There's nowhere more magical than the Cotswolds at Christmas, with a whole host of festive activities, fabulous places to stay and the best seasonal fayre to enjoy. Why not spend the most wonderful time of the year in this delightful part of England?

Bourton-on-the Water at Christmas (photo credit: Cotswolds Tourism)

Just 75 miles from London, the Cotswolds covers over 800 square miles of England’s most beautiful rolling countryside. Explore quintessential English villages of honey-coloured stone; take in lively market towns; visit some of the UK’s greatest palaces, castles and country houses; marvel at the natural world in acclaimed reserves and walk through breathtaking landscapes along historic trails.

At Christmas, the Cotswolds truly comes to life, as Christmas markets and fairs spring up, spectacular light displays brighten the winter evenings, glamorous parties and gala dinners celebrate the season and unforgettable festive experiences for all the family bring a smile to everybody’s face.

Cheltenham at Christmas (photo credit: Marketing Cheltenham / Cheltenham Bid)

Stay for a short break at a country hotel over Christmas or in a traditional inn during ‘twixmas’ and wake up to sparkling, frosty mornings. Stroll through historic Cotswolds towns and villages browsing the quaint little shops, or wander through wooded valleys and alongside meandering rivers before relaxing by a roaring log fire in a traditional pub.

Broadway at Christmas (photo credit: Cotswolds Tourism)

No tour of the Cotswolds at Christmas would be complete without a visit to magnificent Blenheim Palace. The annual Christmas Market in the Great Court is one of the best in the country, perfect for gifts, treats and eats. The spectacular Christmas Lights Trail is a cornerstone of England’s Christmas calendar, as a multitude of twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the grounds with festive fun.

Every year, the palace itself is brought to life with Christmas magic. This year’s theme is the Story of Sleeping Beauty with a contemporary twist, and visitors can step into a fairytale world as they explore the fabulously transformed palace rooms.

Cheltenham at Christmas (photo credit: Marketing Cheltenham / Cheltenham Bid)

There are of course dozens of other Cotswolds Christmas markets to immerse yourself in, in the excitement and spirit of the festive season. Bursting with unique, locally made gifts, decorations and tempting treats, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

For four days in November, Cheltenham Christmas Gift Market fills the Promenade with Christmas chalets selling a fantastic selection of gifts, food and drink. A traditional Arts & Crafts Christmas Market brings out the town’s festive spirit in the run up to Christmas.

Bourton-on-the Water in winter (photo credit: Cotswolds Tourism)

Step back in time at National Trust Dyrham Park this year and take a journey to Christmas through the ages. The house will be dressed in the style of five different eras, from Tudor times right up until the 20th century. Festive writings by the likes of Samuel Pepys, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens will be brought to life.

Take a ride on the Santa Express with the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Begin your journey at Cheltenham Racecourse Station, from where you travel by steam train to the North Pole (Winchcombe Station). Here passengers will be able to walk through a wonderland of lights, trees and decorations to meet Santa.

Bourton-on-the Water at Christmas (photo credit: Cotswolds Tourism)

Explore the beautiful Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle, a sparkling night-time trail around the castle’s stunning grounds, and marvel at the majestic trees and romantic ruins all lit under the stars. The theme for 2023 is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

Painswick Rococo Garden is a hidden gem in the Cotswolds. Designed in the eighteenth century as a garden to enthral and delight, this year the attraction reveals a brand-new light trail – The Enchanted Garden By Night.

Cheltenham at Christmas (photo credit: Marketing Cheltenham / Cheltenham Bid)

Enjoy Afternoon Tea with Santa at Ellenborough Park luxury hotel. Indulge in scrumptious treats, sip on warm beverages, and spend quality time with Santa himself!

Experience the magic of ice skating in Cheltenham. Located in Imperial Gardens in the heart of Regency Cheltenham, the undercover rink offers a memorable festive experience in all weathers, for skaters of all ages and abilities.

Cheltenham at Christmas (photo credit: Marketing Cheltenham / Cheltenham Bid)

Join in the fun of a traditional British pantomime. You might not understand all of the jokes, but the slapstick performance means that there’s something for everyone to enjoy at a family ‘panto’, and this Christmas there’s a twist to the tale of Cinderella at the Theatre Chipping Norton, which features Latin American music and dance.

When it comes to food and drink, there is so much to choose from in the Cotswolds at Christmas! Enjoy a Cotswolds dining experience with family and friends, from sparkling afternoon tea to festive fine dining, or celebrate the season at a Christmas party night to remember. Imagine the spectacle and glamour of a stunning Cotswolds hotel, with a champagne reception, delicious traditional food, sumptuous surroundings and dancing for hours…

Ellenborough Park Hotel at Christmas © Ellenborough Park

The Cotswolds comes to life at New Year too, as stunning manor house hotels host gala dinners and parties, where you can see in the New Year in lavish style. And regardless of how you celebrate New Year’s Eve, there is no better way to jump into 2024 than with New Year’s Day Racing at Cheltenham. Thrilling and high-quality racing action, fresh air, and amazing free family entertainment!

If you or your group would like to experience the best in festive fun on a tailor-made Christmas tour or a short seasonal break in the Cotswolds, please do contact our friendly team and we will put together an itinerary for you to remember!

With thanks to Cotswolds Tourism.