Romantic getaways in the Cotswolds
As February and the feast day of the patron saint of romance, St Valentine rolls around again, we’ve pulled together a few of our favourite romantic getaways in the Cotswolds. Escape for a long weekend of indulgence in the prettiest of places, for Valentine’s Day. When the rest of the country is still dull and grey, here in the Cotswolds things are bursting into life. Snowdrops and early daffodils are emerging in the shelter of dry stone walls and the bluest of skies will blow all your cares away. Wrap up warm for crisp winter walks, cosy up in front of roaring log fires and linger over long Sunday lunches in pretty pubs. Then, retreat to your romantic bolthole and shut the rest of the world away.
We have plenty of pretty hideaways to choose from. Some are dog-friendly too, so you can bring your four-legged friend along for your romantic getaway in the Cotswolds.
Apple Store Cottage
Where | Charlbury
Apple Store is the most enchanting sanctuary for couples and offers the most romantic of Cotswold getaways. Tucked away at the end of the private driveway, yet within hand-held strolls of Charlbury’s super pubs and cafes, Apple Store Cottage is a glorious hideaway just for two. On the doorstep are beautiful countryside walks, and after a day in the fresh air you can cuddle up in front of the wood-burning stove before heading upstairs to the dreamiest of bedrooms.
Dogs | Humans only please
Arrow Lodge
Where | Ragley Hall Estate
This is an utterly unique opportunity to stay in one of the original gatehouses for the magnificent Ragley Hall Estate. Standing guard at the main entrance to this estate Arrow Lodge is a distinctive escape just for two. Behind is a private rear garden complete with a wood-fired hot tub, perfect for a little night-time stargazing with a glass of bubbles…or two.
Dogs | One four-legged friend is welcome to join your romantic escape
Christie’s Cabin
Where | Euridge Estate
If you are searching for a blissful hideaway, where you can escape from the pressure of everyday life then look no further. Christie’s Cabin is a delightful cabin, lying on a quiet country track on the Euridge Estate. With no Wi-Fi, you can enjoy a complete digital detox to a backdrop of rolling countryside, the most glorious of views and the sound of birdsong. Simply heavenly.
Dogs: One pooch is welcome
Outbak Shepherds Hut
Where | Hailes, near Winchcombe
Set midway between the gorgeous village of Broadway, and the medieval charms of Winchcombe, Outbak Shepherds Hut is a cosy and exceptionally comfortable country retreat for two. The timber-clad exterior hides a beautifully appointed interior with a super comfy king-size bed and a surprisingly spacious shower room. It’s also fully central heated so you’ll stay warm and toasty even in the chilliest of weather. On the private deck, with a timeless view of rolling hills is a wood-fired hot tub. Here you can lie back and marvel at the brilliant night skies.
Dogs: Please leave your doggy friends behind
Swifts Retreat at Oosland Barn
Where | Near Bidford-on-Avon
This lovely barn conversion is just a short meander from the pretty riverside town of Bidford-on-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, whose sonnets are considered to be the most romantic ever written is just seven miles away. Follow in his footsteps and perhaps take in a performance at the RSC (Royal Shakespeare Company). Then return to Swifts Retreat for a soak in the relaxing bubbles of your private hot tub.
Dogs: We love them but not here please
Lily Cottage
Where | Great Tew
Stepping straight from the pages of a fairy tale, Lily Cottage is an utterly gorgeous, thatched cottage with mullioned windows and roses around the door. Step across the threshold and you’ll find a colourful and stylish abode with a huge wood-burning stove keeping things warm and cosy. Spend your days tramping hand in hand around the glorious parklands of the Great Tew Estate, and then retreat to the Falkland Arms. This 16th-century pub is steeped in history with flagstone floors and roaring fires and is just a moment’s walk from the cottage. For a romantic Cotswold getaway, Lily Cottage is hard to beat.
Dogs: One well-behaved furry friend is welcome
