Following lockdown we think it’s safe to say the Cotswolds is the place to spend your holiday time during the rest of 2021! With travel restrictions in place, why not travel within the UK?
The Cotswolds being spread over 800 square miles of quintessential English countryside encompassed by idyllic villages, market towns and National Trust houses, all within the short reach of Stratford-Upon-Avon, Cheltenham, Oxford, Bath and only 2 hours from London.
What to do on your post lockdown Cotswolds getaway
You’re never at a loss at what to do in the Cotswolds! Following this lockdown period you’ll still have plenty of options just a stone’s throw away.
Whether that be going for a casual walk along the Cotswold Way, grabbing a bite to eat at a local Pub/Café or seeking out thrills at the Cotswold Waterpark, or Cotswold Wildlife Park… there are plenty of local areas to walk or cycle which boast beautiful wildlife, breathtaking views and extraordinary landmarks.
The Cotswold Way, Chipping Campden, is over a 100 miles long and features ancient monuments and historic memorials.
Similarly, for those interested in cycling and mountain biking there is The Ridgeway – Vale of the White Horse – and Badbury Clump, which possess panoramic views and challenging trails/paths.
The Cotswolds is pleasantly populated by beautiful national trust houses and estates such as, Batsford and Westonbirt arboretum, Sudeley Castle and most infamously Blenheim Palace. Thankfully due to the dropping rates of COVID19, National Trust houses and gardens are gradually reopening to the public.
However, remember to pre-book allocated time slots/tickets online, a new system implemented to maintain government issued social distancing regulations.
For those seeking more thrills and adventurous activities why not pay a visit to some of the other Cotswold attractions such as the Cotswold Wildlife Park or Cotswold Waterpark (which has got it’s own Beach!) The Wildlife Park provides an eye capturing and extremely educational experience, as it boasts over 130 species of birds, and some of the fiercest mammals and reptiles on the planet (Asiatic Lion and Green Anaconda).
Again, please remember to pre-book tickets online.
And once your busy day is over, what better than to go for lunch or supper in one of the gorgeous local pubs or restaurants such as The Five Alls, Upton Smokery or Wild Rabbit Inn. If you’re in a rush, local pubs and cafes have set up pop-up food shops to cater for social distancing regulations, so you’re never at a loss.
For example ‘The Bell’, Langford, is providing delicious takeaway pizzas, catering for both children’s and adult’s taste buds. Similar local food pop-ups have sprung up in Radcot, Ye Olde Swan, and Cirencester, The Stump. Be sure to check the Website for the menu and opening and closing times!
Longing for a delicious Cotswold pub supper?
Many local pubs and restaurants have accommodated the lockdown measures, shutting their doors, and opening their windows. And many are now re-opening with social distancing guidelines.
You, your partner or your family can walk or drive just 5 minutes down the road to grab a delicious bite to eat. Whether that be a scrummy homemade pizza, gourmet fish and chips or yummy pudding – Chocolate Nemesis and Creme Fraiche – indulge yourself!
Missing tranquil evening picnics?
Thankfully there’s plenty of beautiful yet tranquil spots to picnic with family and friends. Whether that be on a quiet meander along the River Thames near Lechlade, The Banks of Mallard Pike Lake (Forest of Dean) or on Leckhampton Hill, overlooking the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
Ready to snuggle up?
What better than to retreat to your own cosy snug or sitting room for a family film night. A great deal of our idyllic cottages and family homes boast traditional wood burners, ensuring you’ll never get cold whilst cosied up on the sofa.
Virtual Cotswolds
If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds but want to stay near your holiday home, or indeed if you are still restricted to your homes, here are a few ideas for you to indulge in.
- Race to the Stones – the virtual challenge! Choose from three distances to push your own personal boundaries – Half Marathon, Marathon or 100km.
- Cotwswold Wildlife Park Webcams – thanks to the fantastic team they’ve set up live camera feeds, so you, the family and friends can watch the Meerkats sunbathing and Penguins slipping and sliding all day long. Moreover, they’ve provided extremely educational biographies on all their animals, a fantastic opportunity to learn!