Bourton-on-the-water is a Cotswolds village that sits on the River Windrush. It has a number of little bridges across the river, which has given it the name ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. It’s approximately an hour’s drive from Bristol, 40 minute drive from Gloucester and two hour drive from London. Perfect for a day out or as a weekend base to explore the rest of the Cotswolds. Alternatively, you can visit it as part of a wider tour.
Our trip
On a foggy Saturday, my friend and I took our dogs to the famous Venice of the Cotswolds. My friend loves quaint little villages and I like walking the dogs with my friend. You may have guessed from my previous posts that I’m easily bored of pretty little towns and villages, but Bourton-on-the-water surprised me with the numerous things to do, great places to eat, and interesting walks. We visited during COVID restrictions and so were unable to go inside anywhere. Instead we pottered around the gorgeous village, bought takeaway drinks and treats, and wandered around the nature reserve.
And there is so much history to learn about (even a historic trail). They have evidence of humans from 4000 B.C. So, Bourton-on-the-Water is actually a fantastic place for a dog-loving, history-loving weekend rambler like yours truly. Just take a look at the photos – yes I know, we never seem to have good luck with the weather!
Things to do in the village
The village is extremely pretty and has lovely little walk-ways that you can spend an hour or so wandering. There are also little independent shops and tourist attractions (e.g. the motor museum, the perfumery) for you to peruse. You can event take your pooch to see the exotic birds in the Birdland Park and Gardens.
Places to eat
There are lots of dog-friendly eateries in Bourton-on-the-water from restaurants such as The Croft to cafes such as the Bourton Riverside Cafe, Coffee Hub and The Den.
While there we spoke to a few of the vendors and found that many are local and independent businesses that are heavily affected by the COVID restrictions. Therefore, I implore you to visit these places when it is safe for you to do so. These places keep the village thriving.
Walks around the village
We did the Greystone Nature Reserve walk. It involves a 30 minute wander through the countryside, historic sites and a working farm. The dogs were particularly interested in the cows and farm machines (see pictures below).
There are a few other walks listed in the Cotswolds official site and other walking sites such as AllTrails.
Other useful sources
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It looks like Sash loves the cows, that’s adorable. I think Scarlett would enjoy that walk as well. Have a lovely holiday weekend!
Thank you. I hope that you had a lovely holiday weekend.
I love that little town. The bridges are just adorable. Sash looking at the cow is probably my favourite picture.
Thank you! Against the cow I realise how small she actually is!
Looks lovely! And I mean even in winter it looks so nice, that’s quite something! I live in Berlin and it looks miserable here in winter, especially in the east.
Thank you for your comments. I worry that all of my pictures look miserable in the dreary UK weather. I cannot wait for the colourful spring and summer. I visited Berlin a few years ago and absolutely loved it. Fantastic city!