Nothing beats a calm escape like travelling to the Cotswolds for a moment away from normality. The quiet and countryside-filled region is renowned for its rolling hills and charming English villages ready to be explored – but have you noticed that they have a foreign spark to them?

Instead of dealing with the airport chaos, here are 5 Cotswolds getaways that will make you feel well and truly travelled. Whether a weekend break or a week-long exploration of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there really is something for everyone in the Cotswolds.

Stow-on-the-Wold

Tucked away in the north region of the Cotswolds lies a quiet village that embodies an Italian archaic allure. From the moment you arrive at the charming guesthouses adorned with ivy-covered facades, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an Italian village. The cobbled streets will remind you of Rome’s historical centre as you browse through the little boutique shops offering bespoke trinkets and endearing keepsakes.

To get the full experience, why not visit The Cellar and indulge in your own private wine tasting experience? After all you are on holiday!

Chipping Campden

Chipping Campden is a must-visit for lovers of French architecture. With its honey-coloured limestone buildings and beautifully preserved medieval structures, this town will transport you to the picturesque regions of Provence.

Visit the Court Barn Museum to admire local arts and crafts, or take a walk through Hidcote Manor Garden, an Arts and Crafts garden in the north Cotswolds, near Chipping Campden. The French-inspired cuisine at local restaurants, such as The Eight Bells Inn, adds another layer of authenticity to the experience.

Broadway

Broadway, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” will whisk you away to the serene landscapes of rural Ireland. Its wide, grassy-lined main street and traditional stone houses exude a peaceful charm, while the Broadway Tower offers panoramic views reminiscent of Ireland’s iconic vistas. Take a walk up to the tower and enjoy a picnic with a view, or visit the Gordon Russell Design Museum for a unique insight into 20th-century furniture design.

Did you know… Broadway Tower actually has a very romantic history?

Tetbury

Tetbury, with its royal connections and thriving antique scene, will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a charming Belgian town. The town is known for its 25 antique shops and if you’re a fan of Netflix’s The Crown, it’s in close proximity to Highgrove, the old private residence of Prince Charles. Once touring the heritage heavy streets, you can always stop by the Snooty Fox for a hearty meal and a pint of traditional English ale.

Cirencester

The “Capital of the Cotswolds” is a bubbly market town that echoes the charisma of an old-world Greek village. Interestingly, the town’s history dates back to Roman times, which is evident in its architecture and the Corinium Museum’s collection of Roman artefacts.

If that isn’t enough to make you feel transported in time, the Church of St. John the Baptist, with its striking tower, mirrors the style of many Greek Orthodox churches. There’s plenty to offer, whether you want to wander through the town’s narrow streets filled with boutique shops or relax in the beautiful Abbey Grounds. Don’t forget to check out the Cirencester Park Polo Club, for an exciting afternoon watching one of the oldest polo clubs in the UK.

Ready to book your weekend getaway?

These five Cotswolds getaways are proof that you don’t need to hop on a plane to experience the magic of foreign lands. Each one offers a unique and delightful mix of English charm and international magnetism.

So pack your bags, buckle up, and embark on a journey that promises to be unforgettable.

Words: Lily Myers