Greetings, fellow travelers! Welcome to Day 4 of our UK road trip adventure, where we delve into the enchanting Cotswolds. If you’ve just joined us or are looking to retrace our steps from the historic streets of Oxford to Bath and the soaring heights of Pen Y Fan, feel free to catch up before you dive into this post. Now, let’s unfold the charming tapestry of the Cotswolds and discover its wonders!
Ideal Road Trip
Our fourth day in the Cotswolds began with a comforting homemade breakfast at our Airbnb in Innsworth. The cozy kitchen setup allowed us to whip up our staples – eggs and bread – giving us the perfect start to a day full of exploration. Our route for the day was a picturesque journey through some of the most charming towns in England: Innsworth, Cirencester, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Chipping Campden, and ending in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Cirencester: The Market Town
Our first stop was Cirencester, often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’. We parked at the Waitrose parking lot, which was conveniently located and gave us easy access to the town center. We started with a peaceful morning walk in Cirencester Park, absorbing the tranquility of its green expanses. Then, we ventured into the town center, bustling with the lively Sunday market. The market was a delightful mix of local vendors selling everything from artisanal food to handmade crafts. The vibrancy and community spirit of Cirencester made it a joy to explore. The market was a treasure trove of unique finds, from a stall selling impressively sharp kitchen knives (a tomato slice test proved their worth) to another offering delicious Indian food and sweets.
Bibury: A Picturesque Postcard
Next on our list was Bibury, renowned for its postcard-worthy views, especially the iconic Arlington Row. Unfortunately, parking in this quaint village proved elusive, but we managed to catch a glimpse of the famous Bibury bridge. The drive through Bibury, with its honey-colored stone cottages and lush greenery, was a visual treat.
Bourton-on-the-Water: The Venice of the Cotswolds
Our journey continued to Bourton-on-the-Water, a highlight of the Cotswolds. Known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ due to its lovely waterways and bridges, Bourton-on-the-Water was buzzing with life. We found a large parking lot at the town’s end and spent some time strolling alongside the river. The atmosphere was festive, with families enjoying the sunny day, kids eating ice cream, and some even cooling their feet in the water. The riverside was lined with charming restaurants offering outdoor seating, creating a scene straight from a movie. Venturing away from the river, we found ourselves in quiet, almost deserted streets, which provided a stark contrast to the liveliness by the water and a perfect opportunity for some nice photography. The charm of this town lies in its vibrant yet serene setting, a must-visit for anyone exploring the Cotswolds.
Chipping Campden: Historic Elegance
Our next destination was Chipping Campden, famous for its beautiful limestone houses and rich history. Arriving around 4 pm, we managed to find parking right in the town center. As we searched for a place to eat, a kind woman noticed our struggle and informed us that most eateries in town close by that time. Her helpfulness underscored the friendly spirit of the Cotswolds. Nevertheless, the town’s quaint streets, lined with historic buildings and traditional architecture, offered a delightful walk. Chipping Campden is a testament to the timeless elegance of the Cotswolds.
A Note on Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway
Regrettably, due to time constraints, we had to skip Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway. For anyone planning a comprehensive Cotswolds trip, these towns are definitely worth a visit to get the full experience of the area’s charm.
Checkout the highlights of Day 4 below:
As the day neared its end, we set off for Stratford-upon-Avon, our final stop for the day. Filled with the sights and sounds of the Cotswolds’ charming towns, we looked forward to exploring the birthplace of Shakespeare.
Stay tuned as we share our experiences in Stratford-upon-Avon and more tales from our UK road trip. The Cotswolds, with their undisturbed beauty and historic allure, are a journey through the heart of England’s countryside, a region that captures the essence of British charm.
