Just outside of chaotic London is a region of idyllic villages where city-dwellers will often escape for a weekend away. The Cotswolds is brimming with charm and countryside coziness, and offers dozens of different destinations within itself. After years of hearing how lovely this area is, I finally decided to see it for myself. Straight away, I could see what all the hype was about. While I barely scratched the surface on all this region has to offer (I absolutely plan on going back!) my weekend in the Cotswolds made for a perfect itinerary for those looking to plan a trip of their own. Here’s what I recommend:
THE FISH HOTEL
After researching some of the best areas to visit in The Cotswolds, I knew I couldn’t miss Broadway in Worcestershire. Almost instantly, I found The Fish Hotel and was sold straight away by all it’s charm. This collection of quirky hotel houses and huts is nestled in a hillside within a 400-acre private estate right in the heart of Broadway. We stayed in one of the Hideaway Huts, which was hands down one of the coziest places I’ve ever laid my head! These little units may look like you’re “roughing it” with their remote location being tucked away on their own, but don’t be fooled! Each one has under-floor heating, a bedroom with double bed and roll top bath, as well as separate en suite bathroom with shower. They have a lounge area with large L-shape sofa and wood burner to snuggle up in front of. Above the bed there is a skylight so you can see the stars at night or various forms of wildlife during the day. But my favorite part was easily the bathtubs: one option indoors and a heated one in the backyard!
Photo c/o The Fish Hotel
Photo c/o The Fish Hotel
While staying in a Hideaway Hut, you also have access to the rest of the property, including a boot room where you can borrow wellies (rain boots) to wear for your country walks into town (and the staff is so wonderful about providing you with maps and showing you the different routes into town you can take.)
While you certainly can find places to eat in town, I doubt you’ll want to given the incredible dining right on site at Hook. Distinctive, addictive and unlike anywhere else in the Cotswolds, Hook takes dining at the Fish into new and uncharted waters. The vision of Farncombe Estate's culinary director Martin Burge, the restaurant is a laid back but luxurious celebration of seafood that combines the sophistication and refinement of Martin’s head-turning gastronomy with the warm and welcoming rusticity that has made the Fish a firm favorite of Cotswolds visitors and residents.
Photo c/o The Fish Hotel
I can’t say enough wonderful things about this property… it was a dream to stay here and I will absolutely be back! Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just a cozy place to relax, The Fish Hotel has you covered.
After an incredible night at The Fish Hotel, we hopped in the car to drive to our next destination. But first? We had to stop for lunch at Daylesford: an award-winning organic farm and farm shop.
Daylesford actually has a few locations in London, which I had visited and loved. But visiting their Cotswolds location where all the ingredients are farmed was a truly incredible experience that I’d recommend to everyone. Daylesford is one of the most sustainable farms in the UK. They aim to grow, farm, produce and sell food according to sustainable principles, and in harmony with the environment. Above all, they believe that when people eat natural, organic food, they can taste the difference. It’s a chain of goodness that begins with healthy soil, and finishes with healthy animals and people. This sentiment absolutely radiates as you visit this property and I challenge you to find a meal anywhere that’s more delicious or comprised of more farm-fresh ingredients. Whatever you do, don’t miss this absolute gem whilst visiting the Cotswolds.
Photo c/o Lords of The Manor
After lunch we drove to Upper Slaughter, another beautiful region of the Cotswolds, to our next accommodation for the weekend: Lords of the Manor. This gorgeous estate is the perfect destination for guests who wish to experience a truly enchanting and luxurious getaway.
This privately-owned hotel offers idyllic scenery at every turn and sits at the heart of the village and showcases all that is loved most in the area. They also boast some of a long list of prestigious awards including:
4 Red Star AA Inspector’s Choice accolade.
Good Hotel Guide Best UK Country House Hotel
Listed in The Sunday Times Top 100 UK Restaurants Guide
Photo c/o Lords of The Manor
We loved going for a country walk into town, strolling through the gardens, enjoying a delicious cocktail by the fireplace after the sunset and then having an incredible meal in their restaurant. If you’re looking for a property that’s luxurious yet quaint and doesn’t feel like a massive hotel, this is the spot for you.
Photo c/o Lords of The Manor
I adore doing life in London, but a weekend away from the chaos to enjoy the beauty of the Cotswolds was just what the doctor ordered. I’d recommend everyone experience this gorgeous at some point while visiting the UK… I can’t wait to see even more of it during future trips!
Have more questions about the Cotswolds or want help planning a trip of your own? Book a travel planning session with me and I’ll be more than happy to create a customized itinerary specifically for you!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
xx
Whitney
