COTSWOLDS & THE SOUTH WEST
Pastoral beauty meets coastal drama in England’s most romantic region. The Cotswolds charm with golden-hued villages, rolling green hills, and historic market towns, while the South West unfolds in rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and painterly harbors. From design-forward countryside inns to windswept coastal trails, this is where slow living and timeless landscapes meet contemporary style.
Where We Eat
From rustic pubs to refined, farm-to-table kitchens, the Cotswolds and South West serve seasonal fare rooted in local produce, seafood, and tradition.
Our Dinner Go-Tos
-
One of the UK’s most celebrated markets, running every Saturday with over 50 stalls of artisanal breads, organic veg, farm-fresh meats, and incredible hot food vendors — from wood-fired pizza to seasonal street eats.
-
A cult-favourite pie shop serving inventive fillings like “Moo & Blue” (beef & Stilton) and vegan mushroom-miso numbers, all encased in golden, buttery pastry. Comfort food at its best.
-
It’s not just pasties here (though they’re excellent) — you’ll also find sausage rolls, cakes, and great coffee to-go, perfect before a beach walk.
-
A bustling indoor market with international street food stalls — think Moroccan tagines, Caribbean jerk chicken, Japanese ramen, and award-winning falafel, all under one roof.
-
An upscale farm shop-meets-roadside café serving organic burgers, seasonal soups, and homemade cakes, all sourced from the surrounding countryside.
-
Rotating street food trucks set up in the city centre, serving everything from stone-baked pizza to South Indian dosa and slow-cooked barbecue.
Street Food
-
A wildly popular gastro‑pub from Jeremy Clarkson, offering hearty British classics—shepherd’s pie, slow‑braised lamb shank—crafted with local produce and served in a bustling, character-filled country setting.
-
An atmospheric 18th‑century pub perched on Chesil Beach, known for its stunning coastal views and standout fish & chips. A perfect spot for a seaside pint with real ambiance.
-
A charming local pub serving up caper-topped pizzas, hearty pies, and excellent Sunday roasts—all with a friendly, welcoming vibe that feels as comforting as its food.
-
A 17th-century coaching inn turned stylish gastropub, serving seasonal British fare like venison pie and whole baked trout alongside a great wine list.
-
Michelin-starred but still unpretentious, The Olive Tree offers a casual tasting menu option and a pared-back lunch menu showcasing West Country produce.
-
Part of the Daylesford Organic family, this chic countryside pub serves seasonal farm-to-table dishes in a space that blends rustic beams with modern finishes.
-
Paul Ainsworth’s relaxed coastal outpost with a focus on seafood and hearty pub classics, all paired with stunning estuary views.
-
A classic CAMRA-approved pub with cask ales, hearty plates, and an old-school warmth that’s increasingly rare.
-
A walled-garden restaurant where nearly everything on the menu is grown on-site—wood-fired meats, garden-fresh salads, and vibrant sharing plates.
Go All Out
-
A two-Michelin-star institution run by David Everitt-Matthias since 1987, this understated dining room delivers exquisitely precise, French-influenced plates made with local produce. Think wild game, foraged herbs, and imaginative flavour pairings.
-
Set inside a grand country estate, Hywel Jones’ Michelin-starred dining offers classic fine dining with a contemporary edge, using the best of the Wiltshire countryside. Expect rich flavours, beautiful plating, and a refined atmosphere.
-
Cornish produce meets fine dining creativity in this Michelin-starred restaurant, where Paul Ainsworth crafts inventive dishes in a charming Georgian townhouse.
-
With two Michelin stars and a hyper-seasonal approach, this is one of the UK’s top gastronomic experiences, set in a 19th-century manor. Chef Ricki Weston’s tasting menu is a masterclass in refined British cooking.
-
Michael Caines’ elegant country house hotel blends modern luxury with panoramic estuary views, offering a Michelin-starred menu rooted in West Country produce and seafood.
-
Set in one of England’s most picturesque villages, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers classically rooted cooking with refined, contemporary touches. Expect rich, comforting flavours elevated with precise technique.
-
While technically just outside the South West, Moor Hall’s two-Michelin-starred dining is a destination in itself for serious food lovers. Chef Mark Birchall’s tasting menus are rooted in the kitchen garden, with each course an elegant showcase of British ingredients.
Best Desserts
-
Handcrafted ice creams in coastal-inspired flavours like sea salt caramel, Cornish clotted cream, and lemon curd ripple.
-
Beloved for its rich, gooey traybakes, brownies, and coffee cakes — all baked on-site with high-quality, sustainable ingredients.
-
Tiny, artisanal, and utterly enchanting, this patisserie is famed for macarons, eclairs, opera cakes, and lemon meringue choux buns crafted with delicate precision and abundant style.
-
A cozy riverside bakery celebrated for its rich brownies, delicate pastries, and visually stunning cakes—a perfect mix of indulgence and serenity.
-
A dessert lover’s dream—spotlighted for decadent waffles with endless toppings like chocolate brownie, hazelnut chocolate, or banana with Nutella and vibrant M&Ms.
-
An affectionate celebration of British desserts—guests sample and vote on classics like sticky toffee pudding, spotted dick, and syrup sponge in a convivial hotel setting.
Where We Wake Up
-
This light-filled, eco-conscious café chain started in the South West and has a fiercely loyal following. All-day breakfasts, strong coffee, and a commitment to sustainability make it a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
-
A Cotswolds institution since 1890, Huffkins is all about traditional British baking with a refined touch — think warm fruit scones, breakfast baps, and a very proper pot of tea.
-
Minimalist interiors, single-origin beans, and a barista team that treats every flat white like an art form. The pastries are equally worth the stop — buttery, flaky perfection.
-
Part community hub, part café, The Canteen offers a plant-forward breakfast and brunch menu, fair-trade coffee, and a creative, artsy vibe that feels quintessentially Bristol.
-
A bright, rustic-chic café overlooking one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest villages. Known for locally sourced produce, inventive brunch plates, and excellent coffee in a relaxed, sunlit space.
-
An airy, design-forward coffee shop with Scandi-inspired interiors, expertly brewed specialty coffee, and light breakfast options. Their latte art is as precise as their pour-over.
-
A glamorous yet relaxed breakfast setting with art deco interiors, plush banquettes, and a menu that runs from truffle scrambled eggs to fresh pastries. It’s an elegant way to start a Cotswolds morning.
-
Perched right on the River Avon, this airy café offers a tranquil breakfast with river views, specialty coffee, and classics like eggs royale and fluffy pancakes.
The Night Starts Here
-
An iconic Georgian townhouse hotel and restaurant that’s as much about the social scene as the menu. Expect modern British plates, Champagne in the courtyard, and DJs or live music on weekends—drawing both locals and visiting Londoners.
-
Sri Lankan street food meets high-octane energy at this cult favourite, known for bold sharing plates, fiery cocktails, and a soundtrack that keeps the tempo high. It’s casual but charged—perfect for rolling into a night out.
-
From MasterChef champion Simon Wood, this spot transitions from creative plates and natural wines to an upbeat late-night atmosphere on weekends. The crowd skews foodie-meets-fashionable, and the playlist is as considered as the plating.
-
Botanical cocktails, lush greenery, and a lively dining room make this Bath favourite feel like an upscale garden party. Dinner leans toward crowd-pleasing modern British fare, but the real draw is the post-9pm atmosphere, when the lights dim and the bar hums.
-
A temple to fire-cooked meat with a sleek open kitchen, craft cocktails, and a DJ-fuelled buzz on weekends. The crowd is young professional and fashion-conscious—more Shoreditch than sleepy West Country.
-
A waterfront favourite with a lively, rum-fuelled atmosphere and a menu stacked with seafood comfort dishes. The upstairs bar shakes up inventive cocktails (their Dead Man’s Fingers rum started here) while the windows frame St Ives Harbour in the evening light. By late night, it feels more like a party than a restaurant.
-
Housed in a restored harbourside building, The Longstore pairs Cornish steaks and seafood with a buzzy, urban-style bar scene. Dinner service flows seamlessly into late-night drinks, with a cocktail list that leans inventive but approachable, plus a local crowd that lingers well past dessert.
Where We Sleep
The Bird
A playful townhouse hotel with bold interiors and unexpected charm in one of England’s prettiest cities.
The Bird has mastered the art of being both boutique and approachable — an independent stay with a sense of theatre in its eclectic décor, from velvet armchairs to vibrant wallpaper. Just minutes from Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, it offers location without the usual price tag, plus a glass-clad restaurant overlooking Henrietta Park. The atmosphere feels boutique but never pretentious, making it a perfect base for a city-meets-countryside escape.
Image courtesy of The Bird
From ~£150/night
31 individually designed rooms, some with park views
In-house restaurant, The Plate, serving locally sourced menus
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property
Five-minute walk to Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge
Afternoon tea available daily in the lounge or terrace
Dog-friendly rooms available upon request
Complimentary on-site parking (limited, must be reserved)
Easy access to Bath Spa railway station for London trains
In summer, the terrace hosts pop-up dining events in partnership with local chefs and producers.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Wild Rabbit
Honey-stone charm with sleek, understated interiors and an organic ethos rooted in the Daylesford brand.
Why We Like It
The Wild Rabbit nails that delicate balance between rural authenticity and sophisticated polish. Its pared-back rooms have a calming, natural feel, with raw oak floors, stone walls, and bespoke joinery. The Michelin-starred restaurant,delivers seasonal menus that are as beautiful as they are flavorful. The inn’s location in Kingham — often hailed as one of England’s prettiest villages — puts you within easy reach of both postcard-perfect walks and a vibrant local food scene.
Image courtesy of The Wild Rabbit
From ~£295/night
12 individually designed rooms plus several standalone cottages
Michelin-starred restaurant focusing on seasonal, organic Daylesford produce
Stylish, minimal interiors with natural materials and calming neutral tones
Located in Kingham, with easy train access from London
Cozy pub bar with local ales and craft cocktails
Surrounded by scenic walking and cycling routes
Dedicated concierge team to arrange local activities and experiences
The bar’s signature cocktails use herbs and garnishes picked fresh from the garden each day.
Details To Know
Details To Know
Bradley Hare
A stylishly restored village inn with interiors by Soho House’s former design director.
Why We Like It
The Bradley Hare feels like your impossibly chic friend’s countryside escape — old stone walls and wood beams paired with hand-picked art, roll-top baths, and vintage rugs. The pub downstairs draws a stylish crowd for hearty yet refined British dishes, while the setting in the Duke of Somerset’s estate village gives it real storybook charm. It’s intimate, warm, and grounded — perfect for those who want both style and a sense of history.
Image courtesy of The Bradley Hare
From ~£230/night
12 bedrooms with antique and contemporary furnishings
Locally driven menu with produce from surrounding farms
Two atmospheric bars with fireplaces
Dog-friendly rooms available
Seasonal garden terrace for al fresco dining
Complimentary full English breakfast included
Near Longleat Safari Park and Stourhead gardens
30 minutes from Bath by car
Each bedroom has a curated mini-library of books chosen to reflect the inn’s history and countryside setting.
No. 15 Bath
A whimsical Georgian townhouse with design-led interiors and a prime address on Great Pulteney Street.
Why We Like It
No.15 is unapologetically playful — think jewel-box colour palettes, quirky art installations, and unexpected touches like retro sweet stations on each floor. It manages to balance that creative personality with deeply comfortable rooms and thoughtful service. The spa, hidden away in the basement vaults, is a serene counterpoint to the energy of the interiors and the bustle of Bath just beyond its doors.
Image courtesy of Tablet
From ~£250/night
37 individually styled rooms and suites
Vaulted spa offering aromatherapy and holistic treatments
Complimentary pantry of sweets and treats on each floor
Elegant cocktail bar and restaurant with locally inspired menus
Located on Bath’s most famous Georgian boulevard
In-room record players with curated vinyl selection
Five-minute walk to the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey
The basement spa uses oils blended exclusively for the hotel, inspired by Bath’s history as a wellness retreat.
Details To Know
Details To Know
The Newt
A reimagined Georgian estate where orchards, gardens, and architecture converge in a quietly spectacular way.
Why We Like It
The Newt is the kind of place you can happily lose a weekend — wandering through formal gardens, sipping cider from the estate press, lingering over multi-course dinners that feel like a love letter to Somerset. The interiors balance understated luxury with agricultural heritage: honey-hued stone, hand-thrown ceramics, and wool throws from local mills. It’s immersive without being overdone, offering a taste of English country life that feels both elevated and deeply rooted.
Image courtesy of The Kinloch Lodge
From ~£350/night
40 rooms split between the main house, stable yard, and farm buildings
Extensive formal gardens and wildflower meadows
On-site cider press and bakery
Two restaurants with estate-grown produce
Indoor/outdoor spa and pool overlooking the countryside
Complimentary garden tours and seasonal workshops
Working farm with rare-breed animals
About 20 minutes from Bruton and Hauser & Wirth Somerset
Hotel guests receive unlimited access to the estate gardens, even before public opening hours.
The Scarlet
An eco-retreat on the Cornish clifftops, designed for slow mornings, sea views, and restorative wellness.
Why We Like It
The Scarlet feels like the coastal escape you’d dream up on a rainy London day — all soft palettes, floor-to-ceiling glass, and an infinity pool that seems to spill into the Atlantic. It’s intimate but not fussy, with terraces for lingering over wine, Ayurvedic-inspired spa treatments, and direct access to the wild, wind-swept beach below. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is woven into every detail, without compromising on comfort or design.
Image courtesy of The Scarlet Hotel
From ~£290/night
37 rooms and suites, all with sea views
Cliff-top hot tubs and natural reed-filtered outdoor pool
Spa with tented treatment rooms overlooking the ocean
Adults-only, creating a peaceful, grown-up atmosphere
Restaurant focused on seasonal Cornish produce and seafood
Floor-to-ceiling glass in public spaces for panoramic views
Direct access to Mawgan Porth Beach
The best sunset spot is the clifftop barrel-shaped hot tub — book it in advance for champagne at golden hour.
The Collective
Details To Know
Details To Know
A boutique hospitality project woven into a tiny Devon village, where elegant design meets regenerative farming.
Why We Like It
The Collective feels like an insider’s escape—elegant yet rooted, with interiors that whisper luxury rather than shout it. The rooms and cottages, each with its own personality, are subtly lavish: retro ‘40s touches, leather‑spindle staircases, underfloor heating, and art‑deco flourishes. Add to that a Michelin‑approved pub (The Farmers Arms), its menu supplied by its own Wilt farm, a chippy with a modern twist, and a village shop, and you have the most sophisticated version of alternate‑reality Devon village life.
This isn’t a place you stay just to stay. It’s a destination where you peel back layers of local life, design, and sustainability—and leave feeling quietly revitalized.
From ~£270/night
Four boutique-sized bedrooms and suites, plus three chic standalone cottages
Farm‑to‑table dining at The Farmers Arms, menu driven by produce from Birch Farm
Breakfast available in-room via picnic hamper for £15 extra
The model is an “albergo diffuso”—accommodation integrated into village buildings
Guests can tour the 150‑acre Birch Farm and learn about regenerative practices
Stylish modern interiors with vintage touches—like underfloor heating, Sonos systems, and a glass‑topped well feature
Located in the Hartland Peninsula, surrounded by dramatic coastal walking trails
Image courtesy of Tablet
Thyme
A restored English country estate turned rural sanctuary, where every detail feels hand-picked.
Why We Like It
Thyme isn’t a hotel so much as a living, breathing village, curated with the eye of a design editor and the soul of a countryside retreat. Rooms are spread across converted barns, old cottages, and a historic rectory, each styled with heritage fabrics, Cotswold stone, and a muted, organic palette. Beyond the rooms, there’s a cookery school, Meadow Spa, kitchen gardens, and The Swan—its chic village pub. It’s luxurious without pretense, a place that moves at the rhythm of its landscape and rewards guests who want depth over flash.
Image courtesy of Thyme
Details To Know
From ~£430/night
31 individually designed rooms, cottages, and houses
Meadow Spa with botanical-inspired treatments using Bertioli products
Cookery school offering seasonal classes with in-house chefs
Located in Southrop, 90 minutes from London, perfect for a weekend escape
Seasonal menus at The Swan, plus garden-to-glass cocktails at the Baa Bar
150 acres of farmland and wildflower meadows to explore
Heated outdoor pool open year-round for lane swims or leisure dips
Guests can join morning garden walks and botanical foraging tours
Every design choice—from the choice of linens to the shape of the light fittings—has been made with the same level of care you’d expect from a heritage home, not a hotel.
Endsleigh
An 1814 shooting lodge turned country-house hotel, set in 100 acres of gardens designed by Humphry Repton.
Why We Like It
Hotel Endsleigh feels like it’s been lifted from a period drama, then softened by an artist’s touch. The interiors are layered and lived-in rather than overly polished, giving the sense of staying in a stylish friend’s ancestral home. Outside, the Repton-designed gardens and woodland walks make it one of the most romantic properties in the South West. Dinner is served in a glass-walled room overlooking the grounds, and the surrounding Dartmoor scenery feels endlessly cinematic.
Image courtesy of Hotel Endsleigh
Details To Know
From ~£420/night
19 individually designed rooms with antiques and heritage textiles
Grade I listed gardens by famed landscape designer Humphry Repton
On-site restaurant serving seasonal Devon produce
Drawing rooms with roaring fires for afternoon tea or cocktails
Afternoon teas here are among the most famous in Devon
Clay pigeon shooting, fishing, and horse riding available nearby
Located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park
Part of the Olga Polizzi portfolio, alongside Tresanton and Star Castle
The hotel has the rare ability to feel both grand and welcoming—like staying at the country estate you secretly wish was in your family.
Tresanton
A former yacht club turned boutique hotel, perfectly pitched between nautical elegance and Cornish charm.
Why We Like It
Overlooking the glittering Fal Estuary in the postcard-perfect fishing village of St Mawes, Tresanton embodies coastal escapism without kitsch. Olga Polizzi’s design blends crisp, maritime whites with handpicked antiques and weathered timber. The restaurant is a destination in itself, with seafood pulled straight from local waters, while the terraces offer some of the most enviable sea views in Cornwall. Add in a private sailing boat for guest charters, and it becomes a rare mix of chic and genuinely rooted in place.
Image courtesy of Hotel Tresanton
From ~£450/night
30 individually decorated rooms and suites, many with balconies or terraces
Mediterranean-inspired restaurant focusing on Cornish seafood
Private hotel yacht available for half- and full-day charters
Suntrap terraces with uninterrupted views over the bay
Steps from the harbour and coastal walking trails
Interiors by Olga Polizzi, blending maritime and heritage elements
Located in St Mawes, accessible by ferry from Falmouth
The white-and-blue interiors here are done with restraint—more Riviera sophistication than beachy cliché.
Details To Know
Details To Know
Beaverbook
A grand English country house reimagined with Japanese elegance and Art Deco glamour.
Why We Like It
Once home to press baron Lord Beaverbrook, this Surrey Hills estate delivers all the heritage drama of a country mansion with a cosmopolitan twist. The interiors—by Susie Atkinson—mix English country textures with bold colours, lacquered surfaces, and whimsical details. Dining options range from the theatrical Japanese Grill to a garden-to-plate Anglo menu, and the spa is one of the best outside London. It’s less than an hour from the city yet feels worlds away, making it ideal for a luxe countryside escape without a long journey.
Image courtesy of Tablet
From ~£650/night
35 rooms split between the Mansion House and Garden House
Three restaurants, including a Japanese Grill and Anglo garden kitchen
Indoor and outdoor pools, plus a holistic spa and hammam
Set in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Private cinema and curated library for guests
Tennis courts and country pursuits available on-site
Interiors by Susie Atkinson with bold, eclectic character
The sunken Japanese garden by the spa feels like an unexpected slice of Kyoto in the Surrey Hills.
Heckfield
Place
An elegant Georgian manor reborn as one of the UK’s most design-conscious country escapes.
Why We Like It
Heckfield Place manages to blend heritage architecture with a quietly modern aesthetic—think soft natural palettes, artisanal textures, and an emphasis on craftsmanship. The estate’s biodynamic farm supplies much of the produce for its two restaurants, Marle and Hearth, and there’s a cultural programme that makes it feel more like a private members’ retreat than a hotel. The grounds, with ancient woodlands and wildflower meadows, are as integral to the experience as the rooms themselves.
Image courtesy of Tablet
Details To Know
From ~£720/night
45 individually designed rooms and suites with handcrafted details
Estate-grown produce featured in Marle and Hearth restaurants
Extensive cultural programme with talks, film screenings, and exhibitions
Lakes, woodlands, and gardens to explore on-site
Wellness space with treatments, yoga, and a serene indoor pool
Located just over an hour from London
Interiors by Ben Thompson, celebrating British craftsmanship
The Little Bothy Spa is an architectural haven in itself—low-lit, cedar-lined, and perfumed with garden botanicals.
Details To Know
Cliveden
House
Historic grandeur with a playful, decadent twist and legendary gardens.
Why We Like It
This 17th-century mansion is pure drama—think sweeping staircases, ornate ceilings, and a history of hosting royals and film stars. Despite its grandeur, there’s an air of playfulness here, with modern comforts woven into the stately setting. The spa is among the most celebrated in England, and the manicured gardens, part of the National Trust, are spectacular in every season. A stay here feels like stepping into a period drama—only with far better cocktails.
Image courtesy of Tablet
From ~£750/night
47 individually styled rooms and suites
André Garrett restaurant with fine British menus
Award-winning spa with indoor and outdoor pools
Set on 376 acres of parkland and gardens
River Thames boating available directly from the property
Afternoon tea served in the Great Hall or on the terrace
40 minutes from London by train or car
The outdoor pool—infamous from the Profumo Affair—is still one of the most glamorous in Britain.
What We Do
Rolling hills, honey-stone villages, and a patchwork of hedgerows set the stage for everything from manor-house gardens to windswept coastal walks. In this corner of England, days can mean tracing the footpaths between picture-perfect pubs, learning time-honoured crafts, or sinking into a spa set in a 15th-century abbey. Whether it’s farm-to-table feasts, riverbank picnics, or gallery-hopping in market towns, every experience feels rooted in place.
Culture & Shopping
Culture & Shopping
Blenheim Palace
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of England’s most magnificent country houses, Blenheim is as much about the sprawling Capability Brown parkland as its baroque grandeur. Wander gilded state rooms, lose yourself in the formal gardens, and time your visit with seasonal events from art exhibitions to Christmas markets.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire
Price: From £35 per adult
Vibe: Stately, historic, romantic
Need to Know: Birthplace of Winston Churchill; best visited midweek to avoid peak crowds; allow at least half a day for both the palace and grounds; bring walking shoes for the gardens.
The Newt in Somerset
Part working estate, part design dream, The Newt blends Georgian architecture with cutting-edge landscaping. Wander the gardens, sample cyder from the on-site press, and explore the interactive museum dedicated to Somerset’s apple heritage.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Castle Cary, Somerset
Price: £48 annual membership (includes unlimited visits)
Vibe: Contemporary English country
Need to Know: Membership is required for entry; the glasshouse restaurant is a highlight; seasonal programming includes horticultural workshops and evening events.
Burford Antiques Centre
A treasure trove in the “gateway to the Cotswolds,” Burford Antiques Centre offers everything from 18th-century oak furniture to delicate Georgian glassware. Serious collectors and casual browsers alike will find something to covet.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Burford, Oxfordshire
Price: Free entry
Vibe: Traditional, curated, heritage-rich
Need to Know: Inventory changes frequently; dealers are happy to share the history behind their pieces
Broadway Tower
This 18th-century folly offers panoramic views across 16 counties on a clear day. Steeped in history—from William Morris to wartime nuclear monitoring—it’s an easy, scenic stop with a surprisingly rich story.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Broadway, Worcestershire
Price: From £14 per adult
Vibe: Romantic, rural, historic
Need to Know: Best at sunset; the surrounding park is great for a countryside picnic; accessible by foot from the village.
Daylesford Organic
More than just a farm shop, Daylesford is the beating heart of modern Cotswold country life. Browse impeccably curated produce, flowers, and homewares before settling in for a seasonal meal at the café. The on-site cookery school and wellness space make it an easy full-day experience.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Kingham, Gloucestershire
Price: Free entry; workshops from £45
Vibe: Chic, wholesome, design-forward
Need to Know: Arrive early for the best bakery selection; book workshops in advance; the surrounding walks are idyllic in spring and summer.
Tate St Ives
Perched above Porthmeor Beach, this outpost of the Tate celebrates the area’s role in British modernism. Light-filled galleries showcase works from the St Ives School alongside cutting-edge contemporary art.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: St Ives, Cornwall
Price: From £12.50 per adult
Vibe: Coastal, cultural, modernist
Need to Know: Combine with a visit to the nearby Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden; booking ahead is essential in summer.
Adventure & Nature
Adventure & Nature
Hot Air Ballooning
Drifting over honey-stone villages and patchwork fields at sunrise is pure English romance. From above, the Cotswolds’ rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and winding rivers feel like a living painting.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Departures from Cheltenham, Cirencester, and Bath
Price: From £150 per person
Vibe: Peaceful, panoramic, magical
Need to Know: Early morning flights offer the best weather conditions; most rides last about an hour; dress warmly in layers even in summer.
Jurassic Coast Walk
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast offers dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and 185 million years of geological history. Choose a section that suits your stamina—from the iconic Durdle Door to the fossil-rich shores of Lyme Regis.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Dorset & Devon
Price: Free
Vibe: Rugged, scenic, geological
Need to Know: Wear sturdy walking shoes; tides can affect access to certain beaches; local guides are available for fossil hunts.
Cycling the Camel Trail
This 18-mile traffic-free trail follows a former railway line through some of Cornwall’s most beautiful landscapes. Pedal from Bodmin to Padstow, stopping for seafood and cream teas along the way.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Cornwall
Price: Free (bike hire from £15 per day)
Vibe: Relaxed, scenic, active
Need to Know: Suitable for all ages; the Padstow end is particularly lively in summer; bike hire available at several points along the route.
Camel Valley Vineyard
Cycle or drive through serene Cornish countryside before tasting award-winning sparkling wines at Camel Valley. The vineyard’s hillside setting is particularly beautiful in late summer.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bodmin, Cornwall
Price: From £18 per person (tours); £5 per tasting flight
Vibe: Relaxed, pastoral, indulgent
Need to Know: Book tours in advance, especially during harvest season; the vineyard shop is ideal for picking up a bottle to take home.
Coasteering in Cornwall
Scramble, swim, and leap your way along Cornwall’s wild Atlantic coastline. Coasteering is the ultimate adrenaline rush, blending rock climbing, cave exploration, and open-water swimming.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Polzeath, Cornwall
Price: From £45 per person
Vibe: Energetic, adventurous, coastal
Need to Know: Suitable for all abilities with wetsuits and safety gear provided; best from late spring to early autumn; expect to get wet—very wet.
Bude Sea Pool
Built in the 1930s, this tidal pool offers a safe but exhilarating way to swim in the Atlantic. Sheltered from strong currents but open to the elements, it’s a refreshing dip with sweeping sea views.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bude, Cornwall
Price: Free (donations welcome)
Vibe: Bracing, nostalgic, communal
Need to Know: Best at high tide when the pool is full; water temperatures can be chilly even in summer; bring a towel and warm clothes.
Classes & Workshops
Classes & Workshops
Shoreditch Scent Studio
This is no cookie-cutter fragrance workshop. Led by expert perfumers, you’ll explore rare botanicals, essential oils, and scent layering techniques before blending your own bespoke perfume to take home.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bath, Somerset
Price: From £95 per person
Vibe: Creative, sensory, refined
Need to Know: Sessions last around two hours; all materials are provided; ideal as a solo treat or intimate group activity.
Dry Stone Walling Workshop
A centuries-old craft still shaping the region’s iconic landscapes, dry stone walling is as meditative as it is physical. Guided by master craftspeople, you’ll learn traditional techniques while contributing to the preservation of local heritage.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Cotswolds (various sites)
Price: From £199 per person (two days)
Vibe: Heritage, hands-on, outdoors
Need to Know: All tools provided; wear sturdy boots and outdoor clothing; small-group format ensures personalised instruction.
Cookery School at Daylesford Organic
In the heart of one of the UK’s most beautiful organic farms, learn to prepare seasonal dishes using just-picked produce. Classes range from artisan bread-making to plant-based feasts, all grounded in farm-to-table philosophy.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Kingham, Gloucestershire
Price: From £210 per person
Vibe: Wholesome, seasonal, hands-on
Need to Know: Classes run year-round; lunch and refreshments included; combine with a visit to the Daylesford farm shop and spa.
Nightlife
Nightlife
The Ox
Hidden in the basement of a grand townhouse, The Ox pairs moody lighting and exposed brick with a menu of impeccably made cocktails and late-night bites. The crowd is stylish but unpretentious, and the vibe is always lively.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Price: £££
Vibe: Speakeasy-meets-bistro
Need to Know: Book ahead for weekend nights; steak is a house specialty if you’re hungry after a few rounds.
The Botanist
A lively, foliage-filled space that shifts seamlessly from afternoon aperitifs to full-blown evening buzz. Think botanical cocktails, live music nights, and a crowd that’s here to have a good time.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bath, Somerset
Price: ££
Vibe: Playful, social, garden-party energy
Need to Know: Arrive early for a table on weekends; live music most Fridays and Saturdays.
The Raven
Known for its historic setting and legendary pies, The Raven also pours an impressive range of real ales in a cosy, wood-beamed space. Popular with locals and visitors alike.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bath, Somerset
Price: £
Vibe: Traditional pub, laid-back
Need to Know: Two snug bars spread over two floors; perfect for a pre- or post-dinner pint.
The Dunvegan
A gin-lover’s paradise with an extensive list running from classic London Dry to small-batch infusions. Modern, lively, and ideal for a late-night coastal outing.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Price: ££
Vibe: Modern, buzzy, gin-focused
Need to Know: Over 300 gins to try; bookable tasting flights available.
The Milk Thistle
An old-world townhouse turned cocktail lounge, The Milk Thistle is part hidden bar, part Victorian parlour, with taxidermy and velvet drapes to match. The drinks list leans inventive without losing sight of the classics.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bristol
Price: £££
Vibe: Eclectic, intimate, atmospheric
Need to Know: No sign outside—look for the unmarked door; table service only; perfect for small groups.
The Royal Oak
A beautifully restored 18th-century inn that’s equal parts pub and community hub. Come for the craft ales and Cotswold ciders, stay for the live folk sessions and fireside seating.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Price: ££
Vibe: Rustic, cosy, heritage-rich
Need to Know: No frills, all charm; check the blackboard for live music nights.
Fitness & Wellness
Fitness & Wellness
Thermae Bath Spa
The UK’s only natural thermal spa, drawing mineral-rich waters from deep beneath the city. Soak in the open-air rooftop pool for sweeping views of Bath’s honey-hued skyline.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Bath, Somerset
Price: ££
Vibe: Historic, rejuvenating, one-of-a-kind
Need to Know: Twilight packages let you bathe under the stars; weekends can be busy, so weekday visits are calmer.
Y2 Yoga
A city‑chic yoga studio brought to the countryside, where heated power flows pump at high intensity to booming music—offering an unapologetically modern twist on practice.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Cotswold Shopping Centre, Gloucestershire
Price: ££ (~£25–£30 per drop-in class)
Vibe: Energetic, modern, design-driven
Need to Know: Expect heated studios (two heated, one non-heated) with commercial humidifiers and immersive sound systems.
Soul Circus Festival
A weekend wellness festival combining sunrise yoga, sound baths, spa tents, and live music under the stars. This is a once-a-year gathering for those who like their self-care with a side of community energy.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Elmore, Gloucestershire
Price: ££ (weekend tickets)
Vibe: Bohemian, social, energizing
Need to Know: Runs in August; camping and glamping options available on-site.
Sample Itinerary
If You Have 96 Hours
PART ONE: Arrival & Settle In
Check into the chic The Bird in Bath, a playful, design-driven townhouse hotel just steps from the city’s honey-stone crescents. Start your morning wandering the Roman Baths, then stroll to Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House for the city’s most famous bun.
After lunch, browse the indie boutiques along Milsom Street. Stop for a pint at a local pub and wander the cozy streets,
PART TWO: Afternoon To Evening
Head west into the rolling countryside for a golden-hour walk through Castle Combe, one of England’s most photogenic villages.
Dinner is at The Pony Chew Valley, where seasonal menus showcase the West Country’s best produce. End the day fireside at The Bell at Lacock, a centuries-old coaching inn pouring local ales.
PART THREE: Morning Market & Coastal Air
Rise early for a countryside drive to Daylesford Organic Farm for a farm-to-fork breakfast and a browse through their polished farm shop.
Continue to Port Isaac on the north Cornwall coast for bracing sea air, pastel cottages, and coffee from The Krab Pot. Lunch is fish-fresh at Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, where every table comes with a view of the harbour.
PART FOUR: A Rustic Farewell
Spend the afternoon walking the South West Coast Path toward Tintagel Castle, the legendary seat of King Arthur.
Return inland for a final dinner at The Wheatsheaf Inn in Northleach, a stylish coaching inn that marries rustic beams with a sleek dining room. End with a nightcap under the fairy-lit garden canopy at No. 131 in Cheltenham before heading home.
