The Perfect Mini-Moon in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a fantastic honeymoon destination for newlyweds, and it’s the ideal place to unwind after your big day. For couples looking for a mini-moon rather than a honeymoon (a short break straight after their wedding day taken in anticipation of a full honeymoon at a later date), the Cotswolds offers a great romantic getaway to enjoy those first few days of married life.
So, what makes the Cotswolds such a great choice for newlyweds? There’s so much on offer for couples in this beautiful and romantic area of outstanding natural beauty, from quiet, snug village pubs to romantic hikes and fabulous restaurants. We love a good list, so we’ve made this:
Five reasons the Cotswolds is a wonderful mini-moon destination:
Outstanding Natural Beauty
Many great romances have taken place in the British countryside over the years. A trip to the country is an element of romance in everything from Pride and Prejudice to Bridget Jones’ Diary. The beauty of the Cotswold countryside is unrivalled, of course, making anywhere here the most wonderful setting for a romantic walk and the possibility to capture those first moments of married bliss.
Our mini-moon tip: Spend a calm afternoon and a rural stroll at Batsford Arboretum, one of the most romantic sites in the Cotswolds. You’ll have lots of peaceful moments to yourselves with over 50 acres of countryside to explore.
In Moreton-in-Marsh, stay at the beautiful Orchard Cottage. It has several lovely elements, such as a warm wood burning stove to cosy up in front of after a day spent visiting the Cotswolds.
Amazing food and drink
The Cotswolds is home to a variety of great restaurants that offer fantastic culinary experiences as well as a romantic setting to toast your new lives as a married couple. From huge tasting menus at elite restaurants to more casual cafes, there are dining alternatives to suit all your fancies. Enjoy the gastronomic delights of the Cotswolds while celebrating your mini-moon your way.
Book a table at The Feathered Nest Inn in Nether Westcote near Burford for the ultimate romantic evening supper on your mini-moon – the perfect culinary location for a romantic dinner for two.
Burford is one of the best mini-moon destinations in the Cotswolds, and a stay at The Old Barn just up the road in neighbouring Witney, allows you to take advantage of everything it has to offer. This charming holiday cottage offers everything you need for a relaxed mini-moon and is centrally positioned to many of the Cotswolds’ most well-known attractions.
A luxurious and relaxing spa day for two
Mini-moon getaways aren’t complete without a visit to a relaxing spa experience, and as luck would have it, the Cotswolds is home to some of the most luxurious spas in the UK, perfect for mini-mooners looking to relax after all the wedding planning.
Book a spa day to relax and unwind on a beautiful afternoon or morning. It’s the perfect way to unwind and relax, and there are lots of couples’ spa treatments to try to make the most of your time together.
Bath, one of the UK’s best-known spa cities, is a short drive from many Cotswolds destinations, and it’s one of the greatest places to have an aromantic spa break. Why not treat yourself to a Twilight Package at the Thermae Spa, where you may relax in the luxurious heated outdoor pool while admiring the cityscape? You can indulge in some wonderful treatments and unwind in one of the many saunas and steam rooms meant to help you forget about your worries.
Little Lane will greet you with its homey features after a soothing spa day, providing the ideal bolthole to prolong the celebrations. It has everything you need to enjoy your mini-moon in elegance, with a traditional exterior and sophisticated features within.
The love (his)story
There are many great spots to visit in the Cotswolds. Some of the country’s greatest historic palaces and manor residences are full of romantic history. Spend your afternoons learning about the prior residents and admiring the majestic designs of these stunning locations.
You can visit popular filming locations from Pride and Prejudice, The Other Boleyn Girl, and even Bridget Jones’ Diary. You may also take your time exploring the beautiful gardens and strolling hand in hand through some of the Cotswolds’ most romantic areas.
Pay a visit to Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe, which has a 1,000-year history. It’s a stunning property with enough to see and do. Its gardens have seen some of Britain’s most renowned queens, making it well worth a visit if you have the time.
Jasmine Cottage in Bidford-on-Avon, a couple of miles north of Winchcombe, is a charming cottage in a beautiful setting. It boasts spacious accommodations and all the amenities you’ll need to make the most of your mini-moon trip.
An active mini-moon
Some mini-mooners may choose a calm and restful trip to commemorate their wedding, but if you’re more of an energetic couple, the Cotswolds will not disappoint. The Cotswolds has everything for the sporty and outdoorsy couples, from sporting activities to wine tasting and walking tours, to ensure you get the most out of your vacation.
The beauty of the Cotswolds is that there are so many diverse landscapes to explore. You might spend the morning paddleboarding on the water and the afternoon cycling or trying out a new adventure activity together.
Daylesford near Kingham is one of the loveliest places to visit in the Cotswolds for mini-mooners, not least for their wonderful cooking school classes that are ideal for married couples who want to improve their culinary skills while enjoying a fun activity together. To round up the experience, there’s a terrific restaurant, shop and spa there too.
If you’re searching for a little adventure, plan a stay in our charming holiday cottage, The Hayloft, near Kingham and Chipping Norton. It’s in a great location for enjoying the best of the Cotswolds.
