In the heart of 'the Venetian-like Cotswolds', situated not far from the bustling city of London
Nestled in the heart of England, the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds offers a delightful escape for tourists seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
October is an ideal time to visit, providing a quieter experience and making shop browsing a breeze. The village, often compared to the setting of The Holiday film, has gained popularity among Americans.
One of the must-visit attractions is the Cotswold Motoring Museum, a treasure trove of nostalgic motoring history. The museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars and interactive exhibits that cater to all ages. Another highlight is the Model Village, a Grade II-listed miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water at one-ninth scale. The intricate details of Cotswold stone buildings and bridges make it a charming stop for families and photo enthusiasts.
For wildlife lovers, Birdland Park & Gardens is a must-visit. Here, you can marvel at diverse bird species in a beautiful setting. For those seeking outdoor activities, the Cotswold Way and The Oxfordshire Way can be connected for a more ambitious day out.
Craft beer enthusiasts will enjoy touring Hawkstone Brewery, known for its premium lager made in partnership with Jeremy Clarkson. The brewery offers tastings in a friendly setting, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
Traditional pubs like The Old New Inn and The Mousetrap Inn offer authentic food and drink, providing a taste of local flavour. The Old New Inn, located near the Model Village, offers a historic atmosphere and local ales, while The Mousetrap Inn serves as a base for exploring local attractions like the Dragonfly Maze and the wider Cotswold countryside.
For a well-rounded experience, consider the quirky Bloody Bourton walking tour, which reveals local ghost stories and historic secrets after dark.
Staying overnight in the Cotswolds allows for exploring the prettiest parts of the village after other tourists have left. Millstone Cottage, a property by Cotswold Hideaways, is a suitable accommodation for a group of old university friends. The cottage, located a few minutes' walk from the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water, boasts a vast garden, living area, dining space, six bedrooms, a log burning open fire, a lovely bath, Netflix on the TV, and is pet-friendly for an additional cost.
The cost for a short break at Millstone Cottage starts from £1,223 for the whole property. Old, thick walls in Millstone Cottage ensure peaceful sleep for solo guests despite other noisy guests. Dogs are allowed in Millstone Cottage for an additional cost, provided they are well-behaved.
The Cotswolds is known for its easy commute to the capital, cutesy villages, and quintessential English charm. It has also become a popular destination for A-list celebrities, with Taylor Swift and Ellen Degeneres recently moving to the area.
The Cotswold Hideaways website provides clear and easily digestible information about the local area, making it easier for visitors to plan their trip. The model village, shops, and pubs by the water are attractions in Bourton-on-the-Water that should not be missed.
To book Millstone Cottage for a short break, visit cotswoldshideaways.co.uk or call 01451 887766.
However, it's important to note that Bourton-on-the-Water has become overtouristed, causing parking issues for day-trippers. To ensure a smooth visit, it's recommended to plan ahead and consider the best times to visit the village.
In summary, Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds offers a well-rounded experience of charm, history, and local flavor. From exploring the Cotswold Motoring Museum and the Model Village to walking through Birdland Park & Gardens and touring Hawkstone Brewery, there's something for everyone. Traditional pubs like The Old New Inn and The Mousetrap Inn provide a taste of local flavour, while the Bloody Bourton walking tour offers a spooky historical insight. With Millstone Cottage as a comfortable base, visitors can enjoy a peaceful and memorable stay in this enchanting village.
[1] Cotswold Motoring Museum [2] Model Village [3] Birdland Park & Gardens [5] Hawkstone Brewery
Engulfed in the enchanting ambiance of Bourton-on-the-Water, a visit to the Cotswold Motoring Museum will take visitors on a nostalgic journey through motoring history. Meanwhile, the Model Village offers a charming miniature replica of the village, adorned with intricate details that mimic the Cotswold stone buildings and bridges.
After a day of exploration and shop browsing, unwinding at Hawkstone Brewery with a premium lager, or savoring a traditional meal at The Old New Inn or The Mousetrap Inn, can provide an ideal ending to a lifestyle filled with historical, cultural, and self-discovery experiences.
