About The Area

Things to see and do in the Gloucestershire Cotswolds

The Gloucestershire Cotswolds is a picturesque area located in the south west of England, famous for its rolling hills, honey-coloured stone villages and quaint country pubs. It is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the English countryside.

The Cotswolds AONB covers an area of about 800 square miles and the Gloucestershire Cotswolds is one of the five distinct regions within it. It includes the City of Gloucester, the towns of Cheltenham, Cirencester, Stroud, Stow-on-the-Wold and Tetbury, as well as the villages of Painswick, Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh and Broadway, among others.

There is a wealth of things to see and do here – come and explore the many wonderful attractions this area has to offer.

Cheltenham Races

Cheltenham Festivals & Racing

Cheltenham Festivals are a collection of annual events that celebrate various forms of culture and entertainment. From the lively sounds of Jazz to the world of literature, from the wonders of science to the delights of food, Cheltenham Festivals offer something for everyone. Each festival is unique, with its own distinct flavor and character, making Cheltenham a vibrant hub of creativity and inspiration.

Cheltenham Racing is a prestigious annual event that takes place at the iconic Prestbury Park. The festival attracts thousands of racing enthusiasts from around the world, who come to witness some of the most exciting horse racing events in the calendar. With its stunning backdrop, thrilling races, and lively atmosphere, Cheltenham Racing is a must-see event for all sports fans.

Little Court Cottages are located just 8 miles from Cheltenham, making us ideal accommodation for visiting Cheltenham Races or Festivals.

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral & Harry Potter

Gloucester Cathedral is a stunning medieval cathedral located in the heart of Gloucester, England. The cathedral has a long and fascinating history, dating back to its founding in 678 AD as a Saxon abbey. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone many changes and renovations, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles.

One of the most interesting facts about Gloucester Cathedral is that it was used as a filming location for several of the Harry Potter films. The cathedral's cloisters were used as the setting for several scenes in the films, including the famous scene where Harry discovers the Mirror of Erised.

Aside from its connection to Harry Potter, Gloucester Cathedral is also known for its beautiful architecture, stunning stained glass windows, and rich history. Visitors can take a tour of the cathedral, explore the crypt and the Whispering Gallery, and learn about the cathedral's many famous inhabitants, including King Edward II and the composer Herbert Howells.

Gloucester Docks

Gloucester Historical Docks and Waterways Museum

The Gloucester Historical Docks and Waterways Museum is a fascinating museum located in the historic Gloucester Docks area. The museum is dedicated to the history of Gloucester's waterways, and features a range of exhibits and interactive displays that bring the city's maritime past to life.

The museum is housed in a former warehouse building, and features displays on everything from the city's early waterways and canals to its role as a bustling port during the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can explore the museum's many exhibits, take a guided tour of the docks area, and even take a boat trip on the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal.

One of the most interesting aspects of the museum is its collection of historic ships and boats, including the Severn Trow, a traditional cargo vessel that was used to transport goods up and down the River Severn. Visitors can explore the trow and learn about life on board a working cargo vessel.

Overall, the Gloucester Historical Docks and Waterways Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Gloucester's waterways and maritime heritage. It's a great way to explore the city's rich history and learn about the important role that Gloucester played in shaping the industrial landscape of the region.

Cricket

Gloucester Rugby & Cheltenham Cricket Festival

Located just 3 miles away from Gloucester, if you're looking for accommodation for a Gloucester rugby match at their home in Kingsholm, then Little Court Cottages may be an ideal choice! One of the highlights of the Gloucester Rugby calendar is the annual Kingsholm Sevens tournament, which takes place in the summer months. The tournament is a showcase for some of the most talented rugby sevens teams in the country, and draws large crowds of rugby fans.

Little Court Cottages are located just 8 miles away from Cheltenham, where The Cheltenham Cricket Festival takes place, at the Cheltenham College Ground. The festival has been running since 1872, and is one of the oldest cricket festivals in the world.

The festival features a series of matches between county cricket teams from around England and is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and draws large crowds of cricket fans each year. The festival is also a popular destination for families, with a range of activities and entertainment on offer for children.

In addition to the cricket matches, the Cheltenham Cricket Festival also features a range of other events, including live music, food and drink stalls, and a traditional funfair. It's a great day out for anyone who loves cricket, or who is simply looking for a fun and relaxed day out in the beautiful English countryside.

Cider

Local Annual Events

Little Court Cottages are ideally located for the many annual events that take place in the area -

The Three Choirs Festival is a renowned annual music festival that rotates between three historic cathedrals - Gloucester, Hereford, and Worcester. The festival has a long-standing tradition of celebrating choral music and attracting some of the finest musicians and performers from around the world. With its stunning venues and captivating performances, the Three Choirs Festival is an unmissable event for music lovers.

Prescott Hill Climb and Steam Railway is a charming annual event that celebrates the golden age of motoring and steam travel. The event features a thrilling hill climb competition, where drivers race vintage cars up a steep incline, as well as a delightful steam railway ride through the beautiful countryside. The event is a perfect family day out, offering a fascinating insight into the history of transport and engineering.

Gloucester Tall Ships Festival is an annual celebration of maritime history, featuring a stunning display of tall ships and boats from around the world. The event offers visitors the chance to climb aboard these magnificent vessels and learn about their fascinating histories. With its lively atmosphere and beautiful setting, Gloucester Tall Ships Festival is an event not to be missed.

The Cheese Rolling at Cooper's Hill is a unique and thrilling annual event that has become famous around the world. Brave competitors race down a steep hill in pursuit of a wheel of cheese, with the winner taking home the prized cheese as their reward. The event is a true spectacle, drawing crowds from far and wide to witness the daring feats of the cheese rollers.

Witcombe Cider Festival is an annual celebration of all things cider, featuring a fantastic selection of local ciders, delicious food, and live music. The festival takes place in the beautiful countryside of Gloucestershire, offering visitors the chance to relax and unwind in a stunning natural setting. With its friendly atmosphere and delicious refreshments, Witcombe Cider Festival is a wonderful event for all to enjoy.

Painswick Rococo Gardens

Painswick Rococo Gardens and Painswick Beacon

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Painswick is a charming English town that is steeped in history and natural beauty. Two of the town's most iconic landmarks are the Painswick Rococo Gardens and Painswick Beacon, both of which offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Painswick Rococo Gardens is a stunning eighteenth-century garden that has been beautifully restored to its former glory. This whimsical garden is known for its playful architecture, featuring follies, grottos, and other quirky features that make it a delight to explore. Whether you're strolling through the woodland paths, admiring the views from the terrace, or simply sitting by the pond and enjoying the tranquillity, the Rococo Gardens are a true feast for the senses.

Meanwhile, the Painswick Beacon is a picturesque hilltop that offers panoramic views over the town and the surrounding countryside. At 312 metres high, it is the highest point in the Cotswold Hills and is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. From the top, you can see for miles in every direction, taking in the rolling hills, verdant valleys, and charming villages that dot the landscape.

One of the best things about Painswick Rococo Gardens and Painswick Beacon is that they complement each other perfectly. After exploring the playful charm of the gardens, you can head up to the Beacon and enjoy the natural beauty of the Cotswolds in all its glory. Whether you're looking for a romantic day out, a family-friendly adventure, or simply a chance to connect with nature, these two landmarks are sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.

Little Court Cottages are ideally located for exploring the area, and visiting Painswick.

The Cotswold Way

The Cotswold Way

The Cotswold Way is a 102-mile trail that winds its way through some of the most stunning countryside in England. Starting in the charming market town of Chipping Campden and ending in the historic city of Bath, the Cotswold Way takes walkers on a journey through time, past ancient burial mounds, Roman forts, and medieval castles.

The trail is divided into 15 manageable sections, each with its own unique charm and character. From the rolling hills of the Cotswold escarpment to the tranquil meadows of the Severn Valley, the Cotswold Way offers walkers an ever-changing landscape that is a delight to explore.

Along the way, walkers will encounter quaint villages and market towns, each with their own unique history and culture. From the picture-perfect village of Broadway to the medieval wool town of Painswick, the Cotswold Way takes walkers on a journey through some of the most charming and idyllic towns in England.

But it's not just the scenery and the towns that make the Cotswold Way so special. The trail is also steeped in history and mythology, with ancient sites such as Belas Knap and Uley Long Barrow offering a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors.

The Cotswold Way is a truly unique experience that offers walkers a chance to escape the stresses of modern life and immerse themselves in the beauty and history of the English countryside. With its stunning scenery, charming towns, and warm hospitality, it's no wonder that the Cotswold Way is considered one of the best long-distance trails in the world.