The Cotswolds
Undulating gracefully across six counties, the Cotswolds region is a delightful tangle of golden villages, thatched cottages, evocative churches and honey-coloured mansions. In 1966 it was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surpassed for size in England by the Lake District alone.
©joe daniel price/Getty Images
Latest Stories
- Vicky Philpott | Aug 1, 2025The 12 best things to do in Cirencester and the Cotswolds, England
- Anna Roth | Jun 30, 2023I lost my job, so I walked 100 miles through the most beautiful English countryside
- Vicky Philpott | Jul 28, 2022The best times of year to visit the Cotswolds
- Vicky Philpott | Jul 22, 2022Best food experiences in the Cotswolds, from cream teas to farmers markets and Michelin stars
Book
Trusted Partner
Dreaming of The Cotswolds? Protect your trip
Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.
We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Take your England trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
Time to book that trip to England
Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.
Top places to visit in The Cotswolds
Discover the best attractions in The Cotswolds from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
-
Attraction in The CotswoldsCotswold Falconry Centre - Attraction in The CotswoldsCorinium Museum
- Attraction in The CotswoldsPainswick Rococo Garden
- Attraction in The CotswoldsArlington Row
-
Attraction in The CotswoldsSudeley Castle - Attraction in The CotswoldsSnowshill Manor & Garden
- Attraction in The CotswoldsChurch of St Mary the Virgin & St Mary Magdalen
- Attraction in The CotswoldsMinster Lovell Hall
Travel Guides
The Cotswolds travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.
Best Things to Do
Experience the best of the English countryside in Cirencester and the Cotswolds.
Read full article
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide
Book popular activities in The Cotswolds
Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.