There are tonnes of romantic things to do in the Cotswolds – and there really is no better setting for it either; with toy-like villages mixed among the rolling hills and stunning countryside views, it’s the perfect place for a couples weekend away.
Having lived within arms reach of the Cotswolds for a number of years now, we’ve just about covered all of the date nights and day trips to be had, and truly believe the below are well worth adding to any itinerary for a romantic trip away! We may be biased, but we truly believe the Cotswolds is one of the best places to visit in the UK.
ROMANTIC THINGS TO DO IN THE COTSWOLDS
FIND A SECRET SPOT FOR A PICNIC
The Cotswolds is filled with hundreds of secret spots with fantastic views over the hills and beyond and over the years we’ve enjoyed some of the best walks in the Cotswolds that have led to hilltop picnic benches with some insane views – and the best thing about it is that no one else seems to ever be there.
Some of the best and most secluded spots are:
- Near Broadway Tower
As you’re looking at Broadway Tower, with Broadway village behind you, you’ll see a pathway on your left. If you find the nearby gate and head towards Broadway village for just a few minutes, then you will come across a couple of benches in a field – this is the perfect picnic spot that is completely secluded from anyone else.
- On the Seven Springs and Leckhamptop Loop
The Seven Springs and Leckhampton Loop is a well-trodden and thoroughly enjoyable walk with dozens of secluded picnic spots that provide awesome views over Cheltenham. As soon as you reach the peak of the walk, you’ll notice lots of small paths that divert away from the main trail and find some true hidden gems to have a picnic.
- Dovers Hill
Close to Chipping Campden is Dovers Hill and it’s the perfect place to go to if you don’t actually want to walk up a hill to get great views – so, for all you lazy picnic-ers out there, this one is for you! Simply search for the National Trust Dovers Hill car park and you’ll be met with plenty of places for a picnic and epic views!
- Cleeve Hill
Cleeve Hill is another great place to head to for a picnic, as not only does it provide excellent views over the Cotswolds, but there is also a secret swing upon the hilltop that not too many people know about!
CANOE DOWN THE RIVER THAMES IN LECHLADE
On the eastern side of the Cotswolds is Lechlade, with the river Thames running right beside it – and is there really a more romantic thing to do in the Cotswolds than sit back and relax as your loved one chauffeurs you along the river Thames in a canoe boat?
After a few hours of winding your way along the river, you’ll arrive back at Lechlade and undoubtedly want to explore the town on foot too. If you’re combining this with a lunch or dinner date, then we would highly recommend The Tea Chest for something light or The New Inn Hotel for some fantastic pub grub.
WATCH A MOVIE UNDER THE STARS AT AN OUTDOOR OR DRIVE-IN CINEMA
The outdoor and drive-in cinema business took an absolute boom due to Covid-19, and it looks like it’s now going to be a thing going forward. And with the realisation that it’s actually way better and much more romantic than a regular trip to the cinema, we aren’t complaining!
Whether you enjoy cosying up on some beanbags while snuggled up under a blanket or chilling in your car with the seats reclined and a huge bag of popcorn, you’re bound to find a great location for a totally romantic night under the stars while watching a movie.
Tip: The best way to find a location for an outdoor or drive-in cinema is by searching on eventbrite.co.uk
RELAX IN THE ROOFTOP POOL AT BATH THERMAE SPA
On the southern edge of the Cotswolds is Bath and it is without a doubt one of the UK’s prettiest cities. If you’ve never been to Bath before, then let me paint you a mental picture of what it looks like: imagine a small and eloquent city filled with independent coffee shops and secret side alleys, stunning historic landmarks scattered absolutely everywhere, all while being surrounded by big leafy green hills – urgh, it’s just the prettiest!
One of the most iconic landmarks in Bath is the Roman Baths which produce natural thermae water; today, Bath Spa uses this water (once treated) and provides a rooftop spa experience with views over the entire city – it’s a recipe for love!
WATCH THE SUNSET FROM THE TOP OF BROADWAY TOWER HILL
While most people head to Broadway Tower during the day to venture inside and marvel at the surrounding views, they’re definitely missing a trick, as the best time to visit is actually in the evening!
Heading to Broadway Tower at sunset for a picnic or a few drinks is the perfect way to relax after exploring the Cotswolds on foot. And, of a summer’s evening, it’s where all the couples seem to go! It’s for good reason too, as it really is a stunning sight as the sun slowly starts to sink behind the Malvern Hills in the distance.
Tip: If you prefer a more secluded and spot to watch the sunset then head to the benches which we mentioned in our first point – secret spots for a picnic!
TAKE A TRIP ON THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE STEAM RAILWAY
The Gloucestershire Warwickshire steam train dates back to the 1900s and meanders through the countryside from Broadway to Cheltenham, stopping at multiple towns and villages on the way. The train is certainly more than just a means of getting from A to B, as you sit back and relax into the old-fashioned spring seats and enjoy hopping on and off the train at each tiny village.
The price varies depending on how far along the track you go, however, we highly recommend making a day of it and going all the way from Broadway to Cheltenham, or vice versa!
Tip: If you hop off the train at Winchcombe, it is a 15-minute walk to the village center and we recommend visiting Sudeley Castle, as well as The Old Bakery for lunch.
DISCOVER THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT BLENHEIM PALACE
The Cotswolds in winter exude a different kind of romantic aura that feels almost magical. And, although we are still yet to make it to the festival of lights at Blenheim Palace because of Covid-19, we believe this will definitely be one of the most romantic things to do in the Cotswolds.
From our extensive research, a trail of lights leads around Blenheim Palace every night during the winter months, lighting up the walls of the palace and for everyone to see it in all its glory and undoubtedly getting you and your loved one in the festive spirit! And who knows, maybe we will actually be able to go this year and see you there!
Tip: Make sure you pre-book tickets online at Blenheim Palace as it’s a super popular event each year.
Tip: If you’re escaping the city from London then Blenheim Palace is only a short train ride away.
READ MORE: COTSWOLDS IN WINTER: 9 MAGICAL THINGS TO DO
ENJOY DINNER WITH A VIEW IN STANTON VILLAGE
Stanton Village is one of the best villages in the Cotswolds and, although small, is the perfect spot for a romantic meal with yet more epic views across the hills.
The Mount Inn is the only pub in the village – it really is a tiny place – yet they have certainly bagged the best spot in Stanton and have built a perfect decking area on the hillside for couples to enjoy a date night with views.
Tip: The best time to visit is at sunset.
DRIVE ALONG THE ROMANTIC ROAD IN THE COTSWOLDS
The romantic road in the Cotswolds is a 45-mile circular route that starts from Broadway and leads through many of the best towns and villages in the area. It’s likely to take a full day, as you’ll of course be stopping and most of the locations which the route passes through (most likely for coffee and cake!).
Many couples like to rent an old-fashioned, convertible car for this journey, as they joyride their way around the beautiful countryside hopping around each village and town. If you fancy this too, then Great Escape Cars are a great company to arrange this for you.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON ROMANTIC THINGS TO DO IN THE COTSWOLDS AND FURTHER POSTS
With so many beautiful places to stay and romantic things to do in the Cotswolds, you’ll undoubtedly leave feeling super loved up!
Let us know in the comments below if you tried anything from our list, and if you discovered anything more too!
READ MORE:
- WHERE TO STAY IN THE COTSWOLDS: BEST AREA + HOTELS
- A WONDERFUL COTSWOLDS ITINERARY FOR A FAIRY-TALE WEEKEND AWAY
- 10 QUIRKY COTSWOLDS GLAMPING SPOTS WITH HOT TUBS AND OUTDOOR BATHS
- CAMPING IN THE COTSWOLDS: 10 EPIC CAMPSITES
- COTSWOLDS IN WINTER: 9 MAGICAL THINGS TO DO
- THE COTSWOLDS AT CHRISTMAS: THE COMPLETE GUIDE
- 11 ROMANTIC THINGS TO DO IN STRATFORD-UPON-AVON: A LOCALS GUIDE
Love Millie & Tom x
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