Festive activities to enjoy in the Cotswolds this Christmas
With so much to do and see in the Cotswolds, it’s no wonder the area is such a popular destination over and around the Christmas period.
Offering beautiful winter walks, cosily decorated country pubs, and an array of festive activities, there’s no better time to visit this quaint and quirky area of the country.
Whether you’re already planning a visit, or simply looking for some inspiration of where to go this winter, here are some of our favourite Cotswold festive must-dos.
Christmas markets
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Nothing screams Christmas quite like a Christmas market, and the Cotswolds hosts some absolute crackers.
Fun for the whole family, Christmas markets truly get you into the spirit of the occasion, with everything from ice rinks to sugary treats and hot chocolate drinks. Heading down to the markets is also the perfect excuse for a little shopping, and if you’re looking for a gift that’s a little unique, you’ll find trinkets galore.
Though some of the area’s Christmas markets take place in early December or even late November, don’t worry – there are still plenty more left to enjoy.
Head to Stroud’s vibrant Christmas Markets for more than 30 stalls each day between 21 and 23 December, or visit lovely Cirencester, where festive and farmers’ markets are taking place until the 22nd.
Blenheim Palace
This Christmas, Blenheim Palace is pulling out all the stops, transforming both the exterior and interior into a magical winter wonderland.
Outdoors, until New Year’s Day, you will find the festive gardens winter trail, complete with thousands of pea-lights, laser projections and twinkling stars.
For those wanting to stay within the warmth, the palace has also created an indoor Cinderella festive fairytale experience (running until 6 January).
Visit Bourton-on-the-Water
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Already a tourism hotspot all year round, Bourton-on-the-Water gets an oh-so-festive makeover come December.
One of Bourton’s most seasonal and must-see attractions is the Christmas tree in the centre of River Windrush, right in the centre of the village.
Admire the tree lit up in all its glory whilst you soak up the festive village atmosphere, pottering between local shops and eateries.
Fancy a longer visit?
Are you staying with us during the festive season? take a peek at your ultimate guide to Christmas in the Cotswolds… https://t.co/z9BuWsfF8a
— Character Cottages (@CharacCottages) December 8, 2018
Though it’s lovely to visit the Cotswolds for a day out, the idea of staying there for the festive period itself is even more appealing.
If you’re looking for accommodation within the Cotswolds this Christmas, Character Cottages have a range to suit every family – and though time is ticking, there are still properties with availability right over the Christmas break itself.
With its beautiful landscape, hearty atmosphere, and wealth of places to visit, what better way is there to celebrate, all together, than in the unique surroundings of the Cotswolds?