Stretching across Somerset, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Wilshire, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire, The Cotswolds is the perfect destination for a couples weekend away. It’s only two hours from London but couldn’t be more different from the capital. There are endless activities and things to see in the area, with nearly 800 square miles of land to cover. We’ve narrowed them down to the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples – read on for our top picks!
Best Things To Do In The Cotswolds For Couples
Enjoy the rolling hills
Set high on a hill, Broadway Tower is straight out of a fairy tale. Climb to the top for the best view across the Cotswolds hills and picturesque villages. This is a dreamy location to watch the sunset – bring a picnic and a bottle and relax after a long day of exploring the area. It’s a popular location for couples in the Cotswolds, and for a good reason – the view is stunning as it sets over the Malvern Hills.
Go on a film set tour
You may get a sense of deja vu as you travel through the Cotswolds, as the area has been used in so many films and TV shows. Do some research on filming locations for Harry Potter, Stardust, and Bridgerton, and create your own tour.
Explore the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds
Driving through the Cotswolds, you won’t struggle to find a beautiful town or village that you want to explore. Tiny winding rivers, town squares, and cottages made from Cotswold stone are everywhere. You could spend days just enjoying the ambiance and views. To see the best of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds in one day, start at Castle Combe, a tiny hamlet built in the 16th century. When you’re finished enjoying its charm, head to Lower Slaughter or Bourton-on-the-Water.
Romantic Walks and Hikes
The Cotswolds is full of stunning scenery that is best enjoyed on foot. For couples who love the outdoors, there are plenty of walking and hiking routes to explore.
One popular route is the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile trail that stretches from Chipping Campden to Bath. Couples can take a leisurely stroll along a small section of the trail to enjoy views of the rolling hills, pretty villages, and woodlands.
Another great option is the circular walk from Bourton-on-the-Water to Lower Slaughter. This takes in some of the Cotswolds’ most idyllic scenery.
For a more challenging hike, couples can try climbing up to the top of Broadway Tower, a historic folly with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Get pampered at a 5 star spa
The Cotswolds is home to several world class spas. We would recommend Bamford Wellness Spa, a holistic retreat with a wellness pool, steam room and sauna. Choose between a restorative massage or a revalising facial using organic products.
Also on site is the most famous farm shop in Britain – Daylesford farm shop. Founded in 2002, they’re a 2350 acre sustainable farm selling meat, poultry, produce and homemade bread. They also host cooking classes that would be perfect for a quirky date night.
Pick your own fruit
Hayles Fruit Farm has been in family hands since the 1950s, growing apples, pears, plums, strawberries, gooseberries and more! Visit their pick your own field with a punnet and take your pick of produce to take home. After, enjoy a locally sources meal at their lovely cafe – we recommend their homemade apple juice and cider!
Enjoy a traditional English pub
Nothing is more British than a country pub, and the Cotswolds has them in droves. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail in a beer garden or cosying up next to a fire in the Winter, there’s nowhere better than the Cotswolds.
We would recommend The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, a posh pub with an amazing food menu. It’s luxuriously decorated to be a home away from home, and all produce comes from the popular Daylesford farm.
Tour Costwold Lavender
If you’re looking for things to do in the Cotswolds for couples during the Summer months, head to Cotswold Lavender in Snowshill which opens its doors to visitors. Explore the fields of vibrant lavender that go on as far as you can see – a perfect romantic location in the Cotswolds.
Enjoy afternoon tea
Get into the British spirit and book a luxury afternoon tea. Huffkins is a quintessentially Cotswolds option. It’s been around since 1890 and has locations in Stow-on-the-Wold, Cheltenham, Witney and Stratford-upon-Avon. We would really recommend the Stow-on-the-Wold branch, located in a 17th century building in a gorgeous location.
Make your own gin
Visit Brennan & Brown in Cheltenham, a Cotswolds gin distillery that offers tastings and gin-making sessions. You’ll get to choose from over 40 botanicals to flavour your gin.
If gin isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other distilleries in the area to explore. Cotswold Brew Co and Gloucester Brewery both offer tours and tasting sessions, or Cotswolds Distillery is famous for whisky.
Best Things To Do In The Cotswolds For Couples – Map
Best Things To Do In The Cotswolds For Couples FAQ
What are the best villages to visit in the Cotswolds?
As the Cotswolds stretches over 5 counties, there are so many beautiful towns and villages to explore. Most popular, and often considered the best villages in the Cotswolds to visit are Castle Combe, Bibury, Chipping Camden, Bourton-on-the-Water, and the Slaughters.
How long is enough for a romantic getaway to the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds is perfect for a weekend away, but you won’t be bored if you decide to stay for longer – we would say 4 days would be perfect. You’ll have more time to visit different villages and explore local pubs and restaurants.
When is the best time to visit the Cotswolds?
The area is the most popular in the Summer, as it’s warm and sunny making country walks and pub gardens ever so appealing. But you won’t be disappointed visiting in Spring or Autumn which both have their own magical charm. If you choose to come in Winter, be warned it can get very cold and the days will be short.
The Cotswolds is a wonderful destination for couples looking for a romantic and relaxing getaway. From scenic walks and countryside retreats to historic attractions and foodie experiences, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of England. So why not plan your next getaway to the Cotswolds and create some unforgettable memories with your loved one?
