A small corner of a fairy-tale, that’s the best way to describe the Cotswolds. Just about two hours from London by car and close to Oxford, this region is known for its rolling hills, honey-coloured stone cottages, and peaceful countryside.
There are many villages across the Cotswolds, but if you only have one day, you can easily visit a few highlights. I’ve been twice, and I think one full day is enough to get a great feel for the area, though staying longer would definitely be worth it.
Important note: getting around is much easier by car. Public transport is limited, especially between villages.
Itinerary
I visited the villages in this order (driving from the north):
Driving between them takes about 20–40 minutes, so it’s very manageable.
Bibury
Bibury is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in England, and it’s easy to see why.
I parked near the river on The Street, where there’s usually a good turnover of cars. Once parked, everything is within walking distance.
The highlight is Arlington Row, a row of 17th-century cottages that looks straight out of a postcard. The surrounding river and greenery make the whole place feel incredibly peaceful.
Burford
Next stop: Burford, a larger and livelier town compared to Bibury.
I found free parking near the High Street and explored from there. The street is lined with independent shops, cosy pubs, and small cafés.
Burford is a historic market town, and you can feel its character as you walk around. It’s a great place to wander and enjoy the atmosphere.
Bourton-on-the-Water
My final stop was Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds.”
A river runs through the village, crossed by small stone bridges. The green spaces along the water make it a perfect place to relax or have a picnic.
We stopped for a burger and a beer, at Smiths, which was the perfect way to end the day.
If you have extra time, you could visit the The Model Village, a miniature version of the village.
Extra Stop
On my first trip, I also passed through Moreton-in-Marsh. It’s another market town worth considering for a short stop or a meal.
Final Thoughts
The Cotswolds is one of those places that feels timeless.
Even with just one day, you can see some of its most beautiful spots. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably want to come back again.