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

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.

the bolt hole

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.

little gem

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

Hideaway Cottage

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.

Sustainability and the tourism industry

At Unique Cotswold Cottages, we're trying to do our part to help protect the environment as much as we can and we thought we would share with you some of the sustainable initiatives that we have been working on.

So, what are we doing? Well, we believe that investing in local suppliers is one of the best ways we can do this, so we are consciously buying products that are locally sourced or made in the UK. By doing this, we have reduced our carbon footprint and we are supporting local businesses at the same time. 

For example, our guest soaps are made by a local artisan producer Petala Soaps made in Bourton of the Water, the home of our gorgeous properties  Little Gem Cottage and Hideaway Cottage.  Petala soaps are not only a delightful addition to our cottage bathrooms, but they are also an environmentally conscious choice.  To make the soap this local artisan producer uses a highly sustainable, traditional cold-process method from natural oils.

Plus, our logs are supplied by local company Cotswold Firewood and Logs who source their firewood locally from either waste products from tree surgery operations or timber taken from thinning sustainable woodland.

We're also trying to make it easier for our guests to be eco-friendly. So that our guests can charge their electric vehicles while they stay with us, we've installed EV chargers at two of our properties, Hideaway Cottage and Honey Pot with plans to do this in the rest..

During the renovation of our Hideaway Cottage property, we donated numerous household items and furniture to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, ensuring that our unused items went to a good cause and did not end up in landfill.

We're also proud to say that we work with lots of other Cotswold and UK-based companies who share our commitment to sustainability. To name a few:

• Cotswold Gold is a local supplier of high-quality rapeseed oil. Their oil is cold-pressed and bottled on their family farm in the heart of the Cotswolds, ensuring that the product is not only delicious but also sustainable. We include it as a welcome gift, so that our guests can taste and enjoy the delicious flavour of this locally-produced oil. 

• At all of our properties, we provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash from Faith in Nature. Their products are natural, cruelty free and ethical. Their production facility is in Lancashire, UK, using the water from nearby Lake District. What's more, they use 100% recycled and recyclable bottles and plant a tree for every product bought. 

• Bramblecrest is a UK-based company that manufactures their outdoor furniture in Indonesia, where they have a team of highly skilled artisans who use sustainable materials and techniques to create their products. They are committed to ethical and responsible sourcing, and their furniture is made to the highest quality standards. So when you relax on their outdoor sofas or enjoy breakfast on their table and chairs, you can do so knowing that you are supporting a UK company that values sustainability and quality craftsmanship.

Bramblecrest garden furniture at Hideaway Cottage

• Rise and Fall is one of our absolute favourite suppliers, and we are proud to offer their Soft and Smooth bedding range to our guests for the ultimate night’s sleep!  They are committed to sustainability and minimising their impact on the environment. Their cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals.  They also work with suppliers who share their values and are certified by independent organisations such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Fairtrade. Additionally, Rise and Fall uses packaging that is made from recycled materials and is 100% recyclable.

Rise and Fall bedding at Little Gem

• Serious Tissues is a UK based company provides all our properties, The Loft, Little Gem, The Bolt Hole, Honey Pot and Hideaway Cottage with 100% recyclable and plastic-free toilet paper made from old paper such as newspapers, office documents, and Christmas cards. Their 3-ply toilet roll comes in a recycled cardboard box and is free from chemicals, perfumes, and dyes. But that's not all; when you purchase a pack of Serious Tissues, they plant a tree in various locations across the globe to help restore ecosystems and protect forests. As of now, the company has planted 341,064 trees.

Serious Tissues loo roll in the bathroom at Little Gem

• For our latest refurbishment project, Hideaway Cottage, we turned to David Hunt Lighting, a reputable lighting company based up the road in Shipston-on-Stour. David Hunt Lighting is known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, producing lighting fixtures that not only illuminate a space but also add to its aesthetic appeal.  They use eco-friendly materials and employ energy-efficient manufacturing processes, making their products a great choice for us. We also made sure to select carpets made in the UK to support local manufacturing and reduce our carbon footprint.

• We are currently trialling Arya Eco kitchen sponges which are made from coconut fibres and natural, sustainable, plastic free materials.  And Envirowipe cleaning cloths which are fully compostable and also made with 100 percent natural fibre, for use in the kitchens of our properties. 

So, that's what we're all about at Unique Cotswold Cottages. We believe that sustainable tourism is the way of the future, and we're committed to doing our part and we are working to make sure our properties are as environmentally friendly as possible.

Things to do this Spring in the Cotswolds

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:

1. 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.

2. 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!

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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.

10. 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

Best Breakfasts in the Cotswolds

Winter is upon us, and what better way to start the day than with a delicious breakfast in one of the Cotswolds favourite cafes!

If you are already familiar with Unique Cotswold Cottages then you’ll know by now that we aim to pick only the best experiences for our readers, guests and their four-legged friends!  So, without further ado, let’s jump straight into some of the best breakfasts and dog-friendly cafes the beautiful Cotswolds has to offer…

Chipping Campden 

• Bantam Tea Rooms Located right on the main high street in a quintessentially Cotswold building which dates back to 1693.  Before it was an eatery it had several other past lives including serving as a butcher’s shop, a dairy and an antique shop.  Now firmly established as tea rooms, the all day breakfast menu is simple offering the full English, vegetarian breakfast or smoked salmon & scrambled egg on toast.  Only the best quality local ingredients are selected for their menu so grab a table and tuck in!  The coffee is “delicious” and if their selection of cakes is too much of a temptation, pop back for afternoon tea or take it away with you.  Just a two minute walk from our gorgeous stone cottage Honey Pot, wake up feeling refreshed after a restorative night’s sleep in Honey Pot’s luxury bed.   What more do you need to start your day?!

bantamtea-rooms.co.uk

High St, Chipping Campden GL55 6HB

No reservations, just come along. 

All day breakfasts 9.30am – 5.00pm every day except bank holidays

🐶 Dog friendly 

• Vegetable Matters Don’t let the name fool you - meat option breakfasts are available  if that is what you crave!  This local farm shop and cafe offer a ‘Build-your-own breakfast cooked fresh to order’, all the produce is locally sourced or locally grown and very fresh.  After breakfast why not browse the farm shop for delicious, fresh and local ingredients.  Vegetable Matters farm shop & cafe is just a seven minute drive from cosy Honey Pot which is fully equipped with its own kitchen if you love to cook.

Vegetable Matters

May Ln, Ebrington, Chipping Campden GL55 6NJ

Cafe open for breakfast Tuesday-Saturday 8.30am - 3.30pm, closed on Sundays

🐶 Dog friendly

• Blockley Cafe “...more than just a cafe”. The Blockley Cafe  is loved by a community of loyal locals, foodies and visitors to this beautiful part of the country.  It is a hidden gem, tucked away in the village of Blockley, just a 10 minute drive from our gorgeous luxury cottage, Honey Pot, which has its own parking space with EV Charger.  Wake up safe in the knowledge that your car is charged and ready to take you off for a fabulous slap up breakfast or brunch. The Blockley Cafe is chef run and this shows in the impressive menu.  Expect “delicious, beautifully presented dishes that are lovingly created with the finest local and artisan produce.” 

blockleycafe.co.uk

Bell Ln, Blockley, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9BB

Serving Breakfast 9am -12pm every day.  No bookings, just turn up

🐶 Dog friendly 

Winchcombe 

• The White Hart Inn  “We cook simple, rustic food without pretension with a focus on flavour and generosity”.  With the emphasis on good food and friendly service, this is a great stop for a hearty breakfast after your morning walk with your pooch, who is also welcome - all they ask is that dogs remain on a lead.  The White Hart is just a two minute walk from the Bolt Hole, our luxurious hideaway, furnished to the highest quality for your comfort with luxury bedding and roll top bath. 

whitehartwinchcombe.co.uk

High Street, Winchcombe GL54 5LJ

Serving breakfast 8:00am – 11:30am, bookings taken via website

🐶 Dog friendly

• Hayles Fruit Farm - if you’re after some good old traditional cuisine this is for you!  The breakfast menu has all the usuals from Eggs Benedict to the Full English with a few vegetarian options including spelt toast with smashed avocado with cherry tomatoes, rocket, eggs and dukkah. You will be fuelled and ready for a day’s walking in the Cotswolds!  And if cider is your tipple, it is brewed on the farm so pop to the farm shop and grab yourself a bottle or three of Badgers to enjoy back at The Bolt Hole.   Hayles farm shop prides itself on stocking a wide range of home grown and locally sourced goods.  So, if you are a foodie and love to cook, fill your boots because The Bolt Hole’s kitchen is fully equipped to a high standard and has a double oven!

haylesfruitfarm.co.uk/orchard-kitchen

Winchcombe, GL54 5PB

Open for full breakfast 9am - 11.45am, Thurs - Sun. Open for breakfast toasties 9am, Mon - Wed

No need to book

🐶 Dog friendly

Bourton-on-the-Water

• The Croft Restaurant -  with views of the River Windrush, The Croft has a tantalising menu of breakfast dishes including a Full English, their ‘Croft Breakfast’ -  which is the full English but bigger, you’ll possibly need a big walk to work this one off!  There are also lighter options including scrambled eggs with smoked salmon on sourdough, poached eggs and avocado or granola, vegan yoghurt & berry compote among other dishes.  Grab a seat by the window and plan your day while gazing at the river.

thecroftbourton.co.uk/

Open for breakfast 9 - 11.30am every day except Wednesday.

No bookings taken for breakfast

A discretionary 10 % service charge will be added to your bill

🐶 Well behaved dogs are welcome

• The Riverside Café - “Great Breakfast. Super location and dog friendly” as recently reviewed by a happy customer.  As you’ve probably guessed, this friendly cafe offers great value for money and is right by the river.  Worth noting that it gets busy pretty quickly so grab yourself a table as soon as you can!  A meander down from Little Gem, our beautifully refurbished cottage with log burner and high spec furnishings, takes only seven minutes.  Enjoy a lazy morning after a restful sleep in Little Gem’s luxury bed with 500 thread count bedding and Hypnos mattress. 

Riverside, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BP

Serving breakfast 9am - 12pm every day except Wednesday

No bookings taken, just turn up

🐶 Dog friendly

• Bourtanical - Flower themed cafe in Bourton with a menu option to build your own brunch.  Some other breakfast dishes on the menu include a full English, vegetarian full English, or if you have a sweet tooth there’s the brioche french toast dusted with powdered sugar, berries and maple syrup.  Situated on the picturesque riverside and just a seven minute walk from our cosy haven, Little Gem - luxuriously furnished for a perfectly restorative stay.  Bourtanical offers vegetarian, vegan & gluten free options and your doggy is welcome too!

https://www.bourtanical.com/

Riverside Bourton-on-the-Water, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2DP

Open 0900-1700

Booking is advised

🐶 Dog friendly

Stow-on-the-Wold

• The Hive - one recent visitor describes The Hive as “first class, delicious food, super warm welcome and exemplary customer service.”  This lovely, dog friendly cafe has grown a reputation for its fantastic customer service and fabulous food.  Breakfast and brunch at The Hive is served from 9am - 11.45am and until 2.30 pm on a Sunday if you love a lazy Sunday (who doesn’t?!)  Just a minute’s walk from The Hive is The Loft - our very special hideaway for couples and their four legged friends, complete with luxury furnishings and the highest quality bedding for a wonderful night’s sleep.

thehivestow.co.uk

Digbeth Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1BN

Breakfast served 9am - 11.45am, Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat and 9.30am - 2.30pm, Sunday. CLOSED on Tuesday & Wednesday

No bookings, first come first served

🐶 Dog friendly

• Lucy's Tearoom with its chocolate box exterior has to be one of the most inviting cafes in the Cotswolds.  Inside doesn’t disappoint, described as a “quaint and cosy tea room, with its inglenook fireplace”, it has a lovely courtyard, a simple, no fuss breakfast menu, and many a happy customer describing “great food and service” - you can see why it’s so popular!  At Lucy’s they strive to use their own home grown or locally sourced ingredients for their menu - and now they serve doggy ice cream too, so even your furry friend can get in on the action!  Just a two minute walk from The Loft, take our guest walking map with you and plan your hike over brekkie!

lucystearoomstow.com

The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AB

Breakfast served 10am to 12pm Mon to Fri and 9.30am to 12pm Sat & Sun

No bookings taken for breakfast

🐶 Dog friendly

HOW TO ENJOY A ROMANTIC FESTIVE BREAK IN THE COTSWOLDS

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

Shopping in the Cotswolds

Who doesn’t love to shop?  Especially when you’re surrounded by luxury boutiques, local & organic specialist food shops and artisan markets all in the beautiful setting of the Cotswolds.

Read on to find out where to visit for the best Cotswold shopping experiences this Autumn:

Stow on the Wold

For a fabulous break away from the busyness of life immerse yourself in a beautiful setting with a selection of indulgent boutiques and gift shops. The Loft, our luxury grade II listed Cotswold stone cottage, is the perfect place for you to unwind and enjoy this wonderful village.  Our beautiful, romantic apartment for two in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold has a large bedroom with a stunning roll top bath to relax in, & a view overlooking the rooftops.  With its own access and delightful, private decked terrace with outdoor dining and sofa, you really can tuck yourselves away for a weekend of indulgence.

• Calling all bookworms!  The Borzoi Bookshop is an “independent bookshop that has been trading for more than 40 years…and are happy to source unusual and specialist titles from publishers that you might have difficulty finding elsewhere.”

• A delectable option in Stow is the Cotswold Chocolate Company.  A family run company making fresh, handmade and hand finished artisan chocolates, using only natural ingredients - you can see them making chocolates in their on-site kitchen.  You’ll find them at France House, Digbeth Street, Stow on the Wold.

• For something a bit special be sure to visit Sam Wilson Studio Ltd  where you’ll find some beautiful fabrics & interiors, home & kitchen items and stationery - fabulous for gift shopping for a friend, or yourself!

• Just 11 minutes from Stow is the very special Daylesford Organic.  Frequented by many a Cotswold celebrity, this upmarket establishment is simply bursting with luxury home accessories including candles & diffusers, tableware & hand care.  Then there is the grocery where you can indulge in the highest quality, organic, local meat & fish, their dairy, bakery and deli.  Make sure to leave enough time to explore the gardening, floristry and outdoor living areas.  And if that isn’t enough they also have a cafe and a spa!

Chipping Campden:

This ancient and charming old wool merchants' town is an absolute delight.  Make the most of your time here by staying at Honey Pot - our beautifully refurbished Cotswold stone ground floor apartment is the perfect stay at the end of the day’s shopping, with its 500+ thread-count cotton bed linen, double bed with super comfortable Hypnos mattress and brand new rain shower complete with Egyptian cotton towels.

Honey Pot is located just off the high street with its elegant terraced buildings, dating from the 14th century to the 17th century.

• Hart Silversmith is something quite special, their craftsmen design and make silverware including handmade & unique bespoke contemporary jewellery, in the same workshop that was established in 1902.  They will make your commission come to life, using methods and techniques that have been employed for centuries.

• For surprise and delight be sure to visit Louise Pocock Millinery. Louise uses traditional handcrafting techniques along with her trademark flair for colour and quirkiness.

• Calling all foodies -  Award-winning deli & wine shop in the Cotswolds, Tokes Food and Drink, is a stone’s throw from Honey Pot, and if you prefer a night in you can get Home-cooked meals, cheese, and deli goods delivered straight to your door

• Allow yourself ample time to browse luxury homewares showroom Cotswold Luxe which boasts a wide selection of products all beautifully styled and showcased within the perfect backdrop - a fantastic Grade II listed property.

• For high quality, award winning homewares and cutlery be sure to visit Robert Welch, creating award winning designs, the company is now in its seventh decade.  Robert was “passionately driven to design highly functional, affordable products which possessed a timeless elegant beauty.”  His design legacy remains the abiding principle and inspiration for the company today.

Winchcombe:

For the perfect break, stay at the delightful Bolt Hole, in the centre of the beautiful town of Winchcombe with its timbered inns, coffee shops and restaurants including the celebrated “Restaurant 5 North Street''.  The bedroom provides luxury bed linen, a large king size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a roll-top bath to relax in after a day's shopping.

• For stunning interiors visit the Rapport Interiors showroom.  Filled with an extensive range of beautiful fabrics, paint, wallpaper, carpet and furniture, it really does have the wow factor.  They also offer a flexible interior design service.

• Swift Studio stocks art and design from local producers. The vast majority of their products are handmade by local creators and their ethos being that good business can be, and should be, friendly, ethical and sustainable. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10-4pm.

• If you love to explore an antique shop then Winchcombe Antiques Centre is the place for you.  Take your time browsing their huge range of antiques and enjoy afternoon tea in the tea rooms - they have over 15 different teas to choose from as well as freshly ground coffee and homemade cake.

Bourton on the water:

Make your stay a luxurious one at Little Gem, our beautifully refurbished Cotswold stone cottage.  It is just a few minutes walk to the enchanting centre of Bourton-on-the-Water, known as ‘The Little Venice of the Cotswolds’, with its attractive low stone bridges over the quaint River Windrush and abundance of shops, tea rooms and restaurants.

• For some beautiful handmade pottery, Cotswold Pottery is a must.  Run by John and Jude Jelfs, everything on show in the pottery showroom is hand made in the studio. Visitors are welcome but due to the small size of the working area, the studio is not open to the public. A phone call is advisable if you’d like to visit. 01451 820173.

• Bakery on the Water is a small family run artisan bakery and cafe, serving delicious breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and if you want to take it away for a picnic they will pack it up for you.

• Are you a bit of a magpie?  If so you’ll love The Lodestone - the staff are knowledgeable and professional and one visitor says of this treasure trove of crystals & jewellery “I would personally consider this beautiful little shop to be a heaven on earth, containing a beautiful plethora of specimens.”

• The Cotswold Perfumery specialises in creating fine fragrances for the niche market.  They sell a range of unique fragrances as well as creating bespoke fragrances for companies in the niche perfume market, sold under different names in London, the USA, the Middle East, Russia and Europe.  They also run perfume courses here that attract delegates from countries as far flung as New Zealand and Bermuda!

• For beautiful hand poured candles with great attention to detail, visit Cotswold Candle Co, just 17 minutes away.  You can visit the workshop by appointment, see how the candles are made and sample the entire range which has over 25 fragrances and are also available in reed diffusers, room sprays and travel tin candles. Candle making kits and match bottles are also available.

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

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. 

Read all about us in Julys edition of Oxfordshire Living