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A Season-by-Season Guide on The Best Time To Visit The Cotswolds

From colourful wildflowers and gentle strolls in the Spring to the oranges and reds of fallen leaves and warming fires in the Autumn, the Cotswolds has plenty to offer throughout the year. However, when is the best time to visit the Cotswolds? Every month has its own pros and cons depending on what you are looking for. 

Our blog takes you through the Cotswolds season-by-season so you can decide which time of the year is best suited for you and what you plan on doing whilst you’re in this exquisite part of the English countryside.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Cotswolds?

If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds, it’s natural to wonder when the best time to visit is and we’re here to tell you that ultimately it doesn’t really matter. Each season has its own advantages and depending on what you want to see and do will influence when you go. 

Read on for our breakdown of each season in the Cotswolds so you can make an informed decision on when you should visit.

Winter in The Cotswolds

misty field in the Cotswolds during winter
Image Credit: Colin Watts via Unsplash

The Cotswolds may not be the most popular destination during Winter, but its allure is just as enticing as it is in the Spring and Summer. Its picture-perfect villages and honey-coloured stone cottages are still as magical as ever, if not more so. You’ll fall in love with the sound of jovial laughter floating on the cold breeze from nearby pubs, the sound of Christmassy music drifting from the independent shops, and those frost-covered hedges, lawns, and meadows as you take a winter stroll. 

If you’re looking for complete peace and quiet, then visit the Cotswolds in January and early February. Prefer a bit of hustle and bustle? Visit in November and December where you can make the most of the Christmas Markets and the Christmas Celebrations at Blenheim Palace. If you’re lucky enough, visiting the Cotswolds in winter may also bring a layer of snow to add to the enchantment. Also, be prepared for wet and windy days as well as muddy walks.

Spring in The Cotswolds

Picturesque garden in the Cotswold village of Bibury, England
Image Credit: jenifoto via iStock

Just like most seasons, Springtime in the Cotswolds is a truly special time of year. It’s the time of the year when hedgerows and flowers burst into vibrant colour, you’ll see cute little lambs frolicking in the fields, and the sun starts to warm up and shine just a little bit more. Days also start to get longer meaning you can fit just that little bit more into your day.

Easter and May are two of the best times to visit the Cotswolds especially if you have a young family. This is because there is plenty to see and do during the school holidays and everything is alive and in full bloom. Farmers’ fields won’t have been harvested yet and temperatures are relatively mild making hikes and walking through the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty even more enjoyable. 

However, if you’re looking for a quiet trip to the Cotswolds, we suggest avoiding the school holidays.

Summer in The Cotswolds

Cotswold lavender fields at Snowshill in Worcestershire.
Image Credit: Pez Photography via iStock

For outdoor lovers, nothing beats visiting the Cotswolds in the Summer. Whilst it might be the busiest time of the year, it’s also the best time to visit the Cotswolds. Why? Because the weather is pretty predictable, the days are long, the fields are green, and the sun shines. But being Britain, you can’t guarantee temperatures will be in the 30s and that the sun will shine every day, you may still get a few rain showers. 

During the summer months, you can easily enjoy strolls through the countryside or along the streets of picturesque villages, you can go wild swimming in nearby streams and lakes, or you can simply enjoy some al fresco dining in pubs or your holiday let garden. To enjoy the most of the warm weather and vibrant colours but with added quiet and tranquillity, we would suggest visiting in either June or September. However, for those with young families, visiting during the summer holidays is perfect as there is plenty to see and do. 

Explore the beautiful Lavender fields, and the landscaped gardens of Highgrove, or simply sit in the meadow fields with a picnic. 

Autumn in The Cotswolds

Autumn colour at Batsford arboretum, Morton-in-Marsh, Cotswolds UK
Image Credit: Jennifer Sanerkin via iStock

From the burnt orange colours of fallen leaves to the crisp refreshing walks and warming fires, the autumn scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. With early autumn still lending itself to longer days, particularly in September, you’ll still be able to enjoy your outdoor pursuits. Plus with most schools being back in session, it does make the Cotswolds a more peaceful and quiet destination. 

It’s also the best time to enjoy bike rides as you’ll see the landscape colours change right before your eyes. A walk up Broadway Tower will also provide a spectacular vantage point to see the rolling hills, freshly harvested farmers’ fields, and the quaint Cotswolds villages stretching out before you. 


Accommodation in the Cotswolds

Bulter's Stall Accommodation in the Cotswolds
Butler’s Stall – Cotswold’s Accommodation Cottage

Here at Short Let Space, we have a vast array of Cotswold cottages to suit your every need. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely weekend away, a romantic bolthole for you and your significant other, or a dog-friendly property, we’ve got something for you. 

Choose from a range of quaint Cotswold cottages and get planning your next adventure today. Need a little extra help finding your perfect holiday cottage? Give our team of local experts a call on 01993 222200 or email us on stay@shortletspace.co.uk 

 
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