(Hello! I’m Audrey Ann, an American who’s lived in the Cotswolds for four years)
Lacock — a dreamy, storybook village featured in many tv shows and movies you’ve probably seen! Visit the abbey and see a gorgeous hall featured in Harry Potter. There are quant shops, a bakery, cafes, and even locals who sell treats and homemade gifts outside their homes. This is a very walkable village with lots to enjoy, especially if you visit the National Trust site (where you’ll find the abbey). Consider a membership with the National Trust if you're visiting England for several weeks!
Stow-on-the-Wold —see the famous Tolkien doors at St Edward’s church. This is my personal favorite spot to browse all kinds of shops like Sam Wilson, The Curated Store, and window shop at Fairfax and Favor. There are several charity shops to explore, one of my favorite antique shops, Tara’s Antiques, and then I have a cup of coffee at Coach House Coffee. On special occasions I’ll visit the chocolate shop. If you’re in need of a massage or want your nails done, I’ve been a customer at Candy Cox for years.
Bourbon-On-The-Water — a tourist favorite due to the river and charming bridges, Bourton is best enjoyed in the morning or evening, as it can get quite crowded once all the buses arrive. We enjoy Bakery on the Water, The Den (for takeaway coffee), and Riverside Cafe upstairs for a great view of the village. Possibly the BEST hamburger I’ve ever had, I enjoyed at Smiths of Bourton! Check out the pottery shop for a locally made gift.
Winchcombe —The drive into Winchcombe is scenic, and one I look forward to. I highly recommend recommend Sudeley Castle (do the tour!), exploring the antique shops, and visiting The Lion Inn, especially if it’s chilly and you can snag a spot by the large, swoon-worthy fireplace.
Snowshill —A picturesque village if there ever was, you’ll feel as if you’re walking into a storybook setting. There’s not a lot to “do” in the village, but have a wander in the church, pop into the pub, and visit Snowshill Manor, a National Trust site with stunning grounds (café onsite) and a beautiful house with a quirky collection and history inside.
Chipping Camden — In this market town, you’ll find a few thatched roofed houses, some little shops and cafes, a playground (our children love it!), and lots of gorgeous areas to explore.
Burford — There’s a large, free car park in Buford. Just drive past St John’s church and you’ll see the sign. Make sure to take a peak at the impressive church building, do some window shopping, and have some coffee at Linwood Café. Drive just a few minutes from the high street to Buford Garden Co. a garden centre that is an absolute experience for all the senses!
Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter — I like to park in Lower Slaughter and walk to Upper Slaughter. Stop in the churches and if it’s the right season, you may be able to grab a coffee at the old mill in Upper. You’ll come across a little river, an old manor house (now Lords of the Manor—a small luxury hotel), and probably some sheep. The walk is about a mile. You could also start at Upper Slaughter, park, and walk all the way to Bourton-on-the-Water which is about 2.5 miles.
Fairford —Another town ideal for walkers, my favorite thing about Fairford is it’s not spoiled by tourists yet. (So if you tell them I sent you, please be a great visitor. 😉)You’ll find a couple cafes, restaurants, and shops. This is another place where the drive in is particularly lovely.
Nearby is Bibury, its Arlington Row is a worthy stop as well, a 12 minute drive from Fairford and a very popular spot for tourists, it’s where I am in the header photo. It boasts a rich history in the wool industry, which is where the Cotswolds acquired its initial wealth.
BONUS: Stanway — A small village I truly stumbled upon, it has a stunning Jacobean manor house, the highest fountain in England and the highest gravity fountain in the world! I adored walking this village, popping into the church, and taking in the unbelievable beauty.
Have the very best time, everyone! Thanks for reading my list of favorites.
As always, please be respectful with your parking and interactions with locals. Especially in the summer, but all throughout the year, sometimes the large number of visitors makes their life a bit chaotic. I’ve been hesitant to add to the “noise” of visiting the Cotswolds, but it’s such a special place, no wonder people want to experience it for themselves!
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