Bourton on the Water is a picturesque village positioned within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds, considered one of England’s designated Areas of Excellent Pure Magnificence. There are many fantastic issues to do in Bourton on the Water from strolling alongside the gorgeous river to visiting farm parks, outlets, and rustic pubs.
This charming village, sometimes called “Venice of the Cotswolds” is thought for its quaint cottages and stone bridges over the River Windrush. It’s considered one of my absolute favourite locations within the Cotswolds and appears as if it might be straight out of a novel set in England of previous.
There are many fantastic eating places and pubs within the village and it’s the right location when you’re on the lookout for an genuine, rural, English village. That is someplace I am going again to each time I’m within the space, and with so many Bourton on the Water points of interest, you gained’t be bored for a second.
Finest Issues To Do in Bourton on the Water
Under, you’ll discover a few of the finest locations to go to in Bourton on the Water from enjoyable points of interest such because the mannequin village and toy museum to river walks, nature reserves, a craft beer brewery, and far more in addition to.
1. Stroll Alongside the River Windrush
One of many first locations to go to in Bourton on the Water ought to be the picture-perfect River Windrush that winds its method by way of the village. There are 5 stone bridges over the river dating between 1645 and 1911 and you may crisscross as you please while you discover.
There are a couple of completely different round walks you’ll be able to take that fluctuate in size. Among the best is that this three-mile route (5.1 km) that takes within the village and surrounding countryside. The hike may be accomplished in just a little over one hour, however it’s additionally the right place to cease and take within the peace and serenity.
I really like getting out into nature, so for me, this quick hike is likely one of the finest issues to do in Bourton on the Water. It additionally passes a couple of native pubs together with The Kingsbridge Inn, which is one other of my favourite pastimes. Because the water is so shallow, it’s additionally a fantastic place for a paddle in the course of the summer season months.
2. Go to the Mannequin Village
I used to like visiting mannequin villages as a child and the one right here is to not be missed (regardless of how previous you’re). Your entire village has been recreated at a scale of 1/9 utilizing the identical Cotswold stone because the lifesize homes, partitions, and bridges. This is likely one of the finest locations to see in Bourton on the Water for the entire household.
Preserve an eye fixed out for landmarks similar to St Lawrence’s Church, the Conflict Memorial, the Outdated New Inn, and even a recreation of the mannequin village in miniature. Tickets price £4.50 for adults and £3.50 for kids. The Model Village is open on daily basis from 10 am to three:45 pm in winter and from 10 am to six pm in summer season.
Handle: Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AF. Click here for directions.
3. Cotswold Motoring and Toy Museum
The Cotswold Motoring and Toy Museum boasts seven separate galleries stuffed with classic vehicles, a historical past of motoring, a big toy assortment, and the unique Brum automotive that’s fashionable with children and adults the world over. This is likely one of the finest locations to see in Bourton on the Water and has been voted the number one attraction within the village.
Tickets price £7.50 for adults and £5.25 for kids (below 5’s go free), or you should buy a household ticket for simply £19.95 for 4 individuals. The museum is open from 10 am to six pm on daily basis and there’s no must guide upfront.
Handle: The Outdated Mill, Sherborne Avenue, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BY. Click here for directions.
4. Greystones Nature Reserve
The realm round Greystones Farm Nature Reserve has been used to domesticate crops and produce meals for over 6,000 years. Along with some lovely nature, it’s dwelling to some attention-grabbing archaeological options. You’ll discover a vary of habitats from wildflower meadows to river banks as you stroll round.
Wildlife you’ll be able to anticipate finding right here contains bats, owls, and different birdlife in addition to otters, water voles, freshwater shrimp, and fish. This is likely one of the high points of interest in Bourton on the Water for nature lovers like myself as there are many mountaineering trails all through the reserve. There isn’t a charge for entry.
Handle: Greystones Lane, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2EN. Click here for directions.
5. Go to Hawkstone Brewery
It’s no secret that I take pleasure in an excellent ale (craft beer) and even tiny Bourton has its personal brewery within the village. Hawkstone Brewery makes beers and ciders (one of many west nation’s most well-known exports) utilizing native hops, grains, and apples and makes use of sustainable strategies to provide a few of the finest tipples round.
You’ll be happy to know that there’s a bar positioned on the brewery (The Hawkstone Arms) which is open from 11 am to six pm Monday to Thursday, from 12 pm to eight pm Friday and Saturday, and from 12 pm to six pm on Sunday. Patrons can even discover unbiased meals vans on the brewery over weekends.
In the event you love beer (or cider), visiting the brewery is unquestionably some of the enjoyable issues to do in Bourton on the Water and it’s definitely someplace I really like to go to after I’m passing by.
Handle: School Farm, Stow Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 2HN. Click here for directions.
6. See the Outdated Mill Viewpoint
You’ll wish to snap a number of photos of Bourton to wow your folks again dwelling (and on Instagram), and some of the photogenic spots is the Stunning Outdated Mill Viewpoint. Right here, you’ll see the placid waters of the mill pond subsequent to The Old Mill that’s surrounded by lush greenery.
The Outdated Mill Viewpoint is only one of many locations across the village that may move as being picked straight from a postcard and is likely one of the high issues to see in Bourton on the Water.
Handle: Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AR. Click here for directions.
7. Go up in a Scorching Air Balloon
If, not like me, you’re not afraid of heights, then essentially the most distinctive and sure memorable strategy to see Bourton and the encompassing Cotswolds countryside is to take a sizzling air balloon experience. Virgin Balloon Flights provide champagne flights over the Cotswolds with launch websites in Bourton on the Water, Stroud, and different cities within the area.
This is likely one of the high issues to do in Bourton on the Water for {couples} as there aren’t many experiences extra romantic than gently floating over this picturesque village. In the event you take an early morning or night flight you’ll be able to even witness an unbelievable sundown over the Cotswolds.
Costs begin from £129 per particular person and this once-in-a-lifetime expertise lasts between three and 4 hours. Tickets are exchangeable and may be booked on-line as much as 18 months upfront. Go to the website for more information and to guide your flight in the present day.
8. Have a Chunk on the Mouse Lure Inn
The Mousetrap Inn is arguably the most effective pub/restaurant in Bourton and popping into this beautiful nineteenth Century Inn is one thing to not be handed on. Having a couple of bites to eat and a few drinks right here is likely one of the finest issues to do in Bourton on the Water at night time when locals and guests descend on this excellent public home.
That is my favourite place to eat within the village and the menu focuses on up to date European cooking with domestically sourced produce. From braised ox cheek to see bass, white bean cassoulet, and naturally that British basic beer-battered fish and chips, there’s one thing to swimsuit each style.
Costs are cheap given the situation and predominant dishes vary from £17 to £28.
Handle: Lansdowne, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AR. Click here for directions.
9. Have Enjoyable on the Cotswold Clubhouse
You probably have kids with you, then a visit to Cotswold Clubhouse is a should. This gymnastics and trampoline membership additionally has a tender play space for smaller children. It’s a fantastic possibility for winter or if the climate turns for the more severe and presents actions for these of all ages (I’m not too previous to have a go on the trampolines, to be trustworthy).
This Cotswold exercise heart is open from 9:30 am to 1:35 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (closed Thursday) and 9:30 am to 11:30 am and once more from 12 pm to 2 pm Saturday and Sunday. There’s an onsite cafe serving a variety of cold and hot drinks and snacks for as soon as an urge for food has been labored up!
Handle: Unit 20B, Bourton Industrial Park, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 2HQ. Click here for directions.
10. Go to the Cotswold Perfumery
The Cotswold Perfumery has been creating high-end, area of interest fragrances since 1966 and their perfumes are exported everywhere in the world from Europe to the USA and in every single place in between. The headquarters are housed in a beautiful 300-year-old, Grade II listed constructing within the coronary heart of Bourton.
It’s a fantastic place to go to when you’re eager to take dwelling a singular memento (and guys, if you wish to please the woman in your life this is likely one of the finest issues to do in Bourton on the Water for {couples}). The perfumery additionally has two luxury apartments within the village providing five-star, self-catering lodging.
Handle: Victoria Avenue, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BU. Click here for directions.
11. Rent a Bicycle
Among the best issues to do in Bourton on the Water for households is to rent bicycles and discover the sleepy village and surrounding countryside on two wheels. Hartwells Cotswold Cycle Hire is predicated in Bourton and so they have a variety of bikes, tandems, child trailers, and extra.
Rent costs begin from simply £18 per day. Biking is considered one of my favourite hobbies and on this area, with its mild hills and gorgeous countryside, there’s nowhere finer for a cycle experience (make sure you pack a picnic). See the website for a full value checklist and additional particulars.
Handle: Excessive Avenue, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AJ. Click here for directions.
12. Take Driving Classes at Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre
Having grown up round horses, horse driving is one thing I’m very keen on (the final time I had a go was in Mongolia a couple of years in the past; just a little completely different to this location). The Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre are as passionate about these wonderful creatures as I’m and absorb many rescue animals.
The middle presents a variety of excursions and classes (ages 7 and upwards) from newbie rides to longer hacks with certified instructors. Costs begin at £30 for a 30-minute experience, and the journeys are a good way to discover the gorgeous Cotswold environment. Click here to book online.
Like biking, this is likely one of the finest issues to do round Bourton on the Water for lovers of the outside and those that wish to escape into the pristine nature surrounding the village.
Handle: School Farm, Stow Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2HN. Click here for directions.
13. Go to Higher Slaughter
The villages of Higher and Decrease Slaughter are lower than 3 miles from Bourton and effectively value exploring. Hike alongside the footpaths and winding lanes, or rent a motorcycle and uncover one other quintessential English village within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds.
The 2 villages are separated by a small stream and Higher Slaughter lies on a slope above the decrease village. Similar to Bourton, a small river (the River Eye) passes by way of and is shallow sufficient for paddling, enjoyable, and frolicking (within the hotter months after all, until you could have a four-legged pal with you).
Together with Bourton, the Slaughters are thought-about two of essentially the most lovely villages in the Cotswolds. Higher Slaughter is likely one of the high locations to go to close to Bourton on the Water if you wish to discover extra of the gorgeous Cotswolds.
Handle: Higher Slaughter, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Click here for directions.
14. Get Misplaced within the Dragonfly Maze
The Dragonfly Maze is a standard Yew hedge maze with over half a mile of pathways to get misplaced in. Hunt for the golden dragonfly utilizing 14 clues hidden across the maze (impressed by the guide Masquerade, whose creator Equipment Williams buried a golden hare someplace in England).
The centerpiece of the Maze in Bourton was really designed and created by Williams so followers of the guide, households, and people on the lookout for one thing quirky to do will love attempting to resolve the clues and escape the maze. Tickets price £4.50 for adults and £3.50 for kids. Open each day from 10 am to three:30 pm.
Handle: Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BN. Click here for directions.
15. Take a Cotswolds Strolling Tour
This walking tour is a superb strategy to expertise Bourton, Stow on the Wold, Broadway and Burford, and different beautiful places across the Cotswolds. You’ll get to discover sleepy villages and rolling countryside whereas studying in regards to the historical past of the world from an skilled information.
Whereas most Cotswold excursions are spent driving from place to position, this tour is completely different in that it focuses much more on strolling. The eight-hour expertise prices £65 per particular person and contains transport from Stratford-upon-Avon (the previous dwelling of Shakespear) or Moreton in Marsh. Click here to book.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Bourton on the Water
Under, you’ll discover some itineraries to assist get essentially the most out of your keep. With a lot to do in Bourton on the water, regardless of how lengthy you intend to spend within the village, there’s lots to maintain you occupied.
1 Day in Bourton on the Water Itinerary
With simply at some point in Bourton on the Water, a stroll alongside its well-known river is a should. You possibly can take a straightforward one-mile amble across the village, or go for the three-mile round route which takes simply over an hour. Cease for lunch at one of many riverside pubs or eating places – The Croft is a superb possibility.
After lunch, absorb one of many native vacationer points of interest in Bourton on the Water just like the Mannequin village or motoring museum. Within the night, head to the Mouse Lure Inn which is likely one of the finest eating places within the village and favored by locals and guests alike.
2-3 Days in Bourton on the Water Itinerary
You probably have a couple of days to spend in Bourton, comply with the above itinerary to your first day and spend a further day exploring the village additional. Get misplaced within the small lanes and byways, see historic church buildings, cross historic bridges, and make sure you cease for a cup of English tea alongside the best way.
With a 3rd day to spend, pay a go to to Greystones Farm Nature Reserve. Discover historic meadows, rivers, and woodland in a few of the most spectacular settings in England. This is likely one of the finest free issues to do in Bourton on the Water and the best strategy to get some contemporary air.
1 Week in Bourton on the Water Itinerary
In the event you plan on spending per week in Bourton, discover the village and River Windrush as above, and add in some day journeys to your remaining days. Go to Stow on the Wold, Higher Slaughter, and see Shakespeaer’s dwelling at Stratford upon Avon. It’s also possible to try the bar at Hawkstone Brewery which I extremely advocate.
The place to Keep in Bourton on the Water
These are a couple of of the most effective locations to remain in Bourton on the Water for vacationers:
The Lansdowne Visitor Home – Finest for First-Time Guests
The charming Lansdown Guest House is positioned within the coronary heart of Bourton and presents free parking, rooms with en-suite loos, complimentary toiletries, tea and coffee-making amenities, and a full English breakfast (or different options). Click here to book.
The Lamb Inn – Finest for {Couples}
The beautiful Lamb Inn is a country-style pub within the heart of Bourton with luxurious rooms, an onsite bar and restaurant, and free parking. Rooms are lavishly adorned and have uncovered brickwork and wood beams, making this a extremely romantic place to remain. Click here to find out more.
Elvington Cottage – Finest for Households
The four-bedroom Elvington Cottage is the right place for households or teams of associates. There’s a completely fitted kitchen, three loos, a front room with flatscreen TV, a backyard with a terrace, and free onsite parking. This actually is a superb discover in Bourton and has every little thing you want for a snug keep. Click here to book now.
Finest Eating places in Bourton on the Water
Under is a collection of wonderful eating places and pubs within the village. For such a small place, there isn’t a scarcity of top-class eateries and also you definitely gained’t go hungry throughout your go to.
The Mousetrap Inn: The Mousetrap Inn is a nineteenth Century inn on the banks of the Windrush is likely one of the finest locations to eat (and drink) in Bourton. Anticipate fashionable European dishes and pub classics (the fish and chips are a must-try). Click here for directions.
The Rose Tree Restaurant: The Rose Restaurant is a comfy restaurant with a big outside patio overlooks the River Windrush. That is considered one of my favourite locations for a meal in Bourton due to the gorgeous al-fresco views. The restaurant is run by a husband and spouse group who satisfaction themselves on utilizing the freshest, seasonal substances. Click here for directions.
Smiths of Bourton: Typically you simply can’t beat a burger, and even within the picturesque village of Bourton you’ll be capable of fulfill that craving at Smiths of Bourbon. With a variety of burgers (together with plant-based), sides, and a few killer cocktails, this is a superb place for a chew and a few drinks. Click here for directions.
The Riverside Café: The Riverside Café is a captivating little cafe proper on the water’s edge overlooks the stone bridges and is a superb possibility for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea in chic environment. You possibly can seize an assortment of freshly made sandwiches, paninis, jacket potatoes, and cold and hot drinks. Click here for directions.
The Slaughter Manor Home Restaurant: In the event you’re on the lookout for a wonderful eating expertise close to Bourton, then head to the Slaughter Manor House. Utilizing solely the freshest native substances from across the Cotswolds, that is someplace to get seated for a romantic night or big day. Click here for directions.
Attending to Bourton on the Water
Driving or taking a tour is one of the simplest ways to get to Bourton as public transport across the Cotswolds is considerably restricted. If driving, the village is simply off the A429. The closest main city is Cheltenham, 15 miles (24 km) to the west.
There are lots of tours from London that embody Bourton of their itinerary and these are a good way to go to. All the principle locations for sightseeing in Bourton on the Water are inside strolling distance and strolling across the village is one of the simplest ways to take it in at a leisurely tempo.
Biking is one other nice strategy to get round and can allow you to go just a little additional afield. For the adventurous souls, you’ll be able to even see the village by sizzling air balloon.
Issues To Do in Bourton on the Water: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Bourton on the Water:
Bourton on the Water is thought for being some of the picture-perfect villages within the Cotswolds (and the UK the truth is). With the River Windrush operating by way of the middle of the village and historic stone bridges, cottages, and rolling countryside, it encapsulates an England that point nearly forgot.
Spring to fall is the most effective time to go to Bourton on the Water to have the ability to benefit from the surrounding countryside. Summertime and college holidays can get busy so the shoulder seasons are finest.
Bourton on the Water is unquestionably value visiting. It’s some of the lovely villages within the nation.
Bourton makes a fantastic day journey and spending two or three days there’ll allow you to see all the highest points of interest. If you wish to discover the broader Cotswolds and use Bourton as a base, then per week is an efficient size of time to remain.
Bourton on the Water is a really secure place for guests and the Cotswolds are one of many safest places in the country with low ranges of rural crime and violent crime nearly exceptional.
Strolling alongside the river, having a paddle, having fun with the numerous wonderful pubs and eating places, and exploring the close by nature like Greystones Farm are a few of the hottest issues to do in Bourton.
Lansdowne and the Excessive Avenue are essentially the most well-known streets in Bourton on the Water and so they comply with the River Windrush by way of the village.
A day cream tea is likely one of the must-try snacks in Bourton. For those who like craft beer and cider, the native Hakwstone brews are a must-try. Attempt them on the brewery bay – it’s considered one of my favorites!
In Closing
Now you recognize what to see and do in Bourton on the Water, some of the beautiful villages in the entire of the UK. From strolling alongside the river and crossing the well-known stone bridges to seeing a miniature model of the world, exploring close by countryside, and visiting a few of the native pubs, there are such a lot of issues to see within the lovely village of Bourton on the Water.
