Every year we like to sit down and wonder where it is the wind will take us in the next 12 months. This year, we especially hoped for an easterly blowing breeze that would land us across the pond right in the middle of the Cotswolds.
We had a feeling that this part of the world was going to impress. I mean, if it’s good enough for Kate Moss to call home then surely it’s good enough for a long weekend am I right? And who better to take us there than AerLingus Regional who fly direct to Bristol on one of those gorge small planes that feel more like a private jet than they do commercial airliner. Once you’ve touched down, you’re only an hours drive from the heart of the Cotswolds.
Here are 7 things that we know will make you fall in love with this beyond gorgeous part of the world.
1. Dreamy homestays
No, this is not a drill. This was our home in The Cotswolds, idyllic. You can find this beauty in Shipton-under-Wychwood in Oxfordshire. The loveliest lady named Anne and her three beloved pooches will make you feel right at home. Plus, if you think the exterior is impressive just wait until you see the kitch rooms inside.
Web: Shipton Grange House
2. It’s a daisy lovers heaven
The Cotswolds is renowned for it’s rose bush covered cobbles but it’s lesser mentioned treasure is the many vast fields of giant daisies! An instant day brightener and the ideal backdrop for your new profile picture! We came across this little slice of heaven just outside Castle Combe.
3. Afternoon tea delights
Stow-on-the-Wold should be first on your list of villages to visit if you’re looking for a traditional English afternoon tea in the quaintest of surroundings. We stopped at Lucy’s for a selection of miniature sandwiches, muffins, scones, every kind of homemade jam and off course a warm pot of English tea. No booking necessary just arrive and enjoy. (Tip: Try to nab the window seat for the best people watching too.)
Web: Lucy’s Tearoom
4. Field of dreams
Have you even lived if you’ve never run through a field of wheat nearly taller than you? A million pictures could never portray the feeling of standing amongst the stems as they dance in unison in the breeze. We found this beauty on the road from Burford to Lower Slaughter. Not entirely sure how ‘cool’ it is, running through a farmers crop, but you have to live your life right?!
5. Beauty as far as the eye can see
Its difficult to narrow down which villages to visit in The Cotswolds over a long weekend as it can feel like the next keeps getting more beautiful than the last. That said, one we would most definitely recommend including is Bibury. Swan’s gently bob on the stream that slices through this greenland and everywhere you look feels like you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter novel. Magic.
6. The BEST English pubs
Head to Bourton-on-the-Water if you’d like to sample a few classic, cosy English pubs with the most interesting interiors and decor. Welcomes flow through the air, the fires lit and your seat at the corner table is waiting. Trust us, you’ll find it hard to leave.
7. Need we say anymore
Described officially as the ‘Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, you cannot get any closer to the heart of the famous quaint and charming English countryside then spending a long weekend (or longer if you can) exploring this region. To help you narrow down your route, our must see villages are: Shipton-under-Wychwood, Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, Lower Slaughter (give a visit to The Old Mill Shop & Museum!), Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water.
Aer Lingus Regional operates flights between Dublin and Bristol up to four times daily with fares from €19.99 one way. Flights between Cork and Bristol operate daily with fares from €29.99 including taxes and charges.
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