TMC’s Guide to The CotswoldsRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 20 July 2023 TMC’s Guide to The Cotswolds TMC Cotswolds & Cheltenham Host, Angela Wood, reveals the best things to do and see. Where to Stay Best hotel: Barnsley House “Two words Barnsley House. If boutique rooms, beautiful grounds and spas are your vibe, Barnsley House will not disappoint. Staying here you’ll get to experience Cotswolds village life, and you’re perfectly located to explore everything from the Water Park to Daylesford.” Book now Where to Eat / Drink Best for drinks: Imperial Haus in Cheltenham “Head to Imperial Haus in Cheltenham. It’s an incredible venue that gives serious Alice in Wonderland vibes, and the cocktails are magnificent.” Find out more Best date night: “For a real treat, you have to head to the Restaurant Journey in Cheltenham. I recommend indulging in their set menu, which will quite literally take you on a journey. One to be enjoyed without kids and worth getting a sitter for.” Book now Best bakery: Knead “I absolutely adore Knead! Their focaccia is a firm favourite in our house and never lasts long. Check out their bakeries in Cirencester or Tetbury or their new deli at Elkstone Studios. And enjoy brunch or lunch from their outdoor grill. *The grilled lobster rolls are not to be missed.” Find out more What to do Best farm shop: Daylesford Farm “One of the many things The Cotswolds does well is Farm Shops. Farming and supporting our local producers are a huge part of our lives. And you can’t visit The Cotswolds without a trip to Daylesford Organic. From the highest quality groceries to seriously lust-worthy homewares, Daylesford has everything covered.” Find out more Best event for mums: The Mum Club “Join me at a Mum Club event. At the moment we have picnics planned, fitness classes and of course our famous brunches. And there’s lots more in store for autumn/winter.” Find out more Best beach: Cotwolds Beach, Cotswolds Water Park “I know a beach is not something you would think to find in The Cotswolds, but Cotswold Water Park has water lovers covered! Cotswold Beach is one of our favourite places to visit. There are beautiful holiday lodges to rent, located right on the lakes (check out Lakes by Yoo or Lower Mill Estate), and you can do everything from paddling boarding to water-skiing.” Find out more Best for shopping: Cheltenham “Cheltenham wins this hands down. From the boutiques in the Suffolks and Montpellier, to the well-known brands along the prom and in the town centre. Cheltenham has the perfect mix of mainstream brands and independent shops. And there are plenty of lovely places to have a break from shopping too.” Find out more Best spa: Calcot Manor “We are seriously lucky and have some of the best spas out there. Although my favourite has to be Calcot Manor, the spa is divine, and the food is second to none. Want to know the best bit? Calcot can also cater for the little ones in our lives. It has play areas, access times to the swimming pool, a play barn and many more outdoor activities for kids.” Book now The Best Things to do Our family go-to: Westonbirt Arboretum “Westonbirt Arboretum is our go-to activity. You know the days when you need some fresh air, the kids need to let off steam and a decent coffee is in order? Well, you can find it all here. The tree walkway is just sublime!” Find out more Best free attraction: Crickley Hill “Crickley Hill, just outside Cheltenham. The views are amazing, and you get to take in just how incredible the Cotswold Hills are. There are a variety of walks around them – just make sure you have a carrier for little ones. There’s also a café at the top, toilet facilities, and car parking (with a small charge for parking).” Find out more Best money well spent: Giffords Circus “If you are visiting the Cotswolds when Giffords Circus is performing, without any hesitation, go. They will not disappoint. We go as a family every year without fail!” Book now Must see: Cirencester Polo “If you visit when polo season is in full swing, head to Cirencester Polo Park and take it all in. It’s a fab experience and can be done on a budget. One day passes start from as little as £5, and bringing your own picnic is a popular option. Fancy splashing out? Upgrade to pitch-side picnic bubbles.” Find out more Travel tips Bring everything “From walking gear to your best going ‘out-out’ outfit. There is something for every occasion and for whatever mood you’re in.” Download these before you come “Download either the PaybyPhone or MiPermit app – it makes parking in the area so much easier.” Bring a carrier or an off-road buggy “If you have little ones. Our bigger towns are well geared for the usual buggies, prams and travel systems, but our village and traditional market towns can have cobbled or narrow streets. Many walks in and around the area will need little ones in a carrier.” Best time of year to visit “ALL YEAR! There isn’t a season I don’t love being in the Cotswolds.” Tags cotswolds, Tmc guide to, travel
