I admit, I was totally oblivious to The Cotswolds, despite living only one hour thirty minutes away, and having spent quite a few afternoons visiting Banbury which I did NOT realise was pretty much part of The Cotswolds. I know, I know. It’s awful! In my bid to travel more of the UK (not only is it more eco-friendly – I really do need to see more of my country!) and discover The Cotswolds, I ended up spending two weekends in this beautiful part of England this year. Once with Charlie over the summer, and more recently with my closest girlfriends for a cosy weekend of board games, wine, and more…wine.

Again, my total ignorance, but I never realised how BIG The Cotswolds was, and how many different areas there are, which actually made it a little confusing when it came to booking accommodation and making plans. Luckily, I did all the hard work and research so you don’t have to…

Best Places To Stay In The Cotswolds

I’ve stayed in both a hotel and an airbnb in The Cotswolds and both provided unique and incredible stays. It really depends what you’re after! My first trip was for House of Coco, where Charlie and I checked into Feldon Valley. You can read the full review here, but I’d definitely recommend it for those who want to enjoy a more secluded spot to relax. Nestled in the rolling countryside, Feldon Valley offers all of the modern luxuries, and the lodges are also accessible for those in wheelchairs with automatic doors, and ramps leading up to the accommodation in the woods. If you’re looking for a rugged wheelchair solution for the outdoors then definitely check out the guys at Fenetic Wellbeing, they have some great solutions for you.

If you’re staying in a group, an airbnb is probably your best bet, with tonnes available in The Cotswolds, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

We stayed in a cute cottage in Moreton in Marsh, which turned out to be a fabulous location thanks to its close proximity to the train station which boasts direct trains to London. The town itself is very quaint with a nice selection of cosy pubs, boutiques and a nearby petrol station which came in very handy.

Best Places To Go In The Cotswolds

Once you’ve nailed your accommodation, you’ll need to consider the various places you’ll want to venture out too. Unless you’re looking for a cosy weekend inside, a car is pretty much essential for exploring The Cotswolds. Here’s a few suggestions of places you might want to go…

Bourton-on-the-Water

One of my favourite places to go in The Cotswolds is the wonderful Bourton-on-the-Water, otherwise known as the ‘Venice of The Cotswolds’ and definitely on parr with the business of Venice during the summer months! Straddling the River Windrush, Bourton is known for its super low bridges and model village. It’s a great place for families, couples, and friends to explore with tea rooms, pubs, museums and the Dragonfly Maze – which I have to recommend!

Stow-on-the-Wold

This market town is small but well worth a visit if only for the magical tree door at St Edwards Church, reminiscent of something from Lord of the Rings! On a Saturday afternoon you’ll find a lively market takes over much of the market square, and there are plenty of surrounding tea rooms to enjoy a scone. Into your antiques? Stow-on-the-wold is home to some of England’s finest antique shops!

Moreton-in-Marsh

As mentioned above, Moreton-in-Marsh is one of the best places to stay in The Cotswolds if you’re getting the train from London, or if you’re looking for a charming market town. Small but perfectly formed, you’ll find a wonderful selection of restaurants, cafes, tea rooms, pubs, shops and a street market every Tuesday. As well as some of the cutest boutiques you’ll ever see (including the traditional Toy Shop) you’ll be close to plenty of amenities with an Aldi one end of town, and a Costco the other.

The Slaughters

Whilst it might not sound like the most appealing place, The Slaughters – consisting of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter – are a key slice of English history, dating back to the 1086 Domesday book! Lower Slaughter is situated just off Fosse Way, and is undoubtedly one of the prettiest areas in The Cotswolds. Wandering around the village feels like stepping back in time, with 16th century cottages and the the Church of St Mary, originally constructed in the 13th century! A must-visit when exploring the best places in The Cotswolds.