A Perfect English Retreat: 5 Days in the Cotswolds

Just beyond London’s bustling streets lies the Cotswolds—a pastoral paradise where time seems to slow. With its rolling green hills, honey-hued stone villages, and blooming gardens, this region offers a timeless charm that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

Our five-day, four-night itinerary invites you to immerse yourself in the quiet magic of the English countryside. From private garden tours to castle strolls and charming market towns, each day strikes a balance between curated experiences and personal exploration. Evenings are spent at The Painswick, a stylish manor hotel tucked into the heart of the countryside—your perfect base for unwinding in comfort.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another taste of rural England, this journey is designed to inspire, delight, and reconnect you with life’s slower rhythms. Here's how to spend five unforgettable days in the Cotswolds:

Day 1: From London to the Cotswolds – The Journey Begins

After savoring London’s cultural buzz, trade the cityscape for the countryside with a scenic train ride from Paddington Station to Kemble. In just over an hour, you're greeted by meadows, dry-stone walls, and charming villages.

Pick up your rental car and meander through narrow lanes to The Painswick, your boutique hideaway nestled in a historic manor house. Spend the afternoon settling in—perhaps wandering the village streets, lined with stone cottages and flowering gardens. As dusk falls, unwind with a fireside cocktail in the lounge, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Day 2: Royal Gardens & Storybook Villages

Begin the day with a rare treat: a guided visit to Highgrove Gardens, the private residence of the Royal Family. These lush, sustainably designed gardens burst with seasonal color and reflect King Charles III’s lifelong passion for horticulture.

Next, continue to Bibury, often dubbed England’s prettiest village. Stroll along Arlington Row, where ivy-draped cottages mirror softly in the River Coln. Enjoy a slow-paced lunch at a tearoom, take in the riverside scenery, and snap plenty of photos before heading back to The Painswick for a relaxed evening.

Day 3: Castles, Canals & Cotswold Craftsmanship

Today blends history, charm, and a touch of whimsy. First up is Sudeley Castle, a Tudor gem with royal connections and gardens that burst with roses and color. Explore its historic halls and tranquil grounds before heading to Bourton-on-the-Water.

Nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton enchants with its low stone bridges, winding streams, and cozy cafés. Meander through boutique shops, sample homemade fudge, or simply watch the world float by from a riverside bench.

In the afternoon, drop by the Cotswold Woollen Weavers to explore the area’s textile heritage—and perhaps pick up a cozy memento. Return to The Painswick for a candlelit dinner and a toast to another perfect day.

Day 4: Beacon Views & Fond Farewells

On your final morning, a short drive leads to Painswick Beacon, where a gentle climb rewards you with sweeping views across the Severn Vale and, on clear days, the Welsh hills. It’s an ideal moment for quiet reflection and one last photo.

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the Cotswolds. From here, you can either fly out of Bristol Airport, just over an hour away, or return to London to continue your onward travels. As you drive past golden fields and ancient hedgerows, you’ll carry with you the quiet magic of England’s green heart.

Inspired to add a touch of Cotswold magic to your next UK trip? With its royal gardens, fairytale villages, and timeless landscapes, this four-night escape offers a perfect blend of inspiration and relaxation—just a stone’s throw from London.