Best Things To Do In The Cotswolds For Couples
The Cotswolds ranks high on our list of most romantic places to visit in the UK. With its cobbled streets, quaint pubs and cafes and picture-perfect villages. There are SO many romantic best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples. Think toy-like villages mixed among the rolling hills and stunning countryside views, it’s the perfect place for a couples’ weekend away.
Keep reading for the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples.
Read all about our top romantic European weekend breaks here!
Where are the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds are located in Southwest England and border six counties. They lay mainly within the English counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire but also extend into parts of Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers an area of approximately 787 square miles (2,040 square kilometres) most of which is made up of rolling countryside and farmland with small picturesque towns dotted throughout.
When is the best time to visit the Cotswolds?
There isn’t a bad time to visit the beautiful area of the Cotswolds. However, there is something magical about visiting during autumn. The red and orange leaves, the climbing ivy and the English pubs, just starting to turn cosy. You can read all about why we think that autumn in the Cotswolds is the best here.
Best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples
Visit Castle Combe
Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village often named the prettiest village in England and, when you visit, it’s easy to see why.
The quaint village gets its name from the 12th-century castle that once stood to the north of the village. Nowadays Castle Combe feels perfectly trapped in time with the ‘newest’ buildings having been built in the 17th century. The tiny place features a stream running through it, a couple of tiny shops, a church, a pub and a hotel and is well worth a visit if you’re visiting the Cotswolds. It is one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples.
Spend a few hours here meandering around the streets. Visit the medieval market cross monument near the pretty, Grade I-listed St Andrew’s Church and visit the Manor house for a picture-perfect moment. If you’re looking to treat yourself and your partner you can also stay at The Manor House Hotel. Filled with picturesque charm, stunning grounds and ivy-covered walls.
Watch the Sunset From Broadway Tower
Broadway Tower is set on top of Broadway Hill and boasts one of the most beautiful viewpoints in The Cotswolds. You simply can’t miss a visit to this iconic landmark in the picture-perfect English countryside. This beautiful little tower is surrounded by incredible scenery as far as the eye can see and visiting here is one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples.
For an extra level of romance visit here around sunset time to watch the sky turn a magical shade of pink.
Explore St Edwards Church
Visiting St Edward’s Church should be high on any list of best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples. You might be thinking, why visit a church? Once you’ve seen photos of it you’ll understand why. Sat in the heart of the picturesque market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, built somewhere between the 11th and 15th century this mystical church will surely take your breath away.
But, the main attraction is the Tolkien Door. This ethereal-looking door looks like a portal that could transport you to another realm. With its studded wooden panels nestled among ancient trees and an old oil lamp hanging above it, it’s a true (not so hidden) gem. Not only is it incredibly beautiful, but this magical little church door is also said to have inspired Doors of Durin in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Take a Drive Along the Romantic Roads of The Cotswolds
If you are staying in the Cotswolds and have the advantage of a bit more time then one of our best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples is to take a romantic drive along the beautiful roads. The winding country roads are some of the most beautiful in the country, the only problem you’ll have is not wanting to stop at every turn you make.
If you’re looking for the most romantic road then Copse Hill Road, in Lower Slaughter, takes that title. Named as the most romantic road trip in the UK by EnjoyTravel. The road is incredibly picturesque and romantic with quintessentially English houses to one side of you and a beautiful river on the other. The, not so, romantically named Lower Slaughter is also a lovely place to stop for a few hours. Enjoy a country ramble or a pint at the pub.
Visit the Cotswolds Lavender Fields
If you time your visit to the Cotswolds right then on your trip you can also visit the Cotswold Lavender Fields and wildflower fields at Hill Barn Farm. Stretching 70 acres across beautiful rolling hills covered in sweet-smelling lavender. This spot is a must for anyone looking for the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples. During the summer months, you can sit and enjoy a lavender-flavoured ice cream or shortbread whilst admiring the wonderful views.
Although most people visit to see the incredible array of lavender the wildflower fields are just as impressive. Packed full of a beautiful rainbow of colours and flower varieties. The fields also have a child play area if you’re visiting with the whole family.
The exact opening times depend on the weather. But, generally, the fields are only open during the summer months opening mid-June with peak bloom usually in mid-July.
Enjoy a Picnic at Arlington Row
Arlington Row found in Bibury, is a photographer’s dream. This little row of cottages is one of the most photographed spots in England. Each angle offers a different, picturesque perspective and is the perfect spot to take some photos. The unique homes on Arlington Row were constructed many years ago in the 1380s and boast an interesting history. During the summer months, the little town pops up some deck chairs next to the river so you can sit and enjoy the view with a tasty picnic. We rank this spot highly as one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples.
If you’re looking to take pictures then just be sure to visit early in the morning as it can get very busy!
Visit the Historic Blenheim Palace
Take a stroll around the historic Blenheim Palace. Located in Woodstock in Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is a beautiful stately home to visit packed full of history. Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family Blenheim Palace is also the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. As well as being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Entrance to the house and gardens costs £35.00. Whilst this may seem on the higher side it also gives you free entry for the rest of the year. Meaning you can visit as much as your heart desires throughout the year. If this price is a bit steep for you, then there is the option to visit the grounds instead for £22 per adult.
So, there we have it! A complete guide to the best things to do in the Cotswolds for couples. From photogenic residential streets to hiking trails and sunset spots.
Have you visited any of these amazing spots in The Cotswolds? Let us know which one is your favourite in the comments below!
