1. Castle Combe

This might be the most picturesque town in all of the Cotswolds! I’m so happy we made it here and were able to see it’s beauty with our own eyes! Beware though, there is a catch! This town becomes ridiculously busy and there’s very limited parking. Don’t be like us and drive to the downtown core looking for street parking. There is a visitor car park about a 15 minute walk from the town, so park there and walk down. This will also keep car traffic to a minimum for the local residents and tourists visiting. Now, I wouldn’t say there’s much to do, so plan for a quick little stop in the town, grab a coffee, snack, or lunch, and then carry-on because it does get very busy!

2. Bourton on the Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most popular towns in the Cotswolds, and for good reason! It’s magical canal, resident ducks, pedestrian bridges, and charming shops make the quaint village a tourist hot spot. I would recommend getting an early start and taking in the quiet beauty of the town before it gets busy!

3. Bath

Bath, the city of beige. Literally every building is made of local golden coloured Bath stone which gives the city a very unique and distinct, beige appearance. It’s also known for it’s Roman built baths, the Jane Austin festival, and filming locations for Bridgerton. We only had a few hours to explore the city, so we did as much as we could, but I would recommend staying a night or two and visiting the Baths, museums, and local shops and restaurant. We did walk through Prior Park and saw the Palladian Bridge, which is gorgeous! It’s one of four Palladian bridges in the world! So definitely check it out. You must also visit Sally Lunn’s and pickup a famous “Sally Lunn Bun”.

4. Explore the Foot Paths

Explore the free foot paths throughout the English countryside and connect with nature. Behind one of the Inn’s we were staying in was a magical field full of poppy blooms. It was stunning and we snapped some amazing pictures! Some foot paths will take you up mountains, along farms, and through pastures.

Affordable

1. Cat and Custard Pot Inn – We stayed here and loved it! It even comes with a resident cat :)

2. Wild Thyme and Honey – We loved it here as well! It would be an excellent wedding venue.

Splurge

1. SOHO Farmhouse – We haven’t stayed here, but it’s on our bucket list!