The Essential Guide to Cotswolds
Summary: Living it Up in Cotswolds: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.
Welcome to Cotswolds! If you're planning to move to Cotswolds, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Cotswolds has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Cotswolds.
The Cotswolds, a picturesque region in the UK, is known for its charming villages, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside. This area offers a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals to enjoy. One of the most popular sites is the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, which features a diverse collection of animals and beautiful gardens. Another must-see attraction is the historic Sudeley Castle, which dates back to the 15th century and is surrounded by stunning gardens and grounds. The castle also hosts various events throughout the year, such as outdoor theatre performances and exhibitions.
For those interested in history, the Roman Baths in Bath are a fascinating site to explore. These ancient baths were built around 70 AD and are still well-preserved today. The nearby Bath Abbey is also worth a visit, with its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history. The Cotswolds is also home to several beautiful gardens, such as Hidcote Manor Garden and Kiftsgate Court Gardens, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Visitors can also explore the many charming villages in the Cotswolds, such as Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds" due to its picturesque bridges and riverside walks. Other popular villages include Stow-on-the-Wold, with its historic market square, and Chipping Campden, known for its beautiful high street and historic buildings.
The Cotswolds is also home to several museums, such as the Corinium Museum in Cirencester, which showcases the history of the area from prehistoric times to the present day. The Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection in Bourton-on-the-Water is another popular attraction, featuring a vast collection of vintage cars and toys.
When it comes to dining and nightlife in the Cotswolds, there is a wide variety of options to suit all tastes. One of the most popular restaurants in the area is The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, which offers a modern British menu using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and is known for its stylish interiors and excellent service.
Another popular dining option is The Kingham Plough, a traditional country pub that serves delicious, locally sourced food in a cozy atmosphere. For a more casual dining experience, The Old Stocks Inn in Stow-on-the-Wold offers a relaxed setting with a menu that focuses on seasonal, British ingredients.
For those looking to enjoy a drink in the Cotswolds, there are plenty of charming pubs and bars to choose from. The Ebrington Arms in Ebrington is a popular choice, offering a range of local ales and ciders in a traditional pub setting. The Bell at Sapperton is another popular spot, with a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of drinks.
When it comes to recreational activities in the Cotswolds, there is no shortage of options. Walking and hiking are popular pastimes, with numerous trails and footpaths to explore, such as the Cotswold Way National Trail, which stretches for over 100 miles through the region. Cycling is also a popular activity, with many scenic routes to choose from, such as the Cotswold Cycle Route.
For those interested in water sports, the Cotswold Water Park offers a range of activities, including sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. The park is also home to several lakes, which are perfect for fishing and birdwatching. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at one of the many golf courses in the area, such as the Cotswold Hills Golf Club or the Minchinhampton Golf Club.
Overall, the Cotswolds offers a wide range of attractions and activities for both tourists and locals to enjoy, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience the beauty and charm of the English countryside.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Cotswolds: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in the Cotswolds often join local clubs and societies to meet people and integrate into the community. These can range from sports clubs such as golf, tennis, or cricket, to cultural societies like local theatre groups, art clubs, or music societies. There are also a number of social clubs and groups specifically aimed at expats, providing a supportive network for those new to the area.In addition to clubs and societies, expats often meet people through local events and festivals. The Cotswolds is known for its vibrant calendar of events, including food and drink festivals, music and arts festivals, and traditional country fairs. These events provide a great opportunity to meet locals and other expats, and to get involved in the community.Volunteering is another popular way for expats to meet people in the Cotswolds. There are numerous charities and community projects in the area that welcome the help of volunteers. This not only provides a chance to meet people, but also to contribute to the local community and learn more about the area.Many expats also meet people through their children's schools. The Cotswolds has a number of excellent schools, and many organise social events for parents. This can be a great way to meet other families in the area.Finally, the Cotswolds has a number of pubs, cafes, and restaurants that are popular meeting places for locals and expats alike. These provide a relaxed and informal setting to meet people and make new friends," said one expat living in Cotswolds.

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"Life for expats and digital nomads in the Cotswolds, is often described as peaceful and idyllic. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and slower pace of life, which many find conducive to remote work. The Cotswolds is rich in history and culture, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and leisure activities. Despite its rural setting, it has a strong internet infrastructure, making it suitable for digital nomads. The cost of living can be high, especially in popular tourist areas, but there are also more affordable options in less frequented towns. The locals are generally friendly and welcoming, and while it may take some time to adjust to the local dialect and customs, most expats find the community to be inclusive and supportive. Public transportation is limited, so having a car can be beneficial. Overall, the Cotswolds offers a unique blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and cultural richness that many expats and digital nomads find appealing," commented an expat living in Cotswolds.

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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.