Posted on April 06, 2023
The Cotswolds truly comes alive during Spring. With trees blossoming, flowers blooming and wildlife rearing its head, we love taking time out for a staycation in this gorgeous area we call home. We’re lucky to spend lots of time exploring every nook and cranny of these rolling hills. Keeping our ears to the ground on new businesses coming to the area and trying out amazing spots to eat, play and rest. If you’re looking for a local’s guide on what to see and do throughout the Easter break, here’s a few highlights from our own to-do list in The Cotswolds over the next few weeks.
Where to eat
The Cotswolds is a foodie’s dream destination with so many delicious cafes, restaurants and eateries to choose from. If you’re looking for something new, then definitely head to Roots + Seeds which is coming to Cirencester Park from the Easter weekend. Enjoy brunch, coffee or a full meal from this sustainable food hub.
We can’t wait to head to The Plough in Stratton, which relaunched in December under the management of Cirencester's dynamic culinary duo, Sam & Jak. Expect an exciting twist on pub menus with plenty of smokey offerings!
For a traditional, relaxed pub atmosphere, especially on a drizzly or cold day, The Fox at Oddington is our go-to. Crackling log fires, a good drinks menu and the best wood-fired pizza, are all the makings of a perfect lunch or dinner surrounded by gorgeous countryside.
Where to shop
We love having the time to mooch around independent shops and boutiques when there’s time to spare and two we have bookmarked are Arambha and The Curated Store. Arambha in Elkstone Studios is a women’s fashion boutique, stocking gorgeous independent clothing brands with a focus on sustainability. An explosion of joy and colour as you step through the door, I’m excited to browse and pick up something amazing to wear this spring.
The Curated Store in Stow On The Wold is one of those shops you never tire of visiting. With rotating pop-ups from lifestyle and interiors brands, it’s a wonderful way to discover some amazing small businesses and talented artisans.
Where to get outdoors
Held on the Elmore Estate, the Rewild Swim Club is an amazing way to get into wild swimming. More than just taking a dip in the gorgeous estate’s lake, book yoga and swim and sauna sessions, starting from this April.
If you love getting out or near the water but swimming isn’t your thing then Cotswold Water Park is a must-visit with plenty of activities to choose from. Paddle boarding, birdwatching, boating, barbecues by the lakeside, take your pick! Or explore the rolling hills, villages and towns by e-bike with Cotswold Electric Bike Tours. New for 2023, they have family day tours which mean you get all to leave the planning and routes to the local experts while you cycle along and take in the views!
Where to explore with kids
One of our favourites to visit every Easter break is Sudeley Castle, which has something for the whole family. Tudor castle and grounds for the history buffs, beautiful gardens for nature and flora lovers and one of the best adventure playgrounds for kids to go wild and explore.
A day at the zoo is always a treat while on Easter break and Cotswold Wildlife Park is our choice for meeting exotic wildlife. Say hello to giraffes, red pandas, lions and explore one of the UK’s largest reptile collections right here in the wildlife park.
For animals a little closer to home but no less adorable, head to Cotswold Farm Park where lambing season is in full swing! See lots of cute, fluffy lambs leaping and jumping across the park. The perfect event to get closer to nature this spring.
Where we’ll be taking a bit of me-time
Holidays or staycations mean taking a bit of time for yourself. A spa day is a must and The Lygon Arms in Broadway is high up on our list of spa spots in The Cotswolds this spring. The indoor pool looks stunning and we love their choice of sunrise, day or twilight packages so you can choose to spa during the time of day you feel most relaxed.
Finally, we love going out for dinner and a show! Whether that’s a good film at the cinema or enjoying a bit of theatre. Tivoli Cinema in Cheltenham and The Barn Theatre in Cirencester are two of our favourite spots. Their interiors are stunning and both have amazing restaurants on-site to enjoy tasty food and drinks before walking only a few feet towards the entertainment.