Short Breaks in the Cotswolds

A short break in the Cotswolds is like stepping into a storybook filled with rolling hills, charming villages, and timeless countryside beauty. The region is famous for its idyllic settings, where you can wander through villages with honey-colored stone cottages and meander along peaceful lanes lined with historic architecture. 

If you love the outdoors, the Cotswolds is perfect for a relaxing countryside walk or a hike along the famous Cotswold Way. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, with rolling green hills, honey-coloured villages and hidden valleys, ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a family trip, or just a peaceful retreat, the Cotswolds offers a serene, quintessentially English experience that feels worlds away from the everyday.

Many visitors also enjoy exploring the historic market towns, like Cirencester or Tetbury, where you can browse artisan shops, grab a coffee in a centuries-old café, or visit local markets. For history lovers, there’s no shortage of stately homes, castles, and gardens to explore. Plus, the local food scene is outstanding, from traditional afternoon teas to farm-to-table dining in charming country pubs.

In just a few days, you can truly get a taste of the Cotswolds' beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for a rejuvenating short break.

Luxury Breaks

For those seeking indulgence, the Cotswolds provides a wealth of high-end experiences set within elegant manor houses or modern country retreats. Expect fine dining, refined interiors, and an emphasis on comfort and privacy, all nestled within picturesque surroundings. These luxury stays often incorporate curated experiences such as private gardens, wine tastings, or art collections, making the escape feel personal and exclusive.

Romantic Breaks

With its winding lanes, flower-filled cottages, and scenic walks, the Cotswolds is an inherently romantic destination. Couples can enjoy sunset strolls through quiet meadows, candlelit dinners in historic villages, or simply unwind in front of a crackling fire in a cosy retreat. The peaceful pace and storybook setting provide an ideal environment for connection and shared moments.

Farm Breaks

A stay on a working farm allows visitors to experience the rural heart of the Cotswolds. These breaks are immersive and often interactive, providing a window into local traditions and agricultural life. Guests can enjoy fresh produce straight from the land, explore the open fields, and sometimes engage with farm animals, all while staying in comfortable converted barns, farmhouses or quirky glamping accommodation.

Garden Breaks

The Cotswolds is celebrated for its horticultural heritage, making it a paradise for garden lovers. Short breaks staying in accommodation with their own stunning gardens and centered around exceptional Cotswold gardens offer the chance to explore exquisitely maintained grounds, from formal parterres to wildflower meadows. These escapes often pair well with seasonal highlights such as spring blossoms or autumn foliage, offering ever-changing inspiration.

Family Breaks

Families will find a wealth of opportunities for bonding and adventure in the Cotswolds. From countryside walks and gentle bike rides to exploring woodlands and child-friendly attractions, there is plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. Accommodations often include practical amenities and open spaces, encouraging outdoor play and togetherness.

Spa Breaks

For ultimate relaxation, spa-focused breaks in the Cotswolds combine the serenity of the countryside with wellness treatments designed to restore and rejuvenate. Guests can unwind with massages, facials, or time in steam rooms and pools, all in calm, natural settings that complement the experience of letting go and recharging.

Eco-Friendly Breaks

Sustainable tourism is increasingly important, and the Cotswolds offers a growing number of eco-conscious retreats. These breaks focus on low-impact living, using renewable energy, local materials, and organic produce. Nature is a key element, and guests are encouraged to engage with the environment mindfully, whether through wildlife watching or low-carbon activities.

Dog-Friendly Breaks

Pet owners will find the Cotswolds an ideal destination for breaks with their four-legged companions. With miles of footpaths, dog-welcoming pubs, and ample outdoor space, it’s easy to include pets in the adventure. Accommodations often come equipped with thoughtful extras to make dogs as comfortable and welcome as their owners.

Cottage Breaks

A stay in a traditional Cotswold cottage offers charm, authenticity, and a sense of escape. These breaks are perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the local character while enjoying the freedom of self-catering. Whether tucked into a village or standing alone in the countryside, cottages provide a peaceful base to explore and relax.

Each type of break in the Cotswolds reveals a different facet of this enchanting region, making it a versatile and inviting destination for every kind of visitor.

Short BreakHighlights

Grammar School Cottage

The property dates from around 1650 and enjoys one of the best views in Charlbury across the…

The Close Hotel

Part of the Cotswold Inns and Hotels collection, this magnificent 16th century town house is now a…

Tewkesbury Park

Tewkesbury Park is a family-owned hotel, golf and leisure resort set amongst 176 acres of…

Zen Den at Westley Farm

Declutter your body and soul in the sublime space of the Zen Den. A unique cedar cabin in the woods…

The Trout

The Trout at Tadpole Bridge is a beautifully refurbished country inn nestled in the West Oxfordshire…

Log House Holidays

Log House Holidays is a unique 130 acre destination in the Cotswolds where guests can enjoy total…

Manor Cottages

Manor Cottages is self-catering holiday cottages in the Cotswolds. With nearly 300 Cotswolds…

Ingleside House

Bold colours, striking designs and an exuberant style set Ingleside House apart from many other…

Calcot & Spa

A charming English farmhouse, elegantly converted into a stylish hotel offering 35 beautifully and…

King John's Barn

Located in the heart of the Cotswolds this 6 bedroom historic family house, which was once a Royal…

Foxhill Manor

Simply put, Foxhill is a private manor-house hotel in the Cotswolds, with eight unique bedrooms and…

Sykes Holiday Cottages

Looking for your next cottage holiday in the Cotswolds? With over 280 carefully selected cottages in…

The Bay Tree Hotel

Part of the Cotswold Inns and Hotels collection, The Bay Tree Hotel boasts 21 effortlessly stylish…

Sheep on Sheep Street

The Sheep on Sheep Street revealed its new look, along with its new name in July 2016. We like to…

Little Barnfield

Little Barnfield is a charming rural hideaway and a perfect location from which to explore the…

Owlpen Manor Cottages

OWLPEN in its magical Cotswold valley setting has long been recognised as one of the most romantic…

The Prince of Burford

Recently awarded 4 AA stars, The Prince of Burford is a beautifully refurbished 18th-century…

The Fish Hotel

You might call it a country hotel; you might call it a village-style retreat; you might even…

Sykes Holiday Cottages

Stay in one of our cottages in the Cotswolds. With over 280 self-catering cottages in the area, we…

The Lamb Inn

Part of the Cotswold Inns and Hotels collection; this charming 15th century inn started life as a…

Manor Cottages

Manor Cottages is your trusted holiday cottage agency in the Cotswolds. We offer the largest…

Buckland Manor

One of the most elegant country house hotels in the Cotswolds, Buckland Manor is tucked away in a…

The Lazy Goose

Based in the heart of the village of Eastington, the team welcome you to The Lazy Goose!…

Hoburne Cotswold

Hoburne Cotswold is a holiday park like no other, offering luxury holiday accommodation, indoor and…

The Barrel Store

The Barrel Store breaks the mould of what you’d expect from a hostel…

Sykes Holiday Cottages

Choose Sykes Holiday Cottages today. 280 + cottages in the Cotswolds Short breaks available Last…

The Double Red Duke

Near to William Morris’ Kelmscott and less than half an hour to Oxford, The Double Red Duke is…

The Harcourt Arms

Within a 30-minute drive from Oxford, and on the cusp of the Cotswolds, this 17th century pub sits…