A walk and a pub dinner
There’s nothing better than a country walk together followed by a hearty pub dinner, and the Cotswolds ticks all the boxes. Walking boots are a must when you’re heading off through the fields, grab your backpack and the dog and follow one of these picturesque routes. It’s a great chance to spend time together, chatting without distractions, making plans and letting go of your troubles. Our top pick is to follow the Laurie Lee Way and head to The Woolpack afterwards. This spot was frequented by the man himself. This beautiful trail connects you to the world you see around you. You’ll see posts featuring works by the author Laurie Lee. Traversing the Slad Valley the route is well sign posted and you can buy a leaflet for more information. There are some steep climbs along the way but don’t worry, your efforts are worth it and there’s a meal waiting for you at The Woolpack.
Book a spa day
Escape to Bamford Spa to spend time together in the most relaxed setting. The spa itself is a work of art where each space is designed to help clear your mind. When you book a spa day there are several options to choose from, have a de-stressing massage or attend a class to improve your wellbeing. You also get time to spend at The Spring where you can move between the sauna, steam room and hydro pool. After your visit you’ll feel reconnected to both yourself and your partner after having shared such a calming ritual. The Bamford Spa is set in the grounds of Daylesford Organic Farm. Pop into the shop while you’re there for tasty treats to continue this fantastic day with a romantic home cooked meal.
Cotswold Lavender
If you’re looking for something a bit different, between the end of June and the beginning of August, 45 acres of fields at Cotswold Lavender bloom with shades of purple. Over 35 varieties of lavender come to life making the perfect backdrop for a day out. Strolling through the fields hand in hand with your picnic basket you become part of a quintessential Cotswold scene. There are wildflower meadows and a woodland walk to follow while you’re here. Make sure you take some pictures! This has become one of the most Instagrammable places in the Cotswolds.
Feel like royalty at Sudeley
Step into a world of royal luxury at Sudeley Castle and feel like kings and queens for the day. Sudeley Castle was once home to Katherine Parr. Some of her love letters are still here leaving a lingering romance in the air. Admire the artwork in the Morning Room and imagine nights in the Chandos Bedroom. It’s said Charles I once slept in the enormous four poster bed. The romantics continue in the award-winning gardens where ruins have been magically transformed and you can have a quiet moment in the scented herb garden. If you want to extend your stay and see all of the bits of Sudeley Castle that you didn’t manage to fit into your day, book one of the castle cottages and spend a long weekend here.
Book a Morgan driving experience
Driving through the rolling Malverns in a classic Morgan with the top down are the ingredients for a perfect day out. While it’s not quite the Cotswolds, you’re just a stone’s throw from the factory where each car is handcrafted. Visit with your loved one and take turns being a passenger as you’re chauffeured around the countryside, learning more about these incredible machines. Join each other for afternoon tea afterwards and tour the factory to see the inner workings of a Morgan. It’s a great way to learn something new and build a shared experience. Maybe classic cars will become a joint interest for you?
A picnic with a view
Broadway Tower is one of the highest points in the Cotswold and there is a phenomenal view. You feel as though you’re on top of the world. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, or maybe something a bit more romantic if you’ve been looking for somewhere to pop the question! If you don’t fancy bringing your own picnic, the on-site café is fantastic. You’ll see red deer as you walk around the estate and you can head to the top of the tower. The views from here cover 16 counties for miles around. It’s a place that inspired artists and is somewhere really special.
Wine tasting at Woodchester Valley Vineyard
Spend a luxurious afternoon at Woodchester Valley Vineyard for a tour and tasting of their award-winning wines. It’s a wonderful experience in an incredible setting where you learn all about the wine making process. After your welcome drink, your tour guide shows you around the vineyard, explaining the differences between the vines, showing you the manufacturing process and giving you time to ask questions. The tour ends with a flavour of some of their fabulous wines. It’s hard to resist buying a bottle or two before you leave! Sitting out on the terrace in the sunshine sipping a glass of your new favourite, surrounded by views of the Stroud Valleys is a truly romantic setting.
Outdoor cinema
Make dinner and a movie more of a unique experience by booking an outdoor cinema screening. Over the summer months some of the Cotswolds most beautiful locations become host to blockbusters. Imagine watching The Greatest Showman at Blenheim Palace, Top Gun at Sudeley Castle or Jaws at the Cheltenham Lido. The Alfresco Film Company host a diverse range of events so there’s sure to be something you’ll both love. Take some chairs and a blanket and get cosy under the stars.
Book a cottage with a hot tub
If you just want some time to yourselves, there’s nothing more romantic than a quiet weekend away. Book a country cottage with your own hot tub, add in some country walks, meals out and maybe a bottle of champagne and you’ve got some special memories in the making. Hiding away in your own quiet corner of the Cotswolds you can feel like the only people in the world. Make this most of your time together, relaxing in the hot tub and having long, lazy lie ins, without having anywhere that you have to be.
