Over the past 12 months, we did quite a bit of travelling which was amazing ✈️ We’ve recently pumped the brakes since coming back from our honeymoon and we’re enjoying a slow lifestyle in Cornwall as newlyweds. We’ve recently been loving the idea of staycations though because it allows us to get away and explore new places, without needing to worry about catching flights, fighting jet lag and feeling exhausted. It also means we can fill the car with all our home comforts, close the door to work and just recharge our batteries in the beautiful countryside. The best bit? We don’t have to leave our furry four-legged friend behind.
We love exploring AONB in the UK and somewhere super high on our list, that hasn’t been explored enough is The Costwolds. The Cotswolds is a quaint and scenic region in the South of England where there’s hiking trails, miles of green hills and cute villages filled with history. It is the perfect place for a little break with your loved ones to experience a week or so by a log fire with a cuppa and a blanket. If you’re looking for a new place to visit, here are a few reasons to take a trip to the Cotswolds and why we’re itching to return…
It is amazingly picturesque
The Cotswolds is a huge place, with almost 800 square miles throughout five counties, with plenty of rolling hills and the biggest of 38 areas named for their Outstanding Natural Beauty in England and Wales. Because of this, it is perfect for outdoor adventures, whether that’s exploring the gardens, go for a bike ride or experiencing a guided tour of some of the most famous sites.
In each town and region, you can expect a sea of greenery across each village. Areas such as Witney, Painswick and Broadway offer a very different perspective to city life if you’re in need of a week of peaceful surroundings to fulfil your need for escapism. Autumn is many visitors’ favourite time of year to see the Cotswolds due to the beautiful amber leaves and autumnal tones that flow throughout the villages, making it perfect for aesthetic Instagram posts and family selfies!
It’s a great place to enjoy creature comforts
Known for its gorgeous villages, there’s plenty of cute and quirky places to stay that are only a stone’s throw away from local pubs, walking trails and fine gardens. Cottages in the Cotswolds are the best in Autumn, as you get to experience the cosy retreat at its full potential on dark nights and colder mornings after a long day exploring and admiring local architecture. There’s accommodation for everyone’s aesthetic, with loads of choice from boutique hotels and rental cottages to glamping, each area offers a specific flavour to your stay.
It’s the best of both worlds
The Cotswolds is a gateway to many loved cities such as Bath and Cheltenham if you fancy a day in the city as a contrast to your peaceful retreat. There are always events for families to visit that explore the history of the area, such as Court Barn Museum and The Gardens Gallery, to encourage you to become inspired and energised throughout your stay. It would be a perfect place to visit either on a romantic getaway or with the whole family, just be sure to wrap up warm for those chilly evening events around bonfire night and Christmas!
It’s amazing for foodies!
The Cotswolds has become a well-known foodie destination that is particularly well known for its delicious cheeses and fancy Michelin star restaurants. If you’re looking for food events and markets, there is plenty to offer year-round; the Farmers’ markets take place in most Cotswold villages, along with festivals such as Cheltenham Food Festival and Tewkesbury Food Festival becoming more renowned each year, along with many more foodie events. Local tea rooms and craft breweries are also found throughout the Cotswolds if you’re looking for homemade comforts without travelling too far from your accommodation.