Things To Do
Highgrove Gardens
The private residence of King Charles — and home to some of the most beautiful gardens in England. Expect wildflowers, perfectly manicured hedges, and quintessential English countryside charm. There’s also a lovely Highgrove shop in Tetbury filled with official Highgrove goods, garden finds, tea tins, and very chic British countryside gifts.
Castle Combe
Often called the prettiest village in England — and honestly, it lives up to the hype. Think honey-colored stone cottages, winding little streets, a medieval church, and a tiny river running through town. Perfect for an afternoon stroll and a pub lunch.
Bibury
A postcard come to life. Bibury is famous for Arlington Row, one of the most photographed streets in England, but it’s also lovely just to wander through. Stop for a bite at The Swan Hotel or catch your own lunch at the famous Bibury Trout Farm — an iconic English spot that’s been around for over a century. You’ll spot “Bibury trout” on menus throughout the Cotswolds. Then grab a coffee, walk along the river, and lean fully into the English countryside vibe. Afterwards, check out surrounding villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Upper slaughter and Lower slaughter. Each is just as charming as the last!
Cirencester
Martin’s hometown! A quintessential Cotswolds market town with Roman roots. Spend an afternoon ambling down Black Jack Street popping into shops, grabbing a slice of cake at Jack’s, browsing the artisan market in the main square (on Mondays and Fridays), and walking along the old Roman wall. History buffs should also stop by the Corinium Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Roman artifacts in Britain. And of course, no trip is complete without seeing Cirencester’s legendary hedge — officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest hedge in the world! Bonus: The Pig nearby is where Martin proposed, so it holds a very special place in our hearts. Check out their lovely gardens, designed by Rosemary Verey, the legendary landscape architect whose clients included Elton John and King Charles.
Bath
Elegant Georgian architecture, beautiful terraces, incredible shopping, cozy pubs, and the famous Roman Baths. Touring the Roman Baths is one of Taylor’s favorite things she’s done in England — it genuinely feels like stepping back in time. And if you’re looking for a little relaxation, book a session at Thermae Bath Spa, a modern thermal spa fed by the same mineral-rich waters used since Roman times. The rooftop pool overlooking the city is especially magical on a chilly day, when the steam rises over the Bath skyline.
Oxford
Another one of Taylor’s favorite parts of the country. Oxford is impossibly beautiful — all grand colleges, cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and ivy-covered buildings that somehow look even better in person. We highly recommend doing a self-guided walking tour through the university colleges; it truly breathtaking! There are also loads of Harry Potter filming locations throughout the city. And if the weather cooperates, go punting on the river — one of the most quintessentially English experiences there is.
Lacock
A tiny medieval village that somehow feels frozen in time. With its stone cottages, abbey, little tea rooms, and winding streets, Lacock is about as quintessentially English as it gets — which is probably why it’s been used as a filming location for everything from Harry Potter to Pride & Prejudice. Visit Lacock Abbey, explore the fascinating photography museum (Lacock is actually considered the birthplace of photography!), then finish with tea and pastries from Lacock Bakery.