The Cotswolds National Landscape

Protected Landscape · England, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Area 2,027 km²

Time zone Europe/London

Official website www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk

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Featured Lists

Diliff / CC BY 2.5

The Cotswolds National Landscape: Absolute Essentials

The Cotswolds National Landscape spans nearly 800 square miles, defined by its Jurassic limestone architecture and rolling 'wolds.' This collection features significant historical sites, including the 1st-century Roman Baths, the Neolithic Rollright Stones, and the 14th-century weavers' cottages of Arlington Row. The region's heritage is further represented by Sudeley Castle’s royal connections and the Georgian grandeur of Bath’s Royal Crescent. Outdoor enthusiasts can traverse the 102-mile Cotswold Way, which passes landmarks like the 18th-century Broadway Tower and the medieval market town of Chipping Campden.

19 places

Gordon Robertson / CC BY 2.0

Historic Heritage Sites

This collection spans millennia of British history, from the Neolithic burial mound of Uley Long Barrow to the 18th-century neo-classical Beckford's Tower. Explore the world-renowned Roman Baths, the UNESCO-listed Blenheim Palace, and the medieval ruins of Farleigh Hungerford Castle. The list also features architectural follies like Sham Castle and historical monuments such as Sir Bevil Grenville's, marking the site of the 1643 Battle of Lansdowne. These sites showcase diverse structures including Grade I listed barns, private castles, and ancient fortresses.

10 places

Mimihitam / CC BY-SA 3.0

Historic Churches and Chapels

This collection highlights the architectural and spiritual heritage of the Cotswolds, ranging from the grand fan-vaulted ceilings of Bath Abbey to the tiny Bremilham Church. The list includes medieval 'wool churches' funded by the historic textile trade, 12th-century Norman foundations, and unique sites like St Edward’s with its yew-tree-framed portal. These sites feature rare medieval wall paintings, ancient sundials, and monuments that trace the region's history from the Roman era through the Victorian Gothic revival.

20 places

Fahdshariff / Public domain

Pubs, Eateries & Cafes

Explore a curated selection of the Cotswolds' most distinctive dining spots, from the 15th-century Sally Lunn’s mansion in Bath to the Civil War-era Castle at Edgehill. This list features historic gastropubs like the Kingham Plough, unique venues such as a café situated within St. Michael’s Without church, and modern local landmarks like the Diddly Squat Farm Shop. Whether visiting traditional tea rooms in Broadway or Michelin-starred estates like Whatley Manor, these locations highlight regional ingredients and heritage architecture.

20 places

Agadant / CC BY-SA 3.0

Natural Beauty and Views

This collection features a blend of historic landscape gardens and ancient archaeological sites across Bath and the Cotswolds. Explore 18th-century design at Prior Park, the Victorian botanical heritage of Royal Victoria Park, and panoramic city views from Alexandra Park. The list also highlights significant prehistoric monuments, including the Neolithic stone circle of The King's Men and the chambered burial mounds at Uley Long Barrow and Belas Knap, offering a deep look into the region's ancient and horticultural history.

6 places