Our Favourite Cotswolds Towns & Villages
The Cotswolds is one of the UK’s most beloved destinations, attracting both locals and international travellers with its quintessential English charm. Boasting picturesque thatched cottages plucked out of storybooks, cosy pubs with crackling fires, and rolling green hills adorned with flora and fauna, choosing where to visit can seem an impossible task.
With so many stunning historical Cotswolds towns and villages, we’ve helped to narrow down your selection with a list of our favourites. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway with your partner or a family break, the Cotswolds has it all.
Broadway
Known as the ‘jewel of the Cotswolds’, Broadway is a must-visit for anybody looking to explore the best Cotswolds villages. At its centre is a wide, tree-lined high street framed with preserved limestone buildings. Broadway has a timeless charm and an elegant atmosphere, with many people choosing to stay here during their visit to the area. With its many amenities and cultural attractions, there’s plenty to explore at a leisurely pace.
You’ll find independent boutiques, art galleries, and stylish eateries serving some of the region's finest food. For those who appreciate design and heritage, the Gordon Russell Design Museum is a fantastic attraction, showcasing a wide selection of the designer’s works. Reachable on foot or by car is Broadway Tower, where you can take in a panoramic view for miles and miles.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water, or the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, is a picture-perfect village centred around the tranquil River Windrush. With elegant low bridges and golden, honey-hued stone buildings, this charming spot is considered one of the prettiest Cotswolds villages in England.
The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, making it an ideal place for a slow-paced afternoon stroll or riverside picnic. In the centre of Bourton-on-the-water, you’ll find a lovely mix of independent shops and cosy cafés to stop by. If you’re planning a trip with children, we highly recommend visiting The Model Village, a miniature replica of Bourton itself, and The Dragonfly Maze. Bourton-on-the-Water is a top choice for any Cotswolds towns and villages itinerary. Be sure to stop by!
Stow-on-the-Wold
As the highest of the Cotswolds towns, Stow-on-the-Wold stands at nearly 800ft and is located on the ancient Roman Fosse Way. Its elevated position provides visitors with gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Once a thriving centre for wool trading, its Market Square remains the heart of this historic town.
Stow-on-the-Wold boasts a delightful selection of antique shops and pretty tearooms perfect for a true British experience. One of its most magical landmarks is the yew-tree-framed doorway of St Edward’s Church, which is believed to have inspired Tolkien’s works. From cobbled alleyways to its honey-hued buildings, this town really does capture everything we love about Cotswolds villages.
Moreton-in-Marsh
Moreton-in-Marsh, nestled in the heart of the northern Cotswolds, is a lively market town. We love it for its broad high street, which echoes stories of the town’s history through captivating 17th- and 18th-century buildings. Many have been converted into welcoming cafés and shops to enjoy today.
Moreton’s weekly Tuesday market is a special event, as one of the largest in the Cotswolds area. It offers a genuine local experience with traders flocking to sell their homegrown, homemade produce. For cheese aficionados, The Cotswold Cheese Company is a great highlight. With excellent rail links to London, it's one of the most accessible Cotswolds towns and an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Cotswolds villages.
Chipping Norton
Known by locals as ‘Chippy’, Chipping Norton is a lovely town positioned on the outskirts of Cotswolds. It was once a major wool trade hub, and today, its industrial heritage can be felt through elegant architecture, a symbol of the town’s former prowess.
In the town’s centre, you’ll find pubs and shops aplenty, however, a highlight for us is the much-loved Jaffé & Neale bookshop café. Don’t miss out on Chipping Norton Theatre, housed in a converted Victorian warehouse. Finally, but not least, Chipping Norton is of course surrounded by many picturesque walking trails and countryside, the perfect location for nature lovers.
Whether you're seeking peaceful strolls, unique shopping experiences, or rich cultural heritage, these Cotswolds towns and villages each offer their slice of magic.
Ready to explore the Cotswolds?
Book your stay at The Wood Norton and enjoy the perfect base for discovering all the Cotswolds villages and towns we’ve mentioned.
At The Wood Norton in Evesham, you can easily reach all of the locations above whilst enjoying the comforts of our country house hotel. With a range of rooms on offer and our on-site indulgent restaurant, there’s no better place to start your Cotswolds holiday. Don’t forget to check out our offers page for exclusive deals on your next Cotswold break.