A LOCAL'S GUIDE TO THE SOUTH COTSWOLDS
Beautiful places, local favourites and unforgettable days out - all close to Woodchester Valley Vineyard
Whether you're visiting for a relaxing vineyard stay, a walking holiday or simply a weekend away, the South Cotswolds is full of beautiful places to discover.
Unlike some of the busier honey-pot villages, this corner of the Cotswolds offers rolling valleys, independent market towns, spectacular walking and wonderful food – all within easy reach of Woodchester Valley Vineyard.
We've gathered some of our favourite places to help you make the most of your stay.
For a few suggestions of seasonal events and activities throughout the year, have a look at our Cotswold Calendar.
Explore Nearby
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Nailsworth
5 minutes
A vibrant little market town full of independent shops, cafés and restaurants. Perfect for a leisurely morning coffee, browsing boutiques or enjoying lunch after a walk.
Don't miss
- Williams Food Hall
- Hobbs House Bakery
- Egypt Mill
- Monthly Farmers' Market
Perfect for
Coffee • Shopping • Lunch -
Stroud
10 minutes
One of the UK's most creative market towns, known for its award-winning Saturday Farmers' Market, independent shops, galleries and thriving food scene.
Don't miss
- Saturday Farmers' Market
- Museum in the Park
- Five Valleys Shopping Centre
- Independent cafés
Perfect for
Markets • Shopping • Local culture -
Tetbury
20 minutes
Historic streets lined with antique shops, artisan stores and beautiful Cotswold buildings. A wonderful place to wander before stopping for lunch.
Nearby
- Highgrove Gardens
- Chavenage House
- Westonbirt Arboretum
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Cirencester
25 minutes
Often called the Capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester combines Roman history with boutique shopping, excellent restaurants and beautiful parks.
Highlights include the Corinium Museum and picturesque Abbey Grounds.
Nearby
- Bibury
DAYS OUT
Looking to explore a little further? These destinations are all within an hour's drive.
Bath
Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, boutique shopping and Thermae Spa.
Cheltenham
Elegant Regency streets, festivals, shopping and horse racing.
Bristol
Harbourside restaurants, Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Britain and street art.
Bourton-on-the-Water
One of the Cotswolds' most photographed villages, with family attractions and riverside cafés.
Also worth visiting
Minchinhampton • Painswick • Bibury
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MUSEUMS, ARTS & HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Whether you enjoy history, architecture or local heritage, these are some of the area's highlights.
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WILDLIFE & GARDENS
Slow down and enjoy some of the area's most beautiful green spaces.
- Westonbirt Arboretum
- Woodchester Park
- Highgrove Gardens
- Cotswold Water Park
- Rodborough & Minchinhampton Commons
Ideal throughout the seasons, especially spring and autumn.
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SPECTATOR SPORTS
Enjoy some of the region's biggest sporting events.
Many events take place throughout the year, so ask us what's on during your stay.
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OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES & RECREATIONAL SPORTS
Looking for something more active?
- Cycling
- Watersports at Cotswold Water Park
- Fishing
- Hot Air Balloon Flights
- Golf
- Horse Riding
- Clay Pigeon Shooting
- Mountain Biking
There's something for every pace, whether you're after adventure or relaxation.
WALKING & CYCLING
The South Cotswolds is a walker's paradise.
Staff favourites
- Woodchester Park
- Selsley Common
- Rodborough Common
- The Cotswold Way
- Stroud Valleys Trail
- Cotswold Water Park
Have a look at our three vineyard walks before you head out.
LOCAL PUBS & RESTAURANTS
Whether you're looking for a relaxed country pub after a day exploring, a cosy café for brunch, or a memorable evening meal, you'll be spoilt for choice during your stay.
Just a few minutes from the vineyard, the vibrant market town of Nailsworth has earned a reputation as one of the South Cotswolds' best foodie destinations, with everything from welcoming pubs and artisan cafés to award-winning restaurants and tasting menus. There are also plenty of excellent dining options in nearby Stroud and the surrounding villages.
We've put together a hand-picked guide to some of our favourite places to eat and drink, including several restaurants that proudly serve Woodchester Valley wines.