Locating some truly secret locations off the beaten path can be hit and miss with a simple Google search. For the best-kept secrets. Here Amanda from Unique Cotswold Cottages has provided some of these hidden gems and where to get the best views away from the crowds:
Slightly overlooked by neighboring Hidcote Manor Garden, Kiftsgate Garden is an alternative to those who wish to marvel at some of the unique display of rose varieties atop a hillside manor. While this isn't entirely a hidden gem, it's less populated than Hidcote and has beautiful views of the Vale of Evesham.
Located by the River Coln, Fairford isn't a typical tourist location. This idyllic market town hosts several traditional markets throughout the year, its St Mary's church, built-in 1490, is a Grade 1 listed building boasting 28 medieval stained-glass windows depicting the Bible. You can explore both the town as well as its local lakes – all part of the Walter Meadow Walk.
If historical sites are on the menu, consider the Great Witcombe Roman Villa. Less crowded than Belas Knap, this is the remains of a Roman villa from circa AD 250. While there are parking facilities, there isn't access for coaches, so not part of the larger tours. It offers uninterrupted views of the ruins, as well as the Witcombe reservoirs.
The Warden's Way offers over 13 miles of walks throughout the Cotswolds of uninterrupted nature. Accessible from many locations such as Bourton-on-the-water, where Unique Cotswolds’ Little Gem Cottage can be rented, through to Winchcombe, where the charming Bolt Hole can also be rented, the route passes through several villages. One of them is The Slaughters - a picturesque village that hosts one of the most picturesque water mills in the area.
Finishing the trip by unwinding; The Cotswolds Distillery produces a single malt whisky made from Cotswold barley. The highlight is perhaps the use of lavender used in the distillery's in-house Cotswold Dry Gin. If the actual ingredients are more of an appeal, there are over 90 miles of lavender on display at Snowshill during June and September. Due to the vast area, there are plenty of chances to see the lavender in its time-limited showcase.
MORE ON UNIQUE COTSWOLD COTTAGES
Unique Cotswold Cottages offers luxury cottage retreats in four distinct locations within the idyllic Cotswolds. Offering 4 boutique cottages to choose from, Unique Cotswold Cottage’s charming offerings kick off with ‘The Loft’, a stunning Grade || Listed Building located in Stow-on-the-Wold. With wonderful views from the rooftop, The Loft is perfect for a couple’s romantic weekend escape.
Unique Cotswold Cottages also offers Little Gem Cottage- a refurbished stone cottage with over 200 years of history located in Bourton-on-the-water, known as ‘The Little Venice of Cotswolds.’ The third property is ‘The Bolt Hole’, which features Cotswold stone walls and oak beams. The newest property is the charming, cosy Honey Pot in the heart of Chipping Campden.
