The beautiful Cotswolds are celebrated the world over for being one of the most picturesque corners of England, brimming with natural beauty and charming villages complete with quaint afternoon tea spots. The region’s amazing views, peace and tranquillity, and outstanding food and accommodation make it a dream walking holiday destination. You’ve probably heard of some of the Cotswolds’ most famous tourist attractions and hot spots like Blenheim Palace, Arlington Row, the Cotswold Way, and pretty villages like Castle Combe or Winchcombe, but what are some of the area’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets?
1. Cotswold Lavender, Broadway
When you think of the Cotswolds, you probably imagine rolling green hills and picture-perfect villages. But what about lavender fields? Planted in the year 2000, Cotswold Lavender is a farm consisting of 53 acres of stunning lavender fields, located in Snowshill. Standing over 1,000 feet above sea level, the fields overlook nearby Broadway and the Vale of Evesham. And once they’re in full bloom, walking the fields is a majestic experience.
2. Tyndale Monument, North Nibley
The Cotswolds are known for their many important historical sites, but perhaps you haven’t heard of Tyndale Monument. This tower, built in North Nibley, celebrated the life of William Tyndale, a translator of the New Testament who died a martyr in 1538. The tower was constructed in 1866 and is 111 feet tall. Climbing the hill to reach the tower is a wonderful hike. And once there, you can even ascend the 121 stairs to the top of the tower.
3. Stinchcombe
The village of Stinchcombe certainly isn’t as well known as some other Cotswold villages like Bibury, Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold, or Bourton-on-the-Water, but it’s just as beautiful. This true hidden gem is located on the road between Dursley and North Nibley and has a population of less than 500 inhabitants. Berkeley Castle and the Jensen Museum are less than a ten-minute drive away from the centre of Stinchcombe.
4. Snowshill Manor, Snowshill
The National Trust’s Snowshill Manor and Garden is a Cotswold manor house packed with many hidden treasures. The Manor has an illustrious history. In fact, King Henry VIII included it in his dowry to Catherine Parr. Over the centuries, the house has been modified and developed, but its main body dates from around the early 16th century. Today, the Manor is home to a number of highly peculiar artefacts, including toys, tapestries, paintings, clocks, and marine instruments, which were amassed by the Manor’s former owner, Charles Paget Wade. ‘Let nothing perish’ was the motto by which Wade lived, and when visiting Snowshill Manor, you’ll understand that he certainly meant that!
5. Thames Head, Kemble
Did you know that London’s River Thames begins in the Cotswold town of Kemble? The site, in the rolling hills of Gloucestershire, is traditionally identified as the source of the capital’s famous river. It is located in Trewsbury Mead – a meadow adjacent to the village of Kemble. Meadow stands 360 feet (110 meters) above sea level, and if you want to see where the Thames begins, this is the place. You can access the meadow via the Wysis Way footpath. On the fringes of the Cotswolds AONB, it is marked by a monument, which is engraved as follows: “The Conservators of the River Thames 1857-1974. This stone was placed here to mark the Source of the River Thames”.
6. Friday Charter Market, Cirencester
Cirencester’s Friday Charter Market is another of the region’s gems. Set against the backdrop of the town’s historic Market Place, this beloved weekly event runs from 9 am to 3 pm and has been a treasured part of local life for generations. Stroll among stalls laden with seasonal produce, artisan breads, flavourful cheeses, homemade bakes, vibrant flowers, and handcrafted goods. With its friendly stallholders, laid-back pace, and charming setting, it’s the perfect way to spend a leisurely Friday, discovering the tastes and talents that make Cirencester so special.
7. Covent Garden Academy of Flowers, Chipping Campden
Established in 2010, The Covent Garden Academy of Flowers has shared the art of floristry with thousands of people through its floristry courses based in the beautiful village of Chipping Campden. They offer private workshops and demonstrations for those interested in celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a fun and unique hands-on experience. Seasonal spins, including wreath-making in the festive season and beautiful Spring and Summer bouquet arranging, make this one of the best places to complement your Cotswold adventure in a unique way.
8. The Victorian Christmas Shop, Bourton-on-the-Water
Step into a world of festive magic at The Victorian Christmas Shop, a must-visit for anyone who loves Christmas. Nestled in a charming corner of Bourton-on-the-Water, the shop is easy to find but hard to leave once you step inside. From sparkling ornaments and intricately decorated tree decorations to Victorian-inspired gifts and seasonal treasures, there’s something to delight every visitor. Many travellers make it a tradition to pick up a special ornament as a keepsake of their trip. If you adore all things Christmas and Victorian, this enchanting shop promises a memorable and heartwarming experience.
9. Cotswolds Distillery, Stourton
No hidden gem list of the Cotswolds would be complete without the Cotswolds Distillery. Recipient of the 2018 VisitEngland Hidden Gem award, the distillery offers award-winning local spirits, tastings, and experiences, including a whiskey blending masterclass, a gin blending master class, and a cocktail masterclass. The distillery is the region’s first and only full-scale, working craft distillery. Set across four picturesque acres, it’s the perfect setting for a unique stop on your Cotswold itinerary. You’ll also find a welcoming shop stocked with their full collection of spirits, and a cosy café serving refreshments and light bites every day of the week.
10. Highgrove Gardens, Tetbury
Highgrove serves as the private residence of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. While the house itself remains closed to visitors, the Gardens welcome the public from April to October each year, offering a rare chance to experience the beauty and inspiration that Their Majesties so deeply cherish.
11. Chavenage House, Tetbury
Chavenage House, a privately owned Elizabethan manor, welcomes visitors to step inside its rich history. Frequently chosen as a filming location for television and film, this remarkable home offers far more to discover beyond the screen. Guests can enjoy guided tours led by members of the owning family, making a trip to this often-overlooked Cotswold attraction well worth a stop.
12. Walks With Hawks, Cheltenham
Cheltenham is home to Walks With Hawks, which offers four unforgettable Birds of Prey experiences, where you’ll have the rare chance to handle and fly a range of magnificent raptors. Groups are deliberately kept small so every visitor can enjoy generous hands-on time with the birds. Whether you choose a Hawk Walk, an Owl Encounter, or another of their bespoke packages, you are bound to have a memorable experience.
13. Chastleton House and Garden, Near Moreton-in-Marsh
Completed in 1612, Chastleton House stands as one of England’s most exquisite and best-preserved Jacobean houses. Now in the care of the National Trust, its gardens, adorned with elegant topiary, beautifully reflect the grandeur and artistry of both the Jacobean and Elizabethan eras.
14. Jet Age Museum, Cheltenham
Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, the Jet Age Museum in Cheltenham is a registered charity committed to safeguarding Gloucestershire’s remarkable aviation legacy. From the pioneering days of early flight to the dawn of the Jet Age and today’s cutting-edge aerospace industry, the museum brings the county’s aviation story to life. Through the tales of the people, places, aircraft, and companies that have shaped over a century of innovation, the Jet Age Museum tells an inspiring story of Gloustershire’s aviation past and future.
15. The Cotswold Range, Cirencester
Another lesser-known Cotswold gem that is often overlooked is the Cotswold Range. Offering guided Archery or Air Rifle sessions, a visit to the range is an exciting addition to any itinerary. All activities are held in their fully covered venue, so the fun continues regardless of the weather, and any time of year.
16. Cotswold Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes
Between the 1st of April and the 30th of September, the Cotswold Sculpture Park runs an exhibition of over 200 sculptures and artworks. Stroll through the peaceful outdoor near the picturesque village of Somerford Keynes as you take in the magnificent works on display and end off with a stop at the tearoom. If you find yourself in the Cotswolds when the exhibition is running, it is, without a doubt, a must-see to include on your itinerary.
17. Nature in Art, Twigworth
Nature in Art is the world’s first museum and gallery devoted entirely to fine, decorative, and applied art inspired by the natural world. Its collections span 1,500 years, showcasing both two- and three-dimensional works in every medium and style from around the globe. Alongside the permanent displays, a lively programme of temporary exhibitions runs throughout the year, featuring everything from photography to textiles. From February to November, visitors can also step into the on-site artist studio, where creators bring new works to life. Watch the process unfold, pick up tips, and perhaps even take home a one-of-a-kind piece.
From lavender fields and historic manor houses to artisan markets, sculpture parks, and the birthplace of the River Thames, these hidden gems in the Cotswolds showcase a side of the region many visitors never see. Exploring beyond the well-known highlights reveals authentic experiences, from sipping craft spirits and meeting local artists to walking with birds of prey or wandering through centuries-old gardens. If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds in 2025, make sure to add a few of these lesser-known treasures to your itinerary. They’re the secret spots that turn a Cotswold getaway into an unforgettable adventure.