Exploring Beyond Bourton: The Best Places to Visit Within 20 Minutes of The Old New Inn
The Perfect Base for Exploring the Cotswolds
One of the many joys of staying in Bourton-on-the-Water is how much of the Cotswolds lies right on your doorstep. From charming market towns and family attractions to artisan food producers and some of England's most spectacular viewpoints, there's an incredible variety of places to discover without spending hours in the car.
Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a family holiday, or simply looking to make the most of your stay at The Old New Inn, these are some of our favourite places to visit nearby.
🏘️ Stow-on-the-Wold: The Cotswolds' Historic Market Town
Just a 10-minute drive from Bourton, Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the region's most beloved market towns.
Centred around its impressive market square, Stow is packed with independent shops, antiques dealers, cosy cafés and traditional pubs. It's the perfect place to spend a leisurely morning browsing boutiques or enjoying a coffee while watching the world go by.
No visit is complete without a stop at St Edward's Church, where the famous yew-tree framed doorway has become one of the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds.
Perfect for: Shopping, photography, antiques and afternoon tea.
🐮 Cotswold Farm Park: A Family Favourite
Around 15 minutes from Bourton, Cotswold Farm Park offers one of the best family days out in the region.
Created by farmer and television presenter Adam Henson, the park celebrates rare British breeds and gives visitors the opportunity to get up close with farm animals throughout the year.
Spring brings lambing season, while summer offers tractor rides, outdoor play areas and animal encounters.
Great for families, animal lovers and anyone wanting a taste of rural Cotswold life.
🏰 Sudeley Castle: History, Gardens & Royal Connections
Located near Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle combines centuries of history with beautifully maintained gardens.
The castle is perhaps best known as the final resting place of Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII, but there's plenty more to discover. Children can enjoy the adventure playground while adults explore the historic rooms, exhibitions and award-winning gardens.
In spring and summer, the gardens are among the finest in the Cotswolds.
Perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike.
🍺 Hawkstone Brewery & The Hawkstone Arms: A Taste of the Cotswolds
Beer lovers won't want to miss a visit to Hawkstone Brewery, the brewery founded by Jeremy Clarkson and located just outside Bourton.
Known for producing award-winning lagers and ales using locally grown barley, Hawkstone has quickly become one of the region's most talked-about producers.
A brewery tour offers a fascinating insight into the brewing process, with plenty of opportunities to sample the finished product. After that, you can sit and relax in the Hawkstone Arms where there’s also a gift shop to get stocked up on any beers and merch. They often have street food pop ups outside too, so it’s a great place to spend an afternoon that could easily turn in to the perfect countryside evening!
Ideal for couples, groups and anyone who enjoys local food and drink experiences.
🐟 Upton Smokery: One of the Cotswolds' Hidden Gems
Tucked away in nearby Upton, Upton Smokery is a favourite among food lovers.
Specialising in traditionally smoked fish, meats and artisan produce, it's the sort of place you discover once and keep recommending to friends. Whether you're building a picnic, picking up gifts, or simply treating yourself, the quality of the produce is exceptional.
A must-visit for foodies looking to take a taste of the Cotswolds home.
🏰 Broadway Tower: Views Across 16 Counties
Perched high above the surrounding countryside, Broadway Tower offers some of the most spectacular views in England.
The distinctive folly tower sits atop Beacon Hill and rewards visitors with panoramic vistas stretching across the Cotswolds and beyond. The surrounding estate offers walking trails, picnic spots and opportunities to spot red deer.
In autumn, the surrounding woodland becomes particularly beautiful.
Perfect for walkers, photographers and anyone seeking a memorable view.
🛍️ Daylesford Organic Farm: Food, Shopping & Countryside Luxury
A short drive from Bourton brings you to Daylesford Farm, one of the UK's most celebrated organic farms.
Part farm shop, part restaurant, part lifestyle destination, Daylesford is a wonderful place to spend a few hours. Browse locally produced food, enjoy a leisurely lunch, pick up gifts, or simply soak up the atmosphere.
The bakery, farm shop and café are all worth a visit.
A dream destination for food lovers and shoppers.
🥾 Walk to Lower Slaughter
Not every adventure requires a car.
One of the most popular walks from Bourton-on-the-Water is the gentle route to Lower Slaughter, widely regarded as one of England's prettiest villages.
Following peaceful riverside paths and open countryside, the walk takes around 45 minutes and rewards visitors with picture-perfect cottages, a historic mill and beautiful views throughout.
A wonderful way to experience the quieter side of the Cotswolds.
❤️ So Much to Discover, So Close By
One of the best things about staying in Bourton-on-the-Water is that you're never far from your next adventure. Historic towns, family attractions, spectacular views, artisan producers and countryside walks are all within easy reach.
The hardest part is deciding where to visit first.
Ready to experience the charm of Bourton-on-the-Water? Book your stay at The Old New Inn and immerse yourself in the heart of the Cotswolds. We look forward to welcoming you!