Get Set for a Cotswold Autumn

Where to Walk

Make the most of Mother Nature’s seasonal climax and immerse yourself in an autumnal blaze of Cotswold colour.

• Batsford Arboretum – sitting just outside Moreton-in-Marsh, Batsford is a vast and beautiful garden of trees with stunning views. Set on the edge of Cotswold hills you’ll feel like you’re ascending into the very core of Autumn. Plus, there’s a fabulous, well-sized café and garden centre to boot. 

• Westonbirt Arboretum – with 2,500 trees, Westonbirt is a particularly spectacular arboretum situated just past Tetbury. With autumnal activities throughout the season, including a Tree-Top walkway, Westonbirt is a special place to immerse yourself in all things autumn. Walkway pre-booking is advised.

• Woodchester Park – a mysterious, beautiful, and vast park nestled just south of Stroud. You’ll find an unfinished Gothic mansion, five lakes, stunning views and abundant woodland to explore. It’s also teeming with wildlife. Take a whole day to soak up the autumnal joy, bring a picnic or head to the café on site.

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Autumn - What to Wear

The British weather is always reliably unpredictable or, predictably unreliable. This means having the right clothes for the right conditions can be challenging – versatility is key.  A good pack-away jacket is ideal for the challenges our fickle weather presents. We’ve sourced some of the best, so you can enjoy autumn’s bounty no matter what the day brings.

• Cara Women’s Rain Parka by Lighthouse – A robust, packable raincoat with length giving maximum protection on wet and windy days. It conveniently folds neatly into itself via a pocket and can then be carried easily in your bag. Buy larger to fit a lightweight jumper underneath.  A steal at £49.99. https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/cara-womens-rain-parka-p56905.aspx/seagrass/#tabArea

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• Pace Men’s Packable Waterproof Jacket by Animal – A versatile, highly waterproof pack-away jacket made with a lightweight but sturdy recycled fabric. It’ll keep you warm and dry on all your autumnal Cotswold adventures. Currently on sale for £49.99 at Mountain Warehouse.

‍https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/pace-packable-waterproof-jacket-p55732.aspx/black/ 

• Quechua Kids Waterproof Hiking Jacket by Decathlon – A breathable and lightweight kid’s pack-away jacket that gives maximum protection in wet and windy conditions without compromising freedom of movement. It’s also terrifically robust, able to withstand even the most rambunctious Cotswold ramble. Priced at a very attractive £14.99 at Decathlon. 

‍https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/kids'-waterproof-hiking-jacket-mh500-aged-7-15-navy-blue/_/R-p-331797?mc=8677226&c=blue&utm_term=8677226-4436152&gclsrc=aw.ds&&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=gb_t-intbra_ct-shopp_n-generic-pros_ts-pro_f-cv_o-roas_spd-msp_spu-msp_sp-msp_pt-pb_pnl-com_l-en_pp-gads_bm-roa_pr-cpc_&utm_term=_n-generic-pros_ts-pro_spd-msp_spu-msp_sp-msp_pt-pb_l-en_BAU&keyword=&network=g&placement=&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwiuC2BhDSARIsALOVfBLUBJigtFTixxCktB6IJ4XWg0g6MSOboof_hieRBGr5IDgB01m2-REaAjVLEALw_wcB

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Autumn - Where to eat an Afternoon Tea

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Afternoon Tea can feel like step back in time, to a grand life in a country house. No one can fail to feel like a lord or lady when presented with fine tea, a tower of dainty cakes, sandwiches and scones. It’s such a well-loved, quintessentially English ritual and, for some reason, it feels particularly luxurious in the Cotswolds during autumn. Find some of our favourite spots below where you can nurture your inner aristocrat.

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The Lavender Bakehouse and Coffee Shop, Chalford

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A quirky café sitting in the heart of the beautiful village of Chalford in the Frome valley. They offer delicious and imaginative cakes and patisseries that are all expertly baked on-site. Indulge in their afternoon tea for a really special Autumnal treat – served between 2-4 pm, booking advised. 

https://www.lavenderbakehouse.co.uk 

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Once Upon a Tea Room, Winchcombe 

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Get lost in your very own autumnal tea room tale at the magical ‘Once Upon a Tea Room’ in Winchcombe. Enjoy the dreamy interior and a range of sumptuous, tasty cakes and savoury bites. Plus, there are options for a Crafternoon Tea where you’ll leave with a tasty souvenir created by you. Booking is a must at https://onceuponatearoom.co.uk

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Ellenborough Park – Cheltenham 

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There is something particularly grand about a hotel afternoon tea, and Ellenborough Park ticks all the boxes. Savour exquisite handmade sweet treats and savouries, whilst nestling into the graceful opulence, and rich history of Ellenborough Park.

https://ellenboroughpark.com/

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