Fun-filled things to do this November in the Cotswolds
November in the Cotswolds is a beautiful time to visit. The air is crisp and the scenery is at its most magnificent as the tree-lined hills explode in a final burst of colour. It’s also a great time to book a Cotswold holiday cottage, with prices lower than in December.
If you’re wondering whereabouts in the Cotswolds you should choose for your holiday, take a look at some of the activities taking place this November.
Kick up leaves and jump in muddy puddles
Kicking up piles of crisp autumn leaves and jumping in muddy puddles remains a quintessentially favourite pastime and the Cotswolds is the perfect place to do this. Alongside the wonderful countryside footpaths and woodland walks, you can also visit the magnificent arboretums at Batsford or Westonbirt. Batsford even has a colour guide on their website so you can plan your visit for when the autumn colours are at their most extravagant.
Where to stay: Box Cottage, Hayloft at Newbarn Farm, Hillside Cottage, Singer House
Enchanted light trails
Head out after dark to one of the many enchanted light trails that are lighting up the November evenings. At Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, the after-dark illuminated trail opens on 17 November 2023 and is a magical way to wander the palace’s picture-perfect gardens and discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Likewise, the Enchanted Light Trail at Cotswold Farm Park from 26 November 2023 is a glorious family-friendly adventure that weaves throughout the farm paddocks with twinkling sculptures, mythical characters and animal encounters. Alternatively, head for the Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle from 24 November 2023 and follow the captivating trail through the castle grounds.
Where to stay: Appletree Cottage, Anne Boleyn at Sudeley Castle, Browns Cottage, Temple Guiting Cottage
Drawn to water
A colourful new exhibition is taking place at WWT Slimbridge which is part of a partnership between renowned illustrator Sir Quentin Blake and the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. The autumn Drawn to Water trail highlights the amazing nature which arrives each season and runs alongside a range of art and illustration activities to inspire all ages and abilities. Pick up one of the illustrated trails and explore quiet spots with breath-taking views to close-up wildlife encounters.
Where to stay: Leonard Stanley House, Bellhouse, Grindstone Mill, Lake Cottage
Christmas shopping
Enjoy a little festive cheer as you start (or finish) your Christmas shopping at one of the many events taking place across the Cotswolds this November. The pretty village of Broadway hosts a magical late-night shopping evening on 24 November 2023, whilst in Cirencester, the Advent Market on 25 November 2023 is the place to find beautiful jewellery and handcrafted gifts. Head to Daylesford near Kingham for The Christmas Cotswold Fair from 6-9 November 2023 and you’ll find more than 200 stalls under one roof offering a multitude of interesting and unusual gifts.
Where to stay: Bothy at Arlington, Field View, Poppy Cottage, Swallows Rest
