7 Festive Things To Do In The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds at Christmas time is one of the most beautiful settings, and if you’re visiting with family, there’s a long list of things to do whilst you’re here. Or if you’re a local, why not make the most of the area over the festive period.
1. Watch the Christmas lights switch on - Friday 29th November
Every year, locals and tourists gather together to watch the switching on of the lights on the tree that sits in the middle of the water in the village. It’s quite the event, which lots of businesses are staying open late to celebrate the festivities. There’s complimentary mulled wine and mince pies at The Old New Inn, 20% off in the Christmas shop, carols at Bakery On The Water and lots more to enjoy. To find out the full list of businesses taking part, please visit the Bourton Info website.
2. Carols at The Old New Inn - Sunday 22nd December
Becoming quite the tradition, the Borton Colliery Band will be taking over our restaurant once again, for the third time, to get everyone into the festive spirit with their wonderful carols and Christmas sing along. Table’s book up quickly for this event, but we will start a waiting list as soon as this happens!
3. Enjoy the Enchanted Light Trail at Cotswold Farm Park
Cotswold Farm Park is bringing back it’s popular enchanting light trail, and this year, you can expect it to be bigger and better. It’s also dog friendly for the first time, so your four-legged friends don’t have to miss out. You can book on to the trail on selected dates from the 22nd November right up until New Year’s Eve, meaning there’s plenty of time to head down there with friends and family.
4. Visit a Christmas Market
You’ll be spoilt for choice if Christmas markets are your thing. From larger venues like Blenheim Palace, to smaller village affairs in Moreton-in-Marsh. You’re not shy of festive markets to enjoy throughout November and December. We’ve put together a list below, but we may have missed some so be sure to keep an eye out and check local sites regularly!
Blenheim Palace Christmas festival: 15th November - 1st January
Moreton-in-Marsh Christmas lights switch on and market: 23rd November
Bath Christmas Market: 28th November – 15th December
Chipping Campden Christmas Market: 1st Saturday in December
Winchcombe Christmas Festival: 6th and 7th December
Cheltenham Christmas Market: 21st December – 24th December
5. Go for a Wintery walk
We love seeing the change in seasons around our beloved Bourton and throughout the Cotswolds, some people prefer it in the Summer, some love the Autumnal colours and others Spring into action and visit over Easter. We don’t have a favourite, but there’s something super special about the Cotswolds landscapes when there’s a bit of frost, or a light dusting of snow…just be sure to wear your wellies.
6. Eat all the Festive food
Who doesn’t love a good Festive feast? Whether you’re celebrating with family, going out on your work do, or simply meeting up with some special friends, there’s a great choice of places to enjoy food around Bourton this Winter. We have our very own Festive menu to enjoy for groups of between 4 and 60, with private spaces available too.
7. Meet Santa’s Reindeer!
What better way to get into the Christmas mood, than by checking in on Santa’s reindeer! The herd can be found down in Ampney Crucis from 18th November until 31st December. And if you get your timings right, you might be able to see the main man himself, if he’s not too busy getting his sleigh ready for the big day.
With plenty to do this Christmas we’re sure you’ll have a great time no matter what! If you do visit us, be sure to tag The Old New Inn or The Model Village in your photos.