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From cute cottages to being the backdrop of the hit TV show Downton Abbey, the Cotswolds Villages are a magical part of England and are usually on many people’s bucket lists.
While unconfirmed, there is reason to believe that ‘cot’ refers to sheep pens and ‘wolds’ means rolling hills. But, while the naming mystery prevails, one thing we do know is you will fall in love with the area upon your first visit.
Where are the Cotswolds in England?
The Cotswolds, located in southwest England, are world-renowned for a reason. Often referred to as the epitome of quintessential England and a pocket of romanticism, the area is just over 800 square miles (2,000 square km) and marks the English side of the Avon Valley from Wales.
Established as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966, the Cotswolds cover five counties including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire, and comprise around 80% farmland. Famous for its beauty, the picturesque villages of honey-coloured stone and sprawling lavender fields make it a must-see destination for all UK tourists.
Where to Visit in the Cotswolds
Made up of multiple towns and villages, separated into north and south, some of the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds include:
- Bibury
- Bourton-on-the-Water
- Burford
- Moreton in Marsh
- Bampton
- Cheltenham
- Broadway
- Tetbury
What to do in the Cotswolds
With so many wonderful areas to visit across the Cotswolds, there is an activity or scene to suit everyone.
Walk the Cotswold Way
Suitable for all fitness levels, strolling the Cotswold Way will provide amazing views and great places to eat and drink. Starting at Chipping Campden, the walk trickles down for 100 miles ending in Bath.
Explore real-life film and TV sets
Many famous shows and movies have included the iconic Cotswold buildings and stunning vistas. Most of the buildings featured in Downton Abbey were filmed there, and Downton Village is real-life Bampton. You can expect to see St Mary’s Church, the Bampton Library and Isabel Crawley’s house. Plus, you can also spy Bridgerton filming locations! Badminton House in Gloucestershire was the location of Clyvedon Castle. And, Gloucester Cathedral was used to film Hogwarts scenes in the Harry Potter films.
Enjoy a coach tour around the area
For a convenient way to see the Cotswolds, check out the Golden Tours Cotswolds Tours page.
