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Planning a trip to the Cotswolds? This Cotswolds travel guide 2026 will help you explore the most beautiful villages, local experiences, food spots, and hidden gems in England’s iconic countryside.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a quiet family holiday, or a photography-filled weekend, the Cotswolds offers that rare mix of charm and comfort that makes every moment feel special. This guide blends travel storytelling with practical tips so you can plan the perfect countryside escape.
Why the Cotswolds Is Trending for 2026
The Cotswolds has always been beautiful, but 2026 is expected to be one of its busiest years. Travelers are looking for destinations that feel safe, open, relaxing, and full of natural beauty—places where you can unwind without rushing from attraction to attraction.
The Cotswolds checks every box:
- Walkable, scenic villages
- Peaceful views and gentle landscapes
- Charming cafés, bakeries, and traditional pubs
- Boutique hotels and luxury cottages
- Access to nature without long travel times
It’s the perfect blend of old-world English charm and modern comfort.
Where to Stay in the Cotswolds
One of the reasons people fall in love with the region is the variety of beautiful accommodations. From cozy inns to luxury countryside cottages, every stay feels like a story.
1. Hotels on Expedia (Comfortable + Convenient)
Expedia offers a wide range of stays—from affordable rooms to luxury boutique hotels across the Cotswolds.
👉 Browse Cotswolds Hotels on Expedia
2. Plum Guide Cottages (Luxury & Unique Homes)
If you want a truly unforgettable stay, Plum Guide curates handpicked cottages and family homes with beautiful interiors, scenic views, and top-rated hosts.
👉 Explore Cotswolds Homes on Plum Guide
Top Villages You Shouldn’t Miss
Each Cotswolds village feels like stepping into a different story. Here are the ones worth prioritizing:
1. Bibury
Often described as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury is home to the famous Arlington Row—a row of 14th-century stone cottages that attracts photographers from all over the world.
Best for: peaceful walks, riverside views, iconic landscapes.
2. Bourton-on-the-Water
Known as “the Venice of the Cotswolds,” this village has charming footbridges, a shallow river, tearooms, bakeries, and boutiques.
Best for: families, shopping, relaxing afternoons.
3. Stow-on-the-Wold
Perched on a hilltop, this market town is full of antique shops, cafés, and traditional English pubs.
Best for: browsing, historic architecture, cozy evenings.
4. Castle Combe
Castle Combe looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. With stone cottages, narrow lanes, and lush greenery, it’s one of the most photographed spots in England.
Best for: romantic trips, scenic photography.
5. Broadway
Wide streets, boutique stores, galleries, and the impressive Broadway Tower make this one of the most elegant villages in the region.
Best for: nature walks, scenic drives, family-friendly adventures.
Best Things to Do in the Cotswolds
Here are the top experiences, tours, and must-see villages—plus direct links to book instantly
Prefer a guided tour? These are the most booked Cotswolds tours right now
The beauty of the Cotswolds is that you don’t have to rush. Everything moves at a softer, more peaceful pace. Still, there are plenty of experiences to enjoy.
1. Join a Cotswolds Tour (Viator / GetYourGuide)
If you want a stress-free day, guided tours are the easiest way to explore multiple villages without worrying about transportation.
These tours often include stops at:
- Castle Combe
- Bibury
- Bourton-on-the-Water
- Broadway Tower
- Stow-on-the-Wold
Perfect for first-time visitors.
2. Visit Broadway Tower
Standing on one of the highest points in the Cotswolds, this historic tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
3. Walk the Cotswold Way
A 102-mile trail that stretches through hills, woodlands, and charming villages. You don’t have to walk the full trail—choose a short section for a peaceful countryside escape.
4. Enjoy English Tearooms & Bakeries
Fresh pastries, warm scones with clotted cream, cups of tea, and traditional cakes—every village has its own tea shop worth trying.
5. Explore Local Markets & Farm Shops
Handmade cheese, artisan bread, seasonal fruits, honey, and chocolates—perfect if you enjoy food and local culture.
6. Take a Scenic Drive
Driving through the Cotswolds is an experience in itself. Gentle hills, stone walls, sheep fields, and quiet lanes make every route stunning.
How to Get to the Cotswolds
By Train
Regular trains run from:
- London Paddington
- Oxford
- Birmingham
- Bristol
Train travel is fast and comfortable.
By Car
Driving gives you the most freedom to visit multiple villages in one day.
By Tour
Perfect if you don’t want to navigate UK roads. Many tours start from London.
For families, couples, and solo travelers, this Cotswolds travel guide 2026 covers practical tips and transport options
Amazon Travel Essentials for the Cotswolds
These helpful essentials can make your countryside trip easier:
- Packing Cubes
👉 Buy Here - UK Travel Adapter
👉 Buy Here - Portable Power Bank
👉 Buy Here - Lightweight Rain Jacket
👉 Buy Here - Travel Backpack
👉 Buy Here
Best Time to Visit the Cotswolds
Spring (March–May): Flowers bloom, perfect weather, great for photography.
Summer (June–August): Warm, lively, great for families.
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Beautiful fall colors, quieter.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Cozy pubs, Christmas markets, peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re planning more trips across England, don’t miss my full list of Stunning UK Getaways in 2025 (Part II). It highlights more charming destinations worth adding to your travel list.”
Final Tips for Your Trip
- Book stays early—rooms fill up during spring and summer.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a portable charger for maps and photos.
- Try local pastries and village bakeries.
- Plan at least 2–3 days to explore comfortably.
AUTHOR BIO BOX
About the Author
Mark is the creator of WhereIsMark.blog — sharing travel guides, scenic countryside escapes, and practical tips for affordable and enjoyable travel. His goal is to help travelers discover beautiful destinations and plan memorable trips with confidence.
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If you click on a link and make a purchase or booking, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work and allows me to continue creating useful travel guides. Thank you for your support!