Posted on November 21, 2024
The Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous parts of England. But we are of course totally biassed! With the snow recently beginning to fall and more hopefully on the horizon, we could be in for a treat and see our gorgeous villages adorned with a dusting of snow! Here are a few of our favourite towns and villages to visit across The Cotswold with the snow capped roofs in mind and some lovely cafes and pubs to visit along the way.
Bibury
Possibly one of the most renowned villages of The Cotswolds, Bibury is a true gem which was once described by William Morris (1834-96) as "the most beautiful village in England". The quintessential Arlington Row, a row of weavers cottages built of local stone next to the River Coln, is one of England's most iconic and photographed places. Nearby Bibury Trout Farm and the Saxon Church, the Church of St Mary, are well worth a visit. The perfect stop for a spot of lunch is The Swan Hotel, a beautiful place to eat and stay with an impressive facade adorned with climbing
foliage.
Snowshill
As one of the highest villages in The Cotswolds, if it's going to snow anywhere on the rolling hills, it will be here. Snowshill has become a favourite spot for seeing The Cotswolds in snow as it was famously featured in all it's snowy white glory in Bridget Jones' Diary. Fun fact, this scene was actually filmed in July so it had to be covered in fake snow in this instant, but we promise it's just as beautiful in real life. From here, take a lovely winter walk to Broadway and back which is around 6 miles in total, taking you past the famous Broadway Tower. Stop in Broadway for a spot of lunch, check out our area guide for some ideas.
Broadway
This stunning Cotswold town has so much to offer for a wonderful day out in the snow. The delightful High Street is lined with horse chestnut trees and includes a mixture of period houses and picturesque honey coloured Cotswold stone cottages. The Broadway Deli, an independent delicatessen and cafe, has one of the best window displays that tastes as good as it looks. Located just nearby to escape the cold is the Inn & Brasserie which uses locally-sourced ingredients to prepare fantastic gastro-pub food. One of the most iconic sights across these rolling hills is nearby at Broadway Tower, offering breathtaking views over the surrounding snow-covered countryside.
Castle Combe
There's no better way to describe Castle Combe than how Edward Dowling so accurately put it "Here grand terrestrial scenes, almost celestial nice, makes Castle Combe, sweet vale, an earthy Paradise." What more is there to say? If you were to close your eyes and picture a traditional Cotswolds village, you’ll end up with a vision of Castle Combe. Wander the snow-dusted streets then escape the cold at The Castle Inn which traces its origins back to the 12th century with much of the original construction still in place to this day.
Ebrington
Situated just a few miles from Chipping Campden, this Cotswold village is stunning. Home to quintessential Cotswold stone houses, the village has fabulous walks on its doorstep. The amazing Ebrington Arms is the place to dust off those snow boots and enjoy a well deserved tipple. Serving fantastic food to locals for over 300 years, you certainly won’t be the first nor last to enjoy the warmth of.possibly the cosiest fireplace around.
Painswick
Often referred to as the "Queen of The Cotswolds", Painswick is a historic wool town nestled in the famous Cotswold Hills surrounded by breathtaking Gloucestershire countryside and its charm is only multiplied after a powdering of snow. Painswick is home to a variety of small shops and galleries, pubs, restaurants and tea shops. Offering real ales, an open fire and a warm welcome we’d highly recommend the Oak Pub and The Painswick is the ideal boutique hotel getaway and wouldn't be a bad place to get snowed in.