England is an exciting and wonderful place to travel to and there’s no better time to make the trip than in the spring and summer. With a delightful, temperate climate and loads to do, the United Kingdom should be at the top of your list for warm weather destinations. When you’re in the British Isles one of the most essential things to do on your trip is to visit the countryside and there’s no better place to do that than in the Cotswolds. These are some of my recommendations for things you have to do when you find yourself there.
Treat Your Ears and Tastebuds
It’s no secret that England is home to some of the best festivals you’ll ever find and if you’re also a fan of food then you’re in for a treat. The Big Feastival is thrown by celebrity chef Jamie “The Naked Chef” Oliver and Blur bassist Alex James and had its first event in 2011. Since then the festival has only grown in size and offers three days of music, food, camping, and fun at James’ farm in the Cotswolds. Unlike many music festivals, this one is fun for the whole family and features a wide variety of both music and food and even has options for vegetarians and vegans. This year’s event will feature legendary bands like reggae greats Toots and the Maytals along with Scottish rockers The Proclaimers and ’90s hitmakers Stereo MCs, so don’t miss out on tickets for one of the coolest festivals of the summer.
Chipping Camden
Set in the northern part of the Cotswolds this old world market town is a window in time back to the days of yore and a must-see for fans of history and shopping. The 17th-century marketplace is a world famous attraction and the 1600s dominate the look and feel of the town. It’s no wonder that Chipping Camden is at the top of this list of Cotswolds attractions and is an essential sight for anyone visiting the region for the first time.
All the Pretty Horses
From Seabiscuit to My Fair Lady, nothing can quite recreate the thrill and excitement of the racetrack quite like being at the races. Thankfully, England is home to some of the greatest races in the world and one of them takes place right in the Cotswolds if you happen to feel like having a little flutter on the ponies. It doesn’t even matter if you don’t know anything about betting because you can get Informative professional horse racing tips for all sorts of races all across the UK & Ireland online. The event is one of the largest in the world and is second in prize money only to the Grand National. Whether in it for the thrill of the chase or just to appreciate the fashion, the track is where you want to be in the Cotswolds in the spring. Cheltenham features four days packed with seven signature races with the famous Champion Chase held on Ladies Day, which sports the most spectacular hats you’ve ever seen in your life. This year’s festival has already ended, but there are additional races at the Cheltenham grounds throughout the year. Plus, you can just think of the extra time as a chance to get started on your headgear for next year. You will find more info here on the beauty and wonder of the Cheltenham Festival. Most people tend to do their betting whilst they’re at the races. However, you may wish to bet on other sports by visiting a Judi Bola (a Gambling Ball in English).
Into the Woods
There’s nothing quite like exploring nature when you’re in a foreign country and when it comes to England there’s no place in nature quite like the Forest of Dean right outside the Cotswolds. The ancient forest was once a royal hunting ground nearly 1000 years ago and remains one of the oldest, untouched forests in the country. The majesty of the Forest of Dean has also made it a popular filming location for major movies with both the Harry Potter series and Star Wars: The Force Awakens making use of the natural wonder. The film industry has meant a big tourist boom for the location as more people are getting out and visiting the forest than ever before, so don’t miss out on your opportunity.
I was born in the UK and I would encourage anyone planning a visit to head ‘up north’ rather than staying around London. The hebrides in Scotland are fantastic – head up to Oban then hop across on the ferry to Mull. York and Harrogate are also fantastic, as well as the Peak District including Castleton, Eyam, and Buxton.