Into the Cotswolds

We left Devon and Greenway behind to travel up to the Cotswolds. With us not being able to get into the next cottage until 4pm, we decided to have a look if there was anything of interest on the route. We found a National Trust property which sounded very impressive, and it certainly was! The property was Stourhead House and Gardens (http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-stourhead/). This was a house and parkland/gardens built by the Hoare banking family in the 18th century. We didn’t go in the house but the parkland, surrounding a lake, and gardens were stunning. We could have easily spent a full day there, well worth another visit if in the area again.

The cottage we are staying in is near the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water. The owners have a large house and three holiday cottages, all separate and with their own private sitting out areas overlooking the countryside. We even got some provisions in the kitchen; milk, coffee (proper!), orange juice, cookies, bottle of wine and a Kellogg’s Variety Pack – very impressive! There are also two very fussy black Labradors who are always up for a play and stroke and keep guard on the properties! It is a very peaceful place to relax in.

Looking forward to visiting lots of the little hamlets and villages in the area!