A local's guide to the Cotswolds

"Westonbirt Arboretum is a real personal favourite of ours. It's a wonderful place to wander, with beautiful tree specimens and miles of peaceful walks, including a fantastic trail for four-legged friends. Autumn is the obvious time to visit, when the colours are simply spectacular, but it's worth coming back throughout the year. In winter, the illuminated light trail is magical, and during the summer they host brilliant outdoor concerts in the grounds."

"One of my favourite places is actually our own farm, which is absolutely teeming with wildlife. From the cabin you'll often spot deer, hares, foxes, buzzards and red kites, and there are so many different bird species to watch and listen out for throughout the day.

"Just a mile away is the beautiful village of Stanton, where you can join both the Cotswold Way and the Winchcombe Way. I love walking up onto the escarpment for the incredible views across the Vale before stopping at The Mount Inn in Stanton for a well-earned drink on the way back. Another favourite is Eckington Bridge, which is one of my go-to spots for a wild swim."

"There’s a framed poster in the window of a shop in Stow-on-the-Wold that reads, "The Cotswolds is Always a Good Idea." It's true, of course, but you're certainly not the only person to think so. The real challenge is finding the quieter corners that many visitors never discover.

"Having grown up in the Cotswolds, I’ve always sought out the places that haven’t changed. The area around where I live, and where The Pavilion is located, is my favourite spot of all. Here, the natural world is right on your doorstep. The ancient ridge and furrow fields below are often dotted with sheep or cows, deer are regular visitors, and woodland and farmland stretch for miles, filled with birdsong. You can set off on walks straight from the house and rarely see another person. To me, this is the Cotswolds at its very best.

"Foxholes Nature Reserve is another favourite, especially in May when the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells. Reached via narrow country lanes, it feels wonderfully off the beaten track. It's only a 10-minute drive from The Pavilion, though I'd recommend walking if you have the time. Don't expect cafés or visitor centres – just peaceful woodland and abundant wildlife.

"Another walk I love is the five-mile circular route through the Windrush Valley, from Asthall to Burford and back, passing the secluded medieval church at Widford. If you're a fan of the Mitford sisters, make a detour to nearby Swinbrook, and if time allows, visit Asthall Manor for its beautiful gardens, open on selected days."

"One of our favourite walks follows the River Windrush from Swinbrook to the ruins at Minster Lovell. It's a lovely route through open fields and along the riverbank, with plenty of scenic picnic spots and three excellent pubs along the way: The Swan at Swinbrook, The Three Horseshoes in Asthall and The Old Swan at Minster Lovell.

"We also love walking on Cleeve Hill, where the panoramic views stretch for miles across the Cotswolds. Afterwards, there's nothing better than stopping for a well-earned cup of tea at the golf club.

"The Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust manages several beautiful nature reserves, many of which are open to the public. Our favourite is Box Wood, near the charming village of Box on Minchinhampton Common, where ancient woodland, open grassland and freely roaming cattle make it a wonderful place to explore."

"Cirencester is definitely top of my list. It's steeped in Roman history, with charming streets to wander, some fantastic independent shops and plenty of great places to eat. One of the things I love most is that the beautiful Bathurst Estate Park backs right onto the town, making it the perfect place for a peaceful, tree-lined walk after a morning of shopping or lunch.

"Upper and Lower Slaughter are, for me, the most unspoilt villages in the Cotswolds. Set amongst beautiful ancient countryside, they're incredibly peaceful and full of character. They're only a short drive from Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, but are often overlooked by visitors, which is exactly why I love them."

"Broadway is one of my favourite places to spend a few hours. It's a lovely town to wander around, with plenty of independent shops, cafés and restaurants, making it perfect for coffee, lunch or an evening meal.

"If you're happy to venture a little further, both Stratford-upon-Avon and Cheltenham make fantastic day trips. Between them you'll find excellent theatres, brilliant restaurants, breweries like DEYA, independent cinemas including the Everyman and Tivoli, and, if you time your visit right, the Cheltenham Literature and Jazz Festivals are both well worth experiencing."

"There’s no better place to start than our village of Idbury, perched on a high limestone ridge above the Evenlode and Wychwood Valleys. Its Grade I listed church dates back to the 12th century and features a beautifully carved 15th-century font. The manor was also where J.W. Robertson Scott founded The Countryman magazine, which celebrates its centenary next year. Look up and you'll spot the plaque that reads: "O MORE THAN HAPPY COUNTRYMAN IF HE BUT KNEW HIS GOOD FORTUNE."

"Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford and Chipping Norton are all around five miles away, and each has its own character. I'd recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the day, when you can better appreciate their beautiful streets without the crowds.

"Chipping Norton, or "Chippy" to the locals, is very much a working market town. Browse its two bookshops, including an excellent Oxfam bookshop where you might even find a first edition. Tucked away down an alley, The Pink Salt Shed is perfect for coffee and a jar of its award-winning pesto, while Station Mill is great for affordable antiques. Roger's fishmonger and Trev Beadles butcher are both well worth a visit. If the weather turns, The Living Room cinema is wonderfully comfortable and Chipping Norton Theatre is a real local gem.

"Stow-on-the-Wold is my favourite for shopping, with vintage finds at Beetroot, bargains at Pom Pom, excellent wines from Haynes, Hanson & Clark and irresistible treats from The Cotswold Chocolate Shop.

"In Burford, don't miss the nursery beside the car park, run by a couple in their eighties. Keith Davies was born there and is always happy to share stories of Burford's past. Afterwards, grab a coffee at the dog-friendly Lingwood & Co, take a seat outside and watch the world go by before heading off on the lovely Widford walk."

"Nailsworth is one of our favourite market towns in the Stroud Valleys. Quirky, creative and full of independent businesses, it's especially well known for its fantastic food scene, with highlights including William's Food Hall and the renowned Hobbs House Bakery.

"Winchcombe is another favourite. This charming Cotswold town is home to the beautiful Sudeley Castle, along with a great selection of traditional tea shops, cosy pubs and independent cafés. It's also the perfect starting point for the walk up to Belas Knap, a fascinating Neolithic burial chamber with wonderful views across the surrounding countryside."

"Sam & Jak in Cirencester is one of our favourite places to eat. It's a tiny, intimate restaurant run by two hugely talented young chefs who produce food that really punches above its weight. The menu changes regularly depending on what's in season, and every meal feels a bit special. It's deservedly popular though, so booking well in advance is essential.

"The Stump, just outside Cirencester, is another place we regularly recommend. It's a brilliant country pub with a beautiful garden that's perfect on a sunny day. They specialise in excellent sourdough pizzas and Italian-inspired small plates, all made to a really high standard. It's become incredibly popular with locals, so it's definitely worth reserving a table before you go."

"Rosi Pizza in Broadway is one of our regular favourites. They serve fantastic Roman-style pizza, and whether you eat in or grab a takeaway, you can't go wrong. We often pick one up and are back enjoying it on the decking within 10 minutes - it's become a bit of a Sunday tradition for Emma and me. If you're happy to drive a little further, Pit Kitchen is absolutely worth the 35-minute journey for its incredible Middle Eastern-inspired sharing plates and relaxed atmosphere.

"For classic pub food, both The Horse and Groom in Bourton-on-the-Hill and Hollow Bottom are excellent. They're run by the same team and serve delicious, unpretentious food alongside a great selection of drinks. And no visit to Stow-on-the-Wold is complete without popping into D'Ambrosi, a fantastic deli that's perfect for picking up local produce, cheeses, charcuterie and other treats for a picnic or supper back at your cottage."

"One of my favourites is The King’s Head in Bledington, run by Archie and Nicola Orr-Ewing. It's a timeless, proper village pub, with locals gathered at the bar and village greens outside. For the best atmosphere, ask for a table in the bar area (or by the fire in winter). Guests consistently tell us the food and service at both are excellent.

"For a drink with a view, head to The Feathered Nest. Its terrace looks out across the surrounding countryside, and it's within walking distance of The Pavilion. If you're celebrating, the tasting menu is well worth booking.

"For something more relaxed, Fire & Wine in Milton-under-Wychwood serves fantastic pizzas from its home in historic Groves Yard, now a hub of artisan businesses. Just check opening times before you go. Another favourite is FarmED, which fires up its pizza oven on selected evenings (usually later in the week). If you're visiting on a Friday, you can also join one of its fascinating regenerative farming tours and see where many of the ingredients come from.

"Bruern Farms Shop, also within walking distance of The Pavilion, is a lovely spot for breakfast or lunch and pairs perfectly with a visit to Foxholes Nature Reserve. It's also the place to pick up Fifield Apothecary soaps and shampoos, handcrafted from locally foraged ingredients.

"If you're heading to Chipping Norton, it's worth driving a little further to Great Tew. Quince & Clover, in the old post office, is a wonderful foodie destination, with the classic Falkland Arms next door. Nearby, Chippy Flower Farm offers pick-your-own flowers and seasonal workshops, while the studio of renowned artist Josephine Trotter is just a few minutes away. Her joyful paintings capture the Cotswolds beautifully, and she's often happy to welcome visitors to her studio."

"The Cotswolds is full of excellent gastropubs, and we're spoiled for choice. Our nearest, The Ebrington Arms, is always a great option, while The Bakers Arms in Broad Campden is another favourite, serving excellent food in a welcoming village setting.

"For simpler food and a great atmosphere, we keep coming back to The Crown and Trumpet in Broadway and The Bear at Bisley. Both are characterful, family-run pubs where you'll always find a warm welcome, good honest food and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to linger a little longer."

"Dunkertons, just outside Cheltenham, is one of our favourite places to spend an afternoon or evening. It has a brilliant atmosphere, with outdoor seating, fire pits, chandeliers, live music and a rotating selection of excellent street food vendors. It's always buzzing and has become a real favourite with our guests too.

"The Barn Theatre in Cirencester is another place we love recommending. It's a fantastic independent theatre that's incredibly well supported by the local community, with an impressive programme of professional productions throughout the year. Even after the curtain comes down, the evening doesn't have to end - the theatre bar hosts live piano sessions on Friday and Saturday nights, making it a lovely place to stay for a drink.

"Chedworth Roman Villa is well worth a visit if you're interested in history. Managed by the National Trust, it's one of the finest Roman villa sites in Britain, with remarkably well-preserved mosaics and fascinating remains that offer a real glimpse into life nearly 2,000 years ago. It's a wonderfully peaceful place to explore and one of the area's hidden historical treasures."

"One of my favourite off-the-beaten-track places is St Nicholas Church in Lower Oddington, parts of which date back to the 12th century. Inside, you'll find remarkable medieval murals depicting the Last Judgement. From here, or nearby Daylesford, you can follow the Lower Oddington Ashes circular walk through beautiful woodland. Visit in spring and the scent of wild garlic fills the air.

"Just down the hill from Stow-on-the-Wold lies the beautiful village of Broadwell. If you're happy to tackle the steep walk back up, follow the wells and the bridleway down to The Fox, a real gem of a pub. Keep an eye out for its excellent-value specials nights, including the chicken to share. Afterwards, stroll along the Evenlode Road (known as Broadwell Road if you're coming from Evenlode). You'll cross the River Evenlode just before the railway bridge – the perfect spot for a game of Pooh Sticks. For a wonderful insight into the river, I'd recommend local artist Gerry Eaton's book, *The Evenlode: Reflections on a River*, which follows her year-long journey through the valley and is beautifully illustrated with her photographs."

"Whichford Pottery in Whichford is a lovely place to visit. This traditional working pottery is well worth exploring, and its charming tea room is the perfect place to stop for coffee and cake. Just around the corner, The Norman Knight has recently been refurbished and serves an excellent menu, with a lovely outdoor dining area for warmer days.

"One of our favourite walks is between Stanton and Stanway. Stanway House is home to the tallest gravity fountain in the world, while Stanton is one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds and home to The Mount Inn, where the views across the Vale of Evesham are spectacular. For a circular route, head up the path from the pub to the top of the escarpment before following the ridge back down to Stanway.

"Just beyond the Cotswolds, Great Tew in Oxfordshire is another favourite. This beautiful village is home to the excellent Quince & Clover café and the characterful Falkland Arms, with plenty of lovely walks through the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal day out."

"On day one, I'd start with breakfast at Dunkertons before heading to Bourton-on-the-Water. I'd recommend getting there early, as it's much quieter first thing, and leaving by around 11am before it gets really busy. From there, I'd continue on to Stow-on-the-Wold before finishing the day exploring the beautiful villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter.

"On day two, I'd visit Chedworth Roman Villa in the morning, then head to Bibury before spending the afternoon wandering around Cirencester. To round off the day, I'd book a table at Sam & Jak for dinner - it's one of my favourite places to eat in the area.

"For the final day, I'd head to Broadway and make the walk up to Broadway Tower for the views. Afterwards, I'd explore the historic town of Winchcombe before finishing the weekend with a visit to nearby Sudeley Castle."

"I'd start on Saturday with an early morning walk up to Broadway Tower before stopping at Broadway Deli for breakfast on the way back down. If the weather's nice, I'd definitely sit out in their lovely garden at the back. Afterwards, I'd spend a couple of hours wandering around Broadway before heading back to the cabin for a relaxing afternoon - soaking in the bath and reading on the decking. Later on, I'd make the short trip into Cheltenham to visit DEYA Brewery, where you can enjoy excellent craft beer alongside some great food.

"On Sunday morning, I'd take things slowly with fresh bread and pastries delivered to the cabin by Tom at Otis & Belle Bakery, along with a freshly brewed pot of Ritual Coffee from Cheltenham in the Moccamaster. Then I'd head out to explore some of my favourite Cotswold towns, such as Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, Cirencester or Tetbury. To finish the weekend, I'd pick up a bottle of Christophe Muret's 'Midi Rosé' from Broadway Deli, grab a pizza from Rosi, and spend the evening back at the cabin, sitting on the decking beneath the stars with the fire lit."

"To be honest, I'd spend most of it at home. But nothing beats a traditional village fête. Most villages host one over weekends in May, June or July, so I'd keep an eye out for posters in shop windows and on village noticeboards. Expect all the good old-fashioned fun – duck races, dog shows, plant sales and ice creams on the green.

"If I fancied venturing out, I'd visit a garden. Adlestrop's open garden afternoon is a particular favourite, while Kiftsgate Court Gardens is always worth a trip, not least for the plant stall run by the owners at the entrance.

"My perfect day, though, is one where I don't get in the car at all. I'd walk through the woods and fields to Bruern Farms Shop for a coffee and to refill my reusable glass milk bottle, then head home to spend the afternoon reading in the garden before watering the plants as the sun goes down (at this time of year the hydrangeas seem to wilt before my eyes!).

"If I was feeling adventurous – or my daughter was home – I might try one of the local pop-ups, such as Canteen in Gagingwell, near Chipping Norton. Before bed, I'd make sure to look up at the night sky. We're lucky to have very little light pollution here, and guests have even been known to bring telescopes to make the most of it."

"Our perfect Saturday starts at the award-winning Stroud Farmers' Market, browsing the fantastic local produce before heading to Chalford for a walk along the disused Thames & Severn Canal to Sapperton. It's a peaceful route through beautiful countryside, rounded off perfectly with dinner at The Bell.

"On Sunday, we'd hop aboard the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway from Broadway to Cheltenham. A day ticket lets you get on and off along the line, so you can explore charming stops such as Winchcombe for Sudeley Castle or Gotherington, where a footpath climbs to the Cotswold escarpment for wonderful views towards the Malvern Hills. Alternatively, take the bus from Cheltenham Racecourse into Montpellier to browse the independent boutiques, cafés and bars.

"The Cotswolds is also fantastic for cycling. Quiet country lanes weave between beautiful villages, traditional pubs and welcoming tea rooms, making it easy to spend a whole day exploring at your own pace. You can hire a bike from TY Cycles in Chipping Norton or bring your own.

"If you love gardens, you're spoilt for choice. Hidcote may be the most famous, but Kiftsgate, just across the road, is equally beautiful and enjoys stunning views. To round off the day, visit Bourton House Garden, which we think rivals Hidcote, before finishing at nearby Sezincote House and Gardens with its unique architecture and spectacular grounds."