#hidcote manor

[cpahlow]

Hidcote Manor Gardens

[aliciasilvastuff]

By happines_behind_the_lens

Hidcote Manor

[explorebritain]

10 Reasons to Visit the Cotswolds

For many people, the Cotswolds is the real England (or, at least, how it used to be). Here you can enjoy the idyllic beauty of honey-coloured stone villages, rolling hills and countryside and ancient churches in a landscape known for its timeless appeal. Many Cotswold towns and villages have changed little over the centuries. Here are 10 reasons to visit.

1. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Set within over 2,000 acres of parkland, it boasts beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown, a rich history, and impressive art collections. Visitors can explore the lavish state rooms, wander through the formal gardens, and enjoy various events held throughout the year.

Explore the home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, the birthplace of Churchill, and a World Heritage Site with over 300 years of history with tickets to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.*

2. Bourton-on-the-Water

Known as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," Bourton-on-the-Water is famous for its idyllic setting on the River Windrush. The village features low bridges, quaint stone cottages, and a charming high street lined with unique shops and tearooms. The Cotswold Motoring Museum and Model Village are popular attractions, offering a glimpse into the region's history and miniature village life.

Enjoy a visit to the Cotswolds with a day trip from London. Stop along the way at locations like Bourton-on-the-Water and Broadway Tower and enjoy cream tea at Lower Slaughters.*

3. Quintessential English Villages

The Cotswolds is home to numerous picturesque villages, each with its own unique charm. Bibury, often described as the most beautiful village in England, is famous for Arlington Row, a series of 14th-century weavers' cottages. Castle Combe, with its medieval market cross and stone cottages, is another must-see.

4. Stunning Natural Scenery

The Cotswolds’ rolling hills, lush meadows, and ancient woodlands offer breathtaking natural beauty. Walking and cycling are popular ways to explore the landscape, with the Cotswold Way providing 102 miles of scenic trails from Chipping Campden to Bath. The region is also dotted with scenic viewpoints such as Broadway Tower, offering panoramic vistas.

5. Historical Sites and Gardens

In addition to Blenheim Palace, the Cotswolds boasts numerous historical sites and gardens. Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe, with its rich royal history and award-winning gardens, is a highlight. Hidcote Manor Garden, a masterpiece of Arts and Crafts design, features intricately designed outdoor "rooms."

6. Traditional Pubs and Culinary Delights

The Cotswolds is a foodie’s paradise, with traditional pubs, fine dining restaurants, and local markets. Many pubs, like The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, offer locally sourced food and cozy atmospheres. Don't miss out on trying local specialties such as Cotswold lamb, Gloucestershire cheese, and craft ales.

Join a Cotswolds day tour from London and spend a relaxed day exploring charming scenery, travelling along narrow country lanes, and visiting historic towns and villages.*

7. Cultural Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, the Cotswolds hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals. The Cheltenham Literature Festival attracts renowned authors and literary enthusiasts. Other notable events include the Chipping Norton Literary Festival, the Cotswold Show, and various music and arts festivals celebrating local talent.

8. Rich Artistic Heritage

The Cotswolds has long been a haven for artists and craftsmen. The village of Stow-on-the-Wold is known for its antique shops and art galleries. The New Brewery Arts in Cirencester offers workshops and showcases contemporary craft and design. The region's artistic heritage is also celebrated through numerous open studios and craft fairs.

9. Cozy Accommodations

From luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, the Cotswolds offers a range of accommodations to suit every taste. Stay in a traditional stone cottage, a historic inn, or a boutique hotel like Barnsley House, which features a renowned spa and beautiful gardens.

10. Accessibility and Location

The Cotswolds' central location makes it easily accessible from major cities like London, Birmingham, and Bristol. Excellent road and rail links mean you can escape to the countryside for a weekend or longer, experiencing the tranquility and beauty of this quintessentially English region.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or culture enthusiast, the Cotswolds has something to offer everyone. Its combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages make it a destination not to be missed.

Links marked with an asterisk may pay us if you book!

[valkyries-things]

NORAH LINDSAY // GARDEN DESIGNER

“She was a socialite garden designer who between the World wars became a major influence on garden design and planting in the UK and on the Continent, She influenced, advised, consulted and worked on: Blickling Hall, Chirk Castle, Cliveden, Hidcote Manor, Mottisfont Abbey, Ditchley Park, Faringdon Castle, Trent Park and Bled Castle among others.”

[sunlikehoney]

📍hidcote manor, chipping campden.

[travelbinge]

By Monalogue

Hidcote Bartrim, Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, England

[brigantias-isles]

Hidcote Manor, near Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, England

[benvironment]

Bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers bonkers weather. Really really bonkers. I drove down south last night and it was 15C on the M6 near Lancaster at 8pm!!

And today, 18C and t-shirt weather all the way down in Gloucestershire, with the UK February temperature record falling for a second consecutive day after London reached 21.2C. But if you looked out to the horizon you could clearly see the thick layer of pollution being pinned to the ground by the high pressure and still, stagnant air. And this was in a rural location! I dare say it would have been much worse today through the Central Belt and across the English cities, where many folk were greeted with eerie, hazy sunrises.

Back to normal by the end of the week though, with fresh Atlantic air pushing in and clearing our dirty air up a bit.....but you have to wonder where it all goes when it leaves our shores. Anyway, watching folk strolling around the Cotswolds today enjoying the warmth, I couldn't help think back to 2012, when we had record breaking heat in March and I camped on the summit of Goatfell in a t-shirt......but which turned out to be the warmest weather of the whole year in Scotland, cos that was the year of the endless torrential summer flooding. Erm....do you think this week was our summer?

;-)

[english-idylls]

The Cotswolds - autumn colours (Hidcote Manor and Kiftsgate Gardens) by Ikuko Wilson

[alternatywnezycie]

[kerovous]

The Red Borders by judy dean

[ahamiltongarden]

MEADOW AT HIDCOTE MANOR AND SHARAM’S COTTAGES, PENOLA

[blueviolet56]

Spring Garden por flash of light Via Flickr: Hidcote Gloucestershire

[sheepyhollows]

Hidcote Manor Garden, Britain

[daughterofnature]

Hidcote Manor Garden

[ohjardin]

Lawnmower Man at Hidcote Manor GardenPhoto by antonychammond on flickr