St Peter’s Church, Dyrham Park. Photo © ajfletch
With 15 National Trust venues around the Cotswolds, there’s enough for several weekend breaks’ worth of rambling and exploring.
And although the Cotswolds are definitely popular throughout the summer months, there are quieter times of year when you’ll find it easier to book into a Travelodge hotel and see the sights without crowds.
Roam the old villages with your camera, hike through the hills and meadows, and while away the hours in one of the historic National Trust properties. Here’s a small sample of must-sees, from stately homes to wartime icons:
1. Dyrham Park
Just 8 miles from Bath Spa train station, this stunning 270-acre area of national parkland is where you’ll spot deer wandering freely, before you head to the mansion.
Walk through the wild flower orchard and the grounds of Dyrham Park for a sense of calm (and lots of photo inspiration).
If you’ve got grandchildren or children along, please the young explorers by taking part in the nature trail, pond-dipping and bug-hunting.
The 300-year-old mansion itself houses impressive Dutch art, exquisite ceramics and interiors that have remained pretty much intact throughout its history.
And after a few hours of sightseeing, you won’t need an excuse to enjoy a slice of cake in the tearooms.
2. Chedworth Roman Villa
Travel back in time at Chedworth Villa and explore the ruins of this magnificent 4th-century building, once home to some of the richest Romans in Britain.
Roman floor mosaic. Photo © mrloz
One of the largest remaining Roman villas in the country, Chedworth has original mosaics, latrines, bathhouses and underfloor heating. The excavations are ongoing, so history is still being made at the site.
The museum explains the discovery of the villa under a field in the Victorian Cotswolds by a gamekeeper, and the surrounding woodland is a beautiful place to wander during your visit. Look out for swallows and the famed giant Roman snails!
Our Cirencester Travelodge is less than 10 miles away, and the ideal location for your Cotswolds break.
3. Croome
This former secret wartime airbase was nearly destroyed, but now the lush parkland is a memorable place for a Cotswolds adventure.
Once home to the fashionable 18th-century Earl of Coventry, Croome has always led the trends. Today leading artists and craftspeople are telling the history of Croome with new works and exhibitions, helping the next generation understand history better.
East view. Photo © Mike_Boyland
Look out for the restored Chinese bridge, and if you love a good view, climb to the roof to get a panorama of the Malvern Hills.
The privately-owned, secret walled garden is also a fun place to visit during your trip. One of Europe’s largest walled gardens, it was designed by Capability Brown in the 1700s. Take note though: this historic garden is only open on certain dates so make sure you check ahead when you plan your visit.
Croome Park is under 10 miles from our Worcester hotel, so book now for your Cotswolds visit.
