If you’ve spent any time looking for stunning landscapes to vacation across England, you’ve likely come across the Cotswolds before. And, if you’re a fan of Clarkson’s Farm, Bridget Jones’ Diary, or The Holiday, then the chances are you may have already seen parts of it! But how much do you know about the area? Here are some fun facts about the Cotswolds that might inspire a future visit.
1. The area is an AONB.
We mentioned that the Cotswolds is a beautiful place, but did you know that it is officially designated as an AONB? That is to say that it is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and we have to agree! It is famous for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, limestone villages, and beautiful green meadows.
2. The Cotswolds crosses multiple counties.
As small as the Cotswolds may appear, the area actually spreads out over various counties. It is located in south-central England, primarily in the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, with parts extending into other counties.
3. Much of the architecture out here is made from limestone.
of the buildings in the Cotswolds are made of limestone. The area is known for its distinctive honey-coloured Cotswold stone, which is used in the construction of many of its buildings, giving them a unique and warm appearance.
4. Its village scenes are highly popular with tourists.
Many villages are part of the Cotswolds. Some of the most famous ones include Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Castle Combe, which are popular tourist destinations.
5. It’s a great vacation spot for people looking for market town scenes.
One of the most attractive features of the Cotswolds is the many market towns in the area! The Cotswolds specifically feature historic market towns like Cirencester and Burford, which have preserved their traditional charm.
6. There are lots of opportunities to go hiking in the area.
The Cotswolds offers a vast network of walking and hiking trails. The Cotswold Way, in particular, is a popular long-distance footpath. The path is a staggering 102 miles or 164 km, it’s worth exploring a little bit at a time!
7. It is home to diverse and rare wildlife.
Along with the landscapes and sweet little towns, the Cotswolds is also known for its stunning wildlife. It is home to rare species such as the Large Blue butterfly and the brown hairstreak butterfly. The Cotswold Wildlife Park even saw a boom in births of the rare Cotton-top Tamarin!
8. The Cotswolds were important in Roman times.
The Cotswolds has a fascinating and rich history. For example, Cirencester, the “Capital of the Cotswolds,” was once known as Corinium and was an important Roman settlement!
9. There are Roman villas, stately homes, and gardens galore to visit.
If you are interested in visiting the Cotswolds, you will be glad to know there is plenty to see! For example, the Cotswolds boasts beautiful gardens, including Hidcote Manor Garden and Kiftsgate Court Gardens, which are open to the public! Or, you could always visit the fascinating historic sites, such as Sudeley Castle, Blenheim Palace, and Chedworth Roman Villa.
10. The Cotswolds play host to lots of festival fun each year.
The Cotswolds also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. For example, the Cheltenham Litreature Festival and the Moreton-in-Marsh Show bring plenty of people from all over the country together.
FAQs about the Cotswolds
Where is the prettiest village in the Cotswolds?
There are plenty of pretty villages in the Cotswolds! Some of the prettiest include Upper Slaughter, Lower Slaughter, Chipping Campden, Bibury, Burford, Kingham, Bourton-on-the-Water, Broadway, and more!
What is the most interesting town in the Cotswolds?
Among the many interesting towns in the Cotswolds, Cirencester really grabs people’s attention! That’s because the area played such an important role in Roman times and keeps various treasures from its past to see.
How do you spend a day in the Cotswolds?
The best way to spend a day in the Cotswolds is by starting at a local market, hiking along a beautiful trail to see the stunning area, dining at a local pub or restaurant, and visiting the little towns along the way.
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/England
https://www.cotswolds.com/
https://visitthecotswolds.uk/
Do you know any interesting facts about the Cotswolds? Share them in the comments below!