There are plenty of places you can stay in when you go on holiday in the Cotswolds. But arguably the best option of the lot is the country cottage. Cotswolds cottages in particular have a certain look and feel about them that makes it clear you are in this part of the country!

Here at Manor Cottages we’ve got plenty of countryside cottages in the Cotswolds that you can escape to for a weekend break or longer holiday. And there is no doubt that they are all exceptionally popular.

If you’re looking for some reasons to convince you that holidays in the UK are better when taken in a holiday cottage, the following pointers should help.

1. You can enjoy period features. Some of our cottages are hundreds of years old. Take Corner Cottage for example, which is located in Burford. This dates back to the 16th century, so who knows who may have been there before you? It’s certainly got more character and history than you would get from the average bed and breakfast location!

2. You can see what it’s like to live in a real Cotswolds cottage. We wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to up sticks and move to the Cotswolds permanently. After all, it has plenty to offer and the scenery is amazing. But staying in a Cotswolds self catering cottage for a short break is the ideal way to sample life in this part of the country. For starters many of them are constructed from real Cotswold stone. The Greys is a typical example. Situated in Chedworth, this cottage has a lot going for it – not least its wood burning stove and the classic exterior look that is common to the area.

3. The cottages are usually located in quiet areas. If you are escaping to the Cotswolds for a few days, you’re probably doing so in order to get some peace, quiet and rest. Holiday cottages are almost always situated in out of the way places, although they are still usually close enough to essential amenities to offer the best of both worlds.

4. Features such as open fires are ideal for those winter breaks. A stay in the Cotswolds isn’t just restricted to the summer months. In fact a winter break is generally a lot cheaper than a summer one, and if you find it’s a bit cold you’ll want to look for a cottage that has an open fire to use. Snuggling up in front of the fire for a romantic evening in – what could be better?

You probably don’t need any more convincing that a stay in a typical Cotswolds country cottage is the best way to enjoy a holiday in the area. And there are lots to choose from, as you’ll see from our website.

But no matter which one you settle on, you won’t find yourself too far away from all the best locations, attractions and venues worth paying a visit to. So don’t spend all day enjoying the cottage – there’s much more to see yet!

Technorati Tags: Classic, cottage, Holiday, Stay

Some pictures from our recent holiday in the Cotswolds UK where we stayed in a small village called Bourton on the Water, some pics also of the miniture model of the village & from inside the Motor Museum & Birdland also in the village, with a little Chinese music thrown in for no other reason than i have always resonated with it

We had a relaxing & peaceful time.

Enjoy.

Love & Light

Pete

Duration : 0:10:10

Read the rest of this entry

Technorati Tags: Holiday, Pics

Not everyone is suited to a lazy type of holiday, and if you are up for seeing the Cotswolds from the saddle of a bike, you certainly won’t be disappointed.

You can bring your own bike on the back of your car if you wish, or alternatively you can hire one locally. But whichever way you choose to get going, you won’t fall short of places to explore during your stay.

The beauty of the Cotswolds doesn’t just lie in the miles of stunning countryside you can gaze at as you pedal along. It also lies in the variety of cycle routes you can follow. If you are used to being in the saddle every day, you’ll appreciate the off-road options that will take you onto some of the more challenging routes available. Beginners might feel more comfortable on the quieter roads, of which there are many in the Cotswolds area.

The one essential item you will need if a cycling holiday appeals to you is a map. It’s worth investing in a proper cycle map too, as this will highlight all the local routes that you can follow near to where you are staying. For example, some of our cottages and properties can be rented in the Cotswold Water Park. This alone has two beautiful routes that you can try out for starters.

In fact, you don’t have to be out on your bicycle every day if you don’t want to be. You can hire bicycles for a single day to try it out, and then book for additional days if you wish.

On the far east of the Cotswolds the rolling countryside dips down toward the Thames, whilst the northern side is ridged with a steep escarpment, and within this varied countryside there are any number of routes, from the easy to the relatively challenging.

One of the best advantages of cycling in the Cotswolds is that the terrain is very suitable for bikers of all abilities. You won’t find any steep mountains to puff your way up. Think of it instead as a series of gently climbing and falling hills, so you won’t be in for any great difficulty for a prolonged period of time!

That the Cotswolds is a well established location for cyclists means that there are a large number of cycle hire specialists in the area, who can provide whatever you need – from hybrid and mountain bikes to guided tours, advice and maps.

There are plenty of cycle paths and routes criss-crossing their way all over the area, but you might like to come up with your own ideas as well, as you become more knowledgeable about the area. In fact, there is no better activity than to put your feet up in one of our superb quality cottages in the evening, glass of wine to hand, as you plan your route for the very next day.

If that sounds appealing, it doesn’t begin to cover the joy you will get when you actually go out on your bike for real!

Technorati Tags: Advice, Cotswolds, Cycling, Holiday, Planning

http://blog.holidayparkhols.co.uk – Holiday Lodges in the Cotswolds are the perfect retreat, the stylish and contemporary log cabins at Lake Pochard are perfectly placed for peace and quiet. This video review gives you details of the park and much more.

Duration : 0:1:18

Read the rest of this entry

Technorati Tags: blog, co, Cotswolds, Holiday, holidayparkhols, in, lodges, the, uk

The English Cotswold village of Broadway in the snow, January 2010.
Photos © Broadway Manor Cottages, Cotswold holiday cottages, Broadway, Worcestershire, England.

Duration : 0:1:39

Read the rest of this entry

Technorati Tags: Broadway, Broadway Manor, Cotswold, Cotswolds, cottage, Cottages, Holiday, ice, lane, snow, street, vacation, Village, winter, Worcestershire

It feels as if the summer is nearly over already. But is it too late to book a UK holiday in the Cotswolds?

In reality it is never too late to book. But you need to think practically and remember that due to the recession, more people than ever are staying in this country. There is no doubt that the Cotswolds is one of the most popular UK holiday destinations that people head for each year. It is full to the brim with gorgeous scenery, history waiting to be discovered, and shops, pubs and walks galore to dip into.

That’s why many of our cottages get booked up very early each year, as people are looking for the ideal spot to spend a week or two away from home for their UK holidays.

But if you haven’t booked yet, don’t worry. There are some great advantages to doing so, as you are about to find out:

1. Be prepared to look for something a bit different from what you would have booked in the first place. So for example, you might find that your ideal village – the ever popular Bourton on the Water for example – is fully booked up. Not to worry though, because none of the villages in the Cotswolds are that far from each other. Have a look at an online map of the area and find a cottage or property that is close by if you can.

2. Another point to consider is the time you book your cottage. It tends to be easier to find a property that is available once all the kids have gone back to school at the beginning of September. We know a lot of people who leave their summer holidays until the end of that month! And for the past few years the weather has been surprisingly good at that time of year as well. The more flexible you can be with your preferred dates for holidaying in the Cotswolds, the better.

3. Late holidays provide you with cheaper prices too. Booking during school holidays will always be more expensive, so you can save a lot of money by coming to the Cotswolds at different times.

4. The Cotswolds are always very popular among UK travellers. But you will find that coming to the Cotswolds later in the year provides you with a much quieter holiday. The important thing to remember is that the Cotswolds has plenty to offer no matter what time of year you visit us. It’s wise to check the opening times of any specific locations or venues you want to visit when you are here, to make sure everywhere will be open when you visit. Quite often winter opening times are shorter than summer ones, so you can still go to most places; you just have to adjust your arrival and departure times.

So you see it’s never too late to book a Cotswolds holiday in UK. Provided you are ready to compromise a little, a great holiday will still await you.

Technorati Tags: Advantages, Booking, Cotswolds, Holiday, Late

A Charming Cotswolds Holiday Destination

Take a look at the Cotswolds in the UK and you find quaint village scenes and old world charm – the perfect vacation destination. Traditional holiday options surround you with a backdrop of spectacular countryside and wildlife in abundance. We have always been loyal to taking holidays in the UK, with the Cotswolds being a firm favourite. We choose to stay in traditional Cotswolds cottage rental accommodation, and in truth, have never been disappointed with what we’ve found. Last year we joined our daughter and her family in a modern-designed lodge, with stunning lakeside views.  As our own taste is fairly traditional, it’s not a place we would usually consider – however it’s good to see the Cotswolds is changing to meet the needs of future markets, and we were very pleasantly surprised.

Nature and Wildlife in Abundance

Our luxury lodge was ideal for the family unit, with lots of space for our grandchildren to play and the adults to enjoy the views. Situated just by the Lower Mill Estate, which is teeming with a wide range of wildlife such as butterflies, wild orchids, badgers, beavers, otters, deer; kingfishers, nightingales, egrets and owls, there was much to see and do. Short walks to explore through woodlands and meadows, and secret tracks to discover beside streams and lakes, the whole trip seemed like a mini-adventure for the younger ones.

Outstanding Facilities in The Cotswolds

There’s a spa area and a slate-lined pool to take a dip in – and a convenient little farm shop where you can get those last minute essentials. So, when it comes to the practical things, you can pick up locally sourced seasonal produce and if you arrive late at night or haven’t the time to do the shopping, arrangements can be made for a box of fresh local vegetables and meat to be delivered to your door. Brilliant facilities. Especially for meeting the needs of the younger professional couple or larger family unit that’s looking for more space than an old Cottage would allow. Pretty as they are, quaint pubs are not what we consider a ‘family’ friendly option for our grandchildren.

Looking to the Future – Cotswolds Holidays

Our UK holiday market hasn’t grabbed the attention of our youngsters (I mean the 18-35 year olds) for many decades. I don’t believe that many have ever even considered the UK to take a holiday. As air fuel prices and airport taxes increase year on year, the familiar budget flights will disappear from view. Our European resorts will feel the decline, and our UK destinations will hopefully reap the benefits of a new generation of UK holidaymakers looking for affordable short breaks away. The unique combination of a truly idyllic location, spectacular modernist architecture and an award winning world class on site spa facility, all makes for the perfect holiday destination. The Cotswolds is a gem of a place to visit and never fails to impress. It’s good to see a greater variety of modern, self-catering accommodation in the Cotswolds – that’s kept function and quality in mind, and not compromised on facilities or location.

Technorati Tags: Cotswolds, Holiday, Lakeside, Living

If you’ve been searching for the true English countryside, then this is it – The Cotswolds. This most traditional region of Britain is famous for the beauty of its towns and villages. Everything about the Cotswolds, from lofty manor houses to beautiful old churches is steeped in a unique heritage and history.

Cotswolds, from lofty manor houses to beautiful old churches is steeped in a unique heritage and history. There’s a uniformity about it all which offers instant appeal; it’s that mellow golden limestone which soaks up the sun. Here you’ll find excellent accommodation, too, from friendly country guest houses and B&Bs to superb cosmopolitan hotels with a true international flavour.

Duration : 0:7:7

Read the rest of this entry

Technorati Tags: attractions, best, breaks, britains, Cotswolds, cottage, guest, Holiday, hotel, house, visit

The Cotswolds offers an amazing array of choices when you are looking to arrange your holiday. From self service cottages, to luxurious hotels, you can vacation in the Cotswolds on any budget.

Self-catering cottages or holiday cottages are little homes you rent by the week. You are responsible for getting your own meals and there is no maid service. There are also usually no people above your head walking around and slamming doors in the middle of the night. You can find these cottages in the villages, as well as sprinkled through the countryside, so you have a choice of staying in town or not.

There are hundreds of Bed and Breakfast choices in the Cotswolds. Some of the locals rent rooms in their homes, and some have larger establishments with separate living spaces for the owners. There is a wide selection as far as where you want to stay. You can choose between staying at a working farm, staying right in a town centre area, or anything in between.

A specific example is the Hoggs Barn B&B, located inside a refurbished barn, near Moreton-in-Marsh. This is a 16th century Cotswold stone barn and features a huge dining hall with a beautiful oak staircase. This B&B is located near bicycle rentals, to facilitate a slower tour of the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds offer regular chain hotels as well, including a Holiday Inn. These are more like the traditional hotels foreign tourists are used to. They lack the charm of staying on a working farm, or the challenge of figuring out how to work an English kitchen in a rented cottage, but they offer the comfort of a more traditional stay in an unfamiliar land!

The Cotswolds also offers high end luxury accommodations. Some of these are refurbished manor houses nestled in huge, manicured grounds. Some have world class golf courses; many have excellent restaurants inside. These luxury hotels can include incredible amenities, like spas, Jacuzzis, and massages.

[phpzon]the cotswolds, 10[/phpzon]

The Park Hotel is one of these luxury hotels. It has 17 en-suite rooms, and is inside 240 acre Tracy Park Estate, one of the most breathtaking estates in the Bristol and Bath areas. It boasts The Crown, and The Cromwell golf courses.

Don’t let budgetary concerns influence your decision to stay in the Cotswolds. There is a housing option to fit every need, and every holiday-maker. The time is now to plan your trip to the beautiful Cotswolds!

By Anna Louise Phillips

Anna Phillips represents Jigsaw Holidays, specialists in supplying Cotswold Cottages and character properties for the ideal Cotswold break.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Louise_Phillips
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Different-Accommodation-Options-in-the-Cotswolds&id=2624883

Technorati Tags: accommodation, Cotswold, Cottages, Country, england, English, Family, Holiday, Lifestyle, Tourism, Travel

J.B. Priestly calls it the “…most English and the least spoiled of all our country sides…” and once you’ve visited, you’re sure to agree!. Imagine hundreds of cottages made of stone, rolling hills, nature at her best, fresh air and lots of activities to keep you busy. You’re in the Cotswolds in the heart of England.

The Cotswolds is full of thatched roofs and gables… and ivy-covered houses line the streets of most of the small villages you can trek through. But although you might think the Cotswolds holds little appeal for teenagers, you’d be wrong!

First of all, take a tour of the area. Tourist centres can help you pick out the most interesting scenery for you, including the century’s old structures that date back to Roman occupation. This may sound boring, but imagine being back in those times, living during the Romantic period. Plus, it’s a ready-made history assignment!

Are you hungry? (What teenager isn’t!) There are many restaurants to choose from in the area, all with a variety of British and International foods. Every village and town has an Inn or restaurant or pub to satisfy whatever you need. The Cotswolds is a great place to sample traditional British food… from fish and chips to a full English Roast Dinner!

[phpbay]cotswold book, 30, “”, “”[/phpbay]

Need adventure? Look no further! The Cotswolds and surrounding areas can satisfy even the most daring of adventurers. In Wiltshire, check out the Actiondrome, the home of the Skid Car, where you can learn how to drive on slippery surfaces.

If that’s not enough, try the Swindon Karting Centre, where riders race around a twisting track in miniature Formula 1 cars!

Still not satisfied? Then for the ultimate thrill-seeker there is skydiving at Cirencester with the Red Devils! If free-falling out of an aircraft thousands of feet in the air sounds like the time of your life, then this is one of the best places in the country to do it!

Many teenagers love horses. And I mean LOVE horses! There are equestrian centres are all over the Cotswolds that offer everything from training for beginners to un-accompanied horseback rides. Get a proper equestrian experience with miles and miles of fantastic horseback trails.

Want to bring your dog on holiday with you? The Cotswolds are very dog-friendly… many pubs, cottages and attractions even cater especially for them! There’s no need to leave man’s best friend behind when you go on holiday… the Cotswolds is one of the most dog-friendly areas of the UK. There’s plenty of open countryside and public walkways to exercise them on too!

Did you know that nearly all of the “Harry Potter” movies were filmed on location at different locations in and around the Cotswolds? Not only that, but well over thirty Hollywood blockbusters as well as British films have been shot in the area! Check out the tourist information centres (or search online) for the locations… and even take an organised tour!

There are also quite a few strange traditions that take place in the Cotswolds. These are usually scheduled throughout the year, and they’re great fun! From Wool Sack Day, where men carry heavy sacks of wool through a course, to Cheese rolling, which is hilarious (and dangerous!)

So despite the Cotswolds’ heritage and quaint atmosphere, there are still plenty of activities, sights and experiences to keep even the most thrill-seeking teenager entertained!

By Anna Louise Phillips

Anna Phillips represents Jigsaw Holidays, specialists in supplying Cotswold Cottages and character properties for the ideal Cotswold break.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Louise_Phillips
http://EzineArticles.com/?Great-Activities-For-Teenagers-on-a-Cotswold-Cottage-Holiday&id=2571343

Technorati Tags: Cotswold, Cottages, Country, england, English, Family, Holiday, Lifestyle, Tourism, Travel, Village