The Cotswolds embody the quintessential English countryside dream: honey-coloured stone villages nestled among rolling hills, meandering streams, and meadows dotted with grazing sheep. With just 48 hours, here's how to experience the very best of this enchanting region.

Day 1: Northern Cotswolds Charm

Morning: Breakfast in Broadway

Begin your Cotswolds adventure in Broadway, often called the "Jewel of the Cotswolds." This picturesque village with its wide main street (hence the name) lined with chestnut trees offers a perfect introduction to Cotswold architecture.

Start with breakfast at one of the village's charming cafes. For a truly local experience, try the full English breakfast at The Broadway Deli, featuring locally sourced ingredients, including their famous Cotswold sausages.

After breakfast, take time to explore the village's art galleries and antique shops. The quaint storefronts and beautiful buildings provide excellent photo opportunities.

Late Morning: Broadway Tower

A short drive from the village centre brings you to Broadway Tower, a folly perched atop the second-highest point in the Cotswolds. On a clear day, you can see 16 counties from the top of this unique structure, which has served as everything from an artist's retreat to a Cold War nuclear monitoring bunker.

The surrounding deer park offers beautiful walking trails with panoramic views across the countryside. This is where the Cotswold Way long-distance footpath passes through, offering walkers some of the most spectacular vistas in the region.

Afternoon: Stow-on-the-Wold

Drive to the ancient market town of Stow-on-the-Wold for lunch. This charming town sits on an 800-foot hill, making it the highest of the Cotswold towns. Its history as a market town dates back to the 11th century when it was famous for its annual fairs where up to 20,000 sheep were sold at once.

Visit St Edward's Church to see its famous north door, flanked by ancient yew trees, which is said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's Doors of Durin in The Lord of the Rings. Afterwards, browse the antique shops around the market square or enjoy afternoon tea at one of the traditional tea rooms.

Evening: Dining in Lower Slaughter

As the day winds down, head to the idyllic village of Lower Slaughter. Despite its somewhat ominous name (derived from the Old English 'slothre' meaning 'muddy place'), this is one of the most beautiful villages in England.

The River Eye runs through the village, with small footbridges crossing it at various points, creating an almost fairy-tale setting. For dinner, book a table at The Slaughters Manor House, which offers exceptional modern British cuisine using local, seasonal ingredients in a refined setting.

Day 2: Southern Cotswolds Exploration

Morning: Castle Combe

Begin your second day with a drive to Castle Combe, often voted the prettiest village in England. Arriving early helps avoid the crowds that gather to admire this remarkably preserved medieval village.

With no new houses built here since the 1600s, Castle Combe feels like stepping back in time. The village has served as a filming location for numerous productions, including "War Horse" and "Downton Abbey."

Take a leisurely stroll along the By Brook, admire St Andrew's Church with its medieval clock, and don't miss the iconic view from the bridge looking up the main street.

Late Morning: Lacock

Continue to the National Trust village of Lacock, another time capsule that has been meticulously preserved. The entire village is owned by the National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Lacock Abbey, founded in the 13th century and later converted into a country house, is where William Henry Fox Talbot created the earliest known photographic negative in 1835. The abbey has also featured as a filming location in several Harry Potter films.

Explore the charming streets lined with timber-framed cottages and traditional shops. For lunch, The George Inn, dating back to 1361, offers traditional pub fare in a building that has welcomed travellers for centuries.

Afternoon: Cirencester

Spend your afternoon in Cirencester, known as the "Capital of the Cotswolds." This thriving market town was once the second-largest town in Roman Britain, known as Corinium.

Visit the Corinium Museum to learn about the town's Roman heritage through an impressive collection of mosaics, artefacts, and interactive displays. Afterwards, wander through the historic town centre, where medieval streets lead to the impressive Parish Church of St John Baptist, boasting one of the finest wool churches in the Cotswolds.

Take time to explore the independent shops and the covered market, where local artisans sell everything from handcrafted jewellery to artisanal foods.

Evening: Tetbury

End your Cotswolds weekend in Tetbury, a historic wool town known for its beautifully preserved merchants' houses and proximity to Highgrove, the country residence of King Charles III.

The town is renowned for its antique shops and independent boutiques. For your final dinner, book a table at The Close Restaurant, located in a 16th-century town house, offering sophisticated dishes crafted from local, seasonal ingredients.

Tips for Your Cotswolds Weekend

  • Transportation: While there are bus services connecting the main towns, a car is essential for making the most of a short visit, allowing you to explore the more remote villages.
  • Accommodation: Consider staying in a historic coaching inn or a converted farmhouse for an authentic experience. Book well in advance, especially during summer months and weekends.
  • Walking: Bring comfortable footwear, as the Cotswolds offer some of England's finest walking opportunities. Even a short stroll along the many public footpaths provides stunning views of the countryside.
  • Weather: The British weather is notoriously changeable. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, even in summer.
  • Shopping: The Cotswolds are known for artisanal food products, antiques, and local crafts. Leave room in your luggage for souvenirs!

The Essence of England

A weekend in the Cotswolds offers a perfect introduction to this unique region, where time seems to move more slowly and the connection to England's rural traditions remains strong. From medieval market towns to hidden valleys and ancient woodlands, the Cotswolds provide a refreshing escape from modern life.

At Detresiniz, we specialise in curating personalised Cotswolds experiences that go beyond the guidebook. Whether you're seeking historical discovery, culinary exploration, or simply the chance to unwind in some of England's most beautiful landscapes, we can craft the perfect itinerary for your Cotswolds adventure.