Here’s the perfect place for a Cotswolds staycation
The town of Winchcombe is a year-round destination for a Cotswolds staycation. Summertime is no exception, with lots of events, beautiful countryside and the lovely River Windrush to enjoy… Read on to find out why a stay in a luxury holiday cottage in Winchcombe this summer could be your best summer break ever!
Set above the River Isbourne, Winchcombe is a shining example of a traditional Cotswold market town that’s filled with boutique shops, antique treasures, cafes and pubs – all overlooked by magnificent Sudeley Castle. You’ll soon realise why it’s a favourite for a Cotswold staycation. Wander down Castle or Vineyard Street towards the 1000-year-old Sudeley Castle or venture into Dent’s Terrace for a view of one of the finest rows of cottages in the land; these almshouses are the work of Emma Dent who forged strong links between the town and the castle in the 1800s.
To make it even more interesting over the summer months and into September Winchcombe hosts some great events, from the Big Butterfly Count at Sudeley Castle to the Country Show in August and the Classic Car Rally at the end of September – there’s something for every age group.
And if you’re an avid walker, Winchcombe’s rolling countryside will be a paradise for you, with options for casual, seasoned and hardy walkers running right from the town. Winchcombe is a “Walkers are Welcome” town, a special status awarded to towns and villages that go above and beyond the norm with their walking amenities, making it a fantastic destination for groups in search of a walking break. See Winchcombe Welcomes Walkers for more details.
Summer Events in Winchcombe
Knight School 27th July-1st September
Knight-themed activities for children, including hobby horse jousting, target practise and sword fighting. Arts and crafts will be available at the Knight’s Pavilion tent.
Butterfly Conservation 1st-4th August
Discover different types of butterfly that Sudeley Castle Gardens are home to in the Big Butterfly Count and butterfly craft activities. There are also storytelling sessions of The Very Hungry Caterpillar book.
The Lost Cinema 23rd – 24th August
The Lost Cinema will be visiting Sudeley Castle to screen a selection of open-air movies, including Bohemian Rhapsody and A Star is Born.
Winchcombe Country Show 26th August
A traditional event with a variety of great activities to take part in and things to do, including a flower show, arts and crafts, photography and cookery. There will be a traditional Punch and Judy Show, street entertainment and go karting, plus dog-friendly games for families with dogs.
Classic Car Rally September 29th
Classic car owners can take their cars to the annual Classic Car Rally in Sudeley Castle Gardens.
General Winchcombe Information
Winchcombe Museum – a small museum administered by Winchcombe Town Trust and run entirely by volunteers, located in the Old Town Hall. It contains a varied folk and local history collection highlighting the history of Winchcombe.
An introduction to Winchcombe – Guided town walks held every Sunday to discover the history of Winchcombe. The walks are short and easy, while being accessible to all, led by local people showing their passion for the town. (April–October)