For us a Cotswolds holiday cottage is about as traditional a cottage holiday as one could imagine or wish for. Although we are biased (as you'd expect) the honey coloured Cotswolds' cottages with the drystone walls, rolling countryside, local pubs and inns and friendly locals make the region one of the most idyllic in both the United Kingdom but also the world!
Taking a Cotswolds holiday with Manor Cottages is likely to include the opportunity to visit famous cities such as Bath or Oxford along with many attractive towns like Cheltenham or Stratford upon Avon. And of course there are literally hundreds of picturesque villages from places like Burford, to Bibury to Castle Combe and Chipping Campden. Don't just take our word for it, look at our cottages in our locations and see for yourself, we really do have a cottage for everyone! Click Cotswolds Holiday to view.
History
The ‘Drystone walls’ are a particular feature of the Cotswolds, scattered everywhere in the fields of the region. it is believed that many of these were built in the 18th and 19th centuries, a matter of considerable skill as there is no cement to hold the walls together. They represent an important historical landscape and a major conservation feature – and are of course still used by farmers to enclose sheep and cattle.
During the 13-15th centuries, the medieval period, the native Cotswold sheep were famous throughout Europe for their heavy fleeces and high quality of wool. Cotswold wool commanded a high price and the wealth generated by the wool trade enabled wealthy traders to leave their mark by building fine houses and wonderful churches, known as “wool churches”. Even today, the sight of sheep on the hillside is still one of the classic Cotswold images.
Hidden Cotswolds Gems
From our perspective, we are fortunate enought to have visited most villages across the Cotswolds. However, not all are well known, and today many still hold their secrets - examples such Naunton, Combe, or Winson are stunning but off the beaten track. Even the likes of Painswick, Biddestone or Winchcombe are have fabulous treats for those prepared to make more of their Cotswolds holiday.
As we always say, if you're not sure ask the team where to go, we know this stunning region very well and believe that if you come once, you'll return and find something new each time!
Well, we would say that wouldn't we!!