November 06, 2023

Start The Festive Season In Style In The Beautiful Cotswolds

November 06, 2023/ maddy lawrence

As the festive season approaches, the Cotswolds come alive with an array of enchanting events. So grab a mulled wine and a mince pie because we've handpicked a few of the best Christmas markets, festivals, and events for you to enjoy.

Christmas Markets

Chipping Campden Christmas Market: On this magical day, the streets of Chipping Campden are transformed into a festive wonderland. Explore a wide variety of stalls, savour festive food and drinks, and find unique Christmas gifts. Don't miss the town's Christmas lights coming to life at dusk and a special appearance by Father Christmas. Make your visit extra special and stay at Honey Pot, our luxury cottage for two, with a heavenly Hypnos bed, 500+ thread-count cotton bed linen, and a rejuvenating rain shower.

When: 2nd December 2023, 12pm - 6pm

Where: High St, Chipping Campden, GL55 6HB

Cheltenham Christmas Market: In 2023, Cheltenham hosts not one but two Christmas markets. The Christmas Gift Market (November 16-19) offers a fantastic selection of retail gifts, including homewares and food & drink. The Arts & Crafts Christmas Market (December 14-23) showcases the work of local traders and creators, from pottery to original art. Stalls will line the Promenade and Long Gardens. Stay at The Bolt Hole, just a 15-minute drive away from Cheltenham, and enjoy the luxurious king-size bed and en-suite bathroom with its own roll-top bath.

When: 16th - 19th November & 14th - 23th December 2023

Where: The Promenade & Long Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1PJ

Moreton in Marsh Christmas Market: This market promises an eclectic mix of Christmas goodies, from giftware to food and drinks. Stay at our special grade 2 listed cottage, The Loft, only 13 minutes away in Stow on the Wold. Enjoy a late check-out, modern amenities, a roll-top bath, and luxurious bedding. Plus, we welcome your furry friend with a bed and treats.

When: 25th November 2023

Where: High Street, Moreton In Marsh, Glos, GL56 0AX

Christmas Festivals

Winchcombe Christmas Festival: Winchcombe transforms into a magical winter wonderland during this festival. With over 70 real Christmas trees, street entertainers, choirs, carol singing, and bands, you'll be immersed in the Christmas spirit. Explore 40 market stalls filled with gifts and festive food. The shops will also stay open late so you can shop and browse the night away.

Luxury cottage, The Bolt Hole with its stone walls, oak beams and log burner, is in the centre of the town making it the ideal cosy place to stay.

When: 8th - 9th December 2023

Where: North St / Abbey Terrace, Winchcombe, GL54 5LJ

Craft Festival Cheltenham: This festival returns with 100 of the finest designer makers from across the UK. At Cheltenham Town Hall, you'll find handmade jewelry, ceramics, glass, textiles, woodwork, and furniture. There are plenty of festive workshops and craft demonstrations to enjoy.

When: 17th - 19th November 2023

Where: Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA

Entertainment & Activities

Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle: Explore a magical nighttime trail around Sudeley Castle's stunning grounds and enchanted woodland. This year's theme is "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and you can meet Dorothy, Toto, and other iconic characters. Enjoy festive warmers like spiced mulled wine and hot chocolate and before heading home - The Bolt Hole is just minutes away on foot - explore the gift shop for unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs.

When: Multiple dates in November & December, 2023

Where: Winchcombe GL54 5LP

Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas Tree Lighting: Don't miss the magical lighting of the Christmas tree in the River Windrush in the center of Bourton-on-the-Water. The reflections in the river create a truly enchanting scene. The festivities continue with a special shopping evening in town.

For more information nearer the time please contact https://bourtoninfo.com/

When: Last weekend of November, 2023

Where: River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water

We hope this inspires you to take a magical break in the Cotswolds this festive season, we’re sure you’ll head home with some wonderful memories!

the christmas tree at bourton on the water

June 16, 2023

Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Tapestry of Fairs and Festivals in the Cotswolds this Summer

June 16, 2023/ maddy lawrence

That time is upon us when we can stretch out on the grass with a glass of something cold and fizzy and be entertained by something musical, theatrical & magical!

We have hand-picked just seven of the many fairs & festivals - ranging from big name events to the lesser known small & local - that will be happening in the Cotswolds this summer. Fingers crossed for dry weather!

The Big Feastival

Experience the ultimate blend of music and gastronomy at The Big Feastival, where the spirit of Glastonbury meets an abundance of mouthwatering culinary delights. Set in the serene ambiance of a secluded Cotswolds farm, this extraordinary festival promises a feast for the senses.

An impressive lineup of musical talent, including the likes of Sigris, Tom Grennan, Blossoms, Example, and Hot Chip DJs. But the festivities don't end there - comedy acts, family entertainment, and a stellar lineup of renowned chefs add to the excitement. And if that isn’t enough, get ready to indulge in some of the most exquisite food you'll ever taste.

Our fabulous property The Loft is only a 13 minute drive away and is a fittingly luxurious base for a visit to The Big Feastival.

Where: Alex James' Farm, Kingham, Chipping Norton OX7 6UJ

When: 25th - 27th August

Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival

The event welcomes esteemed guests, including celebrity MasterChef winner, Lisa Faulkner. Attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup of live entertainment, featuring captivating music performances and engaging street theatre acts.

Wine tastings and a cheese Masterclass offer delightful opportunities to savour exquisite flavours. In the chefs' kitchen, the finest culinary talents from the Cotswolds will take the stage, demonstrating their exceptional skills and sharing their delectable recipes with the audience. Keep an eye out for special appearances by celebrity chefs, adding an extra touch of culinary brilliance to the event.

Where: Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham

When: Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th June

This is a dog-friendly festival!

Cheltenham is just a 20 minute drive and train ride from The Bolt Hole, our cosy cottage in beautiful Winchcombe. The perfect place to stay if you love to retreat to the peace and quiet of the countryside.

Cheltenham Music Festival

Launched in 1945, the festival has proudly celebrated the enduring love for classical music. Showcasing a diverse and rich program, it takes full advantage of the breathtaking Cotswolds surroundings to create a truly magical musical experience, featuring the world's top classical talents.

Bringing together a delightful selection of musical delights, the festival offers a range of captivating performances. From chamber music to unique and alternative experiences with classical compositions, attendees are treated to an array of musical wonders. The lineup includes esteemed artists such as the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Manchester Collective, Laura Cannell, The Carice Singers, Scottish Ensemble, Laura van der Heijden, and many more.

Where: Various venues in Cheltenham - check the website for details.

When: 8th - 15th July

Park Fair

This summer, Park Fair is making its highly anticipated return to The Great Tew Estate in the Cotswolds for its second year.

This three-day boutique festival is dedicated to showcasing independent artisans, beloved fashion and lifestyle brands, and delightful family entertainment.

Immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere as you enjoy live music, engaging workshops, thrilling fairground rides, and tantalising pop-up dining experiences, all designed to enhance your curated shopping adventure.

Park Fair unites a remarkable lineup of contemporary talents. With six distinct areas, guests can revel in a festival ambiance while exploring an array of shopping delights, indulging in delicious feasts, experiencing glow-up transformations, embracing wellness activities and enjoying captivating entertainment.

Where: The Great Tew Estate, Great Tew, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 4AF

When: Fri 30th Jun 10am-5pm, Sat 1st Jul 10am-9pm (late opening), Sun 2nd Jul 10am-5pm

Being just a 15 minute drive from The Loft and 20 minutes from Little Gem and Hideaway Cottage, you are spoilt for choice for places to stay! All of our cottages are refurbished and styled to the highest standards and we have thought of everything that will make your stay extra special.

Blenheim Palace Flower Show

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the three-day show returns to Blenheim Palace in June, showcasing the best of British gardening. With more stands, entertainment, and the magnificent Grand Floral Pavilion, it offers stunning outdoor floral displays, a new 'Insect Trail,' gardening talks, delicious food, crafts, and live music.

Plant lovers can enjoy shopping, admire floral displays, and seek expert advice from plant experts at the show.

Where: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL

When: Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th June 2023

Dogs allowed but not in the Palace, Walled Garden or Formal Gardens

The Showcase at Cheltenham Racecourse

Experience the thrill of Cheltenham, an iconic racecourse that captivates racing enthusiasts worldwide. The adrenaline-fueled spectacle of the Gold Cup draws colossal crowds on-site and captivates millions through televised broadcasts. But the excitement begins even earlier! Brace yourself for the heart-pounding action of the Showcase event, igniting the jump racing season in late October. This event sets the stage for a whirlwind of major races. Follow the journey of promising horses, destined to shine in the months leading up to the Showcase.

Make a weekend of it and stay at our charming cottage, The Bolt Hole, nestled in the picturesque town of Winchcombe and only a 10 minute drive from the racecourse.

Where: Cheltenham Racecourse, Prestbury Park, Cheltenham, GL50 4SH

When: 27th & 28th October 2023

Moreton in Marsh Show

Moreton Show is a grand agricultural extravaganza nestled in the Cotswolds. Celebrated as one of the largest of its kind, this vibrant event paints a vivid picture of rural life. Prepare to be enthralled by captivating livestock displays, thrilling equestrian showcases, and mesmerising falconry demonstrations. Immerse yourself in a world of local craftsmanship, delicious artisanal food, and cutting-edge innovations at the bustling exhibition stands. Against the backdrop of idyllic countryside, Moreton Show is a cherished tradition that invites you to embrace the essence of rural heritage—a truly unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Where: Batsford Road, Moreton-in-Marsh,Gloucestershire, GL56 0AB

When: Saturday 2nd September 2023

Why not indulge and treat yourselves to a stay in our exquisite rooftop apartment, The Loft, located a mere 15-minute drive away. Alternatively, our beautiful cottage Honey Pot, with its own e-charger, also just 15 minutes away, awaits your arrival. Or how about our newest addition, charming Hideaway and also Little Gem, both in Bourton-on-the-Water, are a 25-minute drive from the racecourse. Our cottages offer everything you need for a rejuvenating weekend escape.

March 30, 2023

Things to do this Spring in the Cotswolds

March 30, 2023/ maddy lawrence

I’m sure you’ll agree when I say that Spring couldn’t come soon enough! After a tough long winter, what better way to nurture your soul than to immerse yourself into the heavenly landscape of the beautiful Cotswolds.

We have pulled together a list that we hope will inspire you to visit this beautiful region this coming Spring:

Visit the stunning gardens: The Cotswolds is home to many beautiful gardens that come alive in spring with colourful blooms and fragrances. Some of our favourite gardens to visit include Hidcote Manor Garden, Kiftsgate Court Gardens, and Painswick Rococo Garden.
Walk the Cotswold Way: The Cotswold Way is a 102-mile walking trail that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath. Spring is a great time to explore the trail as the countryside is in full bloom and the weather is mild. Our gorgeous cottage, Honey Pot is located here and The Cotswold Way also passes through Winchcombe where the beautiful Bolt Hole is located. Both cottages with their luxurious beds and roll top baths provide the perfect base after a day’s walking!
Cheltenham Jazz Festival: The Cotswolds is known for its many Spring festivals, including the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, 26th April - 1st May. For more info including the line up visit cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz
Historic landmarks: The Cotswolds is rich in history, and there are many historic landmarks to explore. Sudeley Castle is an easy 15 minute stroll from The Bolt Hole, and Tewkesbury Abbey, just a 20 min drive away.
Sample the local cuisine: The Cotswolds offers some of the most fabulous food in the UK and we have sampled many of its wonderful pubs and restaurants! A few of our favourites (all dog friendly) include The Mousetrap Inn, Bourton-on-the-water, and just down the road from here are stunning Hideaway cottage and Little Gem cottage, both beautifully refurbished to the highest standards. Also definitely worth a visit are The Corner Cupboard Inn in Winchcombe and The Sheep in Stow-on-the-Wold.
Visit the Cotswold Falconry Centre: A must-visit attraction for bird lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Set in 12 acres of stunning Cotswold countryside, the Cotswold Falconry Centre is home to over 150 birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, owls and falcons. Visitors can watch daily flying displays, handle the birds and even try their hand at falconry.
Take a gin-making course: Cotswolds Distillery offers gin-making courses where you can learn the art of distilling and create your own bottle of gin to take home. During the course, you’ll have the chance to explore the different botanicals used in gin and experiment with your own combinations to create a bespoke recipe
Visit the Rollright Stones: The Rollright Stones are a mysterious ancient monument consisting of a circle of standing stones and a nearby dolmen. Legend has it that if you count the stones three times and get the same number each time, you will be granted a wish. The stones are just a 10 min drive from our beautiful, Cotswold stone apartment The Loft.
Rollright Road, Little Rollright, Chipping Norton OX7 5QB
Take a hot air balloon ride: The Cotswolds is a stunning region to explore from the air, and a hot air balloon ride offers a unique and unforgettable experience. There are several ballooning companies in the Cotswolds including Ballooning in the Cotswolds with launch sites at Cheltenham racecourse and also Shipston-on-Stour which is close to two of our gorgeous luxury cottages, Little Gem and Hideaway Cottage.
Try a traditional Cotswold sport: The Cotswolds is home to several traditional (and unusual!) sports, including shin-kicking which happens during the Cotswold Olimpick Games and involves two competitors kicking each other's shins until one falls over! Or the famous cheese-rolling at Brockworth, where competitors race down a very steep hill chasing a rolling cheese. (Warning - not for the faint-hearted, injuries do regularly occur at these events!)
Cotswold Olimpick Games: Friday, June 2nd 2023, 4pm at Dover’s Hill, Weston Subedge, Chipping Campden.
Cheese rolling at Coopers Hill: Monday, May 29, 2023, Brockworth, Gloucestershire

November 01, 2022

HOW TO ENJOY A ROMANTIC FESTIVE BREAK IN THE COTSWOLDS

November 01, 2022/ maddy lawrence

The lead up to Christmas is an especially exciting time to be in the Cotswolds, with so much going on you will be spoilt for choice.

Here at Unique Cotswold Cottages we know a thing or two about creating unforgettable experiences. So, we have sought out the best christmas markets, festivals and entertainment, so all you have to do is wrap up warm and enjoy!

Christmas markets;

Chipping Campden Christmas Market runs on Saturday 3rd December 2022 when the whole street is closed off to traffic for the day. As well as a wonderful variety of stalls lining the street there will be festive food and drinks in the Market Square and an indoor market on both floors of the Town Hall. All three areas will be transformed into a festive wonderland with enticing stalls offering arts and crafts, Christmas decorations, festive food, cards, toys and truly original Christmas gifts. The Town's Christmas Lights are switched on at dusk, and of course, there is an appearance by Father Christmas!
Make your visit even more special by staying at Honey Pot, our luxury cottage for two - with its Hypnos bed,500+ thread-count cotton bed linen and rain shower complete with Egyptian cotton towels - it is the perfect place to unwind after a day’s Christmas shopping! Just minutes away from the centre of the village and with private parking and an on-site EV charger, Honey Pot is perfectly located for the perfect stay.
Where: High St, Chipping Campden, GL55 6HB
When: 3rd December 2022, 12pm - 6pm
The Christmas Cotswold Fair at Daylesford Organic is possibly the most indulgent of Christmas fairs, there will be more than 200 stalls and some of their new brands include Plum & Ashby, Killy & Co and Chien Lunatique.
Exclusive tutorials with fabulous chefs, interior designers, design specialists and many more. All workshops are complimentary with your tickets but you need to reserve your place!
Daylesford is just 15 minutes drive away from our beautifully refurbished Cotswold stone cottage, Little Gem, the perfect retreat with its log burner, roll top bath, parking, garden and sumptuous bed.
Where: Daylesford Organic, Daylesford, Nr Kingham, Gloucestershire, GL56 0YG
When: 7th - 10th November 2022
Book tickets here
Cheltenham Christmas Market will run daily from Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December 2022. Around 80 market stalls offering festive food, gifts and Christmas decorations will run along the Promenade and Long Gardens in front of the Municipal Office.
Why not stay at our Winchcombe cottage, The Bolt Hole, which is just a 20 minutes drive from Cheltenham. You’ll find a wealth of delightful walks from your doorstep as well as some of the finest places to eat. The bedroom provides 500+ thread-count cotton bed linen, a large king size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a roll-top bath, a walk in rain shower and log-burner, to help you relax after a day's walking and shopping
Where: The Promenade & Long Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1PJ
When: Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December 2022.
Entrance is free.
Moreton in Marsh Christmas Market hosts an exciting mix of stalls selling an eclectic mix of Christmas goodies including giftware, food, drink and much more besides. A fabulous base to visit the market is our very special grade 2 listed cottage, The Loft, just 13 minutes away in Stow on the Wold. With late check out, all mod cons, roll top bath and luxurious bedding - we even welcome your pooch with a bed and treats - it is the perfect place to unwind. Why not book yourself a taxi to Moreton’s Christmas market so that you can indulge in a mulled wine or two?
Where; High Street, Moreton In Marsh, Glos, GL56 0AX
When; Saturday 26th November 9am

Christmas festivals;

The Cheltenham Christmas Wine Festival - Hurry, tickets are selling fast! At this exciting festival you'll be able to taste over 150 still and sparkling wines, plus a selection of spirits too. Book a taxi from one of our luxury cottages - at time of writing Honey Pot and The Loft are available!
Tickets; £35 (plus booking fee)
Where; Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, GL52 3JE
When; Friday 25th November 2022 6.30pm - 9.30pm
Winchcombe Christmas Festival - Beautiful Winchcombe turns into a magical winter wonderland as Shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants throw open their doors and welcome you in. The town’s annual festival offers a warm invitation to all to come enjoy a traditional Cotswold Christmas. With over 70 real Christmas trees lighting up the town, street entertainers, Morris dancers, choirs, carol singing and bands you can’t help but get into the Christmas spirit! Browse over 50 market stalls laden with gifts & festive food, and the shops will be open late too. Luxury cottage, The Bolt Hole with its stone walls, oak beams and log burner, is in the centre of the town making it the ideal place to stay.
Where; North St / Abbey Terrace, Winchcombe, GL54 5LJ
When; 6 December 2022 5pm – 8pm
Stow-on-the-Wold Christmas Tree Festival 2022 - Preparations are now underway for the annual Christmas Tree Festival which will take place at St Edward’s church in December 2022. Come along and enjoy the wonderful display of Christmas trees decorated by children, organisations and businesses in the town. Best Tree in each category is voted for by the public. Stay in the Christmassy mood with dinner at one of Stow’s cosy pubs and then stroll home to The Loft, our 200 year old romantic apartment with its roll top bath in the bedroom with a view, and luxurious bed with Hypnos mattress 500+ thread-count cotton bed linen.
Entrance; Donation guide, £5 per couple
Where; St Edward’s Church, Stow-on-the-Wold
When; 10.00am to 5.00pm on Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th December 202
Craft Festival Cheltenham returns this Christmas season with 100 of the finest designer makers from across the UK for its first pre-Christmas show in Cheltenham. This curated event brings the best professional makers to the iconic Cheltenham Town Hall where you will find makers of handmade jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles, woodwork, and furniture. There will be a signature programme of festive workshops and craft demonstrations.
Tickets form £7 Book Here
Where; Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA
When; Weekend of 26-27th Nov
Entertainment & Activities;
Spectacle of Light, Sudeley Castle - Explore the magical night-time trail around Sudeley Castle’s stunning grounds and enchanted woodland. As well as the majestic trees and romantic ruins all lit under the stars, there will be sparkling water features, a mesmerising Carpet of Colour, light beams, lanterns and so much more. Grab yourself some mulled wine or a hot chocolate, tuck into some delicious food from the castle terrace and browse the lovely gift shop for some unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs. Just a few minutes away is The Bolt Hole, our delightfully cosy and luxurious cottage - the icing on the cake after a magical festive evening!
Tickets; From £19.20
Where; Winchcombe GL54 5LP
When; 25-27 November, 2-4, 8-11, 15-23, 27-30 December 2022
The Snowman in concert - the Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns to Cheltenham Town Hall, bringing their famous Christmas show from London for one day only. “You would be hard pushed to find a more magical Christmas experience”. The Times
Tickets £30.00, £25.00, £20.00, £15.00, £10.00
Where: Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA
When: Friday 23rd December 2022
Chocolate Making Classes - make your own Belgian truffles. You will learn some basic chocolate making techniques including flavouring, piping, enrobing and spinning chocolate. Then finally, after tastings as well, your truffles will be professionally gift wrapped using simple techniques that will add the "wow" factor. Give them to a friend or better still, treat yourself to a gift! Just 5 minutes away is Bourton on the Water where our cottage Little Gem is located. Indulge in your creations in front of the log burner or for sheer decadence - in Little Gem’s roll top bath!
Tickets; £48 - £50 Book Here
Where; Wyck Rissington Village Hall, GL54 2PN
When; 17th December 2022, 2pm - 4pm
Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas Tree Lighting - The 2nd December is the lighting up of Bourton on the Water's wonderful Christmas tree which the Chamber of Commerce puts in the River Windrush in the centre of the village each year. The profusion of lights reflects in the babbling river creating a truly magical scene. The festivities continue with a special shopping evening in the town.
Where; River Windrush, Bourton-on-the-Water
When; 2nd December 2022 6.30pm

September 02, 2022

10 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN THE BEAUTIFUL COTSWOLDS IN AUTUMN 2022

September 02, 2022/ Amanda Brahams

Autumn is nearly upon us, so are you wondering how to tune in to take in the colours, feast on the harvests, get wellies on and walk some of the most stunning countryside the UK has to offer?

Then hunker down with your favourite people and pets in a cosy pub with a real fire and a top notch roast?

And perhaps how to add some culture to the mix and lose yourself in some classical music or a literature festival?

If this sounds tempting read on for some fabulous things to do and visit this season in the beautiful Cotswolds…

1. Westonbirt Arboretum or Batsford Arboretum

Westonbirt arboretum near Tetbury is staggeringly beautiful in Autumn as the leaves give the most beautiful display of golds and reds. It will depend on the weather as to when the colours will be at their peak so it is worth checking their website and social media for updates.

Batsford arboretum is offering photography workshops from the 23rd - 30th October and is just a short drive from Honey Pot, The Loft, The Bolt Hole and Little Gem.

2. Royal Gardens at Highgrove or a visit to Sudeley Castle

The Royal Gardens at Highgrove so you can catch both of these in a day visit if you wish. These stunning gardens are open to the public for guided tours on selected dates between April and October. If you want something a bit special you can book one of their Champagne Tea & Garden Tours.

Sudeley Castle, nicknamed ‘The hidden gem of the Cotswolds’ is just a stone’s throw from The Bolt Hole. This Autumn Sudeley is offering archeological dig experiences, searching for the remains of a long-lost Tudor garden built for Katherine Parr.

3. Enjoy Sunday lunch in one of the best dog friendly pubs with an open fire. The cotswolds offers some of the best eateries in the UK, two of which are on the doorstep of our luxurious dog friendly cottages.

Winchcombe - The Corner Cupboard Inn This 15th Century Inn located in Gloucester Street, Winchcombe is definitely worth a visit! It has charm aplenty with roaring fires, oak beams and all the character that its age suggests. A real ale bar and a comprehensive wine list excites the connoisseur. Ingredients are sought locally and food served daily.
Stow on the Wold - The Stag @ Stow (formerly The White Hart)

A 'boutique' style Inn, which has been refurbished throughout. The Inn has two cosy bars, open fires and an atmospheric dining room. Hearty food is served during the day, with finer dining in the evening. All food is sourced locally and prepared on site.

Bourton-on-the-Water - The Mousetrap Inn

This beautiful, cosy and quirky freehouse pub welcomes you and your four legged friends. Cosy up round the fire and order something wonderful from the fantastic menu. “Our small team of talented chefs create delicious dishes, with a focus on working with local suppliers to source sustainable produce and reducing food wastage while doing justice to the brilliance of the Cotswold larder.”

Chipping Campden - The Ebrington Arms

This beautiful 17th century pub is “widely acclaimed as being one of the country’s finest inns, being at the centre of The Cotswolds, and in a hidden idyllic village”. The Ebrington has won the CAMRA North Cotswold’s Pub of the Year Award four times over, and as soon as you visit you’ll know why! A truly special place serving award winning homemade food that has held two AA rosettes and a Bib Gourmand for the past seven years running. They also feature in the Good Food Guide, Michelin Guide and Good Pub Guide, and were awarded 'Escape of the Year 2016'.

4. Classical music in Northleach and Cheltenham

Northleach’s Church of St Peter and St Paul, only a 10 minute drive from Little Gem, is hosting a Neopolitan Night concert on 4 November for the Cotswold Festival of Music.

On the 24th September the Cheltenham Chamber Orchestra are performing the ever-popular Mozart Overture to The Magic Flute, followed by Adam Heron (BBC Young Musician piano finalist 2018) performing Mozart’s piano concerto No 20 in D minor. The concert will be held on the 24th September at Cheltenham Town Hall, just a 20 minute drive from The Bolt Hole https://guide2.co.uk/gloucestershire/events/cheltenham-town-hall-events-1/

5. Cheltenham Literature Festival

Cheltenham is the world’s first literature festival and with more than 1000 authors from the worlds of fiction, poetry, film and TV, sport, food, travel and politics it really is a feast for any bookworm of any age. Stephen King, Stanley Tucci, Jamie Oliver and a whole host of famous names will be at the festival which runs from 7-16 October. Cheltenham is an easy drive from The Bolt Hole or why not take the train?

6. Burford Literary Festival

If you prefer a smaller event then Burford Lit Fest may be just your thing. It has been described as "the real literary festival" and the organisers say “many of our events are bijou and this enables the events to feel more like a conversation than a presentation”. Burford Lit Fest runs 22nd - 25th September 2022.

7. Autumn Classic Historic Race Day At Castle Combe

If you love classic cars this is not to be missed! The event will be “celebrating the first Porsche driving in the UK at Castle Combe 70 years ago on the 4th October 1952, by Claude Bannister in a Porsche 356!”

The Classic Historic Race Day will take place on the 24th September. It is a little bit further to travel but well worth the visit if you are an enthusiast. Our closest cottage is Little Gem in Bourton-on-the-Water.

8. Heritage Open Days

England’s largest festival of history and culture is nearly upon us and this is your chance to explore hidden places and try out new experiences. The festival allows visitors free access to historical landmarks that are either not usually open to the public or would normally charge an entrance fee. Heritage Open Days runs from 9th - 18th September https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/

9. Tour & Tasting At The Cotswolds Distillery

The Cotswold Distillery produces spirits of an exceptional quality. Visit for a gin or whisky blending masterclass or one of their award-winning Tour & Tastings - and if you fancy indulging they also offer a Tour & Tasting with lunch!

Why not book a taxi from The Loft in Stow on the Wold or Honey Pot in Chipping Campden, just 15 minutes away.

10. Say Cheers To Cheltenham Wine Festival

If wine is more your thing the The Pittville Pump Room hosts The Cheltenham Wine Festival, on Saturday 29th October 2022. With a choice of over 250 exciting wines, this is your chance to taste, discover and learn about different wine styles, grape varieties and the people and special places behind them.

June 15, 2021

DAY TRIPS IN THE COTSWOLDS – WHERE YOU CAN VISIT FOR A DAY OUT

June 15, 2021/ Amanda Brahams

The Cotswolds define what is quintessentially the British landscape. One of the very many highlights of the area is nature. There's an abundance of locations worth visiting, whether that be culturally important in the arts, trade, history, or simply for something new. Here Unique Cotwolds Cottages have selected some day trips in the Cotswolds where you can visit for a day out:

A popular place to attend in the Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace is a World Heritage Site over 300 years old. The only palace in the UK not part of royalty, it was also the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Inside its regal walls are a host of antiquities and tapestry, while outside is a large park and gardens.

A 7th-century Saxon town, Chipping Campden is a medieval market with a community ambience but accommodating of tourists. Featuring a 17th-century market hall, The Silk Mill - home of the Guild of Handicrafts, as well as plenty of places to eat and drink, it's also home to the annual Olimpick Games, founded in 1612.

Managed by The National Trust, Hidcote Manor Garden was originally a farmhouse built in the 17th century, 600 feet above sea level. When acquired by Lawrence Johnston, he devised garden rooms surrounding the property, beginning in 1907, showcasing a diverse range of plants collected from all over the world. Essentially a private collection, but now a public space.

Belas Knap is a Neolithic long arrow dating back to around 3000BC. The entrance is a false one, with side entries that would have been invisible to the naked eye. Complemented by design, it would have been hard to notice how it merges with the natural landscape. Easily accessible and managed by The National Trust, this is well worth the look.

A small, tranquil market town, Stow-on-the-Wold is a must for all visitors to the Cotswolds. Located on an advantageous point on an 800ft hill, history reports the location as an Iron Age fort until it was established as a marketplace. It originally played a part in the wool industry, hosting large fairs, which hold up today with the biannual Gypsy Horse Fair, as well as a selection of antique shops to choose from.

5 Staycation itineraries for you based on your personality

July 23, 2020/ Unique Cotswold Cottages/ Amanda Brahams

The beautiful Cotswolds has something for everyone. Whether you want a gentle walk through picturesque villages or want to visit its bordering cities like Bath or Gloucester, there’s a staycation itinerary for your every need. Plan your journey based on your unique personality.

We offer luxury cottage retreats in three distinct locations within the idyllic Cotswolds.

Read on to discover the 5 staycation itineraries for you based on your personality.

For the calm & collected – the popular Cotswold villages are suitable for travellers that like peace and quiet. Stow-on-the-Wold is a tranquil village that is ideal for calming walks and cycle rides across the stunning landscape. It’s also home to delightful The Loft, a grade II listed apartment, in the heart of the town.
For thrill seekers – the Cotswolds isn’t all idyllic countryside. If you’re a thrill seeker on your staycation, check out the Cotswold Water Park at the Wiltshire–Gloucestershire border. You can try out a range of activities from canoeing to water-skiing.
For the curious – some travellers like to learn as much as they can about different locations. This makes Bath, located to the south of the Cotswolds, the perfect place for them to visit. Go back in time by visiting the ancient Roman baths, then afterwards, head to the Jane Austen Centre for their exhibitions.
For romantics – if you love romance, Lower Slaughter is home to the ‘most romantic’ street in Britain - Copse Hill Road. Lower slaughter is a delightful 30-minute stroll along the river from Little Gem Cottage in nearby Bourton on the water. Walk through this gorgeous village and you’ll find dreamy stone-cottages. Upper Slaughter is only a few minutes away, so you can enjoy both villages in one day.
For free spirits – not all travellers enjoy concrete plans. If you’re a flexible, free spirit, we recommend walking part of the Cotswold Way during your staycation. You can begin and end your walk wherever you like! Maybe you’ll wander towards Bath in the south, or head up to the market town of Chipping Campden in the north. The Bolt Hole is on the Cotswold Way route.

Do, Eat, Go!

5. Cheltenham Literature Festival

6. Burford Literary Festival

7. Autumn Classic Historic Race Day At Castle Combe

9. Tour & Tasting At The Cotswolds Distillery

Unique Cotswold Cottages