Things to do in Cotswolds
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cotswolds has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore storied sites that showcase the Cotswolds' long history, from medieval fortresses to ancient villas.
Sudeley Castle
A dramatic medieval fortress with lush gardens and royal connections, set near Winchcombe.
Chedworth Roman Villa
One of Britain’s best-preserved Roman villas, hidden in a wooded Gloucestershire valley with mosaics.
Broadway Tower
A distinctive hilltop folly offering sweeping views and a touch of 18th-century whimsy.
Museums
Delve into Roman heritage, automotive history, and local art across charming market towns.
Corinium Museum
Roman artifacts and Cirencester’s local history tell the story of the Cotswolds' ancient town.
Cotswold Motoring Museum
Vintage cars and automobilia housed in Bourton-on-the-Water’s picturesque setting.
The Wilson
Cheltenham’s art gallery and museum with rotating exhibitions and local heritage displays.
Religious Monuments
Magnificent churches and abbeys punctuate the region, revealing centuries of devotion and craft.
Gloucester Cathedral
A medieval cathedral famed for its stunning cloisters and fan-vaulted ceiling.
Tewkesbury Abbey
A towering Benedictine abbey with historic transepts and peaceful cloisters.
St James' Church, Chipping Campden
A historic parish church set in a quintessential Cotswold market town.
National & Theme Parks
Wide open spaces, wildlife, and outdoor escapes that showcase the landscape’s beauty.
Cotswolds National Landscape
The designated scenic landscape that covers rolling hills and honey-colored villages.
Cotswold Water Park
A chain of lakes with walking trails, wildlife, and water-based activities.
Birdland Park & Gardens
A wildlife park in Bourton-on-the-Water featuring exotic birds and lush gardens.
Neighborhoods
Delight in villages and market towns that define the Cotswolds’ charm and character.
Bourton-on-the-Water
The Venice of the Cotswolds, famed for river bridges and stone houses.
Stow-on-the-Wold
A historic market town with a long high street, teashops, and galleries.
Chipping Campden
Quaint market town with honey-colored stone and a scenic medieval church.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the scenery and classic views without spending a penny.
Walk the Cotswold Way
Follow sections of the long-distance trail through rolling hills and villages.
Arlington Row, Bibury
Iconic 17th-century weavers’ cottages along a scenic riverbank.
Stroll Bourton-on-the-Water’s streets
Wander the charming stone lanes and bridges that define the village.
Gastronomy
Savour traditional comforts, regional produce, and sweet tea traditions.
Cream tea in a traditional tearoom
Scones, clotted cream, and jam served with a hot pot of tea.
Gloucestershire cheese tasting
Sample local cheeses and farm produce from regional producers.
Pub lunch with local ingredients
Hearty dishes featuring seasonal Cotswold produce in village pubs.
Nightlife
Relax with a drink, live music, or a clever evening out in idyllic town settings.
The Lygon Arms, Broadway
Historic hotel bar with a warm atmosphere and occasional live music.
The Bell Inn, Tetbury
Traditional pub offering real ales and hearty meals in a village setting.
Cheltenham Jazz Festival
Annual festival bringing big-name and indie acts to town venues.
Entertainment
Theatres, galleries, and cultural spaces provide evening inspiration across the region.
Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
A lively venue for plays, musicals, and performances.
The Wilson, Cheltenham
Cheltenham’s main arts venue with exhibitions and performances.
Gloucester Guildhall
Historic event space hosting concerts and community shows.
Sports
Active pursuits and iconic sporting venues that define the region.
Minchinhampton Golf Club
Picturesque parkland course with stunning hill views.
Cheltenham Racecourse
Renowned horse racing venue with major fixtures.
Cotswold Water Park activities
Water sports and outdoor recreation on the lakes.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and unconventional finds waiting off the well-trodden path.
Rollright Stones
Ancient stone circle and prehistoric site near Long Compton.
Woodchester Mansion
A mysterious 19th-century ruin set in woodland—an atmospheric detour.
Cleeve Hill & Cleeve Common
Open hilltop areas offering wildflower meadows and sweeping views.