires in both dining room and lounge. Stag & hen parties welcome – ideal for large group stays, special occasions, and countryside escapes near Bath and Bristol.
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 cottagesCotswolds cottages with a hot tubRomantic 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.
