A river with an arched low stone bridge crossing with willow trees and pink flowers growing at the river bank in The Cotswolds.
Home » 7 Incredible Cotswolds Towns & Villages To Visit Over A Weekend (2-3 Days)

7 Incredible Cotswolds Towns & Villages To Visit Over A Weekend (2-3 Days)

Are you trying to figure the best places to visit in The Cotswolds & what to do over a weekend or 2-3 days?

Living in Suffolk, we’re only a couple of hours drive away from The Cotswolds. As a result we suggest everyone makes a little time to explore some of the beautiful Cotswolds towns and villages. This is also the case if you’re planning a trip from overseas to the UK. You will find The Cotswolds are such a unique contrast to London and super easy to get to from the capital.

Think endless countryside views, rural villages full of atmospheric pubs and pretty stone cottages to overnight in. The magic of The Cotswolds is how they blend history, romance, nature and delicious locally sourced foods! Speaking of food, if you’re a fan of Clarkson’s Farm, don’t miss a trip to their Farm Shop which we have details of below.

We’re excited to share our amazing Cotswolds weekend (2-3 day) itinerary. It’s packed with our personal tips gathered from time spent here to help you plan an unforgettable Cotswolds trip in 2024.

What Are the Cotswolds?

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AOBN) back in 1966, the Cotswolds are actually 787 square miles (2,038km) in England. It’s not a single town, but a combination of many small towns, villages and lots of farms dotted throughout this area.

They’re particularly popular as a getaway destination for us Brits as they offer a complete contrast to busy city life of Southern England. In The Cotswolds, you are nestled among rolling hills known as wolds.

Quaint historic villages are separated by meadows decorated with wild flowers and divided by centuries old hedgerows.

Coming here rewards you with classic English countryside views that inspired countless artists and writers over the years. To this day, they attract people from around the world to paint, write, draw and explore in this unique rural destination.

Where In England Are The Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds straddle several counties in England. They are mainly in Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire but also extend into parts of Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.

In relation to London, The Cotswolds are only 100 miles north west from the capital and if you keep going you’ll head into Wales!

Illustrative map of distance from London to The Cotswolds

Honestly, it’s not possible to see it all over 2-3 days even with a car. We recommend if you’re planning to come here for a weekend, you pick a starting point, then explore surrounding local villages. Perhaps book your accommodation between 2 different towns.

What Are The Main Cotswolds Towns & Villages?

In the Northern Cotswolds, you can explore the popular market towns of Cheltenham, Broadway, Bourton-on- the-Water and Burford.

Just as delightful are Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh and the villages surrounding including the Slaughters. As you’re staying in the north, you have easy access into Shakespeare’s Stratford Upon Avon and the world-famous university city of Oxford.

A map of different towns in the Costwolds

Of course, you can choose to visit the Southern Cotswolds which covers an area around Cirencester, Gloucester and the Stroud Valleys. Here you can visit the pretty towns of Fairford, Lacock and Tetbury. You’re also close here to Bristol and Bath and it’s possible to make excellent day trips from either city, albeit a long day.

Read what to see and do in 7 villages in 2-3 days. From our base in the tiny village of Bledington in the Northern Cotswolds, our route on Day 1 took in the first three villages below. On Day 2, we explored the next two and on Day 3 when we were heading south, the last two.

This order worked really well and will give you enough time to enjoy the highlights in each at a sensible pace before moving on to the next. You will need a car for this itinerary.


7 Top Towns & Villages – Northern Cotswolds

  • Bourton-on-the-Water
  • Lower Slaughter
  • Stow-on-the-Wold
  • Moreton-on-Marsh
  • Broadway
  • Chipping Norton
  • Burford

Bourton-On-The-Water: Best Things To Do

If you are limited on time, visit this village! Bourton-on-the-Water gets our vote as the most picturesque spot in the Cotswolds – often called ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’.

It gets this accolade from 5 stunning low stone footbridges which criss cross the town’s River Windrush. Hang out by the river as it flows gently alongside the village’s High Street. In the centre, there’s plenty of activities to choose from and we suggest some of the following:

The stone bridges over a river with people walking over.

Start exploring the village by crossing each arched bridge and strolling along the river. There are 9 walking paths from the town center and a circular route if you want to stretch your legs after your journey here.

The village is a perfect spot to simply relax by the river and soak in the views and, hopefully, the sunshine! Enjoy a refreshment in one of the many tea/coffee shops like Bourton Riverside Cafe. Why not indulge in an ice-cream made by a local Cotswolds artisan – look out for their bicycle stalls at either end of the river.

Attractions Just Outside Bourton-on-the-Water

Next, if you’re a bird lover, consider a visit to Birdland Park and Gardens, home to over 500 birds including parrots, owls and penguins. Kids will enjoy the Jurassic Park action with dinosaur models. For anyone has mobility needs, these facilities are suitable for wheelchair users which can also be reserved in advance of a visit.

Motor enthusiasts and kids of all ages will love a visit to the vintage Cotswold Motoring and Toy Museum. You will see quite a collection of vintage vehicles, toys and general curiosities.

We must mention shopping in Bourton-On-The-Water. If you love browsing don’t miss checking out the fabulous shops from boutique independents to attractive gift shops.

Parking & Transport Tips: Bourton’s popularity makes it one of the busiest villages so arrive early in the morning. There are 2 large ‘pay and display’ car parks a few minutes walk away from the centre on Station Road and Rissington Road. They’re well sign-posted as you arrive into the village.

The nearest Train Station is in Moreton-in-Marsh. It’s only 10-15 mins by Pulhams Coaches or Stagecoach into the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water.


Lower Slaughter: Best Things To Do

Walk 15 mins along the public pathway or take a 2 mile drive from Bourton-on-the-Water to ‘The Slaughter Villages’ – Lower and Upper Slaughter.

Inhabited for over 1000 years, these are two of the oldest villages in the area. They get their name from the old English word ‘slothre’ meaning muddy. Do take time to visit at least one of the villages.

They’re a great base for walking and for taking photographs. With less people milling around and stunning scenery to enjoy it’s a more relaxing experience.

When we arrive at Lower Slaughter we always feel (in a good way) we’ve stepped back in time. The jigsaw box scene of the perfect English village is right here.

Idyllic stone cottages with colourful flower gardens and the meandering River Eye create a wonderfully peaceful setting. Stroll as far as the mill at the end of the river path to find the 19th century water wheel.

Then loop back round into the village. For refreshments, stop at The Slaughters Country Inn – you can also stay here.


Stow On the Wold: Best Things To Do

An ancient wool town and the highest of the Cotswolds villages at 800 feet above sea level, Stow-on-the-Wold is a 4 mile drive from Bourton-on-the-Water.

This is another ‘must -see’ town in the Cotswolds in our view with a fine selection of shops, art galleries and tea-rooms. We suggest spending a half day here as there’s plenty of things to do, including:

  • Walk around the town and explore Market Square which features some medieval stocks as well as some great shops. A Farmers’ Markets is held here on the second Thursday of the month. Check here or a full listing of Cotswolds Markets, timings and locations to match with your visit dates.
  • Go to St Edwards Church which dates back to the 11th century. Look for the doorway which is flanked by yew trees known as ‘the Hobbit Door’. Local legend says it inspired J R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. Tolkien did study at Oxford University which is close to Stow so perhaps it could well be true!
  • Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea by popping into Huffkins for tasty home-baked scones and cakes.
  • Eat a late lunch or dinner The Porch House. You’ll be in the oldest inn in Britain, as mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records, reportedly dating back to 987 AD! We had a fabulous meal here.
  • The setting and atmosphere was great with wooden ceiling beams and roaring fireplaces. They have a relaxing garden terrace for summer and you can stay overnight.

Moreton-in-Marsh: Best Things To Do

Moreton-in Marsh is 5 miles north of Stow-on-the-Wold and a popular base to explore the Cotswolds if you’re heading onto Stratford and Shakespeare country.

If you are coming by train from London the trip from Paddington Station to Moreton-in-Marsh is approximately 1½ – 2 hours. 

Moreton dates back to the Saxon era over 1000 years ago and is far less touristy than Stow and Bourton, and makes a great spot for lunch. Even older are the Roll Right Stone Circle 7 miles from Moreton so stop by the road and take a look at these on your drive there.

Market Day in Moreton-in-Marsh is Tuesday. If you happen to be in town that day, head to the open-air market of 200+ stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables and other local produce. It’s the largest one throughout The Cotswolds.

This town is a reputation for its great cafe culture. You can take your pick on the high street for a caffeine refuel or yes another delicious Cotswolds Cream tea.

When walking around the town look out for the Curfew Tower. Its board is. replica of one used to record toll charges back in the 16th century. Quite fascinating!

After exploring the town, visit Chastleton Castle, only 3 miles from Moreton.  This ancient Jacobean country house is part of the National Trust for England. Built in the 16th century, it remains largely unchanged in over 400 years. The castle is open Wednesday to Sunday (Mar-Oct) from 1pm to 5pm.

🎒TPOP Tip: Did you know you can enjoy a game of croquet here. You will be in exactly the same place where the actual rules of this game were originally ‘published’.


Broadway Village and Tower : Best Things To Do

The village of Broadway is certainly a contrast to its namesake in central NYC but has plenty to offer. In fact, Broadway was one of our favourite stops. It’s only 10 miles north of Moreton-on-the Marsh so it’s worth tying these two villages together when you plan your itinerary. 

Many refer to it as the jewel of the Cotswolds because of its broad tree lined Main Street. Another fun fact – this is one of the longest in England. Spend a couple of hours here.

  • Treat yourselves to afternoon tea at one of the many tea-shops. We enjoyed delicious scones and tea in the garden at Tisanes Tea Rooms.
  • Sample local gin at Cotswold Distillery Shop.
  • Browse the boutiques, art galleries and quaint shopping mall.

Visit the Highest Little Castle

Broadway Tower is just outside the village. In fact, you’ll come to the tower before you arrive into Broadway itself. Known as ‘The Highest Little Castle in the Cotswolds’, it’s worth a stop for the views alone.

The Tower and Park is family-owned and set within a 50-acre estate of parkland, allowing visitors to experience great English heritage in a wonderful location.

A large stone tower with turrets in Cotswolds England.

For a small charge, park in the main carpark and from here you can walk up to the tower. It’s free to walk around the outside but if you want to climb the steps to the top, there is a charge. Booking is recommended at peak times. There’s also a Nuclear Bunker just by the tower that you can also book if you want to go inside.

Take the short circular walk from the lower carpark – it’s only about a mile but the views are stunning. In fact, you can see down into Broadway village. For a longer walk of 4 miles, Follow this National Train To Broadway and back up the hill. If walking is not your thing, hire an e-bike from one of the shops on site.

After that, if you have time, relax with a glass of wine at one of the two cafes and admire the views. They are fabulous or potter around to find a lovely souvenir or gift for that someone special.

Gloucester Warwickshire Steam Railway has a stop in Broadway. Travelling on a steam train is a wonderful way to see the countryside. Check the timetables for information, dates and special events. 


Chipping Norton: Best Things To Do

Chipping Norton is a bustling market town, bigger than others in our Cotswolds weekend itinerary. Known as ‘Chippy’ by locals, there has been a market here since the 13th century. The town has deep farming routes and was a major wool trading hub in the 15th century.

As the town is actually in Oxfordshire it’s a better stop to make as you head south out of the Cotswolds region, or as you arrive. As well as enjoying the local shops, fun things to do in Chipping Norton include:

  • A visit to St Mary’s church which has one of the finest interiors of the Cotswolds churches with its hexangonal porch and vaulted ceiling.
  • Getting tickets for an evening watching a performance at Chipping Norton Theatre if you’re staying close by.
  • Chipping Norton Museum to learn more about the local area in days gone by.
  • There are also lots of walks from Chipping Norton around the Oxfordshire countryside.

Diddly Squat Farm Shop is just outside Chipping Norton. If you’ve seen the British TV show, ‘Clarkeson’s Farm’ on Amazon Prime, you will definitely want to visit.

Inside the shop is tiny but in peak season, people queue for hours! Buy Diddly Squat crisps, homemade pickles and jams. Fortunately, when we were here most recently, the queue was only 20 minutes.

People sitting a a farm cafe outdoors drinking and eating.

Spending an hour here was a lot of fun, sitting at the very sociable trestle tables enjoying our cider on the farm. Check seasonal opening times on the Diddly Farm Shop Website and we suggest you come early.


Burford: Best Activities

11 miles south of Chipping Norton, you’ll find the town of Burford. As a town, it has hardly changed since Georgian times, when it was an important coach stop between Oxford and the West Country.

Its magnificent High Street, one of the finest in the Cotswolds, slopes down to a bridge crossing the River Windrush. The High Street is overlooked by golden Cotswold stone buildings including many 17th and 18th century houses.

Best things to do in Burford include:

  • Take a walk through the town stepping back in time to see Georgian townhouses, a medieval church, historic pubs and tea-rooms. Walk up the hill and look down to get the best views of both the town and surrounding countryside.
  • Venture into Tolsey Museum – always good for a rainy day activity. It’s on the corner of the High Street and Sheep Street and a black and white half timbered building. Pillars underneath the building make it easy to spot along with the clock on the side.
  • You can’t fail to come across the Grade 1 listed Church of St John the Baptist. One of the top 10 most visited churches in the country, its beautiful stain glass windows and medieval wall paintings are worth stepping inside for.
  • England’s oldest chemist (pharmacy) is at 124 High Street – you can still buy traditional remedies alongside modern medicines.
  • Just south of Burford you’ll find Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens home to over 250 species of animals. There’s a playground area for children and of course a cafe!
  • And finally if you’re a fan of Downton Abbey, visit the village of Bampton – only 8 miles south of Burford where some of the filming took place.

Things To Know Before A Trip to The Cotswolds

Can I Visit The Cotswolds By Train?

Although it’s easy to catch a train to the main towns in the Cotswolds for a day trip, if you want to follow our itinerary and experience several villages and the beautiful countryside between them, you really need to visit by car.

Renting a car will add to your costs but save you time. Some of the public transport links between villages are not very frequent so, for example, you could wait several hours for a bus connection.

Combat this with a guided coach/bus tour which will whisk you around a few places for a limited time in each. Ultimately, to make the most of your visit and have your own flexibility, we strongly recommend you hire a car

When Is The Best Time to Visit The Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds are a year round destination. Any time of year you’re going to be immersed in the local culture, natural beauty and warm hospitality.

That said, some places are busier than others year round. We suggest, as a rule, you avoid English school summer holidays (mid July to early September) and Public Holidays in May and August. Small market towns and tiny villages become very crowded and honestly it distracts from the rural atmosphere you’re coming to enjoy.

Spring is especially beautiful in The Cotswolds. This is when farm fields are full of playful newly born lambs, green shoots fill farm fields and trees burst with blossom. We also love Autumn when the foliage turns all shades of red, orange and golden and there is a little chill in the evening’s air!

Christmas in the Cotswolds brings bright lights, holiday spirit and wonderful shopping for unique gifts. If you’re coming to England for Christmas, a trip to the Cotswolds will be as good as any city Christmas market.

🎒TPOP Tip: The smaller villages are busier in the afternoons. Try and visit them in the morning for a coffee so you can relax before tour groups or first trains from London arrive!


What To Pack For A Visit To The Cotswolds?

  • An umbrella – you can never predict the British weather!
  • Walking shoes – many streets are cobbled and for hills you’ll need these shoes to be waterproof.
  • Pac-a mac/raincoat that you can roll up and carry with you.
  • Thick socks for winter.
  • Sunhat or baseball type cap in the summer months & sunscreen.
  • A small rucksack if you’re planning to do some walks/hiking.
  • A refillable water bottle.
  • Find a guidebook to read up on local walks although hotels usually offer great suggestions.
  • Casual wear for evenings. We mean very relaxed! You’re in the countryside so The Cotswolds aren’t where we get really dressed up. But there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from. Many pubs offer relaxing outdoor seating for summer nights and warming log fires during the winter months.

Where to Stay in Northern Cotswolds (2-3 days)

We highly recommend, if you visit the Northern Cotswolds, to stay in fabulous small country inns which we always prefer. Often family run, they offer great service first and will help you figure out any specific questions once you arrive.

Our first stay was in Bledington, located in a postcard perfect village green.

The King’s Head Inn, a charming 16th century inn, offers superb traditional country rooms and a delicious breakfast that set us up for the day. They also recommended great local walks of varying distances.

It’s small with only 12 bedrooms but the owners are so helpful and rates very reasonable. Their ice-cream shepherd’s hut adjacent to the pub was very inviting!

An Inn in the Costwolds converted from a old stone barn.

Our second recommended accommodation for a weekend visit is at The George Inn in the tiny village of Barford St Michael. It’s right on the edge of the Cotswolds close to Oxford.

Also, dating back to the 16th century, we had a garden room with our own entrance (also dog friendly). This was also a lovely spot and another tasty breakfast was served.

Location wise, we preferred the King’s Head Inn, as it was closer to the towns and villages we wanted to visit. There are of course many other places to choose from – you can even camp! However, we recommend you book early whatever you decide using booking.com for options like free cancellation.

FAQs

What is the Cotswolds famous for?

Wool! Centuries ago this is where wool was introduced to England when the Romans brought a certain breed of sheep over.

More recently many of our great book authors found inspiration when spending time here. J.R.R Tolkein, JM Barrie, Beatrix Potter, Jane Austin to name but a few!

Which is the best village to visit in The Cotswolds for 1 day?

If you only have 1 day to visit the Cotswolds we suggest you head to Bourton-On-The-Water. It’s got a range of activities and attractions for all weathers and its location on the riverside makes it a perfect spot to relax and absorb the essence of the Cotswolds.

Is it expensive to stay in The Cotswolds?

Being a major area of natural beauty people are drawn to this part of England and whether you choose to live here or visit, it is going to be more expensive than other part of the UK to visit, although no more (or perhaps less) than you would spend in London for example.

The range of accommodation is vast and so if your budget allows you can stay at an exclusive country resort/spa and pay a premium. Alternatively you can find comfortable and authentic accommodation in these villages in a pub or small cottage at a far lower price.

Your budget will obviously go further if you picnic and take advantage of the outdoors vs. paying entrance for activities.

Does it ever snow in The Cotswolds?

Yes occasionally but it’s not going to be deep or lasting snow and be during winter months – January, February, maybe early March if at all. Normally, in this part of England it will be more a dusting.

From our experience the weather here from April through the summer to October is usually perfect for being outdoors and exploring. Use this Cotswolds Weather Guide for average rainfall, sunshine and more information to choose when to visit.

The Wrap-Up

Whether you come here for a day or two or longer, a well planned trip to the Cotswolds in the UK cannot fail to disappoint any traveller.

The unique honey coloured stone buildings really do radiate that quintessential English charm found no-where else in the world.

If you make it here, do drop us a comment and share what you liked best.

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