When Is The Best Time To Visit The Cotswolds?

Cotswolds in the Spring: Nature's Grand Awakening

During Spring, the Cotswolds come to life in a vibrant array of colours. Daffodils carpet the meadows, cherry blossoms drape delicate white kisses upon the ancient lanes, and lambs frolic in rolling fields of bright green grass.

Visiting the Cotswolds in Spring will allow you to experience beautiful and fresh landscapes with cool sunshine that will welcome long hikes and visits to old historic towns.

Activities When Visiting the Cotswolds in Spring

Indulging in a private wildflower walk: Let a local botanist guide you through secluded meadows ablaze with wildflowers, from vibrant violets to elegant primroses. End the day with a delightful afternoon tea, served on antique china in a charming country house.

Uncorking the bounty of Springtime vineyards: The Cotswolds boast several award-winning vineyards, and Spring heralds the blossoming of new vintages. Enjoy an exclusive tour and tasting, savouring the subtle notes of crisp Sauvignon Blancs and delicate rosé while overlooking rolling hills.

Embracing the Cheltenham Festival: For the equestrian enthusiast, Spring is synonymous with the prestigious Cheltenham Festival. Witness world-class horses thunder across the hallowed turf, followed by glittering soirées and exquisite fine dining in the heart of Cheltenham.

Our Favourite Properties For A Spring Break

1. Theescombe Hill House

Theescombe Hill House in Amberley is a stunning 6-bedroom property with a distinct Scandi feel, offering breathtaking views of the Woodchester Valley. This modern house features an all-year-round heated infinity pool, gym, and a self-contained Coach House with an en-suite bedroom, providing a luxurious and exclusive retreat. 

2. Cherwell Farm

Cherwell Farm, a private contemporary barn conversion near Soho Farmhouse, offers ultimate privacy with seven en-suite bedrooms, a tennis court, and a new spring-fed natural swimming lake. Set in 50 acres of grassland with convenient access to Soho Farmhouse and local dining options, this property provides a luxurious retreat for a self-catered stay for friends and family.

3. Cornwell Manor

Cornwell Manor, a Grade II-listed Jacobean estate in the Oxfordshire countryside, offers a unique Cotswolds retreat with a historic 17th-century manor house surrounded by extensive gardens and parkland. Sleeping up to 24 guests, the property includes a tennis court, croquet lawn, ballroom, and a heated swimming pool - all the essentials you need for a Spring break!

Cotswolds in the Summer: Golden Days and Endless Delights

The sun casts the Cotswolds in golden hues as Summer arrives, and with it, the days get warmer, and the landscape teams with life. Days extend into golden evenings ideal for lazy picnics beneath ancient oaks or open-air theatre amidst mediaeval ruins. This is a season for indulging in the region's vibrant cultural tapestry.

Summer Activities in the Cotswolds

Exploring Bibury, the "most beautiful village in England": Wander the idyllic banks of the River Coln, past sand-coloured cottages and trout-filled streams. Immerse yourself in the village's artistic legacy by visiting Arlington Row in Bibury, a row of weavers' cottages once painted by William Morris.

Picnicking at Sudeley Castle: Pack a hamper overflowing with local delicacies and settle on the manicured lawns of this magnificent Tudor castle. Afterwards, embark on a private tour through the lavishly decorated chambers, uncovering centuries of fascinating history.

Getting lost in the Cotswolds Lavender fields: Breathe in the calming scent of lavender as you wander through endless purple fields in June and July. Enjoy a delightful lavender-infused afternoon tea at Cotswolds Lavender, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment infused with the soothing aroma for an afternoon of well-deserved self-care.

Step into the whimsical world of Giffords Circus: From charming village greens to sprawling country estates, experience the magic of the circus as it tours through various Cotswold locations, bringing joy and wonder to audiences of all ages. Under the big top tent adorned with colourful bunting and twinkling lights, prepare to be enchanted by breathtaking acrobatics, dazzling performances, and heartwarming tales. Giffords Circus promises an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, awe, and a touch of nostalgia. 

Step into an era of elegance and patriotism at the Battle Proms: Joining fellow enthusiasts, you'll be transported back in time to an era of grandeur and valour as you overlook the historic grounds. Set against the majestic backdrop of the iconic Column of Victory within the sprawling grounds of the Palace, the Battle Proms unfolds in a symphony of spectacle and splendour, blending live orchestral performances with thrilling historical reenactments and awe-inspiring fireworks displays.

Our Top Properties For A Summer Stay

1. Beaufort Farm

Beaufort Farm, a charming eight-bedroom Cotswold farmhouse near Tetbury and the Beaufort Polo Club features a newly refurbished outdoor swimming pool and spacious lawns for croquet or badminton. The property, bordering grazing land, offers a quiet rural retreat with a self-contained Coach House, ensuring guests' exclusive and private experience and convenient access to the second largest town in the Cotswolds; Tetbury.

2. Blakemore Farm

Blakemore Farm, nestled in 6 acres of private land, offers a spacious and well-connected layout ideal for entertaining, featuring a heated outdoor pool, tennis court, kitchen garden, and paddock, along with a self-contained pool house and the services of a dedicated House Manager, providing a tranquil and exclusive rural retreat for a Summer stay in the Cotswolds.

3. Lower Farm

Lower Farm, a charming 17th-century Cotswold farmhouse, is perfect for 1 or 2 families with its 3 en-suite double bedrooms, additional bedrooms, and family bathroom. The property offers outdoor amenities, including a heated pool, sauna, tennis court, and games barn; set within 2.5 acres of gardens, this house is ideal for a summer getaway.

Cotswolds in the Autumn: A Tapestry of Colour and Culinary Delights

As Summer surrenders to Autumn's embrace, the Cotswolds transform into a vibrant canvas. Leaves blaze in fiery hues of red and gold, crisp air invigorates the senses, and harvest bounty fills the tables with tasty treats for everyone. This is a season for indulging in the riches of the land and enjoying a cosy night by the fire whilst staying in your luxury Cotswolds property.

Activities for the Cotswolds in Autumn

Embarking on a truffle hunt: Join a dedicated truffle dog and its handler on a thrilling foray through the woods, unearthing the prized black Périgord truffles hidden beneath the fallen leaves. Afterwards, enjoy a gourmet meal showcasing the truffle's intoxicating flavour.

Unleashing your inner chef at a Michelin-starred masterclass: Hone your culinary skills under the guidance of renowned chefs at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Learn the secrets of seasonal ingredients and create a gourmet masterpiece to be savoured in the elegant dining room.

Celebrating the Moreton-in-Marsh show: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this traditional agricultural show, showcasing prize-winning livestock, local crafts, and delicious regional produce. Enjoy delectable street food, witness impressive livestock displays, and take home a unique souvenir from one of the many artisan stalls. The Moreton-in-Marsh Show takes place on the first Saturday of September.

Our Recommended Properties For An Autumn Trip

1. Lechlade House

This beautifully designed 6-bedroom country house in the Cotswolds, set in 3 rural acres with an indoor swimming pool,  is within a 10-minute walk of the town centre and a 10-minute drive from the Cotswolds Wildlife Park. The property offers a range of amenities, including a jacuzzi, steam shower room, and games/playroom, providing an ideal self-catered retreat with exclusive use.

2. Pye Corner

Pye Corner is a stunning 17th-century Cotswold country house featuring 8 to 10 bedrooms, beautiful gardens with an oriental theme, and a refurbished heated outdoor pool. Just an eight-minute walk from Broadway town centre, the Worcestershire property welcomes well-behaved dogs upon request, offering an ideal self-catered retreat.

3. Brookside Lodge

Brookside Lodge, an extended former Victorian Hunting Lodge, offers 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms in the main house, complemented by a self-contained cottage. Set around a private courtyard, the property features a gym, a heated swimming pool, and over 50 private acres for walks, making it a dog-friendly and self-catered break perfect for an Autumnal stay.

Cotswolds in the Winter: Cosy Delights and Festive Magic

As the Winter frosts extend across the land, turning fields into sparkling diamond blankets as far as the eye can see, the Cotswolds give us all a lesson in how to get cosy. Log fires crackle in centuries-old pubs, charming Christmas markets adorn historic towns, and the air vibrates with festive cheer. This is a season for embracing warming pleasures and old-world charm.

Activities when Visiting the Cotswolds in Winter

Embarking on a Winter walk beneath a starlit sky: Put on your warmest boots and venture out into the crisp night air. Follow winding lanes adorned with twinkling lights, past slumbering villages and snow-dusted fields. Admire the breathtaking beauty of an inky sky, ablaze with a million diamond-bright stars, and feel the stillness of the Winter landscape of the Cotswolds wrap around you.

Unleash your inner chef with a festive cooking class: Gather around a roaring fire in a rustic farmhouse kitchen and learn the secrets of traditional Cotswolds Christmas fare. Master the art of rolling perfect mince pies, whip up a heavenly Christmas pudding, and create the ultimate roast for a feast your taste buds will never forget.

Experience the magic of a Cotswolds Christmas market: Step into a scene straight from a storybook as you wander through charming Christmas markets nestled within historic towns like Bourton-on-the-Water or Tetbury. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, browsing stalls overflowing with handcrafted ornaments, unique gifts, and locally sourced delicacies. Sip on warming spiced cider, listen to carol singers raise their voices in joyous harmony, and let the Christmas spirit fill your heart.

Embark on a magical Christmas lights trail at Blenheim Palace: Experience a luminous journey along Blenheim Palace's enchanting Christmas lights trail, where the magic of the season unfolds in a spectacle of twinkling brilliance. From mid-November to early January, witness the palace grounds transform into a mesmerising wonderland, illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights that cast a gentle glow upon ancient trees and serene lakes.

Our Cosiest Properties For A Festive Getaway

1. Pickwick End

Pickwick End, a beautiful Georgian Grade II home, offers an ideal festive break with its modern yet cosy interior, 3 open fires and 1 wood burner, so that you can relax and warm up in luxurious comfort. Accommodating 12 guests in 6 bedrooms, the property allows for a self-catered stay with the option of a detailed and personalised planning of your holiday for a memorable stay.

2. Puffets

Puffets, a stunning 1640-built family home in Little Barrington, offers a perfect festive break with 5 bedrooms, a large kitchen dining room, a gym, and a games room. Designed by interior designer Tatiana Howard, the property features stone accents, a stunning lawn garden and a fireplace to get cosy in the Winter. 

3. The Hewletts

This remarkable Grade II Listed Palladian-style country house, dating back to the mid-18th century, is perfect for a Winter getaway, offering breathtaking panoramic views over parkland grounds and Cheltenham. With seven bedrooms, drawing, sitting, and dining rooms, as well as a games room and cinema room, the property makes for the ideal setting for a festive trip with friends and family.

Enjoy the Cotswolds at any time of year with David Pearson Travel

So, we ask you: When does visiting the Cotswolds captivate you the most? 

Whether the enchanting days of Winter, the longest days of Summer or the months for autumnal colours & bright flower fields, the charm of the Cotswolds prevails. Why not make your trip even more unforgettable and book a luxury Cotswolds holiday rental for a quintessential country house experience? 

Get in touch with us today and we will help find you the perfect Cotswolds retreat for the time of year you want to visit the most.