Posted on August 15, 2024
The Cotswolds are truly a summer delight, with their rolling hills, charming villages and timeless beauty, there’s plenty to do during the summer months. As the summer begins to wind down, there’s still plenty of ways to enjoy the last of the summer sun. Here’s our list of activities to end your summer in The Cotswolds on an unforgettable high.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience the beauty of The Cotswolds from a unique vantage point with a Virgin hot air balloon flight. Soaring above the rolling hills, patchwork fields, and charming villages, you'll get a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the landscape. Depending on the wind direction you could keep an eye out for sights such as the National Trust Hidcote Gardens, the Rollright Stones or Chastleton House.
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities,we’ve written a blog full of ideas here.
Visit the Historic Sites such as Sudeley Castle
There’s plenty of places across The Cotswolds where you can step back in time. For a historic day out, head to Sudeley Castle. A historic gem nestled in the Cotswold Hills, you can explore magnificent gardens, discover the castle's rich history, and enjoy summer events such as outdoor theatre performances and garden tours. It's a perfect blend of cultural enrichment and relaxation.
If discovering the history of The Cotswolds is how you’d like to end your summer, perhaps visit the places we’ve listed here.
Enjoy a Day at Cotswold Water Park
Cool off from the summer heat at Cotswold Water Park, a haven for water lovers. With over 150 lakes, you can indulge in activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. For a more laid-back experience, relax on the sandy beach or take a leisurely swim.
If you’re looking for more than one day out on the water, why not visit any of the places listed here.
Discover the Charm of Cotswold Villages
Cotswold villages are perhaps some of the most picturesque in the entire world, and maybe none more so than Bourton-on-the-Water. Often referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-visit when the suns out. Stroll along the tranquil River Windrush, visit the Model Village, and explore the Cotswold Motoring Museum. The village's scenery and quaint shops make it a delightful summer outing.
Once you’ve fallen in love with Bouton-on-the-water, you may want to visit these villages we’ve listed here.
Enjoy The Sunshine With A Picnic
If you’re looking to enjoy a tranquil summer's day with a picnic, there’s few better places than at Westonbirt Arboretum. This stunning woodland is renowned for its beautiful forest grounds which boast over 2,500 different tree species. Pack a lunch, find your spot, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
If you’d like to eat out a bit more whilst the weather is permitting, we’ve got more alfresco dining options for you here.
Harvest season
September brings with it the harvest season, which means that all your local farmer markets and local produce shops will be filling with great seasonal products. You’ll be able to get some amazing fresh produce such as: Tomato, courgettes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, pumpkins and squashes. The Cotswolds have so many amazing farmers markets you can visit, we’ve narrowed down the best six for you here.
Head to Roots and Seeds
Roots and Seeds Kitchen Garden is located at The Old Kennels in the heart of Cirencester Park. The kitchen brings together sustainable, home-grown and locally sourced produce with an amazing dining experience. You can also get some food and coffee to go from the cafe they have on site. This means you can wander around Cirencester whilst enjoying some farm to fork food.
If you’d like to know where to go whilst wandering Cirencester with some amazing food, read our area guide here.
Cheltenham Literature Festival
Whilst a little further away, the world class literature festival will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary from the 4th-13th of October 2024. With an amazing lineup of guests including: Dame Judi Dench, Richard Osman, Bob Mortimer, Miranda Hart and Miriam Margolyes just to name a few. Besides some amazing guests, there will be plenty of stalls offering classes to help writers as well as plenty of ways to get your next favourite read.
If you’re looking for your next read that’s Cotswold inspired, read our blog about books that were born in The Cotswolds here.
Glamping
The Cotswolds being an area of natural beauty means there are few places in the world better suited for a weekend glamping. Cotswold Glamping presents an idyllic retreat spread across 150 acres of beautiful countryside. The site offers picturesque gardens and sweeping views. Whether you're lounging outside your tent with a book or exploring the surrounding beauty, this glamping haven provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation.
For more amazing clamping sites across The Cotswolds, read our recommendations here.
The Moreton-in-Marsh Show
Taking place on Saturday the 7th of September, the Moreton-in-Marsh Show is the largest show celebrating rural life and agriculture. Offering a wide array of attractions ranging from thrilling livestock competitions, to captivating equestrian displays. You’ll also be able to peruse a diverse array of stalls offering local produce, crafts, and artisanal goods. Unique features such as the vintage tractor parade and interactive farming demonstrations provide visitors with a hands-on experience of country living.
Moreton-in-Marsh is perfectly between both Oxford and Cheltenham, so if you’re travelling for the show, why not make a weekend out of it and stay in either of the amazing Cotswold towns. Find our guide to Oxford here. Or our guide to Cheltenham here.