I’m totally dreaming of an escape away. I’m in the peak of house move hell and all I really want to do is escape to an idyllic countryside location, just like the Cotswolds. So, when Character Cottages got in touch, I found myself scrolling through the many beautiful cottage in an attempt at escaping reality.
Did you know that, apart from Yorkshire, the Cotswolds is one of the most sought-after areas in the UK, with rolling hills and beautiful scenery as far as the eye can see. It’s full of nature beauty and quaint villages, making it the perfect destination for a staycation. Royals and celebrities alike are often spotted indulging in the area, and it’s easy to see why. Here are four reasons why the Cotswolds is the ultimate staycation destination.
Instagrammable Spots
If you’re anything like me, you’re a sucker for anywhere seriously aesthetically pleasing, and the Cotswolds is full of photo-ready spots. Just like in the fairy-tales, the many villages throughout the Costwolds are so charming, with light stone cottages scattered around gentle rolling rivers, each of the villages have their own personality and come with a rich history. Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, Bourton on Water has to be top of the list for any Instagram lover, its scenery makes for the perfect snaps.
Delicious Treats
Are you even British if you don’t love indulging in a traditional afternoon tea? Comprised of sweet and savoury treats, the mid-afternoon treat is designed to be a luxury experience, with everything from fruit scones and miniature finger sandwiches to paw over. With a family run tearoom on every corner, you sure won’t be short of options when it comes to treats. Bakery on the Water is particularly popular thanks to its home baked treats – the petal cake and raspberry turnovers look a dream.
Famous Connections
If popular culture is more your thing, the Cotswolds is known for its many famous faces, in fact it’s often said that you may well just recognise one or two of the residents within the area. For Royal fanatics, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall reside in the beautiful town of Tetbury, and The Duchess of Sussex has also been known to make an appearance within the area every now and then. For those interested in celeb spotting, everyone from Kate Moss to Taylor Swift have been seen checking out the area, so if it’s good enough for them, it’s most definitely good enough for us.
Luxury Accommodation
When you think of a staycation, you immediately think of a break that is both relaxing and indulgent. The Cotswolds is home to some of the most unique and beautiful accommodation in the country and offers everything from 5 star hotels to cute country cottages, such as the Character Cottages Cotswolds Holiday Cottages. With everything from hot tubs to in-house cinemas, there’s many a swoon-worthy home to stay in. My favourite of the bunch has to be this charming cottage in the village of Broadway which sleeps four people and dates back the the 18th Century. The thatched roof is something that could be taken straight out of a nursery rhyme. To book click here.
Serious Shopping
With everything from independent boutiques to well-known names, there’s something for everyone, and don’t even get me started on Bicester Village. Located just south of the Cotswolds, Bicester is a designer-lovers dream, comprised of a huge range of only the most luxury brands, each within their own uniquely decorated shop. With everything from Gucci and Celine to The White Company and Calvin Klein, there’s sure to be a purchase or two – and it would be rude not to!
Where’s your ultimate Staycation? And where’s your dream destination? Comment below.
P.S. This was a paid for collaboration with Character Cottages – they have some fabulous country holiday homes in beautiful towns and villages throughout the Cotswolds. Each holiday home has an abundance of character to make your holiday even more special. Email: guests@character-cottages.co.uk or call on +44 (0) 1451 600844.
