What's New 2026
What’s new in the CotswoldsPlus region – 2026 & beyond.
Dumbleton Hall near Winchcombe, Cotswolds – launch planned spring 2026
Dumbleton Hall has an exciting reopening.
Tucked away in the verdant foothills of the Cotswolds, Dumbleton Hall presents a distinctive sanctuary for those in search of rejuvenation and inspiration. It pledges a reawakening of the senses and a splendid way of life. With great anticipation for its debut, Dumbleton Hall is currently undergoing an extensive renovation of its 34 bedrooms and communal spaces, incorporating the landscaping of its grounds with the addition of treehouses and shepherd's huts.
https://www.dumbletonhall.co.uk/
Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum, City of Gloucester - is expected to open early 2026.
The property will include a one-of-a-kind restaurant focused on celebrating the local neighbourhood, and an exquisite rooftop cocktail bar with views onto a bespoke private courtyard. Guests will also have access to a gym, conferencing facilities and The Forum’s state-of-the-art digital innovation hub.
The 131-room Hotel Indigo Gloucester – The Forum will be located in The Forum development in the heart of the city centre, and in partnership with Gloucester City Council and the Reef Group. The property will include a one-of-a-kind restaurant focused on celebrating the local neighbourhood, and an exquisite rooftop cocktail bar with views onto a bespoke private courtyard. Guests will also have access to a gym, conferencing facilities and The Forum’s state-of-the-art digital innovation hub.
https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/gb/en/gloucester/glosr/hoteldetail
Hotel Indigo Gloucester- The Forum - Hotel in Gloucester, Gloucester - Visit Gloucester
The Mason Arms Clanfield & The Duchess Clanfield, Cotswolds – planning to launch 2026
Sam and Georgie Pearman, former founders of The Lucky Onion group, will be busy in 2026 opening more sites in the couple’s growing Country Creatures collection.
The Duchess will be opening later in 2026 bringing 10 additional rooms to the Double Red Duke. These rooms will be furnished in Georgie’s signature Double Red Duke style. Except comfort, cosy corners and British designer furnishings.
The Mason Arms also located in Clanfield will be expanding into offering overnight stays with 9 bedrooms.
https://www.countrycreatures.com/masons-arms/
Wild Duck Ewen near Cirencester, Cotswolds – planning to launch 2026
The Wild Duck at Ewen is currently undergoing a large-scale refurbishment to become a pub with rooms which is due to open Spring 2026. Georgie will design 20 new bedrooms at the site, which will come complete with antique furnishings, king-sized beds and roll top baths. Downstairs, the refreshed pub will feature low-beamed ceilings and working fireplaces, while the menu will focus on local and seasonal ingredients, championing Cotswolds produce.
https://www.countrycreatures.com/wild-duck-ewen/
https://www.thecaterer.com/news/sam-and-georgie-pearman-to-launch-new-cotswolds-pub-with-rooms
CABÜ in the Cotswolds, Langley, Cotswolds - planning to launch Spring/Summer 2026
Opening in 2026, CABÜ in the Cotswolds will bring the brand’s signature timber cabins and eco-minded design to the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty. The site, set within a former Marconi radio transmission works in Langley, is being thoughtfully repurposed to create a sustainable retreat with minimal impact on the surrounding landscape of rolling hills, stone walls, and woodlands.
Guests will be able to enjoy a new Cabin Club bar, indoor swimming pool, spa facilities, shop and a Sitooterie alongside hot tubs, saunas and outdoor plunge pools. CABÜ’s new range of architecturally designed cabins combine modern aesthetics with low-energy, low-waste construction methods, manufactured in the UK to the highest eco standards. Available for short stays year-round, CABÜ in the Cotswolds will offer a calm, design-led base to relax and explore the charm of nearby towns and countryside.
https://holidays.cabu.co.uk/cabu-in-the-cotswolds
Tunnel House Inn, Coates Cirencester - planning to launch Spring 2026
Work has been gathering pace by Bathurst estate to bring a historic Inn back to life which needed full renovation. This Inn enjoys a uniquely stunning location beside the dormant Thames and Severn Canal and its majestic tunnel portal so will be a welcome addition to the region.
https://www.tunnelhouseinn.co.uk/
Redesdale Arms, Moreton in Marsh – Refurbishment planned Autumn 2026
In April this year, the Redesdale Arms in the heart of the historic town of Moreton-in-Marsh was acquired by new owner, Brakspear as part of their Honeycomb Houses brand. Set back from Moreton’s busy High Street, the prominent 17th-century building with 35 guest rooms, has long been popular for its traditional charm that includes original oak beams, open fires and panelled walls. Following an initial uplift of the bedrooms, Honeycomb Houses Management said: ‘Our vision for the Redesdale Arms is to continue to offer a wonderful place to relax, stay, drink and dine.’
In autumn 2026, the Redesdale Arms will undergo a transformation with investment across the entire property, reflecting Brakspear's 'Honeycomb House' design. 2027 will be another exciting chapter the property, taking the Redesdale Arms further along its Honeycomb Houses journey.
https://www.redesdalearms.com/
New Traditional Shepherd’s Hut in the Heart of the Cotswolds, Chipping Norton – opening Winter 25/26
Tucked away in the rolling green hills and honey-stone villages of the Cotswolds, new traditional shepherd’s huts offer a magical escape from the rush of modern life. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and charm, this hand-built hideaway blends rustic simplicity with a touch of indulgence — the perfect countryside retreat for couples, solo travellers, or anyone craving peace and connection with nature. Outside, a private Japanese cedar wood-fired bath awaits. Whether you’re bathing under golden sunsets or a canopy of stars, this open-air soak connects you to the landscape in the most unforgettable way.
www.cotswoldhillscountrypark.co.uk/
Roam and Wonder - Day Retreats
Following the success of its luxury walking retreats, Roam & Wonder has introduced a series of thoughtfully curated day retreats across the Cotswolds. Designed to capture the same sense of ease, connection and countryside immersion in a single day, each retreat blends guided walks, nourishing seasonal food and carefully chosen experiences such as yoga, meditation, sound baths or creative workshops. Hosted in beautiful locations throughout the region, Roam & Wonder Day Retreats offer a refreshing way to step away from the everyday and reconnect with nature, community and yourself.
https://roamandwonder.co.uk/
Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury, Cotswolds
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is continuing to enhance its play offer for children, alongside a programme of events.
- New seasonal trails – exciting family trails and family activities to help families with children explore the arboretum – brand-new trails to enjoy each season spring, summer and autumn. Along with brand-new family events during school holidays throughout the year.
- Room on the Broom trail - new in 2026 from February, join the witch and her animal friends on this this interactive trail through the arboretum based on Julia Donaldson's picture book.
2026 sees the introduction of another new play area within the arboretum in dog-friendly Silk Wood. The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum continue fundraising to support the delivery of these further phases.
https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/play
For Westonbirt’s full events calendar see: https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/events
Climbing Wall, Brimscombe Mill near Stroud, Cotswolds – aiming for opening early 26
A new non-profit climbing wall in Stroud which aims to make climbing accessible, affordable, and inclusive for the whole community is currently on track to open at Brimscombe Mill.
Scarlet River Brewing Company, Witney Cotswolds – currently in planning – hoping to open 2026
Scarlet River Brewing Company, has asked for planning permission to convert 6 Marriotts Walk in Witney, to become a brewery in the vacant unit in the Marriotts Walk Shopping Centre
New events for 2026
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire Cotswolds – Brand new event summer 2026
Blenheim Palace has announced a new music and arts festival for 2026 – awaiting more details.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cqjq4ykv8ygo www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events
Anniversaries in 2026
250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence in 2026 Gloucester has links (Button Gwinnet / John Stafford Smith).
2026 is the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Imjin River in the Korean War in which the Gloucestershire Regiment played a key role. Currently checking if the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum will do something.
In 2026, the Cotswolds National Landscape will be celebrating 60 years as a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The CNL team is planning a number of ways to celebrate with people and communities, including the release of a special feature-length documentary film which will premiere in July, themed guided walks offered by the Cotswold Voluntary Wardens, and a schools’ tour of a short version of the film. You can see the trailer for the film here: https://www.cotswoldsfilm.co.uk/ https://www.cotswolds-nl.org.uk/
2026 will be the 30th anniversary of Cheltenham Jazz Festival with a new curator due to be announced soon & focus on National year of reading next year - this theme will be weaved into all four of the Cheltenham festivals https://www.cheltenhamfestivals.org/our-festivals With more exciting announcements to come look out for further updates early next year & save the dates 29 April - 04 May 2026
2026 is the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Imjin River in the Korean War in which the Gloucestershire Regiment played a key role. Currently checking if the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum will do something.
In 2026, Frampton Country Fair proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary — four decades of countryside tradition, community spirit, and family fun! Set in the beautiful parkland of Frampton Court Estate, the fair promises an unforgettable day packed with entertainment, rural heritage, and vibrant displays. Visitors can expect thrilling main arena attractions, exciting countryside demonstrations, and an array of vintage tractors, classes land rovers and working animals. With over 400 trade stands, delicious local food, craft marquees, and activities for all ages, there’s something to delight everyone. The fair’s family friendly atmosphere and stunning setting make it one of the region’s most loved rural events. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, the 2026 Frampton Country Fair will be a special celebration of all that’s great about the countryside — a perfect day out for families, friends, and enthusiasts alike.
Sunday 13th September 2026 https://www.framptoncountryfair.co.uk/
Wychwood Festival will celebrate their 20th anniversary edition in 2026. The main headline act is the Kaiser Chiefs with the event held at Cheltenham racecourse 29th – 31st May https://wychwoodfestival.com/
New Tours, Trails & Experiences
New Public Art Trail, Wildlife and one Health 50th anniversary Woodchester Park near Stroud Cotswolds - launching spring 2026
Celebrating 50 Years of studying wildlife at Woodchester Park, in the heart of the Cotswolds, experts at the Animal & Plant Health Agency have teamed up with global art producers Wild in Art to create a brand new Sculpture Trail, with the characters of Wind in the Willows staring in a new story of Wildlife & One Health.
In this contemporary rewrite of the classic tale, Badger, Toad, Mole and “Ratty” the Water Vole are brought to life by sculptors and joined by a cast of new species as they embark on a modern-day adventure: discovering how wildlife, farming, people and the environment are all connected.
Wind in the Willows will tour Britain from 2026 and will be open to visitors at the National Trust, Woodchester Park, from Saturday 23rd May to Sunday 28th June.
The Cotswolds are the home of the APHA National Wildlife Management Centre. A range of public activities and events marking the 50th Anniversary will take place at regional visitor attractions and country shows throughout 2026.
The National Trust is open to visitors to explore Woodchester Park year round, whether that is hiking through the historic parkland, discovering seasonal events or enjoying a coffee at Tinkley Gate Cafe surrounded by panoramic views of the escarpment.
Go Cotswolds – launching spring 2026
Go Cotswolds is a local family-run guided tour company which plans to launch a series of new tours for 2026. One tour will be in conjunction with Brit Movie Tours linking to Clarkson’s Farm, with two other new tours departing from Oxford city centre bringing visitors into the Cotswolds for the day with all the usual Go Cotswolds 5* customer experience.
Forest Green Rovers – launching spring 2026
New Cotswolds Experience Forest Green Rovers Non-Matchday Lunch & Tour
Step inside the world’s greenest football club for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at Forest Green Rovers, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds near Nailsworth. This pioneering club, hailed by FIFA as “the greenest football club in the world”, is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in sport.
Guests will enjoy a guided tour of The New Lawn stadium, meet members of the team, and discover how Forest Green Rovers became the only vegan football club in the world—while continuing to push boundaries in environmental consciousness. The experience includes a delicious plant-based lunch prepared by chef Rich, paired with a locally brewed beer or a glass of wine.
This unique offering combines sport, sustainability, and Cotswolds hospitality—perfect for visitors seeking something truly different.
For more information please get in touch [email protected] or book HERE
CJP Tours – new tour launching Spring 2026
Information to come
Beechenhurst Family Trail- lauching early 2026
Immerse your family in the heart of the majestic Forest of Dean along a new family trail at Beechenhurst. This exciting interactive trail will feature activities to help families with children explore and enjoy the forest all year round.
https://www.forestryengland.uk/beechenhurst
Cotswold National Landscape Guided Walks & accessible walks– our fantastic Cotswold Voluntary Wardens will be offering a range of CNL60 themed guided walks throughout 2026 to celebrate the 60th anniversary.
Guided walks are almost all free, with voluntary donations invited to cover costs.
People might explore landscape features, geologically interesting routes, history-heritage or culture-rich routes, or routes which take them past wildflower meadows, or even sites which detail the heritage of the Cotswolds – from sheep farming to the textile industry.
We’re also thrilled to see the wardens launching new ‘Riders and Striders’ walks – designed to welcome everyone, but especially those using off-road mobility scooters. These will mostly be led by John Shaw, a wonderful warden who has been working very hard to open up more accessibility with the walks we offer. https://www.cotswolds-nl.org.uk/exploring/guided-routes/
Looking towards 2027 & beyond
Daylesford new hotel, Kingham, Cotswolds – expected opening to be phased approach 27-28
Planning has been granted for the Bamford group who own Daylesford Farm to refurbish and bring back to life a 38 bedroom hotel in the village of Kingham. The main hotel building has been designed around the historic mill building with ancillary uses surrounding the Mill in an informal courtyard. This courtyard building consists of the restaurant, alehouse, with outdoor seating and a two-bedroom holiday let. A separate planning application is for ten self catering cottages on the site.
https://www.boutiquehotelier.com/lord-bamford-new-cotswolds-hotel
Docks 200 City of Gloucester - 2027
Plans are at a very early stage for a city-wide bicentenary cultural programme to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Gloucester Docks.
Gloucester Cathedral is a Norman building and being the resting place for Robert II, Duke of Normandy (William the Conqueror’s son).
2027 is also a big year for the Cathedral, being the 700th anniversary of the death of Edward II.
Mullins Motor Museum – Enstone, Oxfordshire
The £150-million car museum dreamt up by American collector Peter Mullin for the UK is seeking to start development in Enstone Oxfordshire in 2026 and will take several years to complete.
https://www.3dreid.com/project/the-mullin-automotive-museum/
Stroud Waters Kings Stanley Stroud, Cotswolds - a natural outdoor pool & wellbeing experience – currently in design stages.
A vision of a natural outdoor community pool, promoting swimming in natural, safe, biofiltered water and community wellbeing is hoping to come into being over the next few years.
With an aim to be like a lido mixed with wild swimming, they want to have various pools for families, lane swimming etc. then a sauna and community space to hire out. Currently at the feasibility study stage with a site found at a farm in King Stanley which also already has a café on site. https://www.communitywaters.co.uk/
Cotswolds Canal project
Following a new grant from the National Lottery, work continues to bring the Cotswold Canals to life with the Cotswold Canals Connected, (Phase 1B of the Cotswold Canals restoration project), marking the next exciting phase of canal restoration for the Cotswolds. It will link the Stroudwater Navigation canal with the Gloucester and Sharpness canal at Saul Junction. It will join our communities, towns and villages with the rest of the UK’s canal network, present new business opportunities and create a vibrant tourist destination in the heart of the Cotswolds. The revived canal is expected to boost local tourism, biodiversity and the regional economy, and is set to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2029.
Eco Park Stroud District Council
A new football stadium for Forest Green Rovers will also be built as part of the regional development. Eco Park’s centrepiece will be a 5,000-seat, state-of-the-art stadium for Forest Green Rovers, the world’s greenest football club. Designed by the globally-renowned architects at Zaha Hadid, the ground will be made almost entirely from wood & the Eco Park will have the lowest carbon footprint of any football stadium in the world. https://www.ecopark.com/about/
Great Wolf Lodge, Chesteron
This major £200 million investment is taking shape just outside of Bicester with this being the company’s first European resort. In keeping with the company ethos, Great Wolf Lodge will provide a one-of-a-kind family resort experience offering everything under one roof including entertainment, attractions and dining.
Looking further ahead & still in planning stages to be aware of:
Beaufort House in Gloucester plans submitted to create a 36 room hotel.
Puy Du Foy near Bicester Oxfordshire plans are drawn up & submitted for planning for a new theme park https://www.puydufouconsultation.co.uk/
Recently opened in the Cotswolds
Hyll near Chipping Campden – opened September 2025
Opened autumn 2025 with new owners, what was Charingworth Manor has had a full refurbishment to bring a relaxed vision to life with the hotel now called Hyll. https://hyllhotel.com/
House of George, Broadway, North Cotswolds – opened August 2025
Local business icon George Davies has taken over the former doctor's surgery in Broadway, to create the house of George which is a unique hotel and dining experience. Each of the ten luxurious bedrooms have their own character that celebrates the rich heritage of the building which was built in 1657. There are two ground floor accessible rooms, private parking and private dining. https://www.houseofgeorge.uk/
WWT Slimbridge, Severn Vale, Cotswolds – opened summer 2025
WWT Slimbridge has unveiled its new boutique glamping accommodation, Warblers’ Meadow - five brand-new shepherd’s huts nestled amongst the wetland’s picturesque wildflowers, reeds and shimmering ponds - offering visitors the opportunity to experience a unique staycation on the River Severn estuary and a chance to unwind, switch off and reconnect with nature. Tucked away in a tranquil corner of WWT Slimbridge, these five well-appointed shepherd’s huts each have their own private pond and mini wetland, offering a truly unique, immersive experience. The Reed Warbler hut features a wheelchair-friendly ramp and step-free access, plus a wide doorway for easier entry. While some limited walking is needed inside this hut, it provides a welcoming and comfortable retreat for those with reduced mobility. http://www.warblersmeadow.co.uk/
Eleven Bibury, Cotswolds – shop, gallery and café opened summer 2025
Eleven Bibury is a new destination at the heart of one of England’s most photographed villages. Founded by Lady Anne Evans, the restored 200-year-old building sits opposite the iconic Arlington Row and Rack Isle meadow, blending a café, gallery, and shop, inspired by the legacy of the Arts & Crafts movement. Guests can enjoy seasonal menus in the stunning terraced garden, with its dramatic and romantic planting. Inside, the gallery-shop showcases work from the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen alongside a carefully curated collection of art, design, and lifestyle pieces - each chosen for its provenance, craftsmanship, and story.
Eleven Bibury is a celebration of creativity and community as much as hospitality. It offers a rare combination of thoughtful food and world-class craft, all within one beautifully restored Cotswold setting. https://www.elevenbibury.com/
The Market Tavern in Bampton, Oxfordshire Cotswolds – refurbished and open autumn 2025
Step into the world of Downton Abbey with a stay at The Market Tavern in Bampton — the real-life Downton village. With charming rooms that are just a stone’s throw from St Mary’s Church, famously featured as Downton’s church in the beloved series. The Market Tavern combines countryside charm with laid-back luxury in this pretty, unspoilt village, this welcoming pub with rooms is a true hidden gem.
Celebrate in style, sleep in comfort, and make memories in one of the Cotswolds’ best-kept secrets.
Book your stay now at The Market Tavern, Bampton: themarkettavernbampton.com/stay-with-us
For more information on what is new in the area, please email [email protected]
