The Cotswolds is a rural area of south central England covering parts of 6 counties, notably Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. Its rolling hills and grassland harbour thatched medieval villages, churches and stately homes built of distinctive local yellow limestone.
When visiting the Cotswolds, a trip to Arlington Row in Bibury is a must. William Morris described Bibury as ‘The most beautiful village in England’, and it is most definitely one of the most photographed. Constructed in the 14th century, this quaint row of stone cottages is as typically ‘Cotswolds’ as you can get.
Elvington is just a 20 minute drive to Bibury, with Salford just under 40 minutes away.
Founded in 2002 by Lady Carole Bamford, Daylesford is now one of the most sustainable farms in the UK. You may have grabbed a coffee or salad at one of their few London outlets, but the 2350-acre Cotswolds Farm is something else entirely. This is real farm to fork eating – meat and poultry, fruit and veg, homemade bread. Even their cheese, milk and yoghurt are made onsite at the creamery. If you want to really get stuck in, book a Daylesford cookery course. Learn nose-to-tail butchery or how to forage for your dinner. Afterwards, unwind at the onsite Bamford Haybarn Spa
Elvington is just an 18 minute drive to Bibury, with Salford 15 minutes away.
Discover an amazing world of birds and their Jurassic ancestors on your day out in the Cotswolds. Birdland is set in nine acres of gardens and woodland, creating a picturesque canopy for the winding River Windrush. Meet over 500 birds from magical owls, large cassowary and rare species such as the Waldrapp Ibis. Spot flamingos, pelicans, cranes and waterfowl that live in our riverside habitats with many more inhabiting over 50 aviaries. Meet England’s only breeding group of King Penguins and the comical African Penguins or explore the Out of Africa area and meet hornbills, village weavers and many more amazing birds from across the continent.
Elvington is just a short walk to Birdland, with Elvington under 20 minute drive
'Chippy’, as it is affectionately known by locals, is a real, working Cotswold market town. Renowned for its antique shops and diverse shopping offer, including a regular market, the lively town centre is always bustling with shoppers and visitors. There is a good choice of places to eat and top quality entertainment at the wonderful theatre, famous for its pantomime and visiting world-class performers. There is plenty of historical interest too, including the Grade I listed St Mary’s Church, the impressive Bliss Mill (now luxury flats)and the grand Town Hall. Visit the small local museum on the first floor of the 19th century Chipping Norton Co-op Society Meeting Hall to learn about how Chipping Norton became such a thriving market town.
Elvington is around 20 minutes drive to Chipping Norton, with Elvington under 5 minute drive, or a pleasant walk (via road or across the fields)