Christmas in the Cotswolds: the most magical things to do (2024)
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The Cotswolds is the perfect place for a Christmas getaway. The cosy atmosphere of the small villages and rolling countryside fits the Christmas spirit perfectly, and the charming area of England becomes even more beautiful during the holiday season. There's much to explore over the winter holidays in the Cotswolds, from winter walks to christmas markets to hearty pubs. Here's a comprehensive guide to Christmas in the Cotswolds to help you plan your next trip.
Christmas in Bourton on the Water
Where to stay in the Cotswolds at Christmas
There are so many gorgeous, charming hotels in the Cotswolds villages. Here are my favourites:
The Double Red Duke, Clanfield (pictured below)
The Dial House, Bourton on the Water
The Swan Hotel, Bibury
Mollie’s Motel - a little outside the Cotswolds towards Oxford
The Manor House, Castle Combe
Cotswolds villages to visit at Christmas
Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water is my top choice of Cotswolds villages to visit at Christmas. The village's large Christmas tree sits in the middle of the gently flowing river, making a cheerful centrepiece to the town. Every business in Bourton is decked out in Christmas decor and ready to welcome visitors.
I find Bourton to be a charming village with the perfect mix between being small and authentic and being large enough to provide interesting stops at shops and tearooms. It is a village with a lot of Christmas spirit. There's even a year-round Christmas shop in Bourton!
One of my favourite things to do in Bourton is visit the model village. Its an adorable miniature version of the village itself, and is so fun to see from above.
Upper and Lower Slaughter
Upper and Lower Slaughter are two small villages very close to Bourton on the Water. It's possible to visit them by taking a scenic walk, but also easily reachable by a 5 minute drive.
The two villages are primarily residential, so there are not as much activities to keep busy here, but it offers a quieter insight into life in the Cotswolds.
The names of the villages might sound menacing, but it comes from an old English word, 'slohtre', meaning wet place. These villages were on marshland and the small River Eye now runs through them.
The houses in the villages are all decked out in wreaths and decor, making the surroundings even more charming. There is a historic mill in Lower Slaughter, with an interesting museum and cute antiques shop.
Broadway
Broadway is a stunning market town that is even more beautiful at Christmastime. Like Bourton, Broadway is filled with shops, pubs, and tearooms. Broadway has even more of a focus on artisinal goods, so the shops have wonderful offerings that you won't see everywhere else. There are also several art galleries and antiques stores to explore in Broadway.
Cute Cotswold stone houses line the high street in Broadway, and if you're lucky, it's one of the most beautiful places to see a snowfall in England.
My personal favourite pub in Broadway is the Swan Inn, which has the best nut roast I've ever tasted. Its the perfect cosy place for a festive lunch.
Just outside Broadway is Broadway tower, an excellent winter walk to take up to the historic tower overlooking the rolling hills of the Cotswolds below.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stow-on-the-Wold is another market town with charming shops and restaurants, as well as fairy-tale architecture.
Cutter and Brooks shop is one of the most beautiful homewares shops in the country, with the artisan goods creating a beautiful display perfect for Christmas shopping.
The market square's historic architecture is almost like a film set (and has been used in period dramas). It's easy to imagine the Regency time period while visiting here.
One of the Cotswolds' most magical hidden gems is St. Edwards Church, where a wooden church door is flanked by two trees seemingly growing right out of the historic architecture. It looks like something out of a fairytale, and is an enchanting sight you can't miss while visiting Stow-on-the-Wold.
Bibury
Bibury has been dubbed the most beautiful village in England and its famous row of cottages is synonymous with the area. It can't be missed on any visit to the Cotswolds, especially at Christmas.
Arlington Row is a row of 14th century cottages originally used to house monks, later turned into weaver's cottages. The site is Grade I listed and is cared for by the National Trust. You can even stay overnight in one cottage through the National Trust (also this costs a pretty penny!).
The charming cottages are the main draw to Bibury, which is a tiny village. It's important to arrive early or outside of peak times to be able to enjoy the experience. Parking is limited here and when the village is clogged with tourists it's not the most charming experience.
The beautiful Swan Hotel is another picturesque element of Bibury and it's stately architecture on the banks of the small river make it a gorgeous place to stay. The hotel also has a restaurant so it might be a nice place to stay a while.
Castle Combe
Castle Combe is another iconically beautiful Cotswold village. With medieval roots and lined with houses unchanged since the 17th century, Castle Combe is undeniably historical.
St. Andrew's Church is super charming to visit and is one of the most elegant village churches I've been to in England. The village itself is full of gorgeous cottages which often offer homemade goods on their porches with honesty boxes, one of the most charming things I can imagine.
The Manor House is another centrepiece of Castle Combe, with its impressive architecture and garden. It's a lovely place to stay overnight, but also offers a festive afternoon tea if that's something you're looking for on a day out in the Cotswolds.
Castle Combe is another village where it is imperative to arrive early or on quieter days. However, during the winter it should be quieter here anyway and on my recent trip I had it nearly to myself.
Tours to the Cotswolds
Getting to the Cotswolds requires driving, which can be difficult for tourists or Londoners who rely on the trains. Guided tours to the Cotswolds can be a useful way to access the charming villages of the region, and many well-rated tours run from London, Bristol, Stratford-Upon-Avon, etc. Here are some of the best rated tours to the Cotswolds which will run over the Christmas season and allow you to have a glimpse of the festive villages:
Cotswold stately homes at Christmas
One of my favourite holiday activities is visiting stately homes across the UK and enjoying the spectacular Christmas decorations that create a truly magical atmosphere in these special heritage sites. I have dozens of stately homes at Christmastime on my list to visit, and some of the very best are in the Cotswolds.
Blenheim Palace at Christmas
Blenheim Palace may be the epitome of Christmas stately homes in England. It's Christmas decorations are on another level of intricacy and drama, with different themes each year. In 2024, the Christmas season at Blenheim will be ‘Neverland’ themed.
The 2024 Christmas season starts on November 15th at Blenheim Palace, with a range of experiences on offer.
The charming Christmas market outside the impressive facade of the palace runs throughout the season, with food stalls and holiday gifts on sale. Visiting the interior of the house is a must, but there is also a Christmas light trail to be visited after dark. This helps to fill up those long winter evenings with a bit of Christmas cheer.
Christmas at Sudeley Castle
Sudeley Castle is another impressive Cotswolds stately home offering Christmas outings during the holiday season. This is their 9th year running Spectacle of Light, an outdoor light trail, between November 22 - December 30 2024.
In 2024, the trail is themed on Sleeping Beauty.
Christmas at National Trust houses in the Cotswolds
There are many more stately homes and country houses to visit in the Cotswolds, many of which offer Christmas decorations and experiences. National Trust houses in the Cotswolds to visit at Christmastime include Charlecote Park, Dyrham Park, and Lacock Abbey.
At Christmas, National Trust houses decorate in period style according to a certain era that changes in each property. For example, you might experience a 17th century Christmas at Dyrham Park and a 1960s adventure at Charlecote Park. It's such fun to see how Christmas was celebrated throughout history and to step back in time with holiday cheer.
Christmas markets in the Cotswolds
Bath, Cheltenham, and Blenheim Palace Christmas Markets
All three of the above are popular and large Christmas markets in different areas of the Cotswolds. The Bath Christmas market is located near the iconic Royal Crescent with over 150 stalls in wooden-chalet style, making it one of the loveliest Christmas markets in the UK. Cheltenham's market in the centre of the town offers food and drink as well as stalls for artisan goods. Blenheim Palace Christmas market is held outside the impressive facade of the palace, and the site is full of further Christmas activities.
All of these markets will have Christmas staples, from roasted chestnuts to German sausages and mulled wine. There's also an array of different gifts to purchase, from wooden trinkets to Christmas ornaments to authentic artwork.
Small Christmas Markets in the Cotswolds
Christmas markets are also on in larger town such as Stroud and Cirencester.
Other smaller Cotswold villages hold markets for one day. In the past this has included villages like Moreton-in-Marsh, Malmesbury, Chipping Camden and Tetbury. Be sure to check out what's on during the dates of your visit. Experiencing a Christmas market is such a special way to spend a day in the Cotswolds.
Christmas activities in the Cotswolds
Santa Express
All aboard the Santa Express! Experience the joy of Christmas on this magical steam train journey, perfect for those with children. The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway offers a special Santa Express service during the festive season, complete with Santa, his elves, and presents for the kids. The steam train is already one of the most charming things to do in the area, even moreso at Christmastime. The train runs between Cheltenham and Broadway.
Ice skating
Lace up your skates and hit the ice at various locations across the Cotswolds. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a wobbly beginner, ice skating is a fun and festive activity for all ages. The open-air ice rinks in towns like Cheltenham and Oxford offer a picturesque setting for gliding across the ice and creating cherished memories with friends and family.
Festive afternoon teas
Indulge in the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea with a festive twist. Many tearooms and hotels in the Cotswolds offer special holiday-themed afternoon teas during December. Savor delicate sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delectable pastries while surrounded by cosy decorations and cheerful ambiance.
Winter walks in the Cotswolds
Put on your warmest coat, bundle up, and explore the Cotswolds' winter wonderland on foot. The Cotswold Way offers a range of scenic routes. While popular in the warmer months, walking in the Cotswolds is underrated in the winter. Be careful to walk when the weather is decent and be prepared for mud and tricky walkways, but that said, some of the most magical winter landscapes can be seen from these picturesque walks.
Broadway Tower
For panoramic views that extend as far as the eye can see, take a winter walk up to Broadway Tower. The tower itself is an iconic landmark, and the walk to the top rewards you with stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside. Built in the late 18th century, it's a picturesque structure that has been admired by the likes of William Morris. There are short and long walks around this area, suitable for any level of fitness.
Bourton on the Water to Upper and Lower Slaughter
There is a walking route between Bourton and the Slaughters, and also between Upper and Lower Slaughter themselves, depending on how long of a walk you are looking for. This is a charming area and much of the walk is along the small and gentle river. A lovely way to spend a winter day in the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Way
The Cotswold Way is a long walking route running approximately 102 miles through the Cotswolds region. Passing through many of the villages, towns, countryside and woodlands, the Cotswolds Way is a popular walking destination. There are tours along the Cotswold Way, some of which will transport your luggage between accomodation sites. But it's also possible to walk small sections of the Way at a time, picking out what looks interesting.
Christmas season in Bath
Bath Christmas Market
The Bath Christmas Market boasts over 150 wooden chalets adorned with festive decorations, offering a wide array of unique gifts, crafts, and local delicacies. The backdrop of Bath's historic Georgian architecture adds an extra layer of charm to this must-visit seasonal event. It’s definitely one of the best Christmas markets in the UK.
Picturesque scenery in Bath
Bath's architectural beauty takes on a special allure during the Christmas season. The historic city streets are adorned with twinkling lights and garlands, transforming the entire city into a festive spectacle. Stroll along the cobbled lanes, admire the stunning Bath Abbey, and soak in the magical atmosphere that Bath exudes during this time of year.
'Wreath watch' is one of my favourite holiday activities in Bath (and in London where I live). The houses along Royal Crescent and The Circus are adorned with charming wreaths creating a lovely ambiance. Another small street I like is Margaret's Buildings, which has sweet Christmas decorations along with beautiful shops and cafes.
Bath's independent shops
Bath is filled with gorgeous independent shops that are perfect for Christmas shopping.
Persephone Books is a feminist bookstore and beautiful space to visit.
VV Rouleaux is a haberdashery filled with precious, small treasures.
Berdoulat's historic interior design is showstopping and their homewares are perfect gifts.
Found is a quirky boutique with lovely offerings.
Sam Wilson is the perfect place for art and rustic homewares.
Bath on Ice
Bath on Ice is a large skating rink just around the corner from the Christmas market and in front of the iconic Royal Crescent. The backdrop of the Georgian architectural masterpiece makes for quite a picturesque evening of skating!
Georgian Christmas
Bath is known for its well-preserved Georgian architecture, and during the holidays, you can experience a Georgian Christmas like no other. Historic locations like No. 1 Royal Crescent hold holiday-themed tours and activities to evoke a historical Christmas.
Thermae Bath Spa
Warm up at Thermae Bath Spa, one of the most famous attractions in Bath. The heated waters and rooftop views of the city make for a cosy and relaxing afternoon after exploring Bath.
Final thoughts on Christmas in the Cotswolds
Spending Christmas in the Cotswolds is a truly magical experience. The idyllic villages, charming stately homes, festive markets, and array of activities make this region a perfect destination for a holiday getaway. Imagine being snuggled up by a fireplace in a cozy inn, wandering through the frosty streets of a picturesque village, or immersing yourself in the historical beauty of Bath. Whatever the activity, the Cotswolds offer an unforgettable Christmas experience.
FAQs about the Cotswolds at Christmastime
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My personal opinion is that Bourton-on-the-Water is the most Christmassy Cotswold village, with its enormous Christmas tree in the centre of town and the Christmas shops open year-round. It's the perfect base for a few days in the Cotswolds over the Christmas period.
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Absolutely. Although it will be cold, the charm of the Cotswolds brings a holiday warmth. It's unique to be able to see the Cotswolds during the holiday season, and there are plenty of events to keep busy in December. The Cotswolds also has more fo a chance of snow than places like London, so for a white Christmas experience, this could be the opportunity.
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Yes! As outlined above, there are many Cotswolds Christmas markets, from the larger ones in Bath, Cheltenham and Blenheim Palace to the smaller markets in many Cotswolds villages.
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Maybe. It's not necessarily a given that there will be snow in the winter in England. In 2022 there was quite a bit of snow in the area in early December, and sadly I missed it in the Cotswolds by a few days! But it has to be very cold for snow to fall and the fairly moderate winter temperatures prevent this from happening on a regular basis.
If you wake up early, there's a good chance of seeing frost dusting the villages and countryside, creating a snowglobe atmosphere without the need for snowfall.
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Not too busy. One of the benefits of visiting the Cotswolds around the holidays is that it is no longer peak season. While the villages can become very busy in the spring and summer, winter is generally a quieter time. I visited mid-December during weekdays, and it was not crowded at all.
The Cotswolds is the perfect place for a Christmas getaway. From frosty villages to Christmas markets, here's a comprehensive guide to Christmas in the Cotswolds to help you plan your next trip.