Our top ten Cotswold attractions

The Cotswolds are one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK. There are some lovely campsites in the Cotswolds, as well as plenty  to do in this amazing region, that it’s hard to know where to begin. To help you decide, we have picked our ten favourite Cotswold attractions…

1. Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle is one of the best castles in England and parts of this incredible building are over 800 years old. There are many fascinating rooms to explore within the castle, such as the cell and dungeon in which King Edward II was kept prisoner and murdered. The impressive interior is not to be outdone by the stunning gardens and the delightful Butterfly House.

2. Bourton-on-the-Water

Attractive Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the Little Venice of the Cotswolds, regularly features on lists of the prettiest villages in England. There is a diverse choice of attractions here that will keep both adults and children entertained, including Birdland Park and Gardens, the Cotswold Motoring Museum, and, best of all, the fantastic Dragonfly Maze.

3. The Cotswold Way

There’s nothing quite like exploring a place on foot to get a real feel for it and that’s exactly what you can do with the Cotswold Way, a National Trail that stretches over 100 miles through this beautiful region. The trail provides exceptional views as well as the chance to explore villages and historical sites en route.

4. Chipping Campden

The stunning town of Chipping Campden features an abundance of striking architecture, including St James Church which dates back to the 15th century. For natural splendour the nearby Hidcote Manor Gardens should not be missed. There is also an annual Chipping Campden Music Festival that takes place in May.

5. Arlington Row in Bibury

Arlington Row in the village of Bibury is the epitome of Cotswolds charm with its row of cottages that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into a perfect forgotten time. Constructed in 1380 for storing wool, the buildings were converted in the 17th century to weavers’ cottages and are worthy of more than a few photos.

6. Cotswold Water Park

The Cotswold Water Park is a stunning expanse of wetland that covers 40 square miles and contains 150 lakes. A host of activities and attractions within the park ensure there’s no shortage of fun things to do that will appeal to diverse tastes. Visitors keen to try watersports are spoilt for choice with the likes of wakeboarding, kayaking, sailing and windsurfing to name a few. The park is a great place for birdwatching and nature lovers will be in their element with a number of beautiful nature reserves to explore.

7. Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

Spread over 56 acres, Batsford Arboretum is home to one of the UK’s biggest private tree collections, including some species that have become extinct in the wild. The arboretum mostly contains plants from the Far East and is a stunning place to visit in any season.

8. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

A fun range of daily activities including penguin feeding, lemur feeding and being able to touch the animals in the Children’s Farmyard are just some of the enticing things visitors can expect at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. The wonderful range of animals will enchant younger and older visitors alike and the beautiful gardens are perfect for relaxing strolls.

9. Kelmscott Manor

Kelmscott Manor is a beautiful Grade 1 listed farmhouse that served as the summer home of William Morris, a pivotal figure in the Arts and Crafts movement. Visitors can view an impressive collection of Morris’s works and possessions and wander in the lovely gardens.

10. Cotswold Farm Park

Cotswold Farm Park is a real treat for animal lovers of all ages, offering a variety of attractions such as animal handling, shearing and milking demonstrations, as well as the chance to see rare breeds of farm animals. Visitors can discover the range of animals and plants on the farm by completing a 2-mile Wildlife Walk and kids can expend any excess energy they may have in the fun play areas.

An assortment of appealing attractions catering to all visitors

Boasting an excellent selection of animal, architectural and natural landscape attractions, the Cotswolds has something for everyone who visits this lovely area. So no matter what your personal tastes and preferences are, you won’t be short of splendid things to see and do on your holidays.