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2016 official guide

stars of the relax & screen ten unwind tv & film locations things to do ultimate spa breaks see page 26 see page 14 whatever the weather see page 10

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4 Quick Guide to the Cotswolds Decide which of our beautiful towns and villages to stay in.

10 Ten Things to Do Whatever the Weather Top ideas for great days out. Sunshine optional!

12 Retail Therapy From designer and high street to shabby chic, we’ve got it all.

14 Relax & Indulge From spa breaks to afternoon tea, find time to indulge yourself.

16 Creative Experience Discover a new talent on a wide variety of courses and workshops.

17 The Great Outdoors Get out and about in the beautiful 26 Cotswold countryside.

19 Looking for Adventure? From zorbing to horse-riding, fishing Welcome to the Cotswolds, to water sports – you’ll find it all in the Cotswolds. home to breathtaking countryside

20 Wild Encounters and a place you’ll never forget. Discover more about the area of outstanding natural beauty and wonderful wildlife in the Cotswolds. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape in one of our fabulous hotels, pubs or cottages or planning an action-packed weekend of outdoor activities and adventures, you’ll find it in 22 Wine & Dine the beautiful Cotswold countryside. Enjoy a warm Cotswolds welcome at these great places to eat and drink. Lose yourself in our stunning scenery; enjoy world class food, drink and shopping; meander through picturesque villages and 24 Messing About on the Water bustling market towns or simply soak up the atmosphere at Don’t let the lack of coastline put you one of our wonderful festivals and events. off a water-filled Cotswolds holiday.

26 TV & Film Locations Walk in the footsteps of your favourite TV and movie stars.

28 Gardens, Castles & Stately Homes You’ll find gorgeous gardens, superb stately homes and castles galore.

30 Heritage & History Our top ten ideas for a historical day out in the Cotswolds. Plan your stay Make sure you download the Cotswolds app 32 Quirky Cotswolds Looking for days out with a difference? before you get here – it’s the perfect companion You’ve come to the right place! to our visitor guide and will help you make the most of your precious time with us.

34 Attractions

41 Accommodation

59 Map

2 Visit www.cotswolds.com 4

16 32 18

10 14 24 Don’t miss unique Cotswolds Festivals & Events from internationally famous fixtures to the traditional or quirky!

15 - 18 March 23 - 30 May 9 June - 2 August 5 - 7 August The Festival, Festival Longborough Festival Opera The Festival of British of Music & Arts Eventing, 1 - 30 April 2 - 3 July SITE16 – Valleys 27 - 29 May Cotswold Show, 26 - 28 August Contemporary Arts Festival Music Festival Stroud Fringe Festival and Open Studio Trails 6 - 17 July 30 May Cheltenham Music Festival 27 - 28 August 22 April – 1 May Woolsack Races Phoenix Festival, Cirencester Wotton-under-Edge 8 - 10 July Arts Festival 3 - 19 June Royal International Air Tattoo, 3 - 8 September Broadway Arts Festival History Festival, 27 April - 2 May Jazz Festival, Cheltenham 3 - 4 June 8 - 18 July 7 - 16 October Cotswold Olimpick Games Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham The Times Cheltenham 30 April - 23 May and Scuttlebrook Wake Cricket Festival Literature Festival Stroud International Textiles Select Festival 7 - 9 June 9 - 10 July 13 - 15 November and Open Studio Trails Bledington Music Festival Medieval Festival The Open Meeting Cheltenham Racecourse 8 - 21 May 7 - 12 June 22 - 31 July The Times Cheltenham 46th Guiting Music Festival Look out for more diary Music Festival Science Festival dates throughout the guide. For a complete list visit 20 - 22 May www.cotswolds.com/whats-on Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 3 quick to the guide Cotswolds

4 Visit www.cotswolds.com Beautiful countryside, chic accommodation, colourful markets, quirky events and shopping… the stunning towns and villages of the Cotswolds will always surprise you!

The north... Whilst the rightly famous and popular towns of the north Cotswolds such as Cheltenham, Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water or Burford feature in every guidebook, head off the beaten track and you can unearth hidden gems such as Bourton-on-the-Hill or Naunton. Each of the better known market towns such as Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold has a cluster of villages around it and these are decidedly Cotswold in character and well worth investigating. Winchcombe is an unspoilt market town set on the Cotswold edge. It’s known as being a centre for walkers and is a great place to base yourself if you want to enjoy the rural Cotswolds. A stay in the north Cotswolds brings Stratford upon Avon and into perfect range for day visits.

The south... The south Cotswolds covers the area around Cirencester and the Stroud Valleys – continuing down to north and towns such as Tetbury and . Basing yourself here puts and Bath within easy reach. The is an incredible place for leisure offering sports, walks and a beach based around 150 lakes in 40 square miles. Despite its size, it is a well-kept secret just a few miles from Cirencester. The ‘Five Valleys’ meet at the town of Stroud; linked by the lofty heights of Rodborough, and Image opposite: Arlington Row, Bibury. Commons. Many artists and craftspeople live in these This page: Montpellier, peaceful, hidden valleys. The surrounding pretty towns Cheltenham; Family of , , Fairford, Lechlade-on-Thames farm fun; Broadway; and Tetbury are all lovely Cotswold market towns. Cotswold Morris Dancing; ; Bourton- Whichever part of the Cotswolds you choose, the advice is on-the-Water; Cotswold Olimpick Games, to really make yourself at home by staying a little longer. Chipping Campden.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 5 Cheltenham Spa quick This Regency town is internationally renowned for to the guide its breathtaking cultural, sporting and annual events Cotswolds programme. As the Cultural Centre for the Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a festival for everyone from dancing to horse-racing and literature, plus comedy and concerts at Cheltenham Town Hall. Historic architecture includes the stunning Grade I listed Pittville Pump Room, with The Wilson offering a dynamic exhibition programme and collections of international significance. Quality accommodation, shopping, and many dining options make this a town for all seasons. Map ref: F3/4 The Wilson

The Cotswolds has some fantastic places to stay, from vibrant and cultural cities to historic market towns.

Berkeley Bibury Bourton-on-the-Water This lovely town is home to the 12th century William Morris once Berkeley Castle, which is the oldest inhabited castle called Bibury ‘the most One of the most famous Cotswold villages in , and Dr. Jenner’s House, once the home beautiful village in where you can enjoy the with its of the pioneer of the smallpox vaccination. Map ref: C6 England’ and it is still beautiful bridges and the town’s excellent visitor one of the prettiest attractions. Map ref: I4 today. Home to Bibury Trout Farm. Broadway Map ref: I5 Famously beautiful and popular throughout the year. Lined with some great shops, restaurants, hotels and plenty of antique shops with Broadway Tower as an iconic viewpoint overlooking the Burford town. Map ref: H2 Full of Cotswold stone houses with hidden secrets that can be glimpsed through narrow alleyways and courtyards. A renowned centre for the antiques trade. Map ref: J5

6 Visit www.cotswolds.com Chipping Campden One of the best preserved and most historically important towns with a famously beautiful high street, lovely thatched cottages and elegant market hall. Map ref: I1

Fairford

Chipping Norton Fairford Cirencester Church A bustling, buzzing, On the Cotswold Sits on a stretch of working and surrounded the offering market town at the by hills, making it a delightful walks in quiet ‘Gateway to the great base for walks countryside. The great Cotswolds’. It’s a and Cotswold views. glory here is the parish fantastic place to visit Nearby Uley is home ‘wool church’ with with a great choice of to a nationally a complete set of independent shops. acclaimed arts centre. 28 medieval stained Map ref: K3 Map ref: D6 glass windows. Map ref: I6

Corinium Museum

Cirencester Cirencester is a must-see thriving market town at the heart of the Cotswolds with ancient origins. The town was one of the most important places in , making the Corinium Museum worth a visit. The town mixes old with new, having a vibrant arts centre with workshops, Britain’s oldest open air swimming pool and beautiful abbey grounds. The amazing selection of independent shops Gloucester and restaurants sit alongside Rich in history, the city boasts a wealth of architectural gems, the ‘woolgothic’ church, which numerous visitor attractions, a Premiership Rugby team dominates the marketplace. and can truly be regarded as a great English city. Besides the Map ref: G6 awe-inspiring cathedral, Gloucester’s waterside location and Victorian Docks feature Gloucester Quays outlet centre, a mix Download the Cotswolds App today for of cafes and museums. Map ref: E4 up to date events and places to stay

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 7 quick to the guide Cotswolds

Lechlade-on-Thames On the and a lovely spot for boat trips, fishing and picnics on the banks. Nearby Manor was the summer home of William Morris for 25 years. Map ref: J6

Minchinhampton A delightful market town with a good choice of cafés and breathtaking views of the Stroud Valleys from the common. Map ref: E6

Stanton, Stanway & Snowshill Three of the most beautiful villages of the Cotswolds; Stanton is lovely, has a fabulous pub and outstanding views. Stanway is host to a magnificent manor house and a 300 foot water fountain and Snowshill has a wonderful Manor and Lavender Farm as attractions. Map ref: H2 Painswick Valley

Moreton-in-Marsh Stow-on-the-Wold A bustling town which hosts the largest open The highest of the Cotswold towns and famous as a centre for antiques, air street market in the Cotswolds. The annual boutique shops and places to stop and refuel. Visit St Edwards Church, September Moreton Show is a major celebration of which used to hold prisoners in the . Map ref: I3 past and present farming life. Map ref: J2

Nailsworth An artistic town renowned for its award-winning restaurants, pubs, cafés, food emporium and a celebrated bakery (home to The Fabulous Baker Brothers) as well as independent shopping. Map ref: E6

Northleach A working Cotswold town with a lovely market square where you Stroud Farmers’ Market will get a sense of real life in the Cotswolds. Map ref: H4

Painswick Surrounded by marvellous walking country, Painswick is one of the finest Cotswold towns and sits on the Cotswold Way. The Rococo Gardens and Laurie Lee’s Slad are nearby. Map ref: E5 Painswick

8 Visit www.cotswolds.com Tewkesbury

Winchcombe Cotswold stone cottages enhanced by black and white timber buildings, Tewkesbury narrow side streets and Situated where the Rivers Severn and Avon meet, Tewkesbury has a character all of its charming houses make own and is one of the few places in the Cotswold area where you will see black and white up the centre of this half–timbered buildings. In fact, there are almost 400 listed buildings and this makes it fabulous town. Sudeley popular with visitors who also enjoy spending time on the riverbanks, visiting the heritage Castle, Winchcombe centre and admiring the elegant Abbey. Map ref: F2 Pottery and the Steam Railway are close by. Map Stroud ref: G3 Probably the most photographed villages in the Cotswolds...

The Slaughters Considered to be some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds attracting visitors from all over the world. Map ref: I3

Tetbury The Market House is at the heart of the town dating back to the 17th century, and is still used regularly for markets. The town holds many events including the Lower Slaughter annual Woolsack Races. Map ref: F7

Stroud Wotton-under-Edge Brimming with independent shops, cafés, galleries and a lovely museum, bohemian Nestling under the Cotswold edge, Stroud is home to one of the best farmers’ markets in the country. Here you will find an overlooking the Severn Vale, this town eclectic mix of shops selling everything from fossils to fairies and vintage to vinyl, sitting is an excellent centre for walkers with against the dramatic backdrop of the beautiful Five Valleys. Stroud is known as a centre some lovely shops. for contemporary arts, as well as its canal, commons, woollen mill heritage and colourful Map ref: D7 festivals. Map ref: E6

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 9 Go wild... With breathtaking scenery and wonderful walks, the Cotswold hills are a great place for a gentle wander or something more strenuous. You’ll be spoilt for choice for al fresco eating spots. Picnic somewhere spectacular like Minchinhampton Common or along the Cotswold Way. TEN things 1 to do wHATEVER 4 Get some (retail) the therapy! We’ve everything from gorgeous, independent boutiques to weather designer outlets at Gloucester Quays and Cheltenham’s You don’t need Promenade. Bargain hunters will love the huge sunshine to have a array of antique shops all Cotswolds holiday over the Cotswolds too. to remember Talk to the animals... Ever come eye to eye with a giraffe or held a chick or rabbit? The Cotswold Wildlife With so much to see and do, both inside and out, Park and Cotswold Farm Park you’ll be hard-pressed to fit everything in. have lots of activities So here’s our quick guide to the top ten activities allowing you to come rain or shine... get up close and personal to animals big For more all-weather ideas visit www.cotswolds.com and small. 8 10 Visit www.cotswolds.com Festival fun... DIARY DATES fun The Cotswolds are famous for a whole 19 March - 12 September for free... host of large family festivals, fayres and Hare Festival, Cirencester You don’t have markets, from the Science and Literature to splash the Festivals in Cheltenham to the annual 13 May - September cash to enjoy Royal International Air Tattoo at Giffords Circus on tour across Cotswolds the Cotswolds! RAF Fairford and wonderful 27 - 30 May Visit one of our farmers’ markets free museums all year round. South Cerney Street Fair and Duck Race including The Wilson 3 - 5 June in Cheltenham, Tewkesbury Heritage Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham Centre or the Museum Racecourse in the Park in Stroud 25 June with its great kids’ activities. Northleach Charter Fair 25 June 2 Dursley Festival Make a splash... Enjoy boat trips from Tewkesbury, 17 July Gloucester, Lechlade-on-Thames, Rugby in the Park, Gloucester Saul and Ebley near Stroud or try your hand at numerous www.cotswolds.com/whats-on water sports at the Cotswold Water Park. 7

6 TURN OVER A NEW LEAF... Go birding... Looking for somewhere to wear the Why not cuddle a duckling at the Downy kids out? Kick up some leaves and Duckling Days at Slimbridge Wetland Centre, enjoy the natural environment at our watch the penguins being fed at Birdland Park two beautiful arboreta at Westonbirt and Gardens or have a go at flying a bird of prey and Batsford. Explore from above at 5 at the Cotswold Falconry Centre? Westonbirt’s new treetop walkway.

WATCH HISTORY COME ALIVE... Become a Roman at Cirencester’s Corinium Museum, dress up in royal costumes at or re-live the Arts and Crafts period at the home of William 10 Morris at .

LET OFF STEAM... Experience life in miniature at the Model Village in Bourton-on-the-Water (now Grade II listed), or visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum overflowing with vintage and classic vehicles. Head back in time on the GWR steam railway.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 11 FROM CLASSIC TO CONTEMPORARY, BOUTIQUE TO BUDGET, THE COTSWOLDS HAS IT ALL

12 Visit www.cotswolds.com retail THERAPY

hatever your style, the Corn Hall which hosts regular craft fairs Cotswolds offers a huge and food markets. range of fantastic shopping opportunities – from shabby chic and Visit the charming medieval town of wvintage to high end designer clothing. Tewkesbury for the chance to sample Old Spot Pig Pie and Meander through the lanes of our lovely balls in the 1471 deli or to browse the towns and villages to lovely range of shops find an eclectic mix of offering gifts with clothes and interior a difference. ideas, antiques and Experience DIARY DATES bookshops as well as a Bohemian Stroud March whole host of food and shopping the sells everything from farmers’ markets, cafés fossils to fairies and Made in Moreton, Moreton-in-Marsh and restaurants. Cotswolds way is home to specialist vintage, vinyl and 25 - 28 March If designer shopping is book shops. Further Gloucester Quays Spring Fest, Gloucester your style, Gloucester north in the beautiful Quays or the Promenade Cotswold hill villages, you’ll find wonderful 25 April in Cheltenham are home to big designer antique and vintage shops – the perfect Vintage Fair, Tewkesbury names. Cheltenham’s Montpellier and the places to hunt for a bargain. Suffolks are full of independent shops. 14 - 15 & 21 - 22 May For more ideas about shopping in the Open Studio Artists Weekends, Find time to wander through the Cotswolds, download our Vintage & Stroud Valleys lanes of Cirencester, a rural market Modern Touring Routes free of charge town full of cafés, restaurants and quirky from www.cotswoldsvintagetours.com 17 July stores as well as the newly restored or www.cotswolds.com/vintage. Art Couture Festival, Painswick

3 - 20 December Christmas Market, Cheltenham

Image opposite: Highgrove Shop, Tetbury. This page: Beechwood Shopping Centre, Cheltenham; Vintage shopping, www.cotswolds.com/whats-on Cotswolds; Gloucester Antiques; Crafts in Cirencester.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 13 relax & unwind Luxurious Cotswold manor houses such as Barnsley House near Cirencester, near Tetbury, Cotswold House Hotel & Spa in Chipping Campden, Ellenborough Park near Cheltenham and Wyck Hill House Hotel near Stow-on-the-Wold are havens of relaxation offering extensive spa and pampering treatments. The new spa at the Kings Head Hotel in the heart of Cirencester provides a unique, subterranean vaulted space to unwind. Day visitors can enjoy Britain’s only natural thermal spa at Bath Thermae, where you can relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of an open-air rooftop pool overlooking this beautiful, historic city. Plenty of other day spas or overnight retreats can be found throughout the Cotswolds to enjoy a relaxing break.

SWEET TREATS There are some fabulous locations in the Cotswolds to treat yourself to the tradition of afternoon tea. Depending on the time of year, enjoy high tea on the lawn surrounded by beautiful gardens, or sit down and relax in front of a cosy log fire. Ellenborough Park provides grand surroundings for afternoon tea in their Great Hall, while Thornbury Castle, once owned by Henry VIII, offers a truly historic setting. At Lords of the Manor in Upper Slaughter and Barnsley House, indulge in afternoon tea amongst gorgeous gardens. Mayfield House, near Malmesbury, is a good tip for a traditional Cotswold cream tea, and Take high tea on the Three Ways House near Chipping Campden, home of the world- lawn or a Cotswold cream famous Pudding Club, is an tea in front of a log fire. obvious choice.

14 Visit www.cotswolds.com SPA breaks RELAX &indulge

Images opposite: Calcot Manor near Tetbury; Kings Head, Cirencester; Ellenborough Park near Cheltenham; Thornbury Castle. This page: Thermae Bath Spa; Barnsley House.

Take some time out from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and recharge your batteries in the Cotswolds.

For true indulgence, spoil yourself as a day visitor or overnight guest at one of the Cotswolds’ luxurious spa hotels. Enjoy a taste of quintessential England and tempt your taste buds with a Cotswold afternoon tea of finger sandwiches, scones, clotted cream and sweet treats.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 15 creative EXPERIENCE

Artists in residence Hole yourself up in beautiful surroundings and learn a new skill such as painting, music, writing or photography. New Brewery Arts in Cirencester and Hawkwood College near Stroud host a year-round programme of interesting courses.

Arty and crafty Natural highs The Corinium Museum in Cirencester Get out and about amongst nature and and the Museum in the Park in Stroud study some rural skills such as the art of host workshops including jewellery, dry-stone walling or an introduction to mosaics and painting. The Wilson scything with the Cotswold Conservation in Cheltenham holds free family Board. Learn from professional drop-in workshops the last Sunday of photographers in the most amazing every month, while Nature in Art in natural settings such as Batsford, runs courses ranging from Westonbirt and Slimbridge WWT. botanical drawing to willow art.

The Cotswolds offers a host of creative and quirky recreational courses to inspire.

This page: New Brewery Arts; Nature in Art; The Cookery School at Thyme, . Opposite: Views from The Cotswold Way.

GET COOKING Perfect your culinary skills or learn the art of bread or cheese-making at some of the famous cookery schools in the Cotswolds. With provenance and seasonality being so important, here’s your chance to learn about cooking from field to fork, in restored barns and state-of-the-art kitchens tucked away in beautiful, rural settings. For a truly natural experience, Daylesford Organic and The Cookery School at Thyme offer foraging amongst their many courses. At Foodworks, you can learn how to cook with game or at Abbey Home Farm, reproduce some delicious vegetarian recipes. The best bit of course, sampling your work for lunch!

16 THE GREAT Outdoors Immerse yourself in the Great Cotswold Outdoors by exploring on foot or by bike.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 17 THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Images: Coaley Peak near Dursley; Fishing at Bibury Trout Farm; Horseriding in the Cotswolds; Cycling near Guiting Power.

DIARY DATES ith over 5000km flat towpaths to gentle slopes and of footpaths and rights sharper escarpments. These differences 10 April of way, the Cotswolds in terrain give every level of cyclist a Hell of the North Cotswold Cycle Race, woffers great walking country. Serious chance to enjoy an extensive network Winchcombe hikers will enjoy the challenge of the of routes, including quiet lanes and Cotswold Way or Thames Sustrans Route 45. 13 - 15 May Path. For recreational Heaven of the South Mountain Bike walking, most towns and Discover The Cotswolds & Festival villages have shorter Severn Vale 7-day Cycling circular routes. the secrets Route is a circular touring 20 - 22 May map of the area. Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival Many of the villages and of the great It’s divided into seven market towns have their 30-mile circular or linear 17 - 19 June own walking trails, while Cotswold routes, featuring ideas Mountain Mayhem Cycling Event, a few hold annual walking for where to stop, Gatcombe Park festivals. The Cotswold outdoors eat and stay. Voluntary Wardens 29 August organise hundreds of free, guided The area also offers Via Roma Twilight Criterium walks throughout the area. fantastic off-road cycling. A network Cycle Races, Cirencester of tracks designated as byways and Cycling is very popular in the bridleways makes off-road cycling one 6 - 9 October Cotswolds with routes ranging from of the best ways to discover the area. Dursley Walking Festival www.cotswolds.com/whats-on

18 Visit www.cotswolds.com looking for adventure? There’s plenty of adventure in the Cotswolds, from gentler pursuits to a rush of adrenaline.

Undercover adventure The Warehouse in Gloucester and Far Peak Campsite near Northleach provide excellent climbing and bouldering facilities. Stroud’s Rush Skatepark is one of Europe’s largest indoor parks and caters for all levels of BMX riders and boarders. Opening in March 2016, the Flyup 417 mountain bike facility near Cheltenham will offer indoor riding barns as well as outdoor downhill tracks.

MAKE A SPLASH! THE sky’s the limit The Cotswold Water Park is What better a great location for adventure way to observe on the water. All kinds the beauty of of water sports are available the Cotswolds, from sailing to kayaking than from up and stand-up paddle above? Enjoy boarding to water-skiing. serene views Adrenaline seekers can head of the rolling for the and landscape from a surf the phenomenon of hot air balloon or a the inland wave. For a more bird’s eye-view from leisurely pastime, fishing a glider or paraglider. lakes such as Watermark At Fisheries offer specimen Airport, you can take trout and coarse fishing. the controls on a trial helicopter flight or experience the rush of adrenaline as you flip upside down on leap of faith a wing-walk.

Climb the stairway to heaven or take a leap of faith at Head 4 Heights near the Water Park. Visit one of the many stables and saddle up for a day. Or if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, brush up your swing at a beautifully located golf course. Sharpen your mind with some target practice, clay-pigeon or archery style. Some of the shooting schools, like Prescott Shooting, offer ‘Have a Go’ days.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 19 DIARY DATES 4 - 8 May Badminton Horse Trials

January - February 18 June Wildlife Photographer of the Year Festival of Nature, Stroud Exhibition, Nature in Art, Twigworth 29 August 2 May Winchcombe Country Show Sheep & Wool Day, Northleach 3 September www.cotswolds.com/whats-on Moreton Show, Moreton in Marsh

20 Visit www.cotswolds.com THE COTSWOLDS AONB encounterswild Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Cotswolds AONB is known and loved by people across the world

is a big year for the Cotswolds While the Cotswolds is famed for its beautiful 2016 as we celebrate 50 years of wild landscapes, it is also a great area to spot being designated an Area of Outstanding Natural more unusual wildlife. Stroll along the famous Beauty. Throughout the year, the Cotswolds giraffe walkway at the Cotswold Wildlife Park or Conservation Board is planning a number of marvel at the Asiatic lions and white rhinos in celebrations to encourage everyone to protect the animal enclosures. and enhance this beautiful landscape. For fans of feathered wildlife, the Cotswold Find out more about some of the special events Falconry Centre has free daily flying displays planned by visiting www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk of some of its 150 rare and unusual birds. You can watch the pelicans, flamingos and penguins As a protected landscape, there are plenty of being fed at Birdland Park & Gardens or discover opportunities to discover a variety of flora and more about their 65 million year old ancestors by fauna including numerous types of orchid and walking the Jurassic Journey Trail. rare butterflies such as The Duke of Burgundy, Marbled White and Adonis Slimbridge Wildfowl & Wetland Centre offers the Blue. Join the Cotswold Voluntary chance to hand-feed the birds, go on a Landrover Wardens who organise hundreds of safari or follow the wildlife trails, while Adam free walks throughout the area, and Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park is home to a variety explore with the experts. of rare breed animals and a great family day out.

Image opposite: Giraffe Walkway at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. This page: Marbled White Butterfly; Enjoying the Cotswold view; Falconry display; Walking on Stroud Commons; Cotswold Lion Sheep.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 21 wine& dine Fresh, fabulous and found locally, the Cotswolds offers an amazing range of quality food and drink.

Pick up delicious local produce at one of our Farmers’ Markets, see page 44. For information visit www.cotswolds.com or download the Cotswolds App.

22 Visit www.cotswolds.com he Cotswolds has earned itself Gourmands will love the choice of farm DIARY DATES a well-deserved reputation with shops and specialist shops such as foodies, not only for the quality of Daylesford Organic, William’s Fishmarket 14 May eateries throughout the area (including & Foodhall in Nailsworth and The Cotswold The Cheltenham Wine Festival, ta sprinkling of Michelin stars), but also for Cheese Company in Moreton-in-Marsh Cheltenham Town Football Club the array of produce on offer. and Stow-on-the-Wold. 21 May Single Gloucester cheese and Gloucester Both new Gloucester Services (M5) have Witney Festival of Food and Drink Old Spot pork have been awarded Protected become destinations in their own right Designation of Origin status. Smart’s has showcasing local produce. There are lots of 10 - 12 June become well-known for making the Double established food festivals in the Cotswolds. Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival Gloucester for the famous Cooper’s Hill Check the diary dates to find out more. Cheese-Rolling. 25 - 26 June Don’t miss a traditional Cotswold afternoon Other local favourites include Tewkesbury tea or, for something stronger, a pint Tewkesbury Food & Drink Festival mustard, Bibury trout, Stinking Bishop of local ale in a traditional country pub. 22 - 24 July cheese and Hobbs House bread. The Gloucestershire Ale Trail highlights some of the Cotswolds’ outstanding 40th Cotswold Beer Festival, Farmers’ markets take place regularly in craft breweries. Postlip Hall, Winchcombe most of our towns, as well as some smaller Cotswold villages. 22 - 24 July Gloucester Quays Food Festival

26 - 27 August Frocester Beer Festival

26 - 28 August The Big Feastival, Kingham

9 - 10 September Moreton Beer Festival, Moreton-in-Marsh

11 September Broadway Food Festival www.cotswolds.com/whats-on

Image opposite: The Beaufort Dining Room at Ellenborough Park. This page: Café Culture in Cheltenham; The Bell Inn at Sapperton; Emily Watkins, Chef at the Kingham Plough; Farmers’ Market; The Kings Head, Cirencester.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 23 messing about on the wat e r Images this page: Gloucester & Canal; Watersports, Cotswold Water Park; Chalford Round House; Model boats at Saul; Eastleach Bridge. Opposite: , Tewkesbury.

Cotswold Water Park has over 150 lakes with a fantastic range of water activities as well as a beach!

24 Visit www.cotswolds.com The Cotswolds are criss-crossed by rivers, streams and canals

Don’t miss the spectacle of The Severn Bore tidal wave sweeping up the River Severn

DIARY DATES Seasonal Medieval Wool Industry can explore the historic woollen mills connection as you walk or cycle along Severn Bore Tidal Wave Water is a constant theme through the past and present of the Cotswolds and the towpath, perhaps spotting a kingfisher May played its part in the medieval wool or two. Enjoy a leisurely boat trip from industry that brought wealth to the area. Ebley Mill or Saul Junction. Lechlade Duck Race Gently flowing, shallow Cotswold rivers, 16 - 17 July which were perfect for washing wool, Cotswold Rivers can be seen at Rack Island at Bibury, The River Thames starts near Kemble, Cotswold 226 Triathlon, where wool was washed and dried for and continues past William Morris’s , Cotswold Water Park market. At villages such as Blockley, you house at Kelmscott to . 29 August can visit mill gardens like Mill Dene and At Tewkesbury, Shakespeare’s River in beautiful Lower Slaughter, the River Avon and the River Severn meet at this Football in the River, Windrush flows past The Old Mill. wonderfully well-preserved medieval Bourton-on-the-Water market town highly popular for boat trips. The and 26 December Cotswold Canals The town of Stroud, at the heart of five are popular with walkers and Slimbridge Bibury Duck Race beautiful valleys, is celebrating its watery Wetland Centre can be found on the www.cotswolds.com/whats-on heritage by restoring the Stroudwater banks of the Severn, perfect for spotting Canal to its former glory. Here you river wildlife.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 25 lark about SWOON... Chavenage House was used as a setting for ‘Lark The BBC’s remake of ‘Poldark’, the romantic saga set in Rise to Candleford’ the 18th-century Cornwall is based on the novels of Winston Graham. great British drama set in Chavenage House featured as the Poldark family home. the 19th century. tv & film locations

The Cotswolds has the perfect scenery to be used for TV and film locations and many of the Cotswold country retreats are perfect settings for great British drama.

CINDERS SHALL GO TO THE BALL HERE’S JOHNNY... depp! In the latest ‘Cinderella’ film, was used as one of the The Cotswold manor Stanway House featured locations. The Grand and Bladon Bridges set the scene for the carriage in the film‘The Libertine’ where Johnny Depp journey to the Palace when Cinderella goes to the ball. plays a debauched 17th century poet.

Film producers love the Cotswolds – you may be lucky and see a production being made when you visit!

26 Visit www.cotswolds.com SHERLOCK Cheltenham has been used numerous times as a film location. Benedict Cumberbatch was filmed at The Daffodil restaurant for ‘Sherlock’.

country file The Cotswolds features regularly in ‘Countryfile’ where presenter Adam Henson has his CALLING ALL MUGGLES farm park. Gloucester Cathedral has been used in many of the ‘Harry Potter’ films as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the setting for most of Harry’s adventures. ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’ and ‘Sherlock’ were also filmed in the historic setting of Gloucester.

WE like you, ‘Just as you are’ The Cotswolds has the perfect scenery to be used for TV and film locations and ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ was filmed in the beautiful Cotswold village of Snowshill many of the Cotswold country retreats are perfect settings for great British drama. where there is a snowy Christmas scene just before the family festive party.

Lord Grantham comes to the Cotswolds The Cotswold village of Bampton doubles as the fictional village of Downton in the hit drama series ‘Downton Abbey’. Many of the houses, church and pub exteriors have been used in the filming.

WOLF HALL Many Cotswold locations have been used for the filming in‘Wolf Hall’ including Chavenage House, House, Berkeley Castle and Gloucester Cathedral, all superb Cotswold buildings.

cider with rosie A new BBC drama retells the vivid memoir of Laurie Lee’s childhood during and after WW1. The Cotswold village of Miserden doubles as ‘Slad’, where the book was set.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 27 gardens CASTLES & stately homes

2016 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot Capability Brown 2016

In late spring and summer, the herbaceous of borders at Hidcote Manor, Snowshill Year Manor, Sezincote Gardens and Bourton e House Garden will surprise and delight. Kiftsgate Court and Sudeley Castle’s Queens’ Garden - named after the four English queens that walked within – English become beautifully fragrant with roses. Broadway Tower is the highest little castle In association with in the Cotswolds. This was the brainchild Garden of the great 18th century landscape designer Capability Brown. The grounds of Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill, were also landscaped by Brown.

DIARY DATES Historic Berkeley and Thornbury Castles are located in the south Cotswolds. Feb - March Berkeley dates back to the 12th century Snowdrops at isits to gardens are often and was the scene of the murder of Park, Newark Park & associated with summertime, Edward II. Walk in the footsteps of King Painswick Rococo Gardens but here in the Cotswolds, gardens Henry VIII by staying at Thornbury as he bloom and burst with colour throughout did on his honeymoon with Anne Boleyn. 22 - 23 April vall seasons of the year. Gardens Illustrated For more recent royal connections, Festival, Tetbury The Cotswold year begins with the first , the current residence flush of snowdrops where, in early spring, of HRH the Prince of Wales, offers 17 – 19 June Painswick Rococo Garden, Colesbourne pre-booked tours of the beautiful gardens. Blenheim Palace Flower Show Park and Newark Park – a former Tudor hunting lodge – are must-visit locations. If the heat of summer gets too much, 18 - 19 June As the days begin to warm and daffodils head to Jacobean-era Stanway House, 2016 Open Gardens in Chipping make a welcome appearance, gardens all where the world’s tallest gravity-fed water Campden and across area over the Cotswolds start bursting into life. fountain will help cool you down.

16 July Historic woodland, such as Woodchester As summer turns to autumn and the trees Park, and the Gloucestershire Wildlife take on a golden hue, dramatic colours Stroud Country Show Nature Reserves offer lovely walks for can be seen throughout the ancient beech www.cotswolds.com/whats-on bluebell spotting, while Cheltenham’s woodlands of the Cotswolds. Be sure not parks and Batsford and Westonbirt to miss the spectacular leaf displays at Arboreta become awash with blossom. Batsford and Westonbirt.

28 Visit www.cotswolds.com gardens & castles

Image opposite: The Berkeley Castle Tropical Butterfly House. This page: Sezincote Gardens; Bourton House Garden; Stanway Fountain; Blenheim Palace; Sudeley Castle; Painswick Rococo Garden; Enjoying the Arboreta.

Download the Official Cotswolds App today 29 DIARY DATES get arts & crafty SO PHOTOGENIC Find out why the Cotswolds were a is a film- 3 - 8 May playground for the artists and writers makers’ favourite with scenes Chipping Campden Literature Festival behind the Arts and Crafts movement. from numerous movies Visit the former home of William Morris filmed there. But wander the 5 - 7 August at Kelmscott Manor, explore the Court warehouses, flour mills and 42nd Gloucestershire Steam Vintage Barn Museum in Chipping Campden 2 timber yards to get & Country Extravaganza, or meander through the ‘room’s created a feel for life in the South Cerney Airfield by Lawrence Johnston at Hidcote late 1800s. and marvel at the eclectic findings 4 September of Charles Wade at Snowshill Manor. Tetbury Classic Car Show 8 - 11 September Heritage Open Days across the area 28 October Henry III Celebrations, Gloucester 17 - 20 November Gloucester Quays Victorian Market www.cotswolds.com/whats-on 1 REGENCY splendour What have the King George III’s visit to Romans ever done for us? Cheltenham in the 1780s DON’T BE SHEEPISH made it the fashionable Find out at place to be seen. Chedworth The design of Cotswold Why not taste the waters at Roman Villa, churches, houses and manors Pittville Pump Room, catch one of the finest in was influenced by the great a concert or just wander the 4 Britain or, for a great wealth generated by the wool 6trade. beautiful Regency landscape and introduction to local Discover where wool was processed admire the architecture? history, pop into the in the Stroud Valleys or visit the Corinium Museum working textile trade museum Gig in Cirencester. Mill in Nailsworth to find out more. 5 medieval tewkesbury Ruled by just three Medieval families for hundreds of years, Tewkesbury was the site of the penultimate and decisive battle of the and is re-enacted in a world-renowned festival 8 every year during the second week of July.

glorious landscapes Celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Capability Brown by visiting one of his Cotswold creations – the stunning landscape at Blenheim Palace or the unique folly Broadway Tower with its amazing views across the countryside.

Visit 9 30 www.cotswolds.com king of the castles Discover the tomb of Katherine Parr at Sudeley Castle or stay the night at Thornbury where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn spent their honeymoon. Don’t miss Francis Drake’s cabin chest at Berkeley Castle! HERITAGE &history

You can’t move in the Cotswolds without bumping into 3 something old! TUDOR TALES Henry VIII’s destruction We’re home to Britain’s oldest inn, The Porch House of the monasteries like in Stow-on-the-Wold, a picturesque town famous as Hailes Abbey during the site of the last battle of the English Civil War. Most Tudor times changed the Cotswold towns were originally built by the Saxons Cotswolds landscape forever. and you’ll also find numerous beauty spots including New style mansions like Painswick Beacon, a former Celtic hilltop fort, and the Newark Park and Stanway House7 Neolithic long barrow Hetty Pegler’s Tump. were built and are ripe for exploration. There’s history around every corner but here are our... top TEN things 10 to see & do

For more information visit www.cotswolds.com

GO GOTHIC Experience the mysteries of Woodchester Mansion, a Gothic masterpiece that was never completed. There’s lots to do including spooky horror nights or walks amongst the resident bat population!

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join in our quintessentially quirky events to find out what makes the cotswolds truly unique

32 Visit www.cotswolds.com Cotswolds

Some of the quirky Cotswold traditions DIARY DATES passed down through the centuries can 2 May still be seen today. Join the locals and Wacky Car Races, Tetbury experience some of these for yourself. 14 May The world’s eyes will be on Rio in 2016, The world’s eyes Randwick Wap but the Cotswolds has its own ‘Olimpicks’. 30 May Taking place near Chipping Campden for will be on Rio over 400 years, this fun-packed day includes in 2016, but the Tetbury Woolsack Races the traditional shin-kicking contest. 30 May Attracting spectators and competitors from Cotswolds has its Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill all over the world, the annual Cheese Rolling 3 - 4 June at Cooper’s Hill sees a 9lb Double Gloucester own ‘Olimpicks’ cheese being rolled down an astonishingly Cotswold Olimpick Games steep hill, as competitors throw themselves and Scuttlebrook Wake after it. The winner keeps the cheese! Image opposite: Cotswold Olimpick Games, Chipping Campden. This page: etbury Woolsack Races; Cheese Rolling, 7 - 8 October Cooper’s Hill; Morris Men; Severn Bore; Griff Rhys Jones Tewkesbury Mop Fair enjoying Football in the River, Bourton-on-the-Water. www.cotswolds.com/whats-on

The origins of Tetbury Woolsack Races date Tewkesbury Mop Fair is the largest street back to the 17th century. Competitors run fair in Gloucestershire. It harks back to up a 1 in 4 hill carrying a sack on their back the 12th century with fairground rides, weighing up to 60lb, while the town comes traditional games and sideshows in the alive with a street fair. town centre.

The centuries-old costumed procession The colourful folk traditions of morris of Randwick Wap is led by a mop-man and dancing, mummers’ plays and wassailing features a May Queen and , who get take place individually, or are sometimes dipped in the village pond. It culminates in combined together, and can be found a fair with music and entertainment. throughout the Cotswolds.

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