Off to the Cotswolds
A Journey Through History and Beauty
About a year ago, I was chatting with my mom about our bucket list of dream destinations, and she mentioned the Cotswolds. I’d never heard of it, but as she shared stories about all the famous movies and shows filmed there, it became clear that this was a place we had to experience. So, we began planning.
To truly embrace the beauty of the Cotswolds, we decided to stay in three different homes spread across the region. This way, we could explore more deeply and capture the unique charm of each area.
Before we set off, my mom came down to Florida for a few days to visit. We had a great time, and she even got a chance to check out Ebba’s new apartment downtown.
The Journey Begins
Our adventure began with a flight to England, though it was just Mom, Malin, and me for the first leg. Ebba went off to Bath for a week to catch up with some friends, and Aidan joined us later from Sweden for the final stretch of the trip.
Our first stop was Sheepscombe, a picturesque village nestled in the Cotswolds. Driving on the opposite side of the road through narrow lanes that barely seemed wide enough for a single car was a nerve-wracking yet memorable initiation into English countryside life. But soon, I fell in love with Sheepscombe’s timeless beauty and friendly locals. We made the most of our time by visiting The Butchers Arms, a charming pub where we enjoyed our first traditional Sunday roast. The friendly atmosphere and shared laughter with other patrons made it an experience to remember.
Exploring Stroud’s Roots
From Sheepscombe, we ventured to Stroud, known for its rich history and artistic community. Our visit wasn’t just about sightseeing, though. We took a trip to the Stroud cemetery, hoping to find the resting places of some of our ancestors. Though we didn’t locate their graves, wandering through the old cemetery was an awe-inspiring experience. The Cotswolds are known for their ancient churches and majestic gravestones, which seem to stand as timeless sentinels over centuries of history.
While in Stroud, we discovered Fat Tony’s, a local favorite offering delicious sourdough pizza and great service—definitely a must-visit for food lovers.
A Journey Back in Time: Painswick
One of the most memorable parts of our stay in Sheepscombe was visiting the nearby village of Painswick. This village has a personal connection for us, as it’s the hometown of some of our ancestors. One of them was a grocer, so we had to snap a picture of my mom standing proudly in front of a local grocery store. It was a surreal feeling to walk the same streets that our relatives had once walked.
Painswick isn’t just full of personal history—it also boasts one of the best British breakfasts we had on the trip. If you ever find yourself in Painswick, make sure to treat yourself to a meal at the beautiful old hotel there. When we return, I’m certain we’ll spend a few nights at this cozy spot.
The quiet charm of Painswick made it a photographer’s dream. We hardly encountered any other tourists as we wandered the village, which made for some relaxed and fun photo sessions.
Rococo Garden: A Plant Lover’s Paradise
While in Painswick, we couldn’t resist visiting the Rococo Garden, a true gem for anyone who loves nature and history. This stunning garden, originally designed in the 1740s during the Rococo period, features whimsical architecture, winding paths, and vibrant plant life. Walking through its meticulously kept grounds felt like stepping into another time. It’s a place where nature and history blend seamlessly, making it a must-visit for garden enthusiasts.
Next Stop: Broadway
With Sheepscombe and Painswick checked off our list, we’re heading to our next stop—Broadway, one of the most famous and beautiful villages in the Cotswolds. Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue exploring this enchanting part of England.
Historical Highlights of the Cotswolds:
Sheepscombe: This idyllic village has retained its rural charm for centuries. Its historic architecture and traditional pubs, like The Butchers Arms, are central to its character. The Cotswolds were designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1966, and Sheepscombe is one of the many villages that epitomize its unspoiled beauty.
Stroud: Once an industrial town during the 18th and 19th centuries, Stroud became known for its woolen mills powered by the area’s fast-flowing rivers. Today, it is a center for arts and culture, drawing artists and creative minds from across the UK.
Painswick: Known as the "Queen of the Cotswolds," Painswick is steeped in history. It became a prominent wool town in the 15th and 16th centuries, and its stunning churchyard, with its famous yew trees, has drawn visitors for centuries.
Rococo Garden: Designed in the mid-18th century, Rococo Gardens were created for pleasure and entertainment, showcasing ornate and playful styles that contrasted with the formal gardens of earlier periods. Painswick Rococo Garden is one of the few remaining examples of this style in England.
