The Cotswolds has always held a special place in my heart, even before I set foot in its enchanting villages and rolling hills. Obsessed with its idyllic charm from photos and videos online, I wondered if the reality could live up to the dream. When I finally visited, it didn’t just meet my expectations—it surpassed them in every way.

From the moment I arrived, I felt an instant connection to this serene corner of England. The calm atmosphere, friendly locals, and picture-perfect roads and villages created an undeniable sense of peace. It truly felt like the ultimate place to recharge, reconnect with nature, and slow down from the usual pace of life. The walks along the public footpaths quickly became my favorite activity, offering a sense of freedom and immersion in the stunning countryside that I still miss deeply back home.

Every detail of the Cotswolds was a delight, from the exceptional food to the cozy atmosphere of the inns and shops. This magical region was part of our South England road trip, and without a doubt, it was one of the absolute highlights for me. I’m already dreaming of returning for a longer stay, eager to uncover more of its treasures and soak up its timeless beauty.

In this blog post, I’ll share my 2-day itinerary, featuring the iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences that made my trip to the Cotswolds so special.

If you want a fun overview of our Cotswolds trip, watch my Youtube video here:

Where did we stay in the Cotswolds?

We chose to stay outside the larger villages and cities, at Beckford Inn in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. Having never stayed in an inn before, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be one of my favorite accommodations of the trip!

Our boutique room was nestled in a charming garden house, which instantly made the place feel warm and inviting. Each morning, we were treated to spectacular breakfasts, carefully prepared from a menu offered by the inn. The location was perfectly situated, offering easy access to our destinations, while being kinder on the budget since it was outside the more tourist-heavy cities. I would definitely return to this inn!

Blenheim Palace

Our journey began at the majestic Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Surrounded by breathtaking landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown, the palace’s Baroque architecture and rich history make it a must-visit. Inside, the opulent state rooms are adorned with intricate tapestries, paintings, and furniture that tell the story of the Marlborough family. A stroll around the grand grounds, particularly the stunning water terraces, offers a tranquil escape.

One of the unique highlights of Blenheim’s gardens is the famous Harry Potter tree, an ancient tree featured in the Harry Potter films. It was here that the young Harry Potter played a memorable role in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix when he practiced his Quidditch moves. The tree’s twisted branches and magical ambiance make it a fun spot for fans of the films, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your visit.

Diddly Squat Farm Shop

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop is a quirky, must-see destination for fans of Clarkson’s Farm (me!). The shop is stocked with fresh, locally sourced produce and unique offerings like “Cow Juice” (milk) and Clarkson’s famous Hawkstone Lager. The rustic charm of the shop, combined with its humorous signage and vibrant atmosphere, provides a delightful glimpse into the lighter side of countryside life.

We visited the shop on a Sunday and the queue demonstrated well the popularity of the farm shop.

Daylesford Organic Farm

At Daylesford, luxury meets sustainability in this farm-to-table haven. Known for its organic ethos, the farm shop offers a delectable range of seasonal produce, artisan bread, and freshly made meals. The farm’s café is the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch, serving dishes crafted from ingredients grown right on-site.

Don’t miss exploring the serene gardens, wellness center, and charming homeware store that make Daylesford a unique blend of indulgence and mindfulness. Next time I’m here, I will definitely make it to the spa!

Stow-on-the-Wold

Stow-on-the-Wold is a quintessential Cotswold market town steeped in history. Its cobbled streets are lined with antique shops, independent boutiques, and cozy tearooms. At the heart of the town lies its historic market square, once a bustling hub for wool traders. That’s where we found ourselves a perfect place, the Old Stocks Inn, to enjoy a traditional English Sunday roast.

There is a local legend saying that when J. R. R. Tolkien visited the church, the entrance inspired his Doors of Durin in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Broadway Tower

Standing tall on the Cotswold escarpment, Broadway Tower offers one of the best panoramic views in the region. This 18th-century folly is not just a lookout point but also a piece of history, once frequented by artists like William Morris.

Unfortunately, we got to the tower when it was already closed, but if you manage to get there in time, after climbing to the top, you can enjoy a view that spans up to 16 counties. The surrounding grounds are perfect for a leisurely walk, and the nearby café provides refreshments to round off your visit.

Cheltenham

Known as the cultural heart of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham blends Regency elegance with a vibrant modern vibe. Its streets are lined with stunning Georgian architecture, independent boutiques, and a variety of cafes and restaurants that cater to every taste.

But what truly sets Cheltenham apart is its world-famous horse racing. The town is home to the prestigious Cheltenham Racecourse, often referred to as the “home of jump racing.” The racecourse itself is an iconic venue worth visiting, with year-round events and tours that offer a glimpse into the world of British horse racing.

Cheltenham is also a town of festivals beyond racing. From the renowned Cheltenham Literature Festival (the world’s longest-running literature Festival) to its jazz, music, and science festivals, it’s a year-round cultural hotspot.

For clips from Cheltenham, watch the Youtube video.

Bibury

Described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury is a highlight of any Cotswolds trip. The iconic Arlington Row, with its honey-colored stone cottages, is a visual highlight and a symbol of traditional Cotswold beauty. A peaceful walk along the River Coln and through the village offers a serene escape into a timeless setting.

Worth mentioning, Bibury was the most crowded well-known villages we visited in England. If possible, avoid going there during lunchtime.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water enchants visitors with its picturesque bridges spanning the River Windrush. Explore its charming shops, enjoy an ice cream by the river, or visit attractions like the Model Village or the Cotswold Motoring Museum. The tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a perfect spot to relax and unwind – ideal for a picnic by the river!

Our time in the Cotswolds was magical, and it’s an experience I’ll cherish forever! From the picturesque villages to the stunning landscapes and welcoming locals, the region offers a perfect escape to recharge and reconnect with nature.

South England, and the Cotswolds in particular, should definitely be on your travel list. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this area has something to offer everyone. I can’t recommend it enough – it’s a destination I’ll be eager to visit again.