stars of the relax & screen ten unwind things to do 2016 Cover...14 Download the Official Cotswolds...

2016 official guide

ten things to dowhatever the weather

see page 10

relax & unwind

ultimate spa breakssee page 14

stars of thescreen

tv & film locations see page 26

www.cotswolds.com

2 Visit www.cotswolds.com

Plan your stayMake sure you download the Cotswolds app

before you get here – it’s the perfect companion to our visitor guide and will help you make

the most of your precious time with us.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape in one of our fabulous hotels, pubs or cottages or planning an action-packed weekend of outdoor activities and adventures, you’ll find it in

the beautiful Cotswold countryside.

Lose yourself in our stunning scenery; enjoy world class food, drink and shopping; meander through picturesque villages and

bustling market towns or simply soak up the atmosphere at one of our wonderful festivals and events.

26Welcome to the Cotswolds,

home to breathtaking countryside and a place you’ll never forget.

4 Quick Guide to the Cotswolds Decide which of our beautiful towns

and villages to stay in.

10 Ten Things to Do Whatever the Weather

Top ideas for great days out. Sunshine optional!

12 Retail Therapy From designer and high street

to shabby chic, we’ve got it all.

14 Relax & Indulge From spa breaks to afternoon tea,

find time to indulge yourself.

16 Creative Experience Discover a new talent on a wide

variety of courses and workshops.

17 The Great Outdoors Get out and about in the beautiful

Cotswold countryside.

19 Looking for Adventure? From zorbing to horse-riding, fishing

to water sports – you’ll find it all in the Cotswolds.

20 Wild Encounters Discover more about the area of

outstanding natural beauty and wonderful wildlife in the Cotswolds.

22 Wine & Dine Enjoy a warm Cotswolds welcome at

these great places to eat and drink.

24 Messing About on the Water Don’t let the lack of coastline put you

off a water-filled Cotswolds holiday.

26 TV & Film Locations Walk in the footsteps of your favourite

TV and movie stars.

28 Gardens, Castles & Stately Homes You’ll find gorgeous gardens, superb

stately homes and castles galore.

30 Heritage & History Our top ten ideas for a historical day

out in the Cotswolds.

32 Quirky Cotswolds Looking for days out with a difference?

You’ve come to the right place!

34 Attractions

41 Accommodation

59 Map

contents

14

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 3

Don’t miss unique Cotswolds Festivals & Eventsfrom internationally famous fixtures to the traditional or quirky!

18

24

15 - 18 March

The Festival, Cheltenham

1 - 30 April

SITE16 – Stroud Valleys Contemporary Arts Festival and Open Studio Trails

22 April – 1 May

Wotton-under-Edge Arts Festival

27 April - 2 May

Jazz Festival, Cheltenham

30 April - 23 May

Stroud International Textiles Select Festival and Open Studio Trails

8 - 21 May

Chipping Campden Music Festival

20 - 22 May

Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival

32

23 - 30 May

Winchcombe Festival of Music & Arts

27 - 29 May

Lechlade Music Festival

30 May

Tetbury Woolsack Races

3 - 19 June

Broadway Arts Festival

3 - 4 June

Cotswold Olimpick Games and Scuttlebrook Wake

7 - 9 June

Bledington Music Festival

7 - 12 June

The Times Cheltenham Science Festival

9 June - 2 August

Longborough Festival Opera

2 - 3 July

Cotswold Show, Cirencester

6 - 17 July

Cheltenham Music Festival

8 - 10 July

Royal International Air Tattoo, Fairford

8 - 18 July

Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival

9 - 10 July

Tewkesbury Medieval Festival

22 - 31 July

46th Guiting Music Festival

10

16

4

5 - 7 August

The Festival of British Eventing, Gatcombe Park

26 - 28 August

Stroud Fringe Festival

27 - 28 August

Phoenix Festival, Cirencester

3 - 8 September

History Festival, Gloucester

7 - 16 October

The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival

13 - 15 November

The Open Meeting Cheltenham Racecourse

Look out for more diary dates throughout the guide. For a complete list visit www.cotswolds.com/whats-on

quickCotswolds

guideto the



The north...Whilst the rightly famous and popular towns of the north Cotswolds such as Cheltenham, Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water or Burford feature in every guidebook, head off the beaten track and you can unearth hidden gems such as Bourton-on-the-Hill or Naunton. Each of the better known market towns such as Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold has a cluster of villages around it and these are decidedly Cotswold in character and well worth investigating.

Winchcombe is an unspoilt market town set on the Cotswold edge. It’s known as being a centre for walkers and is a great place to base yourself if you want to enjoy the rural Cotswolds. A stay in the north Cotswolds brings Stratford upon Avon and Oxford into perfect range for day visits.

The south...The south Cotswolds covers the area around Cirencester and the Stroud Valleys – continuing down to north Wiltshire and towns such as Tetbury and Malmesbury. Basing yourself here puts Bristol and Bath within easy reach.

The Cotswold Water Park is an incredible place for leisure offering sports, walks and a beach based around 150 lakes in 40 square miles. Despite its size, it is a well-kept secret just a few miles from Cirencester.

The ‘Five Valleys’ meet at the town of Stroud; linked by the lofty heights of Rodborough, Minchinhampton and Selsley Commons. Many artists and craftspeople live in these peaceful, hidden valleys. The surrounding pretty towns of Nailsworth, Painswick, Fairford, Lechlade-on-Thames and Tetbury are all lovely Cotswold market towns.

Whichever part of the Cotswolds you choose, the advice is to really make yourself at home by staying a little longer.

Beautiful countryside, chic accommodation, colourful markets, quirky events and

shopping… the stunning towns and villages of the Cotswolds

will always surprise you!

Image opposite: Arlington Row, Bibury. This page: Montpellier, Cheltenham; Family farm fun; Broadway; Cotswold Morris Dancing; Northleach; Bourton-on-the-Water; Cotswold Olimpick Games, Chipping Campden.

quickCotswolds

guideto the


Berkeley

This lovely town is home to the 12th century Berkeley Castle, which is the oldest inhabited castle in England, and Dr. Jenner’s House, once the home of the pioneer of the smallpox vaccination. Map ref: C6

The Cotswolds has some fantastic places to stay, from vibrant and cultural cities to historic market towns.

Broadway

Famously beautiful and popular throughout the year. Lined with some great shops, restaurants, hotels and plenty of antique shops with Broadway Tower as an iconic viewpoint overlooking the town. Map ref: H2

Burford

Full of Cotswold stone houses with hidden secrets that can be glimpsed through narrow alleyways and courtyards. A renowned centre for the antiques trade. Map ref: J5

Bibury

William Morris once called Bibury ‘the most beautiful village in England’ and it is still one of the prettiest today. Home to Bibury Trout Farm. Map ref: I5

Bourton-on-the-Water

One of the most famous Cotswold villages where you can enjoy the River Windrush with its beautiful bridges and the town’s excellent visitor attractions. Map ref: I4

Cheltenham Spa

This Regency town is internationally renowned for its breathtaking cultural, sporting and annual events programme. As the Cultural Centre for the Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a festival for everyone from dancing to horse-racing and literature, plus comedy and concerts at Cheltenham Town Hall. Historic architecture includes the stunning Grade I listed Pittville Pump Room, with The Wilson offering a dynamic exhibition programme and collections of international significance. Quality accommodation, shopping, and many dining options make this a town for all seasons. Map ref: F3/4

The Wilson


Dursley

On the Cotswold Way and surrounded by hills, making it a great base for walks and Cotswold views. Nearby Uley is home to a nationally acclaimed arts centre. Map ref: D6

Cirencester

Cirencester is a must-see thriving market town at the heart of the Cotswolds with ancient origins. The town was one of the most important places in Roman Britain, making the Corinium Museum worth a visit. The town mixes old with new, having a vibrant arts centre with workshops, Britain’s oldest open air swimming pool and beautiful abbey grounds. The amazing selection of independent shops and restaurants sit alongside the ‘woolgothic’ church, which dominates the marketplace. Map ref: G6

Download the Cotswolds App today for up to date events and places to stay

Chipping Norton

A bustling, buzzing, working Cotswold market town at the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’. It’s a fantastic place to visit with a great choice of independent shops. Map ref: K3

Fairford

Sits on a stretch of the River Coln offering delightful walks in quiet countryside. The great glory here is the parish ‘wool church’ with a complete set of 28 medieval stained glass windows. Map ref: I6

Chipping Campden

One of the best preserved and most historically important towns with a famously beautiful high street, lovely thatched cottages and elegant market hall. Map ref: I1

Gloucester

Rich in history, the city boasts a wealth of architectural gems, numerous visitor attractions, a Premiership Rugby team and can truly be regarded as a great English city. Besides the awe-inspiring cathedral, Gloucester’s waterside location and Victorian Docks feature Gloucester Quays outlet centre, a mix of cafes and museums. Map ref: E4

Fairford

Cirencester Church

Corinium Museum


Northleach

A working Cotswold town with a lovely market square where you will get a sense of real life in the Cotswolds. Map ref: H4

Nailsworth

An artistic town renowned for its award-winning restaurants, pubs, cafés, food emporium and a celebrated bakery (home to The Fabulous Baker Brothers) as well as independent shopping. Map ref: E6

Moreton-in-Marsh

A bustling town which hosts the largest open air street market in the Cotswolds. The annual September Moreton Show is a major celebration of past and present farming life. Map ref: J2

Lechlade-on-Thames

On the River Thames and a lovely spot for boat trips, fishing and picnics on the banks. Nearby Kelmscott Manor was the summer home of William Morris for 25 years. Map ref: J6

Minchinhampton

A delightful market town with a good choice of cafés and breathtaking views of the Stroud Valleys from the common. Map ref: E6

Stow-on-the-Wold

The highest of the Cotswold towns and famous as a centre for antiques, boutique shops and places to stop and refuel. Visit St Edwards Church, which used to hold prisoners in the English Civil War. Map ref: I3

Painswick

Surrounded by marvellous walking country, Painswick is one of the finest Cotswold towns and sits on the Cotswold Way. The Rococo Gardens and Laurie Lee’s Slad are nearby. Map ref: E5

quickCotswolds

guideto the

Stanton, Stanway & Snowshill

Three of the most beautiful villages of the Cotswolds; Stanton is lovely, has a fabulous pub and outstanding views. Stanway is host to a magnificent manor house and a 300 foot water fountain and Snowshill has a wonderful Manor and Lavender Farm as attractions. Map ref: H2

Painswick Valley

Stroud Farmers’ Market

Painswick


Wotton-under-Edge

Nestling under the Cotswold edge, overlooking the Severn Vale, this town is an excellent centre for walkers with some lovely shops. Map ref: D7

Tetbury

The Market House is at the heart of the town dating back to the 17th century, and is still used regularly for markets. The town holds many events including the annual Woolsack Races. Map ref: F7

Tewkesbury

Situated where the Rivers Severn and Avon meet, Tewkesbury has a character all of its own and is one of the few places in the Cotswold area where you will see black and white half–timbered buildings. In fact, there are almost 400 listed buildings and this makes it popular with visitors who also enjoy spending time on the riverbanks, visiting the heritage centre and admiring the elegant Abbey. Map ref: F2

Stroud

Brimming with independent shops, cafés, galleries and a lovely museum, bohemian Stroud is home to one of the best farmers’ markets in the country. Here you will find an eclectic mix of shops selling everything from fossils to fairies and vintage to vinyl, sitting against the dramatic backdrop of the beautiful Five Valleys. Stroud is known as a centre for contemporary arts, as well as its canal, commons, woollen mill heritage and colourful festivals. Map ref: E6

The Slaughters

Considered to be some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds attracting visitors from all over the world. Map ref: I3

Winchcombe

Cotswold stone cottages enhanced by black and white timber buildings,

narrow side streets and charming houses make up the centre of this

fabulous town. Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe Pottery and the Steam Railway are

close by. Map ref: G3

Probably the most photographed villages in the Cotswolds...

Tewkesbury

Lower Slaughter

Stroud


14

GET SOME (RETAIL) THERAPy!We’ve everything from gorgeous, independent boutiques to designer outlets at Gloucester Quays and Cheltenham’s Promenade. Bargain hunters will love the huge array of antique shops all over the Cotswolds too.

With so much to see and do, both inside and out, you’ll be hard-pressed to fit everything in.

So here’s our quick guide to the top ten activities come rain or shine...

You don’t need sunshine to have a Cotswolds holidaY

to remember

TENto do

weatherthe

thingswhatever

For more all-weather ideas visit www.cotswolds.com

GO WILD...With breathtaking scenery and wonderful walks, the Cotswold hills are a great place for a gentle wander or something more strenuous. You’ll be spoilt for choice for al fresco eating spots. Picnic somewhere spectacular like Minchinhampton Common or along the Cotswold Way.

8

TALk TO THE ANIMALS...Ever come eye to eye with a giraffe or held a chick or rabbit? The Cotswold Wildlife Park and Cotswold Farm Park have lots of activities allowing you to get up close and personal to animals big and small.

FESTIVAL FuN...The Cotswolds are famous for a whole

host of large family festivals, fayres and markets, from the Science and Literature

Festivals in Cheltenham to the annual Royal International Air Tattoo at

RAF Fairford and wonderful farmers’ markets

all year round.


10

DIARY DATES19 March - 12 September

Hare Festival, Cirencester

13 May - September

Giffords Circus on tour across Cotswolds

27 - 30 May

South Cerney Street Fair and Duck Race

3 - 5 June

Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham Racecourse

25 June

Northleach Charter Fair

25 June

Dursley Festival

17 July

Rugby in the Park, Gloucester

www.cotswolds.com/whats-on

7

WATCH HISTORy COME ALIVE...Become a Roman at Cirencester’s Corinium Museum, dress up in royal costumes at Sudeley Castle or re-live the Arts and Crafts period at the home of William Morris at Kelmscott Manor.

TuRN OVER A NEW LEAF...Looking for somewhere to wear the kids out? Kick up some leaves and enjoy the natural environment at our two beautiful arboreta at Westonbirt and Batsford. Explore from above at Westonbirt’s new treetop walkway.

MAkE A SPLASH...Enjoy boat trips from Tewkesbury, Gloucester, Lechlade-on-Thames,

Saul and Ebley near Stroud or try your hand at numerous

water sports at the Cotswold Water Park.

56

GO BIRDING...Why not cuddle a duckling at the Downy Duckling Days at Slimbridge Wetland Centre, watch the penguins being fed at Birdland Park and Gardens or have a go at flying a bird of prey at the Cotswold Falconry Centre?

2FuN FOR FREE...You don’t have to splash the cash to enjoy the Cotswolds! Visit one of our free museums including The Wilson in Cheltenham, Tewkesbury Heritage Centre or the Museum in the Park in Stroud with its great kids’ activities.

LET OFF STEAM...Experience life in miniature at the Model Village in Bourton-on-the-Water (now Grade II listed), or visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum overflowing with vintage and classic vehicles. Head back in time on the GWR steam railway.


From ClassiC to ContemPorarY, boutiQue to budGet, the Cotswolds has it all

hatever your style, the Cotswolds offers a huge

range of fantastic shopping opportunities – from shabby chic and vintage to high end designer clothing.

Meander through the lanes of our lovely towns and villages to find an eclectic mix of clothes and interior ideas, antiques and bookshops as well as a whole host of food and farmers’ markets, cafés and restaurants.

If designer shopping is your style, Gloucester Quays or the Promenade in Cheltenham are home to big designer names. Cheltenham’s Montpellier and the Suffolks are full of independent shops.

Find time to wander through the lanes of Cirencester, a rural market town full of cafés, restaurants and quirky stores as well as the newly restored

Corn Hall which hosts regular craft fairs and food markets.

Visit the charming medieval town of Tewkesbury for the chance to sample Old Spot Pig Pie and Tewkesbury mustard balls in the 1471 deli or to browse the

lovely range of shops offering gifts with a difference.

Bohemian Stroud sells everything from fossils to fairies and is home to specialist vintage, vinyl and book shops. Further north in the beautiful

Cotswold hill villages, you’ll find wonderful antique and vintage shops – the perfect places to hunt for a bargain.

For more ideas about shopping in the Cotswolds, download our Vintage & Modern Touring Routes free of charge from www.cotswoldsvintagetours.com or www.cotswolds.com/vintage.


DIARY DATESMarch

Made in Moreton, Moreton-in-Marsh

25 - 28 March

Gloucester Quays Spring Fest, Gloucester

25 April

Vintage Fair, Tewkesbury

14 - 15 & 21 - 22 May

Open Studio Artists Weekends, Stroud Valleys

17 July

Art Couture Festival, Painswick

3 - 20 December

Christmas Market, Cheltenham


wtheraPYretail

Image opposite: Highgrove Shop, Tetbury. This page: Beechwood Shopping Centre, Cheltenham; Vintage shopping, Cotswolds; Gloucester Antiques; Crafts in Cirencester.

Experience shopping the

Cotswolds way


sweet treats There are some fabulous locations in the Cotswolds to treat yourself to the tradition of afternoon tea. Depending on the time of year, enjoy high tea on the lawn surrounded by beautiful gardens, or sit down and relax in front of a cosy log fire.

Ellenborough Park provides grand surroundings for afternoon tea in their Great Hall, while Thornbury Castle, once owned by Henry VIII, offers a truly historic setting. At Lords of the Manor in Upper Slaughter and Barnsley House, indulge in afternoon tea amongst gorgeous gardens.

Mayfield House, near Malmesbury, is a good tip for a traditional Cotswold cream tea, and Three Ways House near Chipping Campden, home of the world-famous Pudding Club, is an obvious choice.

rElax & uNwiNd Luxurious Cotswold manor houses such as Barnsley House near Cirencester, Calcot Manor near Tetbury, Cotswold House Hotel & Spa in Chipping Campden, Ellenborough Park near Cheltenham and Wyck Hill House Hotel near Stow-on-the-Wold are havens of relaxation offering extensive spa and pampering treatments.

The new spa at the kings Head Hotel in the heart of Cirencester provides a unique, subterranean vaulted space to unwind.

Day visitors can enjoy Britain’s only natural thermal spa at Bath Thermae, where you can relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of an open-air rooftop pool overlooking this beautiful, historic city.

Plenty of other day spas or overnight retreats can be found throughout the Cotswolds to enjoy a relaxing break.

Take high tea on the lawn or a Cotswold cream tea in front of a log fire.

RELAXindulge&


SPA breAKS

Take some time out from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and recharge your batteries in the Cotswolds. For true indulgence, spoil yourself as a day visitor or overnight guest at one of the Cotswolds’ luxurious spa hotels. Enjoy a taste of quintessential England and tempt your taste buds with a Cotswold afternoon tea of finger sandwiches, scones, clotted cream and sweet treats.

Images opposite: Calcot Manor near Tetbury; Kings Head, Cirencester; Ellenborough Park near Cheltenham; Thornbury Castle. This page: Thermae Bath Spa; Barnsley House.

16

Get CooKinG Perfect your culinary skills or learn the art of bread or cheese-making at some of the famous cookery schools in the Cotswolds. With provenance and seasonality being so important, here’s your chance to learn about cooking from field to fork, in restored barns and state-of-the-art kitchens tucked away in beautiful, rural settings. For a truly natural experience, Daylesford Organic and The Cookery School at Thyme offer foraging amongst their many courses. At Foodworks, you can learn how to cook with game or at Abbey Home Farm, reproduce some delicious vegetarian recipes. The best bit of course, sampling your work for lunch!

natural hiGhs Get out and about amongst nature and study some rural skills such as the art of dry-stone walling or an introduction to scything with the Cotswold Conservation Board. Learn from professional photographers in the most amazing natural settings such as Batsford, Westonbirt and Slimbridge WWT.

eXPerienCecreative

artY and CraFtY The Corinium Museum in Cirencester and the Museum in the Park in Stroud host workshops including jewellery, mosaics and painting. The Wilson in Cheltenham holds free family drop-in workshops the last Sunday of every month, while Nature in Art in Twigworth runs courses ranging from botanical drawing to willow art.

The Cotswolds offers a host of creative and quirky recreational

courses to inspire.

This page: New Brewery Arts; Nature in Art; The Cookery School at Thyme, Southrop. Opposite: Views from The Cotswold Way.

artists in residenCe Hole yourself up in beautiful surroundings and learn a new skill such as painting, music, writing or photography. New Brewery Arts in Cirencester and Hawkwood College near Stroud host a year-round programme of interesting courses.


Outdoorsthe Great

Immerse yourself in the Great Cotswold Outdoors by exploring on foot or by bike.


ith over 5000km of footpaths and rights

of way, the Cotswolds offers great walking country. Serious hikers will enjoy the challenge of the Cotswold Way or Thames Path. For recreational walking, most towns and villages have shorter circular routes.

Many of the villages and market towns have their own walking trails, while a few hold annual walking festivals. The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens organise hundreds of free, guided walks throughout the area.

Cycling is very popular in the Cotswolds with routes ranging from

flat towpaths to gentle slopes and sharper escarpments. These differences in terrain give every level of cyclist a chance to enjoy an extensive network of routes, including quiet lanes and

Sustrans Route 45.

The Cotswolds & Severn Vale 7-day Cycling Route is a circular touring map of the area. It’s divided into seven 30-mile circular or linear routes, featuring ideas for where to stop, eat and stay.

The area also offers fantastic off-road cycling. A network of tracks designated as byways and bridleways makes off-road cycling one of the best ways to discover the area.

Images: Coaley Peak near Dursley; Fishing at Bibury Trout Farm; Horseriding in the Cotswolds; Cycling near Guiting Power.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

DIARY DATES10 April

Hell of the North Cotswold Cycle Race, Winchcombe

13 - 15 May

Heaven of the South Mountain Bike Festival

20 - 22 May

Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival

17 - 19 June

Mountain Mayhem Cycling Event, Gatcombe Park

29 August

Via Roma Twilight Criterium Cycle Races, Cirencester

6 - 9 October

Dursley Walking Festival


Discover the secrets of the great Cotswold outdoors

w


looking for adventure?

leap of faithClimb the stairway to heaven or take a leap of faith at Head 4 Heights near the Water Park. Visit one of the many stables and saddle up for a day. Or if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, brush up your swing at a beautifully located golf course. Sharpen your mind with some target practice, clay-pigeon or archery style. Some of the shooting schools, like Prescott Shooting, offer ‘Have a Go’ days.

MaKe a SplaSh!The Cotswold Water Park is a great location for adventure on the water. All kinds of water sports are available from sailing to kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding to water-skiing. Adrenaline seekers can head for the Severn Bore and surf the phenomenon of the inland wave. For a more leisurely pastime, fishing lakes such as Watermark Fisheries offer specimen trout and coarse fishing.

the SKy’S the liMitWhat better way to observe the beauty of the Cotswolds, than from up above? Enjoy serene views of the rolling landscape from a hot air balloon or a bird’s eye-view from a glider or paraglider. At Gloucestershire Airport, you can take the controls on a trial helicopter flight or experience the rush of adrenaline as you flip upside down on a wing-walk.

There’s plenty of adventure in the Cotswolds, from gentler pursuits

to a rush of adrenaline.

Undercover adventUre The Warehouse in Gloucester and Far Peak Campsite near Northleach provide excellent climbing and bouldering facilities. Stroud’s Rush Skatepark is one of Europe’s largest indoor parks and caters for all levels of BMX riders and boarders. Opening in March 2016, the Flyup 417 mountain bike facility near Cheltenham will offer indoor riding barns as well as outdoor downhill tracks.


DIARY DATES

January - February

Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition, Nature in Art, Twigworth

2 May

Sheep & Wool Day, Northleach


4 - 8 May

Badminton Horse Trials

18 June

Festival of Nature, Stroud

29 August

Winchcombe Country Show

3 September

Moreton Show, Moreton in Marsh

is a big year for the Cotswolds as we celebrate 50 years of

being designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Throughout the year, the Cotswolds Conservation Board is planning a number of celebrations to encourage everyone to protect and enhance this beautiful landscape.

Find out more about some of the special events planned by visiting www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

As a protected landscape, there are plenty of opportunities to discover a variety of flora and fauna including numerous types of orchid and

rare butterflies such as The Duke of Burgundy, Marbled White and Adonis Blue. Join the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens who organise hundreds of free walks throughout the area, and explore with the experts.

While the Cotswolds is famed for its beautiful wild landscapes, it is also a great area to spot more unusual wildlife. Stroll along the famous giraffe walkway at the Cotswold Wildlife Park or marvel at the Asiatic lions and white rhinos in the animal enclosures.

For fans of feathered wildlife, the Cotswold Falconry Centre has free daily flying displays of some of its 150 rare and unusual birds. You can watch the pelicans, flamingos and penguins being fed at Birdland Park & Gardens or discover more about their 65 million year old ancestors by walking the Jurassic Journey Trail.

Slimbridge Wildfowl & Wetland Centre offers the chance to hand-feed the birds, go on a Landrover safari or follow the wildlife trails, while Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park is home to a variety of rare breed animals and a great family day out.

2016

Image opposite: Giraffe Walkway at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. This page: Marbled White Butterfly; Enjoying the Cotswold view;

Falconry display; Walking on Stroud Commons; Cotswold Lion Sheep.


THE COTSWOLDS AONB

encounterswild

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Cotswolds aonb is known and loved by people aCross the world


wine dine&Fresh, Fabulous and Found locally,

the cotswolds oFFers an amazing range oF quality Food and drink.

Pick up delicious local produce at one of our Farmers’ Markets, see page 44. For information visit www.cotswolds.com or download the Cotswolds App.


he Cotswolds has earned itself a well-deserved reputation with foodies, not only for the quality of

eateries throughout the area (including a sprinkling of Michelin stars), but also for the array of produce on offer.

Single Gloucester cheese and Gloucester Old Spot pork have been awarded Protected Designation of Origin status. Smart’s has become well-known for making the Double Gloucester for the famous Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling.

Other local favourites include Tewkesbury mustard, Bibury trout, Stinking Bishop cheese and Hobbs House bread.

Farmers’ markets take place regularly in most of our towns, as well as some smaller Cotswold villages.

Image opposite: The Beaufort Dining Room at Ellenborough Park. This page: Café Culture in Cheltenham; The Bell Inn at Sapperton; Emily Watkins, Chef at the Kingham Plough; Farmers’ Market; The Kings Head, Cirencester.

t Gourmands will love the choice of farm shops and specialist shops such as Daylesford Organic, William’s Fishmarket & Foodhall in Nailsworth and The Cotswold Cheese Company in Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Both new Gloucester Services (M5) have become destinations in their own right showcasing local produce. There are lots of established food festivals in the Cotswolds. Check the diary dates to find out more.

Don’t miss a traditional Cotswold afternoon tea or, for something stronger, a pint of local ale in a traditional country pub. The Gloucestershire Ale Trail highlights some of the Cotswolds’ outstanding craft breweries.

DIARY DATES14 May

The Cheltenham Wine Festival, Cheltenham Town Football Club

21 May

Witney Festival of Food and Drink

10 - 12 June

Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival

25 - 26 June

Tewkesbury Food & Drink Festival

22 - 24 July

40th Cotswold Beer Festival, Postlip Hall, Winchcombe

22 - 24 July

Gloucester Quays Food Festival

26 - 27 August

Frocester Beer Festival

26 - 28 August

The Big Feastival, Kingham

9 - 10 September

Moreton Beer Festival, Moreton-in-Marsh

11 September

Broadway Food Festival



watermessing about on the

Cotswold Water Park has over 150 lakes with a fantastic range of water activities as well as a beach!

Images this page: Gloucester & Sharpness Canal; Watersports, Cotswold Water Park; Chalford Round House; Model boats at Saul; Eastleach Bridge. Opposite: River Severn, Tewkesbury.


Medieval Wool Industry Water is a constant theme through the past and present of the Cotswolds and played its part in the medieval wool industry that brought wealth to the area. Gently flowing, shallow Cotswold rivers, which were perfect for washing wool, can be seen at Rack Island at Bibury, where wool was washed and dried for market. At villages such as Blockley, you can visit mill gardens like Mill Dene and in beautiful Lower Slaughter, the River Windrush flows past The Old Mill.

Cotswold Canals The town of Stroud, at the heart of five beautiful valleys, is celebrating its watery heritage by restoring the Stroudwater Canal to its former glory. Here you

can explore the historic woollen mills connection as you walk or cycle along the towpath, perhaps spotting a kingfisher or two. Enjoy a leisurely boat trip from Ebley Mill or Saul Junction.

Cotswold Rivers The river Thames starts near Kemble, and continues past William Morris’s house at Kelmscott to London. At Tewkesbury, Shakespeare’s River Avon and the River Severn meet at this wonderfully well-preserved medieval market town highly popular for boat trips. The Thames Path and Severn Way are popular with walkers and Slimbridge Wetland Centre can be found on the banks of the Severn, perfect for spotting river wildlife.

The Cotswolds are criss-crossed by rivers, streams

and canals

don’t miss the sPeCtaCle oF the severn bore tidal wave sweePinG uP the river severn

DIARY DATESSeasonal

Severn Bore Tidal Wave

May

Lechlade Duck Race

16 - 17 July

Cotswold 226 Triathlon, Ashton Keynes, Cotswold Water Park

29 August

Football in the River, Bourton-on-the-Water

26 December

Bibury Duck Race


locationstv & film

The Cotswolds has the perfect scenery to be used for TV and film locations and many of the Cotswold country retreats are perfect settings for great British drama.

Film producers love the Cotswolds – you may be lucky and see a production being made when you visit!


swoon... The BBC’s remake of ‘Poldark’, the romantic saga set in 18th-century Cornwall is based on the novels of Winston Graham. Chavenage House featured as the Poldark family home.

larK aboutChavenage House was

used as a setting for ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’ the

great British drama set in the 19th century.

Cinders shall Go to the ballIn the latest ‘Cinderella’ film, Blenheim Palace was used as one of the locations. The Grand and Bladon Bridges set the scene for the carriage journey to the Palace when Cinderella goes to the ball.

here’s JohnnY... dePP! The Cotswold manor Stanway House featured in the film ‘The Libertine’ where Johnny Depp plays a debauched 17th century poet.

The Cotswolds has the perfect scenery to be used for TV and film locations and many of the Cotswold country retreats are perfect settings for great British drama.


we liKe You, ‘Just as You are’‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ was filmed in the beautiful Cotswold village of Snowshill where there is a snowy Christmas scene just before the family festive party.

Cider with rosie A new BBC drama retells the vivid memoir of Laurie Lee’s childhood during and after WW1. The Cotswold village of Miserden doubles as ‘Slad’, where the book was set.

wolF hall Many Cotswold locations have been used for the filming in ‘Wolf Hall’ including Chavenage House, Chastleton House, Berkeley Castle and Gloucester Cathedral, all superb Cotswold buildings.

lord Grantham Comes to the Cotswolds The Cotswold village of Bampton doubles as the fictional village of Downton in the hit drama series ‘Downton Abbey’. Many of the houses, church and pub exteriors have been used in the filming.

CallinG all muGGlesGloucester Cathedral has been used in many of the ‘Harry Potter’ films as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the setting for most of Harry’s adventures.

‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’ and ‘Sherlock’ were also filmed in the historic setting of Gloucester.

CountrY FileThe Cotswolds features regularly in ‘Countryfile’ where presenter Adam Henson has his farm park.

sherloCK Cheltenham has been used numerous times as a film location. Benedict Cumberbatch was filmed at The Daffodil restaurant for ‘Sherlock’.

DIARY DATESFeb - March

Snowdrops at Colesbourne Park, Newark Park & Painswick Rococo Gardens

22 - 23 April

Gardens Illustrated Festival, Tetbury

17 – 19 June

Blenheim Palace Flower Show

18 - 19 June

2016 Open Gardens in Chipping Campden and across area

16 July

Stroud Country Show


stately homes


In late spring and summer, the herbaceous borders at Hidcote Manor, Snowshill Manor, Sezincote Gardens and Bourton House Garden will surprise and delight. Kiftsgate Court and Sudeley Castle’s Queens’ Garden - named after the four English queens that walked within – become beautifully fragrant with roses.

Broadway Tower is the highest little castle in the Cotswolds. This was the brainchild of the great 18th century landscape designer Capability Brown. The grounds of Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill, were also landscaped by Brown.

Historic Berkeley and Thornbury Castles are located in the south Cotswolds. Berkeley dates back to the 12th century and was the scene of the murder of edward II. Walk in the footsteps of King Henry VIII by staying at Thornbury as he did on his honeymoon with Anne Boleyn.

For more recent royal connections, Highgrove House, the current residence of HRH the Prince of Wales, offers pre-booked tours of the beautiful gardens.

If the heat of summer gets too much, head to Jacobean-era Stanway House, where the world’s tallest gravity-fed water fountain will help cool you down.

As summer turns to autumn and the trees take on a golden hue, dramatic colours can be seen throughout the ancient beech woodlands of the Cotswolds. Be sure not to miss the spectacular leaf displays at Batsford and Westonbirt.

v

Castles &gardens

isits to gardens are often associated with summertime,

but here in the Cotswolds, gardens bloom and burst with colour throughout all seasons of the year.

The Cotswold year begins with the first flush of snowdrops where, in early spring, Painswick Rococo Garden, Colesbourne Park and Newark Park – a former Tudor hunting lodge – are must-visit locations. As the days begin to warm and daffodils make a welcome appearance, gardens all over the Cotswolds start bursting into life.

Historic woodland, such as Woodchester Park, and the Gloucestershire Wildlife Nature Reserves offer lovely walks for bluebell spotting, while Cheltenham’s parks and Batsford and Westonbirt Arboreta become awash with blossom.

2016 marks the 300th anniversary

of the birth of Lancelot

Capability Brown

In association with

Year Englishof

�e

Garden

2016


GARDENS & CASTLES

Image opposite: The Berkeley Castle Tropical Butterfly House. This page: Sezincote Gardens; Bourton House Garden; Stanway Fountain; Blenheim Palace; Sudeley Castle; Painswick Rococo Garden; Enjoying the Arboreta.


9

DIARY DATES3 - 8 May

Chipping Campden Literature Festival

5 - 7 August

42nd Gloucestershire Steam Vintage & Country Extravaganza, South Cerney Airfield

4 September

Tetbury Classic Car Show

8 - 11 September

Heritage Open Days across the area

28 October

Henry III Celebrations, Gloucester

17 - 20 November

Gloucester Quays Victorian Market


REGENCy SPLENDOuR

King George III’s visit to Cheltenham in the 1780s made it the fashionable place to be seen. Why not taste the waters at Pittville Pump Room, catch a concert or just wander the beautiful Regency landscape and admire the architecture?

SO PHOTOGENIC

Gloucester Docks is a film-makers’ favourite with scenes from numerous movies filmed there. but wander the warehouses, flour mills and

timber yards to get a feel for life in the late 1800s.

2

MEDIEVAL TEWkESBuRy

Ruled by just three Medieval families for hundreds of years, Tewkesbury was the site of the penultimate and decisive battle of the Wars of the Roses and is re-enacted in a world-renowned festival every year during the second week of July.

WHAT HAVE THE ROMANS EVER DONE FOR uS?

Find out at Chedworth

Roman Villa, one of the finest in

Britain or, for a great introduction to local history, pop into the

Corinium Museum in Cirencester.

5

DON’T BE SHEEPISH

The design of Cotswold churches, houses and manors was influenced by the great wealth generated by the wool trade. Discover where wool was processed in the Stroud Valleys or visit the working textile trade museum Gig Mill in Nailsworth to find out more.

64

GLORIOuS LANDSCAPES

Celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Capability Brown by visiting one of his Cotswold creations – the stunning landscape at Blenheim Palace or the unique folly Broadway Tower with its amazing views across the countryside.

8

GET ARTS & CRAFTy

Find out why the Cotswolds were a playground for the artists and writers behind the Arts and Crafts movement. Visit the former home of William Morris at Kelmscott Manor, explore the Court Barn Museum in Chipping Campden or meander through the ‘room’s created by Lawrence Johnston at Hidcote and marvel at the eclectic findings of Charles Wade at Snowshill Manor.

1


10

TuDOR TALES

Henry VIII’s destruction of the monasteries like Hailes Abbey during Tudor times changed the Cotswolds landscape forever. New style mansions like Newark Park and Stanway House were built and are ripe for exploration.

kING OF THE CASTLES

Discover the tomb of Katherine Parr at Sudeley Castle or stay the night at Thornbury where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn spent their honeymoon. Don’t miss Francis Drake’s cabin chest at Berkeley Castle!

We’re home to Britain’s oldest inn, The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold, a picturesque town famous as the site of the last battle of the English Civil War. Most Cotswold towns were originally built by the Saxons and you’ll also find numerous beauty spots including Painswick Beacon, a former Celtic hilltop fort, and the Neolithic long barrow Hetty Pegler’s Tump.

There’s history around every corner but here are our...

You Can’t move in the Cotswolds

without bumPinG into somethinG old!

For more information visit www.cotswolds.com

TENthings

top

to see & do

heritaGe history&

73

GO GOTHIC

Experience the mysteries of Woodchester Mansion, a Gothic masterpiece that was never completed. There’s lots to do including spooky horror nights or walks amongst the resident bat population!


CotswoldsQuirKY

Join in our QuintessentiallY QuirKY events to Find out what maKes

the Cotswolds trulY uniQue


CotswoldsSome of the quirky Cotswold traditions passed down through the centuries can still be seen today. Join the locals and experience some of these for yourself.

The world’s eyes will be on Rio in 2016, but the Cotswolds has its own ‘Olimpicks’. Taking place near Chipping Campden for over 400 years, this fun-packed day includes the traditional shin-kicking contest.

Attracting spectators and competitors from all over the world, the annual Cheese Rolling at Cooper’s Hill sees a 9lb Double Gloucester cheese being rolled down an astonishingly steep hill, as competitors throw themselves after it. The winner keeps the cheese!

The world’s eyes will be on Rio

in 2016, but the Cotswolds has its own ‘Olimpicks’

DIARY DATES2 May

Wacky Car Races, Tetbury

14 May

Randwick Wap

30 May

Tetbury Woolsack Races

30 May

Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill

3 - 4 June

Cotswold Olimpick Games and Scuttlebrook Wake

7 - 8 October

Tewkesbury Mop Fair


Image opposite: Cotswold Olimpick Games, Chipping Campden. This page: etbury Woolsack Races; Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill; Morris Men; Severn Bore; Griff Rhys Jones enjoying Football in the River, Bourton-on-the-Water.

The origins of Tetbury Woolsack Races date back to the 17th century. Competitors run up a 1 in 4 hill carrying a sack on their back weighing up to 60lb, while the town comes alive with a street fair.

The centuries-old costumed procession of Randwick Wap is led by a mop-man and features a May Queen and Mayor, who get dipped in the village pond. It culminates in a fair with music and entertainment.

Tewkesbury Mop Fair is the largest street fair in Gloucestershire. It harks back to the 12th century with fairground rides, traditional games and sideshows in the town centre.

The colourful folk traditions of morris dancing, mummers’ plays and wassailing take place individually, or are sometimes combined together, and can be found throughout the Cotswolds.

stars of the relax & screen ten unwind things to do 2016 Cover...14 Download the Official Cotswolds...

Documents

Transcript of stars of the relax & screen ten unwind things to do 2016 Cover...14 Download the Official Cotswolds...