The Cotswolds

There’s nothing quite like a festive afternoon tea to get you into the Christmas spirit. The Cotswolds offers a wide variety of experiences, from luxury breaks to charming country inns, where you can indulge in seasonal treats, sip on fine teas, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a catch-up with friends, or a special treat for yourself, here’s your guide to the best festive afternoon teas in the Cotswolds in 2025.

On her daily walk through Sudeley’s Castle Rooms, Laura Jodie, the keen-eyed Head of Household in charge of Sudeley’s conservation works, noticed some ominous undulations running along the bottom edge of one of Sudeley’s treasures - the Sheldon Tapestry - which hangs in pride of place in the Library.

Welcome to the storied streets of Winchcombe. Centuries of history are packed into this welcoming Cotswolds town, where ancient burial chambers, chugging steam trains, an illustrious castle and some seriously cosy country pubs are the ingredients for the perfect autumn escape. In the heart of the rolling hills, Winchcombe is a traditional market town with a story stretching back thousands of years to discover.

Christmas is a family affair — and for many people that includes four-legged family members. The Cotswolds' countryside, villages and welcoming accommodation make it possible to enjoy a festive escape without leaving your dog behind. From dog-friendly cottages to pubs where your pooch can join you for Christmas lunch, here are some ideas for a Christmas with the whole pack.

Christmas tastes even better in the Cotswolds. From elegant afternoon teas and traditional Christmas lunches to English sparkling wine, festive feasts and food experiences with a twist, there are plenty of reasons to make food part of your festive itinerary. Whether you're looking for a special meal, a relaxed gathering with friends or a new festive tradition, here are some of the food and drink experiences to discover in 2026.

The Cotswolds is beautiful by day but look upwards after dark and you’ll discover a whole different side of the landscape. With rural countryside, open spaces and villages away from major sources of light pollution, the Cotswolds offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy stargazing and dark skies. From guided astronomy evenings and astrophotography tours to cosy lodges and romantic countryside stays, there are lots of ways to experience the Cotswolds after sunset.

Christmas can be magical when you have someone special to share it with. Imagine frosty morning walks, twinkling village lights, a cosy pub fire and a quiet evening in a countryside retreat — with nowhere else you need to be. From romantic cottages and lodges to adults-only stays, here are some ideas for a Christmas escape for two in the Cotswolds.

Autumn is a wonderful time to slow down and enjoy the Cotswolds at a gentler pace. As the leaves turn golden, the countryside comes alive with colour, walking trails become crisp and quiet, and pubs and cafés feel even more inviting. From country house hotels and cosy lodges to charming cottages and walking holidays, there are plenty of ways to enjoy an autumn break in the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds comes alive at Christmas with festive food, twinkling lights and plenty of opportunities to gather with colleagues, friends and family. Whether you want a traditional festive dinner, a private party, something adventurous or a night of dancing, the region has venues to suit every kind of celebration. Here are some ideas for making your Christmas party one to remember in 2026.

Seeing the Cotswolds at Christmas is magical, but joining a guided tour can make it even easier to enjoy the region without worrying about routes, parking or planning. From festive market visits and historic villages to winter walking and private driver-guided experiences, there are plenty of ways to explore. Here are some festive tours to consider for 2026.