ENJOY YOUR THYME
Head West
The Coln Valley is our doorstep - take a walk through the rolling countryside from Bibury, home to some of England’s oldest cottages, to the village of Coln St Aldwyn, a pretty village with the perfect spot to recharge -The New Inn,
Just a short drive on is Cirencester, considered capital of the Cotswolds, with lots of shops and places to eat,
Tetbury has a splendid array of antique shops offering brilliant browsing including Lorfords, Brownriggs Antiques and Twig of Tetbury. The Blue Zucchini, a favourite amongst locals is a fun spot for a coffee and something warming to eat (we highly recommend a slice of Persian cake).
Slad Valley, celebrated in Laurie Lee’s well known book ‘Cider with Rosie’, has a patchwork landscape with spectacular views. The fabulous walks through the valley include the five-mile circular route set up by Gloucestershire’s Wildlife Trust after Lee’s death in 1977.
Bibury, described by William Morris as ‘the most beautiful village in England’ with the charming Arlington Row being quite possibly the most photographed cottages in the country! A wonderful walk starts here and follows the river to nearby Coln St Alwyn.
The New Inn in Coln is a great pub to refuel after the walk from Bibury, serving a magnificent range of burgers.
Entering The Woolpack is like stepping back in time: unspoiled by passing fads, and famed for being Lee’s much loved local, it has remained popular amongst locals and visitors. The Woolpack Bookshop has a small selection of books available at the pub as well as further bookshops in Tetbury and Nailsworth.
Lorfords, full of treasures, is a must visit. A stunning antique shop based in old air hangers.
The Royal Gardens at Highgrove are open between April and October where you can join one of their expert guides for a tour to discover their unique organic management of each of the gardens.
Westonbirt Arboretum is situated just a few miles south and waiting to be explored, particularly enchanting in autumn foliage when it’s magnificent trees turn to deep pinks, oranges and golds.
Barn Theatre a beautiful, state-of-art auditorium providing regional-theatre entertainment with a buzzing Piano bar and restaurant.
The Jolly Nice Farm Shop is a lovely stop off point to pick up delicious locally sourced goods.
A Day Out in Cirencester
Just a short drive on is Cirencester, considered capital of the Cotswolds, with lots of shops and places to eat, Sue Parkinson is a lovely, independent boutique.
A market town, there are weekly Monday and Friday Charter Markets and the Farmers’ Market is held on the 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month,
Cirencester Park is a beautiful place to walk or indeed turn your hand to polo at the Cirencester Polo Club, which provides the highest levels of polo.