Top 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in the Cotswolds
There’s no better place in southwest England for a romantic escape than the Cotswolds. From scenic walks and quaint tea rooms to historical landmarks, lavender fields and wildlife parks, it’s perfect for experiencing with your loved one. Our country house hotel in the village of Upper Slaughter is a short hop from all of the things that make the region special. Read on for our top 10 most romantic things do in the Cotswolds.
Explore the Cotswold Way
The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is famed for its rolling green hills, dramatic escarpments and sprawling pastures. Uncover it all by strapping on your favourite walking shoes and setting out on the Cotswold Way. The 102-mile-long trails cuts through emblematic English countryside from Chipping Campden to Bath. Peppered with pretty villages, National Trust properties, Neolithic sites and manor houses, there’s no shortage of things to discover with your loved one.
Watch Glorious Sunsets
Few things in life are as romantic as cuddling up at the end of the day to watch the sun go down. In the Cotswolds we are spoiled for sunset viewpoints. Make your way up to Cleeve Hill and Devil’s Chimney for views over Cheltenham and towards the Malvern Hills and Wales. More jaw-dropping views await at Broadway Tower. While visiting this 18th-century folly, check out the exhibitions and arts and handicraft workshops.
Visit Sudeley Castle
Your Cotswolds holiday will turn into a veritable fairy tale at Sudeley Castle. This 12th-century castle is the highlight of a trip to the historic market town of Winchcombe. A regal atmosphere permeates the air of the castle rooms and gardens. It’s easy to think back to the time when Catherine Parr and Lady Jane Grey lived here. Drop by at Christmas for the spellbinding Spectacle of Light castle illuminations.
Stroll Around an Arboretum
Romantic things to do in the outdoors are in abundance in the Cotswolds. Wander hand-in-hand through the botanical garden displays at Batsford Arboretum. Springtime blooms and the warm colours of autumn make it an attraction for all seasons. Bask in more of the joys of nature at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum. The arboretum’s summertime concert series is the perfect setting for a picnic and musical entertainment.
Say Hello to Curious Creatures
If you have a shared interest for animals then Birdland Park and Gardens, in Bourton-on-the-Water, is a must. Parrots, penguins, pelicans and flamingos are among the 500-plus birds on display. There’s endless fun to be had getting up-close with giraffes, lions, monkeys and zebras at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. Are you brave enough have a bird of prey land on your hand? Try it at the Cotswold Falconry Centre, in Moreton-in-Marsh.
Take a Brewery and Distillery Tour
The Cotswolds has a long and established beer-making heritage. There’s even a 62-mile-long walking trail pockmarked with 15 pubs called the Donnington Way. If you don’t have the time for this then stop by the Cotswold Brew Co and Gloucester Brewery for tours and tasting sessions. Those with a liking for a stronger tipple can sip in boutique gin and whisky at the Cotswolds Distillery. Just make sure you decide upon the designated driver.
Tour Chocolate Box Cotswold Villages
Daytrips to beautiful villages are quintessential to a romantic getaway in the Cotswolds. Just up the road from Lords of the Manor are Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Both exude countryside romance and have high streets lined with art galleries, boutiques and museums, traditional pubs and tea rooms. Our village of Upper Slaughter along with neighbouring Lower Slaughter and nearby Blockley are true hidden gems of the region.
Spend a Day at the Races
Getting dressed up and joining racegoers at Cheltenham Racecourse is one of the most exciting things to do in the Cotswolds for couples. The Gold Cup in March is when events hit fever pitch, but you can attend meetings all year round. Pick up a race card and share the fun of choosing your horse, placing the bet and urging it to the finishing line. Visits to the champagne bar between races adds to the fun.
Rejuvenate at a Roman Bathhouse
Romantic things in the Cotswolds don’t always have to be active. You can bask in the traditions of England’s Roman ancestors with therapeutic treatments in Bath. The rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa is one of the best spots for both soaking your body and soaking up the city’s Roman cityscape. Staying on the theme of Rome, Cirencester has its own Roman amphitheatre. Chedworth Roman Villa takes you back to a bygone era of emperors and decadence.
Explore the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean is a mystical area of pristine valleys, meandering rivers and woodland in southwest Gloucestershire. Outdoor adventures abound amid this mystical area set at the edge of the Cotswolds. Skylark together on mountain biking, hiking and kayaking trips. Sit down for a romantic lunch at a riverside pub, or play hide and seek at The aMazing Hedge Puzzle.