Shaun Webbley

Five quieter Cotswold destinations are recommended for a weekend visit: Northleach, Swinbrook and the Windrush Valley, Minster Lovell, Kelmscott and the Upper Thames, and Kiftsgate Court Gardens. The suggestions combine historic buildings, riverside walks, countryside, gardens, local cafés and pubs, offering alternatives to the region’s more heavily visited attractions.

Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury in Gloucestershire has been included by The Times among the UK’s best places for a family day out. The 600-acre site contains 15,000 trees and shrubs, including 2,500 species, and offers a treetop walkway, seasonal bluebells, woodland walks, and Gruffalo and Stick Man trails. The nearby Hare and Hounds was also recommended as a family-friendly place to stay.

The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury promotes dog-friendly stays in the Cotswolds, offering selected rooms and suites, dog beds, food and treats. Dogs can accompany guests in the lounge during meals, on the terrace for afternoon tea and in the garden. The hotel is positioned as a convenient base for exploring Malmesbury, the River Avon trail and the surrounding countryside, nature reserves and woodlands.

Lloyds Bank has applied for permission to combine units 191 and 193 on Cheltenham High Street into a new branch, featuring a new entrance, 24-hour accessible multi-function ATM, updated signage, aluminium shopfront, tiled stall riser and automated sliding door. The application includes a heritage statement arguing that the modern design is compatible with surrounding retailers and would not harm the High Street. Lloyds currently operates from 130 High Street, a Grade II listed building, and has requested that the new advertising be installed from September 1.

Cheltenham has received eight Green Flag awards for its parks and green spaces, with Burrow’s Field in Leckhampton gaining recognition for the first time. The 6.3-hectare site includes sports facilities, a café, BMX track, play area and access to surrounding countryside. Seven other parks retained their awards, reflecting work by Cheltenham Borough Council, Ubico staff, volunteers and Friends groups. Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag manager said well-maintained parks support public wellbeing, communities and the economy, particularly while public services face pressure.

Gloucester’s 13th-century Blackfriars Priory will reopen for nine days from September 11 to 20 as part of the Gloucester History Festival, after Gloucester City Council ended its daily management in June. The programme includes 52 events, with Tony Robinson headlining discussions on Anglo-Saxon England and medieval Wessex, events about the Bayeux Tapestry, and a live music discussion and performance by Radiohead’s Philip Selway and Portishead’s Adrian Utley. Tickets go on sale on July 24, with day passes starting at £50.

Battledown Court, one of the oldest homes on Cheltenham’s Battledown Estate, has been listed for £2.75 million. The 1894 property spans more than 6,500 square feet across four floors and includes refurbished living spaces, multiple bedroom suites, a gym, sauna, home cinema, games room, landscaped grounds and a double garage. It is within walking distance of Cheltenham town centre and local amenities, with viewings available strictly by appointment.

Liam Gallagher has confirmed that he has moved into a £4 million mansion in Coates near Cirencester, formerly owned by footballer Tony Adams. He praised his new Cotswolds neighbours for welcoming him with homemade cakes and scones and has been seen walking his dog locally. The move comes as Gallagher and his brother Noel reunite Oasis for the Live ’25 tour, with the band also due to enter the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Gallagher previously rented a property near Stroud.

RollerXpress, Gloucestershire’s only dedicated roller disco, will close in July due to rising operating costs and difficulty securing funding. The owners thanked staff, skaters, supporters, Gloucester Quays, and Gloucester City Council for their support and are seeking a new venue, inviting the public to suggest suitable spaces. A final event is planned for 26 July 2026 with £10 tickets.

A historic gatehouse in Wiltshire known as The Arch was selected by The Times as one of the top five holiday rentals in the UK, praised for its stylish interior design by Patrick O’Donnell of Farrow & Ball. The property was highlighted for its chic features, clever use of space, and appealing décor, joining other standout rentals in Norfolk and Hampshire on the list.

Thames Water announced a temporary hosepipe ban across parts of the Cotswolds and eastern Gloucestershire beginning July 23 due to record heat, dry weather and sharply increased water demand. The company reported a daily additional usage of 100 million litres across London and the Thames Valley, prompting restrictions on non‑essential outdoor water use. Strategic water resources director Nevil Muncaster said the measure is necessary to protect essential supply and the environment. Customers are encouraged to comply immediately, and the ban will be lifted once conditions allow.

Tewkesbury’s Cotswolds Designer Outlet celebrated its first anniversary with four days of live music, entertainment, fitness sessions, giveaways and retail promotions. Shoppers enjoyed performances by Go Vocal Choir, Pilates hosted by Sweaty Betty and treats and discounts provided by Weird Fish, while the Tippled Fox Bar served drinks throughout the final weekend. Visitors with birthdays during the celebration week received commemorative gifts. Since opening in July 2025, the outlet has attracted millions of visitors, offering more than 50 fashion, lifestyle and food businesses and supporting various local community organisations.

A national newspaper review highlights the Norman Knight pub and hotel in Shipston-on-Stour as a stylish Cotswolds destination, noting its historic 17th‑century setting, warm interior design and welcoming atmosphere. The reviewer praises its décor, service and bar area, awarding an overall score of 8 out of 10, with strong ratings for food and drink and solid marks for its rooms.

A Grade II* listed 17th‑century manor house in Chipping Sodbury, located on the Badminton Estate, is on the market for £10 million. The property features extensive gardens, eight bedrooms, multiple suites, a library, guest accommodations, and amenities including a cinema room, gym, and an indoor heated pool. Its history dates back over 300 years, with notable architectural elements believed to have been added in the early 18th century.

A Chinook helicopter flying over Whiteshill in the Cotswolds drew local attention after being photographed and shared with the Gloucestershire Camera Club. The article outlines the aircraft’s long service history with the Royal Air Force, including its deployment in major conflicts and humanitarian missions as well as its role in UK emergency response efforts.

West Oxfordshire District Council rejected David and Victoria Beckham’s application to add an oak balcony to their Grade II-listed Cotswolds home, stating it would harm the property’s historic character and obscure a historic threshing opening. The couple argued the proposed changes were small in scale and respectful of the building’s heritage, but planning officers disagreed. The decision marks the latest in a series of planning disputes surrounding the estate, where previous additions have included a tennis court, treehouse, extra garage and security hut, and where neighbour objections have occasionally arisen.

The Gloucester Rhythm & Blues Festival will return from July 24 to August 2 with 10 nights of free performances across multiple city venues, featuring a range of traditional and contemporary blues acts. Supported by Gloucester BID and incorporated into Visit Gloucester’s Summer of Sound campaign, the event includes standout performances by The Cinelli Brothers and The Terraplanes Blues Band. Visitors can explore a wider programme of music‑related events throughout the city during the summer period.

Post in Newnham-on-Severn has been ranked 91st among the top 100 local restaurants in the UK by The Good Food Guide. Known for small, refined plates made with home-grown and locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant offers a seasonal menu with meat, fish, and vegetarian options, as well as a single-course lunch and coffee-and-cake service on weekends. Recent praise highlights vegetable-led dishes and a well-curated wine list, distinguishing the restaurant from traditional pub fare.

Chipping Norton Pride will return on July 25 with a day of performances, stalls, and an evening afterparty, celebrating community support under the theme Love Out Loud. Organisers and local leaders emphasise inclusivity, belonging, and growing allyship, with official artwork created by illustrator Luke Embden and several patrons supporting the event.

A World War II flypast highlighted the 2026 Stow Motor Show, which drew over 2,000 visitors to view vehicles ranging from early 20th‑century models to modern supercars. The event featured classic cars, motorcycles, tractors, buses, live music and support from the fire service, with proceeds directed toward local charities. Now in its fifth year, the show continues to be a popular community fixture in Stow‑on‑the‑Wold.

Construction has begun on Cheltenham’s £1 billion Golden Valley cyber and technology campus, a development backed by Cheltenham Borough Council and HBD to strengthen Gloucestershire’s position in cyber security and advanced technology. The project is expected to provide 12,000 jobs, generate £151 million in local spending, and deliver 1,000 homes, including affordable housing. The first phase, including the IDEA Innovation Centre, is underway, with completion expected in 2028. The wider plan includes a Garden Community with additional infrastructure such as a primary school and employment spaces.

A detailed description of Ladyswood House, a £9.5 million estate on the Gloucestershire–Wiltshire border featuring extensive grounds, luxury interiors and amenities including a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, stables and riding arenas. The property includes multiple bedrooms, a self-contained apartment and a lodge suitable for guests or staff, with convenient transport links to London, Bristol and the West Country.

Princess Anne visited Gloucestershire College to present the Honourable Company of Gloucestershire’s Anne Cadbury Apprentice Award grants, recognising nineteen apprentices for their dedication and potential. As patron of the organisation, she met past and current apprentices and toured the Cheltenham campus, engaging with students in construction and cyber security. College principal Matthew Burgess highlighted the importance of partnerships that support local talent. The visit formed part of Princess Anne’s wider programme of royal duties, including an upcoming trip to Asia.

Australian actress Holly Valance and Australian politician Pauline Hanson visited Jeremy Clarkson’s Oxfordshire pub, The Farmer’s Dog, during Hanson’s UK trip, where they shared drinks and posted about the meeting. The pub serves Hawkstone beverages produced from barley grown on Clarkson’s farm. Valance has recently aligned with right‑wing causes, while Hanson, leader of Australia’s One Nation party, is in the UK for meetings and media appearances.

A Cheltenham-based pale ale, Steady Rolling Man from DEYA Brewing Company, was named the UK’s best beer for 2026 in the Top 50 UK Beer Awards organised by We Are Beer. The brew, which previously topped the 2024 list and ranked third in 2025, is credited by founder Theo Freyne as key to the company’s growth and identity. The beer is noted for its soft, tropical character and vegan-friendly recipe. DEYA’s Boost pale ale also placed 28th in the rankings, which are determined by over 150 beer experts and thousands of drinkers and hospitality professionals.

Rising wedding-related costs are placing financial strain on guests, illustrated by a student who spent £1,485 attending three ceremonies. Major expenses included accommodation, travel, gifts, and outfits, leading her to rely on credit and cut personal spending. A wedding planner advises guests to reduce costs through advance planning, re-wearing outfits, seeking cheaper travel and lodging, and prioritising key events.

A three-day Cotswold Diesel Gala hosted by the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway will run from July 24 to 26, featuring 12 locomotives operating between Cheltenham Racecourse and Broadway. Attractions include model railways, depot tours, a tribute to Pathfinder Railtours, and appearances by notable visiting engines such as Hymek No. D7018 and class 27 No. 27056. Home fleet locomotives will also participate. The event follows operational challenges earlier in the year, including an embankment collapse and heatwave‑related service suspensions, with full details available on the railway’s website.

TripAdvisor ratings highlight five top dining spots in Chipping Norton, including The Plough Inn, La Vecchia Cantina, The Blue Boar, The Old Mill Coffee House & Bistro, and Bitter & Twisted. Each venue is recognised for strong customer reviews, quality menus, and welcoming atmospheres, offering options ranging from traditional British dishes to Italian cuisine, brunch favourites and creative cocktails.

Five wedding venues across the Cotswolds are highlighted for their distinctive characteristics, ranging from Barnsley House’s intimate gardens to Sezincote House’s dramatic Indian-inspired architecture. Lower Slaughter Manor is noted for refined charm and award‑winning cuisine, Whatley Manor for luxury accommodations and spa facilities, and Stratton Barn for a flexible rustic setting suitable for varied styles. Each location offers unique features aimed at creating memorable wedding experiences.

A partnership between Black Chalk and Cotswolds Distillery will feature Black Chalk Classic 2022 in a signature Wild Spritz throughout July at the distillery’s new cocktail bar, The Hidden Still. The collaboration includes a tasting event on July 18 led by Black Chalk’s sales director Neil Irvine, offering visitors a complimentary tasting followed by the featured spritz on the terrace.

Two schools in the Cotswolds closed early as temperatures were forecast to reach the mid‑30s, prompting safety concerns for pupils. Calton Primary School and Tredworth Infant and Nursery Academy announced early dismissal times due to extreme heat in classrooms. The Met Office projected temperatures up to 35C, while an amber heat‑health warning from the UK Health Security Agency remains in place for the South West through July 12. High temperatures are expected to persist throughout the afternoon and evening.

Bradford-on-Avon is highlighted as a less crowded but equally attractive alternative to the Cotswolds, praised for its historic architecture, riverside setting and strong community feel. Notable landmarks include the Town Bridge, the Saxon church and the Tithe Barn, while independent shops, cafés and cultural venues add to its appeal. Recommended places to stay and dine include Timbrell’s Yard, the Dandy Lion, the Stumble Inn, the Castle Inn and the Bunch of Grapes. The town’s walking routes and its suitability for exploring on foot are also emphasised.

Several roads in Gloucester will close in August for utility and telecom works, including Jersey Road, Stroud Road, Conduit Street and Hopewell Street. Stroud Road will also have overnight parking restrictions. Emergency and pedestrian access will remain available, and drivers are advised to follow diversions.

Chipping Norton Town Council raised an NHS flag at the Millennium Garden to mark the health service’s 78th anniversary and honour health and social care staff, with local officials and health centre representatives attending the ceremony.

Corsham is competing for the 2028 UK Town of Culture title alongside several Wiltshire towns, with a bid developed in partnership with cultural and educational institutions and supported by community input. The submission includes a creative postcard written from the perspective of a sheep sculpture from the town’s public art project. The contest, run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, will award £3 million to the winning town, with judging led by Sir Phil Redmond and two runners‑up receiving £250,000 each.

Birdland Park & Gardens is using crushed ice and cooling sprinklers supplied by Oxford Ice Co to protect its king penguins during a heatwave. Staff report the birds enjoy the ice while four new juveniles from zoos in Denmark and Switzerland complete quarantine before joining the main colony. The measures support ongoing breeding efforts and help maintain penguin welfare in warmer conditions.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission rated Bluebird Care Stroud & Cirencester as outstanding, maintaining the top rating it has held since 2017. The service, which supports adults with complex needs across Stroud and Cirencester, was commended for strong outcomes, skilled communication with families, and robust care that improved safety and wellbeing. Director Gareth Powick highlighted the team’s consistency and professionalism in achieving the accolade.

The Birdlip Roman Festival will return on August 16 in Birdlip, featuring replica Birdlip Mirrors from the Museum of Gloucester and activities highlighting the region’s Iron Age and Roman history. The event will include expert displays, living history demonstrations, Roman military presentations by the Ermine Street Guard and an Iron Age camp with interactive activities. Tickets are available for adults, children and families, with on-site parking provided.

Kaleb Cooper married longtime partner Taya Wilkinson in a countryside ceremony at Merriscourt in the Cotswolds, attended by family, friends and colleagues including Jeremy Clarkson. The celebration featured tractors, supercars and local Hawkstone drinks, with the couple’s children present. Fans hope moments from the event may appear in the next series of Clarkson’s Farm.

Bibury in the Cotswolds has been named the most beautiful village in the world by Forbes, praised for its historic Arlington Row and scenic riverside setting. The ranking has drawn increased global attention, raising local concerns about overtourism during busy seasons. Visitors continue to praise the village and nearby attractions such as Bibury Trout Farm, while travellers are advised to plan ahead, particularly regarding parking and timing of visits.

Cirencester is praised by iPaper for its independent shops, historic buildings and vibrant town character, with additional recognition from Time Out for being among the top global destinations to visit in 2026. The feature highlights Cirencester Park and its events, as well as several well-regarded food and drink venues, underscoring the town’s appeal as a standout Cotswolds destination.

A new section of the A417 Missing Link dual carriageway in Gloucestershire will open following a weekend closure from July 3 to 6, allowing traffic to be diverted onto the newly built route. National Highways says the switch will improve safety and connectivity between Brockworth and Cowley while reducing future disruption. Project leaders note the milestone reflects significant progress but warn drivers to expect delays and plan alternative routes during the closure.

A Times roundup lists the Laurie Lee Wildlife Way in Slad, Gloucestershire among the best UK walks with a pub stop, highlighting its literary ties to Laurie Lee, views from Swifts Hill and picturesque woodland paths. The Woolpack, the starting and ending point of the route, is praised for its locally sourced dishes and scenic terrace.

Cotswolds Designer Outlet is marking its first anniversary by giving birthday gifts to visitors born between July 13 and 19 who show proof of birthdate. The celebratory week includes free activities, entertainment, and special offers from participating brands. Centre manager Adrian Field highlights the event as a community‑focused celebration, with gifts available while supplies last.

The Tewkesbury Medieval Festival will return to the town centre in 2026 with support from The Roses Theatre, restoring the full parade featuring costumes and performances. The event, scheduled for July 11–12, 2026, commemorates the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury and complements the festival’s reenactments and historical encampment at the battlefield site.

A summer events programme at The Hidden Still, a new cocktail bar operated by Cotswolds Distillery, will run every Friday and Saturday through September with themed evenings including a 12th‑birthday celebration, Wimbledon screenings, English sparkling wine residencies and a Negroni Week closing party. Partnerships with Hambledon, Black Chalk and Flint Vineyards feature prominently, alongside tastings, cocktails and seasonal menus.

Kingham in the Cotswolds is highlighted by The Independent as one of the region’s most picturesque villages, praised for its traditional architecture, serene atmosphere, and strong food and drink offerings. The publication recommends The Wild Rabbit for accommodation and notes nearby attractions including local pubs and the Daylesford organic farm shop, describing the village as an increasingly stylish destination.

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen is transferring ownership of his £3 million Cotswolds estate to his daughters and their partners, creating shared responsibility across the three households living on or near the property. He said the arrangement ensures fairness, avoids placing full financial responsibility on him, and reflects a family-based commitment built on trust. The estate will be jointly owned by all households, including his wife, daughters, and sons-in-law.

Cotswold Farm Park will run a Summer of Fun programme from July 18 to August 31, featuring workshops, entertainment, animal encounters and themed daily activities. The season begins with a Donkey & Friends weekend, and the park’s flower fields will open with opportunities for visitors to explore wildflowers, pick posies and attend free-entry sunflower sessions with live music and food vendors. Activities include falconry displays, circus workshops, discos and line dancing. A summer passport offering discounted unlimited entry is available for both adults and children.

A Blue Plaque was unveiled in Cheltenham to honour Mary Margery Body, a former Bletchley Park codebreaker whose work contributed to breaking German Enigma communications during World War II. Local officials highlighted her long-hidden role in intelligence, including her later career with GCHQ and international postings. Community leaders praised her contributions to local heritage and her involvement in the Swindon Village History Project, recognising her as an unsung figure in Britain’s wartime and intelligence history.

A new Cotswolds restaurant, Lardon, is offering a competition for a three-course dinner with drinks for six people. The European-inspired venue highlights wood‑fired dishes, seasonal small plates and relaxed dining, drawing influence from Tuscany, the Basque Country and Provence. The restaurant is operated by the team behind KNEAD Bakery and Jesse Smith Butchers. The competition closes on 29 July 2026.

Peter Prusaczyk has been appointed general manager of The Feathers Hotel in Woodstock, which recently received a Michelin Key. He brings more than two decades of hospitality experience, including senior roles at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. He will oversee hotel operations as part of broader investment aimed at enhancing the 23-room property’s reputation and attracting more visitors.

Two Viszla puppies, Junie and Olive, reunited at Brookfield Vets after being rehomed from the Hereford and Worcester Animal Rescue Centre, greeting each other affectionately. The rescue centre noted their healthy growth and confirmed that all ten puppies from the litter have been successfully rehomed.

A red kite was photographed soaring over Herefordshire and shared with the Hereford Times Camera Club. Once nearly extinct in the UK due to persecution, the species has rebounded through protection and reintroduction efforts. Known for its forked tail, red wings, scavenging habits, and distinctive calls, the bird has a long historical presence in Britain, including references in Shakespeare’s works.

Plans to sell one-fifth of the Duchy of Cornwall’s land, including areas in Herefordshire, have raised concerns among tenant farmers and local communities. Farmer representatives warn that some tenants may be unable to afford purchase options despite offered discounts, while local officials report significant community anxiety. The Duchy describes the land sale and £500 million investment strategy as part of a broader vision focused on housing and environmental impact, prompting wider debate about the role and responsibilities of royal estates.

A new music festival at Blenheim Palace launched with headline performances by Alanis Morissette and Pete Tong, offering a series of major acts through early July including Teddy Swims, Katy Perry and Michael Bublé. The event features bespoke hospitality and VIP options, with organizers highlighting its unique setting at the UNESCO-listed estate.

Nobu Hotels is expanding into the UK countryside with a new development in Rutland, opting not to open a site in the Cotswolds despite its popularity. The upcoming Nobu Woolfox retreat will feature hospitality, wellness, and residential amenities on a 185‑acre site near Stamford. Commentary suggests the decision may reflect challenges facing the Cotswolds, including overcrowding, rising prices, and a reported decline in house values, while Rutland is viewed as offering stronger appeal and stability.

Siren Craft Brew is taking over the former BrewDog site at The Brewery Quarter in Cheltenham, marking its first venue outside Berkshire. The location has been empty since BrewDog closed multiple sites following its sale to Tilray Brands. The brewery expressed enthusiasm for joining the town centre and thanked supporters, with design work for the new venue already underway.

The Red Lion in Little Compton has been shortlisted for Best Pub for Dogs at the 2026 Great British Pub Awards, recognised for amenities including dog bowls, towels, mats, and a dedicated canine menu. The Grade II‑listed inn, owned by Sarah and Lisa, also offers dog-themed guest rooms and premium features for human visitors. Its cosy atmosphere, traditional ales, and proximity to local attractions contribute to its appeal.

Cowley Manor Experimental in the Cotswolds receives strong praise in a review highlighted by The Independent, with reviewer Emilie Tombs describing the hotel as stylish, contemporary, and welcoming. The property’s historic setting, modern interior design, and attentive staff are emphasized as standout features.

Long-term repairs to the Over Bridge on the A40, starting June 29 and continuing until March 2027, will require overnight closures and diversions, prompting concerns about emergency response times. Gloucestershire County Council officials urged reporting of any issues, while National Highways highlighted the need to extend the bridge’s lifespan. The £7 million project includes concrete repairs, waterproofing and drainage improvements, with delays expected and alternative routes advised.

David and Victoria Beckham have submitted plans for an oak balcony at their Grade II-listed Maplewood Barn home in Oxfordshire, marking their 44th application since purchasing the property. Planning documents argue the changes are modest and sympathetic to the building’s character, though the couple have faced multiple past disputes with neighbours. No public comments have been submitted yet, and the proposal follows previous controversies, including their objection to a neighbour’s balcony plan in London.

Gloucester City Council is funding an £8 million refurbishment of GL1 Leisure Centre and improvements at Oxstalls Sport Park. Planned upgrades include a new gym, enhanced play areas, modernised changing rooms, refurbished reception space, and EGYM equipment, with design work underway and construction beginning in September. A women-only gym will reopen next year after renovations. Freedom Leisure’s chief executive emphasised the project’s community value, with all work scheduled for completion by autumn 2027.