Perhaps one of the most famous locations in the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is renowned for its pretty waterside views and quaint limestone buildings. We’ve assembled a guide to help you make the most of your time in this picture-perfect village.
Rest your head at…Chester House Hotel
With pitched roofs, honey-coloured walls and country-style décor, the Chester House Hotel epitomises everything Cotswolds and cosy. It is small in size so expect a personal and friendly welcome from the staff, and the bedrooms are decorated beautifully ensuring comfort without compromise for the guests. And it is right on the doorstep of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The hotel is one of the oldest buildings in the village as it dates back to 1608, so you'll be staying in a piece of quintessential Cotswold history.
Inside, you'll find the perfect blend of traditional charm and stylish modern décor in each bedroom. On site is an award winning restaurant, ideal for both breakfast and dinner. Outside, the hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens - perfect for unwinding in the summer months.
Get your foodie fix at the...
Cotswold beer battered cod with chips and peas - sound good? A traditional chippy dinner is one of the many delicious dishes found on the European-influenced menu at the popular Rose Tree Restaurant. The family-run restaurant is housed in a grade II listed cottage sitting in prime position along the River Windrush.
For the quaint Cotswold tea room experience so many dream of, Smiths Kitchen is the most wonderful location.
Expect top-notch lattes, delicious cream teas and home made cakes in a quirky yet cosy setting. Smiths of Bourton was also recognised in 'Local Tea/Coffee Shop' in the 2018 Cotswold Life Food & Drink Awards.
For delicious, authentic Italian fare, pay a visit to L'anatra Italian Kitchen at the Chester House Hotel. The stone baked pizzas come on good authority but if that isn't your thing there are plenty of pastas, steak and seafood dishes to choose from. Tapas dishes including bruschetta, crispy squid and antipasti are served Monday to Thursday, from 3-5pm.
With great food, a relaxed atmosphere and super friendly staff, the restaurant tends to get very busy over the summer months so book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Local watering holes…
If you're on the hunt for a charming pub with cosy interiors and great beers, look no further than The Mousetrap Inn. Just a short walk from Bourton-on-the-Water's busy High Street, the traditional honey-coloured pub has garnered a reputation for freshly cooked, tasty dishes (from pub classics to more adventurous offerings) and a great range of locally brewed ales behind the bar. If you're need of a place to stay, there's the option of comfortable accommodation upstairs too.
The Duke of Wellington is popular with locals and visitors alike - and you'll be hard-pressed finding a seat during the summer months!
It's dog friendly and pooches are welcomed with biscuits and fresh water, whilst owners can enjoy a classic British pub menu and an extensive range of ales and wine. If you're feeling particularly peckish, have a go at the Duke of Wellington burger - yum!
Located just a stone's throw from Bourton-on-the-Water, this intimate and charming Cotswold pub can be found on the banks of the River Eye.
It is the perfect place to while away the afternoon with a pint of ale after a busy day exploring the village. The views are pretty spectacular too.
Entertain the family at…
What better way to entertain the children than at this one-ninth scale replica of beautiful Bourton-on-the-Water? It's the perfect place for little ones to explore, whilst the grown ups can stand back and admire the carefully crafted model village. Admission is a very reasonable £4.25 for adults and £3.25 for children.
Take a trip down memory lane with an afternoon well spent at the Cotswold Motoring Museum with vintage car collections and plenty of motoring history from the 20th century. It's also the home of childhood favourite, Brum.
Admission is £6.25 for adults and £4.50 for children.
Home to over 500 birds including penguins, parrots, flamingos, birds of prey and many more, there's plenty to keep the whole family entertained when you pay a visit to Birdland Park Gardens. The keepers are evidently passionate about what they do so try to make time to go along to a feeding display or 'Meet the Keeper' sessions.
Admission is £9.95 for adults and £6.26 for children - book online to save 10% on tickets.
