When snow sprinkles on Cotswolds, this English countryside is a vision in white
While the Cotswolds is a delight to visit year-round, there's something truly magical about this region in winter. When snow dusts the landscape and the historic cottages glow with festive lights, the Cotswolds transforms into a fairy tale winter wonderland.
The Cotswolds is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), stretching across six counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, and Somerset.
It's famous for its honey-colored stone buildings, cozy pubs, and beautiful gardens. The region is dotted with charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, and Stow-on-the-Wold, each with its unique character and charm.
As winter sets in, the Cotswolds takes on a new kind of beauty. The snow-covered hills and frosty trees create a serene and captivating landscape. The streets and cottages are adorned with twinkling lights, and the scent of wood-burning fires fills the air, adding to the cozy atmosphere. Picture-perfect villages with their historic stone cottages look like they've been plucked straight from a storybook making Cotswolds a winter must-visit.
One of the best things to do in the Cotswolds in winter is to explore its charming villages. Each village has its own unique charm and character, and in winter, they are particularly enchanting with festive decorations and twinkling lights.
Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," is magical during the winter months. The River Windrush, which runs through the village, often freezes, creating an unparalleled snowy landscape.
Bibury, often described as the most beautiful village in England, features the iconic Arlington Row cottages that look even more charming with a dusting of snow.
Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town, is perfect for a winter stroll, especially around St Edward’s Church, whose door is flanked by ancient yew trees, giving it a fairy tale look.
Cheltenham Christmas Market, held on the Promenade, features over 80 stalls selling handcrafted gifts, festive foods, and unique treats. Cirencester Christmas Market, located in the heart of Cirencester, offers local crafts, festive food, and drink, along with live music and entertainment. These markets are perfect for picking up unique gifts and enjoying seasonal treats.
Historic homes and gardens in the Cotswolds are a delight to visit in winter, often adorned with festive decorations and offering special winter events. Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. You can explore the castle’s gardens, which are lovely even in winter, and enjoy the special Christmas events and light displays. Blenheim Palace, although just outside the official Cotswolds area, is worth a visit. The palace hosts a spectacular Christmas market, and its rooms are beautifully decorated for the festive season. The illuminated Christmas trail through the gardens is a must-see.
Winter walks in the Cotswolds offer a refreshing outdoor experience with frosty landscapes and crisp air. The Cotswold Way, a 102-mile-long trail from Chipping Campden to Bath, offers stunning views of the Cotswold hills. While you might not walk the whole trail, sections like the Broadway Tower to Snowshill provide beautiful winter scenery. The Windrush Way is a shorter trail that offers beautiful views of the River Windrush, particularly scenic with a light dusting of snow.
Winter in the Cotswolds is filled with festive events and celebrations that add to the seasonal charm. Many Cotswold towns and villages have their own Christmas lights switch-on ceremonies, complete with carol singing, mulled wine, and festive markets. Popular events include those in Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, and Moreton-in-Marsh. Traditional fox hunts, now often trail hunts, take place in several Cotswold villages on Boxing Day. These events are a spectacle to witness, followed by social gatherings in local pubs.
Seasonal shopping in the Cotswolds is a delight, with many towns offering excellent opportunities to find unique gifts. Tetbury is known for its antique shops, perfect for finding vintage treasures. Broadway, a charming village, offers a range of shops selling everything from art and crafts to fashion and homewares.
