There have been millions of words printed, thousands of pictures painted, and hundreds of songs written about the breathtaking scenery and environment of The Cotswolds. However, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that sprawls over six counties in almost 800 square miles of practically perfect and picturesque scenery really does demand to be experienced first-hand. Meandering around the villages that have evolved from medieval England, through years of Roman influence, to become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world is a wonderful way to spend some quality time. If you have the opportunity to do so during the festive period, then the magic is multiplied by at least ten fold.
The Cotswolds at Christmas is quintessential England. The location, atmosphere, events and communities come alive with the spirit of the season to provide an illuminating and engaging backdrop for good cheer and fun. Let’s take a look at some of the standout events that you simply must try.
Visit a Christmas Market
The rise of Christmas Markets all over Europe in the last decade has made it part of a new festive tradition for families and couples. Fittingly for such a celebrated Market Town area, The Cotswolds has a fantastic selection to choose from.
The Advent Market in Cirencester runs every weekend in December until the big day with over 100 stalls stretching over Market Place into the nearby streets of Cricklade and Castle. Live music and carol singing in the brisk air can definitely add a certain charm as you sip some mulled wine and search for a few unique gifts for friends and family..
The Promenade in Cheltenham also becomes the centre for Christmas events with two superb markets that offer both gift opportunities and dedicated arts & crafts vendors to visit. Independent traders with exquisite glassware, jewellery and art sit amongst the food stalls selling warming hot chocolate, crepes, waffles and German sausages to keep your strength up as you shop. As the famous ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’, Cheltenham Christmas Markets is a great way to start a Cotswolds festive vacation before moving further into the countryside for a more remote retreat.
Meet Father Christmas
For younger ones, there is always an indescribable thrill about meeting the big man himself and letting him know what you would like for your Christmas gift - if you have been good all year, of course. The Cotswolds provides a suitably impressive environment in which children can meet Father Christmas and experience the magic of the season. Cotswold Farm Park has to be the pick of the bunch as it undergoes a dazzling transformation into a true Winter Wonderland that will provide memories for years to come. An illuminated trail lights the way along a wealth of activities - feeding the animals, gingerbread decorating and even a chance to make your own Teddy Bear. The real highlight for children is a personalised experience with Father Christmas and a little gift to remember everything with. It’s easy to see how Lapland can be transported into the English countryside with the rolling hills of The Cotswolds taking the responsibility for stunning scenery here.
Get Your Skates On
The gorgeous honey-coloured stone buildings and fascinating history of Cirencester have earned it the prestigious title of Capital of The Cotswolds. And it’s clear that it takes this responsibility seriously at Christmas with the amount and variety of activities that it offers. The Gateway Ice Rink comes alive here at this time of year with the opportunity to glide across the ice in style, protected from the harshest aspects of the elements. The Snow Princess skating experience allows children of 4 years and older to waltz with the enchanting princess, side by side on the ice and take a photo to prove it too. With a wreath making workshop for older hands and some great food options, this is a spellbinding evening for families looking to stay active and together.
Festive Afternoon Tea
It would be difficult to find a more appropriate activity in The Cotswolds than enjoying the perfect Afternoon Tea. This long-standing English tradition gets a bit of a festive makeover in certain locations across November and December to deliver something very special. The Slaughters Manor House has a traditional air within contemporary interiors and remains one of the most notable places to eat in the whole region. A Festive Afternoon Tea is available from late November until the 22nd of December with a vast array of delights and sweet treats created with a Holidays theme. There is also the option to choose champagne to add a few bubbles so you can lift the experience even further. Set in a cosy enclave amongst the sprawling countryside, it is worth a visit for the view alone.
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle
Christmas in The Cotswolds can easily begin to feel like a fairy tale setting and this event at Sudeley Castle in the pretty town of Winchcombe proves it perfectly. The Spectacle of Light has been running during the Christmas period for over a decade with a mix of immersive storytelling, theatre and light show that will have all ages engrossed for the evening. This is an after dark experience that takes you on an illuminated tour of the castle and its beautiful gardens whilst relaying the story of The Sleeping Beauty. Be prepared for drama and intrigue with handsome princes, wicked fairies and heroic endeavours, all under the bright, magical lights on show. Rest assured though that when Christmas events such as this come to town in The Cotswolds, you can be guaranteed a happy ending for everybody that attends.
The only challenge with spending time in The Cotswolds at Christmas comes from wanting to visit and experience as much as possible. So perhaps considering a little break here for a few days may be the best plan? With a wealth of five-star hotels and incredible boutique residencies to choose from, you will not regret it. After all, this time of year is made for slowing down and spending time with the people you love, doing things that will make you all smile.
