Perfect 7-Day Cotswolds Itinerary: Blossoming Spring Adventures

Planning a trip to the Cotswolds? This comprehensive 7-day spring itinerary gives you exact times, real locations, and current prices—everything you need for a genuine English countryside experience.

Rolling hills, honey-coloured limestone villages, ancient woodlands carpeted with bluebells, and newborn lambs dotting the fields. Spring in the Cotswolds is a time of renewal, when gardens burst into bloom and the countryside awakens from its winter slumber.

Why Visit in Spring?

Spring (March to May) is arguably the most magical time to visit the Cotswolds. The weather is mild (8-18°C), the crowds are thinner than summer, and the landscape transforms into a painter's palette of colours.

Seasonal Highlights:

Bluebell woods in full bloom (late April to early May)
Newborn lambs in the fields
Magnificent spring gardens at their peak
Blossom-lined village streets
Wild garlic carpeting woodland floors
Birdwatching opportunities with spring migrants

Best Spring Activities:

Bluebell woodland walks
Garden visits (Hidcote, Kiftsgate, Snowshill)
Lambing season farm experiences
Village exploring with blossom-lined streets
Afternoon tea in cosy tearooms
Spring wildflower photography

Day 1: Bibury & Arlington Row – England's Most Beautiful Village

Morning: Arrival and Arlington Row

8:00 AM – Arrive at Bibury

Your Cotswolds adventure begins in Bibury, the chocolate-box village that William Morris described as "the most beautiful village in England." Spring brings a special magic here as the gardens around Arlington Row burst into colour.

Arlington Row These iconic 17th-century weavers' cottages are the most photographed street in the Cotswolds. In spring, the gardens in front explode with daffodils, tulips, and early flowering shrubs.

Best Time: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid coach parties
Photography Tip: Morning light illuminates the honey-coloured stone beautifully
Respect the Residents: These are private homes—admire from the path

Parking: Bibury village car park — £2 for 2 hours, £4 all day. Very limited spaces—arrive early, especially on weekends

10:00 AM – St. Mary's Church Visit this beautiful Saxon church with its spring flower displays. The churchyard often has snowdrops and early spring blooms.

10:30 AM – Bibury Trout Farm One of Britain's oldest working trout farms, established in 1902. Spring is an excellent time to visit as the trout are active and the surrounding gardens are coming to life.

Address: Clapton Row, Bibury GL7 5NL
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fee: £5.50 adults, £4.00 children
Highlights: Feed the trout, explore the nature trail, spot kingfishers
Must Try: Smoked trout from the farm shop

Afternoon: Bibury Circular Walk

12:00 PM – Lunch at The Catherine Wheel

A traditional Cotswold pub in the heart of Bibury, perfect for a spring lunch.

Address: Arlington, Bibury GL7 5ND
Phone: 01285 740215
Price Range: ££
Spring Specials: Look for wild garlic soup, spring lamb dishes
Must Try: Cotswold ploughman's lunch with local cheese
Garden Seating: Lovely outdoor area for sunny spring days

1:30 PM – Bibury to Coln St. Aldwyns Circular Walk This gentle 3-mile walk takes you through spring meadows and along the River Coln, where you might spot wild garlic and early wildflowers.

Route:

From Bibury, follow the footpath along the River Coln
Cross the meadows to Coln St. Aldwyns
Return via Rack Isle—a wetland nature reserve teeming with spring birdlife
Look for marsh marigolds and water forget-me-nots

Walking Time: 1.5 – 2 hours Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat What to Bring: Waterproof boots (meadows can be muddy in spring)

4:00 PM – Rack Isle This unique water meadow between the river and the mill stream is a designated wildlife reserve. In spring, it's alive with nesting birds and the first wildflowers.

Evening: Dinner in a Country Pub

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Swan Hotel

A stunning 17th-century coaching inn overlooking the River Coln, with a beautiful riverside terrace perfect for spring evenings.

Address: Bibury GL7 5NW
Phone: 01285 740695
Price Range: £££
Known For: Riverside dining, Cotswold lamb, seasonal spring menu
Must Try: Slow-roasted Cotswold lamb shoulder with spring vegetables
Booking: Essential for dinner, especially weekends

Alternative: The Catherine Wheel (if you prefer a more casual evening)

Day 2: Bourton-on-the-Water & The Slaughters – The Venice of the Cotswolds

Morning: Bourton-on-the-Water

8:30 AM – Arrive at Bourton-on-the-Water

Known as "The Venice of the Cotswolds," this village is famous for its low stone bridges spanning the River Windrush. In spring, the riverside gardens are spectacular.

Parking: Riverside car park or village centre — £3 for 3 hours, £6 all day. Busy on weekends and school holidays—arrive early

9:00 AM – Explore the Village Stroll along the riverbanks, crossing the iconic stone bridges. Spring highlights include:

Daffodils and tulips in the riverside gardens
The Model Village (a one-ninth scale replica of Bourton)
Birdland Park and Gardens

10:00 AM – Birdland Park & Gardens A wonderful spring destination with exotic birds and beautiful gardens coming into bloom.

Address: Rissington Road, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BN
Phone: 01451 820480
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: £12.95 adults, £9.50 children
Spring Highlights: Penguin feeding, flamingos nesting, spring bulbs in the gardens
Trout Hatchery: See young trout and learn about the breeding program

12:00 PM – Lunch at The Croft Restaurant

A charming restaurant in the heart of Bourton, perfect for a spring lunch.

Address: The Croft, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AA
Phone: 01451 820188
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Seasonal British cuisine with spring vegetables
Must Try: Spring vegetable risotto, homemade scones with clotted cream

Afternoon: Lower & Upper Slaughter

1:30 PM – Walk to Lower Slaughter Follow the Wardens' Way footpath from Bourton to Lower Slaughter (1.5 miles). This gentle walk follows the river and takes you through spring meadows.

2:00 PM – Lower Slaughter This impossibly pretty village features a mill stream running through its centre. Spring brings:

Daffodils along the stream banks
Blossom in the village gardens
Baby ducks on the water

Points of Interest:

The Old Mill Museum: Working water mill with a tea room
The Manor House: Beautiful gardens (limited spring opening)
Copse Hill Road: Voted "Britain's Most Romantic Street"

3:30 PM – Walk to Upper Slaughter Continue along the footpath to Upper Slaughter (1 mile). This quieter village is equally charming with its manor house and church.

4:30 PM – Tea at The Lords of the Manor Hotel Enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant drawing room or spring garden of this luxury hotel.

Address: Upper Slaughter GL54 2JD
Phone: 01451 820243
Price Range: £££ for afternoon tea
Must Try: Traditional afternoon tea with Cotswold cheeses

Evening: Dinner in Bourton

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Mousetrap Inn

A charming 18th-century inn with a reputation for excellent food and a cosy atmosphere.

Address: Lansdowne, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AR
Phone: 01451 820334
Price Range: £££
Known For: Seasonal menu, local sourcing, spring lamb dishes
Must Try: Pan-seared Cotswold chicken with wild garlic
Booking: Recommended

Day 3: Broadway Tower & Snowshill – Iconic Views and Spring Gardens

Morning: Broadway Tower

8:00 AM – Drive to Broadway Tower

Start your day at one of the Cotswolds' most iconic landmarks. Spring offers clear morning views across the Vale of Evesham.

Parking: Broadway Tower car park — £3 for 2 hours, £5 all day

9:00 AM – Broadway Tower This Capability Brown-designed folly sits atop Broadway Hill, the second-highest point in the Cotswolds. On clear spring days, you can see 16 counties from the top.

Address: Middle Hill, Broadway WR12 7LB
Phone: 01386 852390
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM (spring hours)
Entry Fee: £8.00 adults, £5.00 children (tower entry)
Grounds: Free to explore
Spring Highlights: Bluebells in the surrounding woods (late April), wildflowers on the hill

10:30 AM – Tower Climb Climb the spiral staircase to the viewing platform for panoramic spring views across the countryside.

11:00 AM – Broadway Tower Park Explore the surrounding parkland designed by Capability Brown. Spring brings:

Bluebell woods (late April to early May)
Wild garlic in the shaded areas
Red deer in the deer park
Birdwatching opportunities

Afternoon: Snowshill Manor & Gardens

12:30 PM – Lunch at The Crown & Trumpet Inn, Broadway

A traditional Cotswold pub in the village of Broadway, perfect for a spring lunch.

Address: Church Street, Broadway WR12 7AE
Phone: 01386 853202
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Local spring lamb, Cotswold Way ale
Garden: Lovely beer garden for sunny spring days

2:00 PM – Snowshill Manor & Gardens This National Trust property is a spring highlight. The Arts and Crafts garden was designed to be at its peak in spring.

Address: Snowshill, Tewkesbury GL54 5EE
Phone: 01242 602398
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (spring)
Entry Fee: £14.50 adults, £7.25 children (NT members free)
Garden Highlights:
- Spectacular spring bulbs (daffodils, tulips, fritillaries)
- Walled kitchen garden with spring vegetables
- Orchard with spring blossom
- Wildflower meadows

The Manor House: Charles Wade's extraordinary collection of craftsmanship and design is housed in this 16th-century manor. The spring light through the windows creates magical effects.

4:30 PM – Snowshill Village Walk Take a short stroll through the tiny village of Snowshill, with its honey-coloured cottages and spring gardens.

Evening: Dinner in Chipping Campden

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Bantam Tea Rooms & Restaurant

A delightful restaurant in a historic building in Chipping Campden's famous High Street.

Address: 12 High Street, Chipping Campden GL55 6AA
Phone: 01386 840386
Price Range: £££
Known For: Seasonal British cuisine, afternoon tea, spring menu
Must Try: Slow-cooked Cotswold lamb with mint sauce

Day 4: Stow-on-the-Wold & Daylesford – Market Towns and Organic Luxury

Morning: Stow-on-the-Wold

9:00 AM – Arrive at Stow-on-the-Wold

The highest town in the Cotswolds, Stow sits atop a hill with far-reaching spring views. It's famous for its antique shops and historic market square.

Parking: The Square car park — £2 for 2 hours, £4 all day

9:30 AM – Explore the Square The wide market square has been a trading centre since the 12th century. Spring market days (Thursday and Saturday) feature local produce and plants.

Points of Interest:

St. Edward's Church: Famous for its north door flanked by ancient yew trees (said to have inspired Tolkien)
The Royalist Hotel: One of England's oldest inns
Antique Shops: Browse the numerous antique and vintage shops

11:00 AM – St. Edward's Church This beautiful medieval church is worth a visit in spring for:

Spring flower displays
The famous "Tolkien Door" surrounded by yew trees
Peaceful atmosphere and stained glass windows

Afternoon: Daylesford Organic Farm

12:00 PM – Lunch at The Old Butchers, Stow-on-the-Wold

A highly acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Stow, perfect for a spring lunch.

Address: 7 Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AQ
Phone: 01451 831700
Price Range: ££££
Known For: Exceptional seasonal cooking, local sourcing
Must Try: Spring tasting menu (if available), Cotswold lamb
Booking: Essential

2:00 PM – Drive to Daylesford Organic Farm The flagship of the Bamford family's organic empire, Daylesford is a must-visit in spring when the farm is at its most active.

Address: Daylesford, Kingham GL56 0YG
Phone: 01608 731700
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry: Free (parking £5, redeemable against purchases)

Spring Highlights:

Lambs in the fields surrounding the farm
Spring vegetables in the market garden
Seasonal produce in the farm shop
Spring workshops and events

3:00 PM – Explore Daylesford

Farm Shop: Organic produce, cheeses, baked goods
Creamery: Watch cheese being made
Bakery: Fresh sourdough and pastries
Garden Shop: Spring plants and gardening supplies
Wellness Spa: Treatments using Bamford products

4:30 PM – Cream Tea at The Old Spot Enjoy a traditional cream tea in the rustic-chic café.

Price: £12.50 for cream tea
Must Try: Scones with Daylesford clotted cream and strawberry jam

Evening: Dinner in Stow

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Porch House

Claiming to be England's oldest inn (947 AD), this historic pub offers excellent food and atmosphere.

Address: Digbeth Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1BN
Phone: 01451 870048
Price Range: £££
Known For: Historic atmosphere, seasonal menu, local ales
Must Try: Cotswold beef and ale pie, spring vegetable tart

Day 5: Hidcote & Kiftsgate – World-Famous Spring Gardens

Morning: Hidcote Manor Garden

9:00 AM – Arrive at Hidcote

This National Trust garden is one of England's most celebrated Arts and Crafts gardens. Spring is arguably the best time to visit.

Parking: Free on-site parking

9:30 AM – Hidcote Manor Garden Created by American horticulturist Lawrence Johnston, Hidcote is famous for its "garden rooms," each with a different theme and planting scheme.

Address: Hidcote Bartrim, Chipping Campden GL55 6LR
Phone: 01386 438333
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: £16.50 adults, £8.25 children (NT members free)

Spring Highlights:

The Old Garden: Magnificent spring bulbs including tulips and daffodils
The Fuchsia Garden: Early fuchsias and spring bedding
The White Garden: White tulips and spring flowers
The Red Borders: Emerging foliage and early red tulips
The Wilderness: Bluebells and wild garlic
The Bathing Pool Garden: Reflections of spring blossom

11:30 AM – Hidcote Village Take a short walk through the tiny hamlet of Hidcote Bartrim with its traditional stone cottages.

Afternoon: Kiftsgate Court Gardens

12:00 PM – Lunch at The Garden Café at Hidcote

Enjoy a light lunch with garden views.

Menu: Soups, sandwiches, salads with seasonal spring ingredients
Must Try: Hidcote garden soup with homemade bread

1:30 PM – Kiftsgate Court Gardens Just a short walk from Hidcote, Kiftsgate is a stunning private garden that rivals its famous neighbour.

Address: Mickleton, Chipping Campden GL55 6LN
Phone: 01386 438777
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (spring)
Entry Fee: £10.00 adults, children free

Spring Highlights:

The Yellow Border: Daffodils and early spring bulbs
The Rose Garden: Emerging foliage (roses bloom in summer)
The Water Garden: Reflections and spring planting
The Bluebell Wood: Spectacular display in late April/early May
Views: Stunning vistas across the Vale of Evesham

3:30 PM – Mickleton Village Explore the village of Mickleton, home to the famous Pudding Club at the Three Ways House Hotel.

4:00 PM – The Pudding Club (Optional) If you have a sweet tooth, book ahead for the famous Pudding Club evening (Fridays only).

Address: Three Ways House Hotel, Mickleton GL55 6SB
Phone: 01386 438429
Price: £25 for seven puddings!

Evening: Dinner in Chipping Campden

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Volunteer Inn

A traditional Cotswold pub with excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere.

Address: Lower High Street, Chipping Campden GL55 6DY
Phone: 01386 840688
Price Range: ££
Known For: Traditional pub food, local ales, friendly service
Must Try: Steak and ale pie, spring vegetable curry

Day 6: Cirencester & Cotswold Water Park – Roman Town and Spring Wildlife

Morning: Cirencester – The Capital of the Cotswolds

9:00 AM – Arrive at Cirencester

Known as "The Capital of the Cotswolds," Cirencester is a bustling market town with Roman origins and beautiful spring gardens.

Parking: Old Station Car Park or Cecily Hill Car Park — £2-3 for 3 hours

9:30 AM – Cirencester Park This vast parkland designed by Alexander Pope is particularly beautiful in spring.

Entry: Free
Spring Highlights:
- Magnificent avenue of lime trees
- Bluebell woods
- Wildflower meadows
- Polo matches (spring season)

10:30 AM – The Abbey Grounds Beautiful public gardens surrounding the site of Cirencester Abbey.

Features: Roman wall remains, spring bulbs, peaceful walks
Entry: Free

11:00 AM – Cirencester Parish Church The "Cathedral of the Cotswolds" with its magnificent perpendicular Gothic architecture.

Entry: Free (donations welcome)
Spring Features: Spring flower displays, beautiful light through stained glass

11:30 AM – Market Place Browse the historic market place. Thursday and Saturday are market days with local produce and plants.

Afternoon: Cotswold Water Park

12:30 PM – Lunch at The Fleece at Cirencester

A historic coaching inn in the heart of the town, perfect for a spring lunch.

Address: Market Place, Cirencester GL7 2NZ
Phone: 01285 658507
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Cotswold beef burger, spring vegetable soup

2:00 PM – Cotswold Water Park This network of 180 lakes offers excellent spring wildlife watching.

Address: Various entry points, nearest is Lake 32
Phone: 01793 787400
Entry: Free (some activities charge)

Spring Wildlife Highlights:

Migrating birds returning to breed
Ospreys (at certain lakes)
Waterfowl with young
Spring wildflowers along the lake shores

Activities:

Walking trails around the lakes
Birdwatching hides
Watersports (seasonal opening)
Cycling routes

4:00 PM – Gateway Centre Visit the Cotswold Water Park visitor centre for information and exhibits.

Evening: Dinner in Cirencester

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Bear

A historic hotel and restaurant with an excellent reputation for food.

Address: Market Place, Cirencester GL7 2NR
Phone: 01285 659922
Price Range: £££
Known For: Fine dining, historic atmosphere, seasonal menu
Must Try: Cotswold lamb rump, spring risotto

Day 7: Burford & Minster Lovell – Gateway Villages and Spring Farewell

Morning: Burford

9:00 AM – Arrive at Burford

Often called "The Gateway to the Cotswolds," Burford is a beautiful hillside town with a medieval High Street.

Parking: Shilton Road Car Park — £2 for 2 hours, £4 all day

9:30 AM – Explore the High Street Wander down the steep High Street lined with antique shops, tearooms, and historic buildings.

Points of Interest:

The Tolsey: Medieval market house
St. John the Baptist Church: Magnificent wool church with spring flower displays
Antique Shops: Numerous shops to browse

10:30 AM – St. John the Baptist Church This magnificent "wool church" was built with profits from the medieval wool trade.

Entry: Free
Highlights: Medieval tombs, Kempe stained glass, spring flowers

11:30 AM – Burford Garden Company A destination garden centre with beautiful spring displays, plants, and a café.

Address: Shilton Road, Burford OX18 4PA
Phone: 01993 823117
Highlights: Spring plants, garden inspiration, gift shop

Afternoon: Minster Lovell

12:30 PM – Lunch at The Lamb Inn, Burford

A charming 15th-century inn with excellent food and character.

Address: Sheep Street, Burford OX18 4LR
Phone: 01993 823155
Price Range: £££
Known For: Historic character, seasonal menu, garden
Must Try: Cotswold lamb, spring vegetable tart

2:00 PM – Drive to Minster Lovell This tiny village is home to one of the most picturesque ruins in England.

2:30 PM – Minster Lovell Hall & Dovecote The romantic ruins of a 15th-century manor house sit beside the River Windrush.

Address: Minster Lovell, Witney OX29 0RR
Managed By: English Heritage
Entry: Free
Spring Highlights:
- Wildflowers around the ruins
- Daffodils along the riverbank
- Perfect picnic spot
- Historic dovecote

3:30 PM – Village Walk Explore the tiny village of Minster Lovell with its traditional stone cottages and spring gardens.

4:00 PM – Afternoon Tea at The Old Swan Enjoy a final Cotswold cream tea at this historic inn.

Address: Minster Lovell, Witney OX29 0RN
Phone: 01993 774441
Price: £10-12 for cream tea
Setting: Beautiful riverside garden

Evening: Farewell Dinner

7:00 PM – Dinner at The Swan at Swinbrook

End your Cotswolds spring adventure at this iconic pub, once frequented by the Mitford sisters.

Address: Swinbrook, Burford OX18 4DY
Phone: 01993 774441
Price Range: £££
Known For: Excellent food, riverside setting, literary history
Must Try: Roast Cotswold lamb, spring vegetable risotto
Atmosphere: Quintessential Cotswold pub with flagstone floors and log fires

Practical Information

Getting There

By Car: The Cotswolds is easily accessible by car:

From London: M40 to Oxford, then A40 west (approximately 1.5 hours)
From Birmingham: M5 south, then A46 (approximately 1 hour)
From Bristol: M4 east, then A46 north (approximately 45 minutes)

Car Rental:

Enterprise: Moreton-in-Marsh — 01608 650251
Hertz: Cheltenham — 01242 584333

By Train: The Cotswolds has several train stations with services from London Paddington:

Moreton-in-Marsh: Great Western Railway — 1 hour 40 minutes from London
Kemble: Great Western Railway — 1 hour 15 minutes from London
Cheltenham Spa: CrossCountry and GWR — 2 hours from London
Stroud: Great Western Railway — 1 hour 30 minutes from London

Train Fares:

London to Moreton-in-Marsh: £25-50 return (book in advance for best prices)
London to Kemble: £20-40 return

By Bus: Local bus services connect the main towns:

Stagecoach: Routes 51, 801, 802
Pulhams: Rural services connecting villages
Day Tickets: £8-10 for unlimited travel

Spring Weather

March:

Temperature: 5-12°C
Conditions: Variable, can still be cold and wet
Daylight: 11-13 hours
What to Expect: Early spring flowers, possible late frosts

April:

Temperature: 7-15°C
Conditions: Generally milder, April showers common
Daylight: 13-15 hours
What to Expect: Bluebells, blossom, lambs in fields

May:

Temperature: 10-18°C
Conditions: Warmer and drier, best weather
Daylight: 15-16 hours
What to Expect: Gardens at peak, long evenings

What to Pack for Spring

Essential Clothing:

Waterproof jacket (essential—April showers are real!)
Layers for temperature changes
Comfortable walking boots (waterproof)
Light fleece or sweater
Casual clothes for evenings
Smart-casual for nicer restaurants

Spring-Specific Items:

Umbrella
Light scarf
Sunglasses (low spring sun can be bright)
Sunscreen (yes, really—spring sun can burn)

Walking Gear:

Daypack
Water bottle
Map or GPS
Binoculars (for birdwatching)
Camera (spring is photogenic!)

Other Essentials:

UK plug adapter
Reusable shopping bag
Small first aid kit
Personal medications

Getting Around

By Car: The most convenient way to explore the Cotswolds. Roads are generally good but narrow in villages.

Parking Tips:

Arrive early at popular villages (before 10 AM)
Bring coins for parking meters (though many now accept cards/apps)
Use Park & Ride in larger towns

By Bicycle: The Cotswolds has excellent cycling routes. Bike hire available in:

Moreton-in-Marsh: Cotswold Cycling — 01608 650065
Bourton-on-the-Water: Hartwells — 01451 820033

On Foot: The Cotswolds has over 3,000 miles of footpaths. Popular long-distance trails include:

The Cotswold Way (102 miles)
The Thames Path
The Wardens' Way

Money Matters

Currency: British Pound Sterling (£) ATMs: Available in all towns, limited in villages Cards: Widely accepted, but carry cash for small purchases and parking Tipping: 10-12.5% in restaurants if service not included

Typical Costs:

Lunch: £12-20 per person
Dinner: £25-50 per person
Coffee: £2.50-3.50
Pint of beer: £4-5
Attraction entry: £8-16

Useful Contacts

Emergency: 999 or 112 Non-Emergency Police: 101 NHS Medical Advice: 111

Tourist Information:

Cirencester: 01285 654180
Stow-on-the-Wold: 01451 831855
Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 820211

Where to Eat – Complete Restaurant Guide

Fine Dining

1. The Wild Rabbit, Kingham

Type: Gastropub/Michelin listed
Price Range: ££££
Specialty: Organic, local ingredients, stylish setting
Address: Church Street, Kingham OX7 6YA
Phone: 01608 658389
Must Try: Cotswold lamb, local cheeses
Booking: Essential, especially weekends

2. The Old Butchers, Stow-on-the-Wold

Type: Fine dining
Price Range: ££££
Specialty: Seasonal tasting menus
Address: 7 Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AQ
Phone: 01451 831700
Booking: Essential

Excellent Gastropubs

3. The Swan at Swinbrook

Type: Historic gastropub
Price Range: £££
Address: Swinbrook, Burford OX18 4DY
Phone: 01993 774441

4. The Ebrington Arms, Ebrington

Type: Award-winning village pub
Price Range: £££
Address: Ebrington, Chipping Campden GL55 6NH
Phone: 01386 593223
Dog Friendly: Yes

5. The Porch House, Stow-on-the-Wold

Type: Historic inn
Price Range: £££
Address: Digbeth Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1BN
Phone: 01451 870048

Mid-Range Restaurants

6. The Swan Hotel, Bibury

Type: Riverside hotel restaurant
Price Range: £££
Address: Bibury GL7 5NW
Phone: 01285 740695

7. The Mousetrap Inn, Bourton

Type: Traditional inn
Price Range: £££
Address: Lansdowne, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AR
Phone: 01451 820334

8. The Lamb Inn, Burford

Type: Historic coaching inn
Price Range: £££
Address: Sheep Street, Burford OX18 4LR
Phone: 01993 823155

Casual Dining

9. The Catherine Wheel, Bibury

Type: Village pub
Price Range: ££
Address: Arlington, Bibury GL7 5ND
Phone: 01285 740215

10. The Croft Restaurant, Bourton

Type: Café/Restaurant
Price Range: ££
Address: The Croft, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AA
Phone: 01451 820188

11. The Crown & Trumpet, Broadway

Type: Traditional pub
Price Range: ££
Address: Church Street, Broadway WR12 7AE
Phone: 01386 853202

12. The Fleece, Cirencester

Type: Historic inn
Price Range: ££
Address: Market Place, Cirencester GL7 2NZ
Phone: 01285 658507

Where to Stay – Accommodation Guide

Luxury Hotels

1. The Swan Hotel, Bibury

Type: Historic riverside hotel
Price: £200-350/night
Address: Bibury GL7 5NW
Phone: 01285 740695
Highlights: Riverside location, 17th-century character, excellent restaurant

2. Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter

Type: Country house hotel
Price: £250-450/night
Address: Upper Slaughter GL54 2JD
Phone: 01451 820243
Highlights: Luxury accommodation, fine dining, beautiful gardens

3. Dormy House, Broadway

Type: Boutique hotel
Price: £200-400/night
Address: Willersey Hill, Broadway WR12 7LF
Phone: 01386 852711
Highlights: Spa, stunning views, contemporary design

Mid-Range Hotels

4. The Wheatsheaf Inn, Northleach

Type: Coaching inn
Price: £120-200/night
Address: West End, Northleach GL54 3EZ
Phone: 01451 860244
Highlights: Stylish rooms, excellent food, central location

5. The Porch House, Stow-on-the-Wold

Type: Historic inn
Price: £150-250/night
Address: Digbeth Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1BN
Phone: 01451 870048
Highlights: England's oldest inn, character rooms

Budget Options

6. YHA Stow-on-the-Wold

Type: Hostel
Price: £22-38/night
Address: The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AJ
Phone: 0345 371 9347
Highlights: Historic building, central location, kitchen facilities

7. The Cotswold Gateway Hotel, Burford

Type: Budget hotel
Price: £60-100/night
Address: Burford OX18 4JJ
Phone: 01993 823121

B&Bs and Guest Houses

8. The Old Post Office, Stow

Type: B&B
Price: £90-140/night
Address: 12 The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AB
Phone: 01451 830240

9. Arlington Mill, Bibury

Type: B&B
Price: £100-160/night
Address: Arlington, Bibury GL7 5ND
Phone: 01285 740337

Spring Events and Festivals

March:

Cheltenham Gold Cup: Famous horse racing festival (mid-March)
Spring bulb displays: Peak time at gardens

April:

Bluebell season: Late April is peak time
Easter events: Many attractions have special activities
Lambing season: Farms open for visits

May:

Cheltenham Jazz Festival: World-class music (late April/early May)
Bath Fringe Festival: Arts and performance (late May)
Spring garden openings: Private gardens open for charity

Final Tips for Your Spring Visit

Book accommodation early: Spring weekends are popular, especially during bluebell season
Check garden opening times: Some gardens have limited spring opening hours
Bring waterproofs: April showers are a real phenomenon
Respect the countryside: Close gates, keep dogs on leads around livestock
Support local businesses: Buy local produce and crafts
Take your time: The Cotswolds is best enjoyed slowly
Photograph respectfully: Ask before photographing private homes
Try the local specialties: Cotswold cheese, lamb, and local ales

Enjoy your blossoming Cotswolds adventure!