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UK Staycation: 3 Days Exploring the Cotswolds Historic Villages and Country Trails 

Deciding on your next vacation can be quite challenging, as there are numerous destinations to consider. If you live in England, you probably thought about going to the surrounding countries, maybe France or Ireland. But what if we told you that you could keep your vacation close and avoid the bustle of the city at the same time?

Enter the Cotswolds area, a region with several idyllic villages and country trails that perfectly capture the old English charm. The area is broad enough to visit for an entire weekend, but peaceful enough that you can take a step back and just relax. From limestone cottages to quaint pubs and the occasional casino point, it has a lot to offer. In this article, you’ll find out exactly how you can discover it to its fullest.

Photo by Will Tarpey on Unsplash

What Do the Cotswolds Villages Offer?

Back in 1966, the Cotswolds were deemed an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, and for a good reason. At just a two-hour drive from London, in south-central and southwest England, it has 787 miles of protected beauty that covers multiple counties. This includes Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Wiltshire.

The village is characterized by its classic honey-colored limestone cottages, picturesque views, and quiet surroundings. You can slip away from the bustle of city life as you stroll over the narrow lanes, but still feel connected as you visit the village pubs, local boutiques, and art galleries. 

The Internet connection is also great at most accommodations, despite it being a rural area. You can go to a nice pub, have a warm drink, watch a movie online, or even play the occasional game on the slot machines (some locations have them). 

How to Explore Cotswold Like a Pro

The Cotswolds have a lot to offer, and you could easily spend a week or two relaxing here. Still, if you only have three days, the area is connected enough that you can easily relax. Here’s your perfect itinerary if you’re around for the next three days.

Day 1: Cheltenham, Painswick, and Winchcombe

Cheltenham is the perfect place to start your staycation because it’s more of a town than a village, and it has plenty of amenities. There are many inns and rental options to choose from as a base, and you have access to restaurants, pubs, and shops. Cheltenham is also known as the City of Festivals, hosting more than 25 events every year.

After settling in, you should head out around noon to Painswick, which is about half an hour away. The area is called the “Queen of the Cotswolds,” and for a good reason. The traditional village looks elegant, and you have plenty of places to see, like St. Mary’s Church, surrounded by beautiful yew trees. If you’re up for a stroll, the Painswick Heritage Trail gives you some insight into the village’s history. 

After enjoying lunch in Painswick, move on to Winchcombe, which is approximately a 20–30-minute drive away. The Cotswold Way is beautiful at any time of the year, and it has plenty of tea houses where you can enjoy an afternoon break. 

Photo by Hugo Kruip on Unsplash 

Visiting the local Winchcombe Museum provides insight into the village’s history, but if it’s open, consider also visiting Sudeley Castle and its gardens. The place is only open at specific times because it’s a private residence, but it’s renowned for its architecture and beautiful roses. 

You can choose to return to Cheltenham after that if you have accommodation, but you can also find inns here. Some prefer to relocate every evening as it spares them the commute.

Day 2: Broadway and Chipping Campden

After waking up and enjoying a nice breakfast and a cup of coffee (or tea), you should head out to Broadway. This town has been around since the 11^th century, and the architecture confirms it. The high street is packed with art and antique shops, and the narrow streets offer plenty of photo opportunities.

If you like vintage and antique furniture, stop by the Gordon Russell Design Museum and look at his crafts. You can enjoy a pint afterward at the Swan if you want an upscale pub, but there are plenty of quaint locations with a view here, too. Consider going to the Broadway Tower as well, since the hilltop location offers a beautiful viewpoint of the whole village. 

After lunch, drive on to Chipping Campden. It’s less crowded, but has enough pubs and shops to keep you busy for a couple of hours. The village is famed for the Market Hall built in 1612, whose beautiful arches have withstood the test of time. Chipping Campden is a wool town, so plenty of locations have this theme.

Day 3: Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bibury

On the third day, head out to Stow-on-the-World. Unless you’re staying somewhere else, try getting a room at The Porch House. This is the oldest inn in Britain, and even if you’re not staying, it’s worth visiting. Once you’ve strolled the market square and the antique shops, visit St. Edward’s Church and marvel at the iconic architecture.

Most visitors go for brunch at the Stow, which is the most popular social point in the area. The food is great, and it offers the old English vibes that help you relax. When you’re done, head out to Bourton-on-the-Water, which is nicknamed the “Venice of Cotswolds.” You can enjoy the village charm as you walk along the Windrush River, crossing the stone bridges while you’re at it. There are plenty of riverside terraces where you can relax with a view. 

Photo by Magda Vrabetz on Unsplash

Head out to Bibury in the late afternoon and stroll through Arlington Row. The row of cottages is beautiful to photograph as the sunset is closing in, and the Rack Isle water meadows offer the perfect way to relax. Choose a riverside pub for dinner or a light snack to relax before you head out to your accommodation.

Final Thoughts

The Cotswolds may lack the busy vibes of big cities, but this is exactly what makes the area so charming. Here, you can slow down and breathe as you enjoy the beautiful English countryside. If you can’t stay for a week, three days is more than enough to recharge your batteries.