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Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, a catch-up with friends or simply looking to experience the best the Cotswolds has to offer, here’s our insider guide to embracing the country chic lifestyle without needing an invitation to a country estate!
Stay Somewhere With Cotswold Charm
The key to finding the right place to stay is having somewhere with the space to switch off. Choose somewhere you can have a prolonged breakfast around the table and evenings in the garden. Whether that’s a cosy cottage for two or a bigger period property, finding somewhere that feels like home is where every great Cotswolds stay starts.
Beyond the series’ iconic filming locations, the surrounding Cotswolds is home to some of England’s most picturesque towns and villages. Base yourself near Tetbury to explore the charming market town and nearby Chavenage House (The O’Hara family home) or escape to one of the smaller villages; Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway, Kingham or Bibury, each offering the quintessential Cotswold charm.
Better still, many are just a short drive away from some of the show’s filming locations, making it easy to do some scenic sightseeing.
Start The Day Leisurely
Whether you are looking to enjoy a leisurely morning breakfast in your cottage or head out to the local farm shop, the Cotswolds has plenty of choice available.
We would recommend starting your day at either Daylesford Organic or Jolly Nice Farmshop, where you can enjoy some brewed coffee, flaky pastries and some of the finest local produce. They are the exact sort of places you could imagine Rupert Campbell-Black stopping by after an early morning ride, while Taggie O’Hara would no doubt be filling her basket with fresh seasonal ingredients for her next catering creation. Afterwards, spend the morning exploring the independent boutiques, antique shops and charming village high streets.
For the occasion, we suggest keeping things effortlessly Cotswolds like Taggie O’Hara, with a linen shirt, relaxed denim, a woven basket bag and a pair of sunglasses. It’s a timeless look that feels right at home in the countryside.
Spend an Afternoon in the Cotswold Countryside
Depending on when you visit the Cotswolds, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Catch a polo match at Cirencester Park Polo Club or soak up the excitement of the Badminton Horse Trials and Cheltenham Festival – these are exactly the sort of sporting occasions Rupert Campbell-Black would never miss! On a slightly rainier day, why not enjoy an afternoon tea in the Lygon Arms like Lizzi Vereker or taste some local wines at Woodchester Valley like Cameron Cook. We would suggest ending your day as Declan O’Hara would by settling in a country pub for a few hours in front of the fire.
End With A Memorable Meal
The evening in the Cotswolds will not disappoint. If you’re looking to dine in the same sophisticated style as Tony Baddingham, we would recommend booking a table at The Fish, situated in the Cotswold hillside estate, or at the modern, British pub The Wild Rabbit in Kingham. For a more relaxed atmosphere that Declan O’Hara would enjoy, there are many welcoming pubs to choose from including The Bell in Charlbury or The Woolpack in Slad. This is the time to slow down and enjoy good company and food before returning to your home from home.
Explore The Best Pubs with Gardens
You don’t need the sprawling estate and the vintage convertible to enjoy the best of the Cotswolds. What Rivals captures so well is a feeling: beautiful surroundings, good conversation, memorable food and taking the time to enjoy what the Cotswolds has to offer.
Browse our luxury accommodation collection
Feeling inspired to visit the Cotswolds? Explore our collection of luxury holiday cottages and things to do in the Cotswolds for more inspiration!
