Located just over a mile from Bourton-on-the-Water, is the quaint Cotswold village of Lower Slaughter. Its name comes from Old English ‘Slohtre’, meaning muddy place or wetland. Whilst the name might suggest that this place is still a wetland or muddy place, it really is far from it. Known for its unspoilt limestone cottages, Lower Slaughter, as well as its twin Upper Slaughter, is the epitome of idyllic, civilised Cotswold charm.
Both villages straddle the banks of the River Eye and they have remained utterly unchanged for more than a century. No building work has taken place throughout Lower Slaughter since 1906. The only main attraction in Lower Slaughter is the restored 19th-century flour mill. This mill is located where the River Eye meets the North West corner of the village and was last used commercially in 1958. Its tall chimney offers an imposing figure overlooking the village and its red brick structure casts a stark contrast against the other buildings in the village.
Lower Slaughter is also home to the stunning church of St Mary which was rebuilt in 1867. Some of the arches between the nave and the south aisle date back to the 13th century. There are also plenty of restaurants located nearby as well as wonderful walks through the village and surrounding countryside. It makes for the perfect place to escape to and enjoy a little peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities.
