We always return from a holiday wishing wed had longer, especially when the location is somewhere as beautiful as the Cotswolds. It can be difficult to know how to plan your weekend to make sure you get the most out of it, but as experts in Cotswold getaways, Jigsaw has the answers with some great recommendations for how to spend your time in our luxurious, self-catering properties. Of course, you wont get to see everything during your weekend in the Cotswolds, but that means youll have the perfect excuse to get away for another adventure!
Friday evening
No matter how far youve travelled, its likely youll be tired when you arrive at your chosen Jigsaw cottage, but luckily for you, there are plenty of home comforts waiting for you to help you relax. The latest addition to our range of cottages is River Cottage in Lechlade, which has gorgeous gardens, a spacious living area and a fantastic kitchen/diner which is ideal for cooking up a storm to enjoy on your first evening in the Cotswolds. Head out to the local shops, stock up on supplies for the weekend (including breakfast for tomorrow!) and explore your home from home. If you want to stretch your legs, why not visit one of the Cotswolds charming pubs? Most of our properties are within walking distance of the nearest pub so you can leave the car behind, head out and enjoy a drink or two in a cosy country pub. After catching up or getting re-acquainted with friends and family, you can all retire to your luxury beds for a well-deserved sleep.
Saturday morning
Enjoy a lie in and take your time waking up to your beautiful surroundings. Were sure the country soundtrack will offer the perfect start to your morning! Get everyone together to enjoy a home-cooked breakfast, either out in the garden or in the kitchen. Youll find some excellent local produce around the Cotswolds, so be sure to pick up everything you need from the nearby shops. With so much stunning scenery to enjoy, nows your excuse to head out for a walk. Burn off your brekkie with a walk around your cottages location or venture off a bit further to try one of the Cotswolds most famous walks. The Cotswold Way is one of the most popular walking routes, whilst youll also find some great Miles without Stiles trails too. Remember to wear sensible shoes and don't forget the camera youll need it to capture those incredible views!
Saturday lunchtime
After walking miles around the countryside, youll be sure to have worked up an appetite, and youll be spoilt for choice around the Cotswolds picturesque villages. The Yellow Brick Caf (Moreton-in-Marsh), The Old Bakery Tearoom (Stow on the Wold) and Broadway Deli (Broadway) are all excellent choices for lunch. If youd prefer to enjoy a picnic Bourton-on-the-Water has some must-visit picnic spots, or you can head to Broadway Tower and enjoy lunch with a view that can even reach as far as the Welsh mountains on a clear day!
Saturday afternoon
Nows the time to explore some of the bustling towns of the Cotswolds. Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold are excellent choices which have a range of shops, cafes and beautiful buildings to admire. You could also visit the Daylesford Farm store which has some excellent local produce to try as well as cookery classes and more. If something more active is more your pace, you may wish to head to the Cotswold Water Park where you cycle around the park, take part in water sports or simply enjoy some of the glorious natural surroundings you may not find back home.
Saturday evening
Nows your chance to take advantage of some of the excellent restaurants dotted around the Cotswolds which offer everything from fine dining to great family feasts. Prepare in advance by booking a table to avoid disappointment. Some top recommendations for quality food include The Chefs Dozen, The Wild Rabbit in Kingham and Wild Thyme are all highly recommended for dining in the Cotswolds. Alternatively, if youd prefer to make the most of your luxury accommodation, you can book catering via our services and enjoy a delicious, high-quality meal without having to leave the comforts of your property.
Sunday morning
Its the last morning of your weekend in the Cotswolds, but theres no reason why you cant enjoy it. Take some time to enjoy breakfast in your chic surroundings and make the most of what's on your doorstep, whether that's a walk, an amble into town, or simply watching the world go by. Sunday morning is the perfect time to explore Blenheim Palace. A World Heritage Site in the heart of the Cotswolds, its breath-taking grounds and a wide range of events, always add a special touch to a weekend in the Cotswolds. The Cotswolds is also home to Batsford Arboretum and other picturesque locations, which can offer the perfect end to your weekend.
Sunday afternoon
No visit to the British countryside would be complete without a Sunday roast. The highlight of any British pubs menu, the Sunday roast is a tradition you have to experience. The Swan Inn, The Kings Head and The Swan Inn are excellent locations to enjoy the traditional roast with both indoor and outdoor seating areas to enjoy at any time of year. A long drive through the country is the ideal way to end your weekend in the Cotswolds, so be sure to take it all in and savour the views from your countryside visit.
Accommodation to help you make the most of your weekend in the Cotswolds
With Jigsaw, youre spoiled for choice with accommodation in the Cotswolds, which will make the weekend all the more enjoyable, even if you never leave the property. For small parties and couples, you can enjoy boutique, luxury Cotswold accommodation like that offered at Bay Tree Cottage and Jasmine Cottage. These locations make wonderful options for a getaway with a loved one or friend. Meanwhile, Pear Tree Cottage and Posting House Barn are excellent choices for families and groups of six, whilst larger properties such as Yew Tree Farmhouse and Stourton Manor offer excellent accommodation for larger groups. You may only have a couple of days, but there is a lot that you can enjoy in the Cotswolds. Plan your weekend according to your tastes in advance and you can create the ideal itinerary to make the most of your time. And if you still can't make up your mind, then the Jigsaw team will be able to help you get the most out of your stay with us. Take a look at our other fantastic articles about Cotswolds activities to help you make the most of your weekend in the Cotswolds.