Come and explore, discover, or simply escape in the magic of Cotswold England, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful areas in England.
So, what exactly are the Cotswolds? Firstly the ‘Cotswolds’ are a geographical feature, the name for a group of gentle hills running from Bath to Stratford Upon Avon, from Oxford to Cheltenham. What makes the area special is the fact that there are maybe 200 towns and villages, all built from a beautiful honey colour limestone that is mellow and pleasing to the eye. There are antique shops, pubs, farm parks, craft and souvenir shops all set in a gentle hillside landscape that features slow-running Cotswold streams and relaxing gentle walks though wildflower fields.
The heritage of the Cotswolds goes back to Roman times and, in fact, well beyond. 15th and 16th century Cotswold cottages are a common sight and, in fact, the tremendous wealth of the Cotswolds dates from this era, when Cotswold wool commanded the best price in Europe. Wealthy merchants built houses and ‘wool’ churches. For some reason the Cotswolds escaped industrialisation and was rediscovered almost intact.
The Cotswold stone remains all important to the area. In a typical house it is used for everything from floor slabs to roof tiles, providing a unity of design and atmosphere that is often like walking into a film set.
Some Cotswold towns and villages are well-known, others are sleepy places rarely visited. Somehow every one is unique, a special Cotswold pub here, an award-winning B&B there or just the fact that you can hear the birdsong. You will always be surrounded by the amazing Cotswold countryside with rolling hills, the beauty of the landscapes, rivers and open space.
Discover for yourself the beauty and heritage of Cotswold England!