For a traditional winter escape, theres nowhere better than the Cotswolds. A winter in the Cotswolds is picture-perfect, with many glorious sights akin to those dreamed up in books or on screen. Whether youre escaping the city or want to explore some of the best landscapes in the UK, a stay in the Cotswolds this winter will be sure to impress. See our recommendations to help you enjoy the sights and sounds of winter for your Jigsaw Holiday break.
Relax by a roaring fire in a Cotswolds pub
Lazy afternoons or evenings are well-spent in front of a toasty fire, and youll find more than enough choice in the Cotswolds. The Falkland Arms in Great Tew is recommended for those who like to head off the beaten track, offering great lunch menus to enjoy beside the fire. Those staying in our Chipping Campden properties will enjoy The Ebrington Arms, which often attracts the attention of travel publications, thanks to its cosy interior and delicious menu. Meanwhile, The Kings Head in Cirencester is a great spot to enjoy a G&T or an evening meal during winter in the Cotswolds. Where to stay: Chipping Campden is a popular choice for those looking to sample some of the Cotswolds best pubs. Singer House is ideal for 6 with its gorgeous courtyard garden, open kitchen space and cosy fireplace of its own. With such homely features, it's a wonderful choice for a winter in the Cotswolds escape - in fact, you may not want to leave at all!
Visit the birthplace of Shakespeare at wonderful Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is just a short drive north of the Cotswolds, and is a must-see for your winter break. From the Canal Basic to New Place, which was Shakespeares last home, youll find many great things to see and do. Shakespeare fans will appreciate the history and culture the town has to offer, with an enjoyable open-bus tour available taking you past many of Shakespeares haunts. In the evening, why not escape the cold and enjoy a production of Shakespeares most memorable works with the Royal Shakespeare Company with both modern takes on classic plays and traditional productions of some of the greats. With stylish shops to explore and some wonderful places to eat, a day out in Stratford-upon-Avon is a must this winter. Where to stay: Holly Cottage in Broadway is a stylishly presented cottage for two which is around a half-hour drive from Stratford-upon-Avon. With everything you need for a luxurious weekend away, Broadways fantastic pubs and shops are just a mile walk away too.
Support the National Trust and explore some of the UKs best-loved sites
Winter in the Cotswolds is a great time for exploring some of the UKs best-loved heritage sites, away from the summer crowds when things can get extremely busy. With a more relaxed change of pace, winter is ideal for visiting some National Trust properties, of which the Cotswolds is home to many. Hanbury Hall and Gardens in Worcestershire has many fascinating sites to see, including the Gothic and Hercules Rooms which are impressive to witness whilst the gardens themselves are splendid in winter. Dyrham Park meanwhile is a longer drive away, just short of Bath. Its a wonderful property which dates back to the 17th Century, with parklands full of resident deer and history to explore. A stunning backdrop for a winter visit, its worth the drive through the Cotswolds to explore. Where to stay: For an unforgettable winter escape with friends or family, youll be impressed with the beautiful Watery Park Barn near Chipping Campden, which not only sleeps 14 but has all the warming comforts you need to enjoy a winter group break, including a large dining space to enjoy meals together. Ideal for exploring the northern Cotswolds, youll be within driving distance to Hanbury Hall, whilst those looking to enjoy Dyrham Park, Bath and other sights can make the most of New Church Cottage in Tetbury, which is conveniently located for driving to different Cotswold areas.
Avoid the crowds and enjoy some of the Cotswolds most popular towns
Now that the Christmas rush is over, you can make the most of the quiet and get to know some of the most popular towns in the Cotswolds, minus the crowds. Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe and Stow-on-the-Wold are much quieter at this time of year, making it easier to get tables at cafes and restaurants. If its a spot of shopping that youre after, youll find it much easier to navigate the boutiques of Burford at this time of year, whilst also picking up some bargains in the New Year sales. Where to stay: Millstone Cottage is one of our newest properties, sleeping up to 11 and featuring a range of great features. The wood burning stove will warm your hearts (and feet!) whilst theres plenty of space to wine and dine and catch up with friends and family.
Get 2017 off to a healthy start with wintery walks
Most of us will resolve to live a healthier lifestyle once the New Year comes around, and what better way to build up your fitness than with winter walks in the Cotswolds? Walking is fantastic exercise for all fitness levels, with the Cotswolds providing beautiful scenery to help keep you going. Popular winter walks include Tetbury to Westonbirt Arboretum (itself worth a visit in winter), totalling 5.5 miles, as well as the Cloth, Coal and Canals walk which takes you 3.5 miles amongst many locations in the Stroud Valley. For more winter walk suggestions, take a look at these 5 walks for winter in the Cotswolds. Where to stay: Minchinhampton makes a great base for taking in some of the Cotswolds most popular walks. A charming village in itself, youll find plenty to entertain after youve taken off your walking boots. Book a stay at Park Cottage and enjoy a spot of country life, whilst being able to relax in front of the fire after coming in from the cold.
See wildlife in winter in the Cotswolds at top nature attractions
Many attractions close for the winter months but there are still plenty to explore in the Cotswolds. Cattle Country in Berkeley is a wonderful place to take the family, with many activities for them to enjoy including animal feeding and talks, play areas and a boating lake. Gloucestershires Barn Owl Centre is another great place to enjoy during the winter months (booking is necessary), allowing you to get up close and personal with some of the UKs most beautiful birds. The work of the centre is extremely important, and a visit can help provide much-needed ongoing support. A walk around the Cotswolds parks and woodlands is another way to spot some of the local wildlife, so take your camera just in case! Where to stay: Nellies Barn near Stow-on-the-Wold is set on a real working farm, with plenty of wildlife to enjoy. Theres deer, owls and pheasants nearby and with room for up to 4, its an excellent location for families to enjoy a winter getaway.
Enjoy art and other culture in the Cotswolds
With the Cotswolds celebrating 50 years of being designated an Area of Outstanding Beauty, there are some great exhibits to see to mark the occasion. Cirencesters Corinium Museum will be home to a number of works inspired by the landscape of the Cotswolds until the 5th of February. Meanwhile, you can have a go at creating your own works of art at the New Brewery Arts on the 9th of January with a fantastic session on how to develop your own painting style which were sure will feature some Cotswolds inspiration. Where to stay: Hope Cottage in Quenington is a short drive from Cirencester, allowing you to soak in the culture and then retreat to this beautiful Cotswolds stone cottage. It sleeps 6 and is tucked away on the Coln Valley to allow you enjoy peace and quiet during your break from normal life. With so much to see and do this winter in the Cotswolds, its the ideal time to book your stay with us. Get 2017 off to a great start and take in some glorious sights and enjoy the spirit and buzz of this beautiful part of the country at this time of year. We have an excellent range of available properties to suit all party sizes, including couples, families and groups with different features to cater for your needs. See our available properties and book your 2017 stay with us.