The Cotswolds are special all year round, but winter in the Cotswolds is even more magical. Check out the floating Christmas tree, take a gin making class, or indulge yourself at those festive Christmas markets.
Looking for things to do in the Cotswolds all year round – here is a list of 50!
1 – Get in the festive spirit at Bath Christmas market
A truly magical Christmas market in the south Cotswolds. This market is home to around 150 twinkling Christmas stalls spread throughout its Georgian streets.
In 2019, the Bath Christmas market will run from 28th November – 15th December. Pick up everything from Christmas decorations and personalised presents, to some delicious food and warming mulled wine.
2 – Check out the Christmas tree on the river in Bourton-on-the-Water
One of the most unique Christmas trees you’ll find in the Cotswolds over winter! The tree will be lit on the 1st December and will remain in place on the river Windrush until the 5th January.
Head to the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water to find this floating Christmas tree – while you’re here, take some time to explore the rest of this picturesque Cotswold village.
Planning to visit the Cotswolds without a car?
3 – Explore the twinkling gardens at Blenheim Palace
Christmas and nature all in one! Take a walk around the laser garden and scented fire garden, before checking out the main event – the tunnel of light, which has over 100,000 bulbs. Open from 22nd November 2019 – 1st January 2020.
When you’ve finished exploring these magical gardens, grab a hot chocolate and toast some marshmallows on the fire pit.
There are a number of family rides, including a Victorian carousel – and you might even catch Father Chrismas here if you’re lucky!
4 – See the orchestra at Berkeley Castle
A concert in a castle. The market town of Berkeley is just on the outside of the Cotswolds. This event is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit!
This very popular annual event takes place in the Great Hall at Berkeley Castle on 8th December at 18:00PM – with the reception from 17:00PM.
Your evening will begin with a reception in the Drawing Room – enjoy some wine and mince pies with a roaring log fire in the background.
You will then have the chance to experience some spectacular music by the Orchestra Pro Anima in the Great Hall.
For information on getting to Berkeley and more things to do in this small town – see this guide.
5 – Spend the night at a cottage in Castle Combe
This picturesque Cotswold village is worth making the effort to visit any time of the year – but it’s even more special here around the festive period.
If you have the time, why not find a homely place to stay and spend a night or 2 enjoying the peaceful Cotswold countryside!
Airbnb is a great option to find a place to stay in such a rural area. If you haven’t used Airbnb before – get £25 off your first booking when you sign up using this link!
6 – Take a gin making masterclass in Cheltenham
Learn all about the gin distillery process at this state of the art gin lab in Cheltenham with Brennen and Brown. You will even have the opportunity to make your very own bottle of gin or vodka – perfect as a unique Christmas gift for someone else – or yourself!
These experiences are run Tuesday – Friday at 14:00PM and will last for around 2.5-hours – 3.5-hours – you don’t need any experience to get involved!
Do you prefer some wine? Here are the top 3 vineyards in the Cotswolds you can visit all year!
7 – See the Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle
Enjoy this magical castle and its romantic gardens under the stars and explore the beautiful illuminated trail around the grounds.
This event is held on selected evenings at the end of November and throughout December. There are 6 time slots to begin your adventure, with the first one at 16:45PM. You’ll need to book in advance and select your time slot at the time of booking.
The walk will take 60 – 75-minutes – but you can stay for longer after if you wish. Don’t forget to head up to the castle terrace after for some warming mulled wine and tasty festive treats.
8 – Meet Santa at Stroud Christmas fair
A family friendly evening in Stroud town centre full of festivities and fun. This event will be held on the 6th December from 17:00PM – 21:00PM and is free to attend.
Start your evening by checking out the lantern procession at 18:00PM, before taking a walk around the Christmas market and shops which are open until late on the night.
There are a number of street performers, and if you’re lucky you might even find Santa in town!
9 – See the Christmas lights being turned on in Moreton-in-Marsh
An all-day event which takes place on the high street in Moreton-in-Marsh on the 30th November. The lights will be switched on at 17:00PM following the carol service.
There is free parking, live music, a Christmas market on the streets, and plenty of delicious treats and refreshments available.
10 – Go ice skating in Bristol
Although it’s just outside of the Cotswolds, the largest outdoor ice rink in the south west of the country is worth a visit.
On this 1,000 square metre ice rink, skate hire is included in the price of tickets and skating sessions last for 45-miuntes.
The ice rink is located in car park C at The Mall Cribbs Causeway – a large shopping complex – perfect for doing some Christmas shopping while you’re there!
Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links, clicking through and paying for these products or services may result in this website getting a commission at no additional cost to you.
