Monday, August 1, 2011

Planning a luxury break in the Cotswolds

Home to several market towns and traditional villages, the Cotswolds' attractive topography entices thousands of visitors on luxury breaks every year.

With its centuries-old history, picturesque castles and poetic landscapes, it's no surprise that the UK is such a fantastic destination for a luxury break. For over a century, domestic tourists and international travellers have flocked to its upmarket townhouses and spacious country estates, many of which have now been converted into premier luxury accommodation. These indulgent destinations can be found across the country, from the Scottish Highlands and Islands to Kent in England's south-east corner.

 

However, one location that has long-flourished as a sought-after luxury holiday destination is the Cotswolds. Officially designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is a gentle hilly region that primarily covers Gloucestershire but also crosses borders with Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and Somerset. Home to several market towns and traditional villages, the Cotswolds' attractive topography entices thousands of visitors every year. And if you're planning a luxury getaway in the area, there are plenty of affluent activities with which to busy yourself.

 

Historic buildings and attractions

 

The Cotswolds is known for the distinctive honey colour of the limestone buildings that inhabit its towns and villages. But it's also home to several important historic attractions that will appeal to people on luxury holidays in the region. Blenheim Palace, for instance, is often referred to as one of the greatest stately homes in England and is renowned as the birthplace of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Located near the Cotswolds town of Woodstock, the site contains 2000 acres of parkland, lakes and gardens and the building itself is home to an enviable collection of paintings, furniture and tapestries. All these factors combined make Blenheim Palace an ideal stop on any tour of the Cotswolds' most indulgent sights.

 

However, it's far from the only extravagant attraction on offer. Another hotspot is Mill Dene Garden, which resides alongside an old water mill. The luxurious feeling of this historic attraction is underlined by its stunning rose and herb gardens, its cricket pitch and the delicious cream teas on offer in its stunning surroundings. The Painswick Rococo Garden is a hidden gem of the Cotswolds too. One of the few remaining examples of English Rococo garden design, this spectacular and unusual garden offers a fascinating day out. It also provides guests with a memorable view of the surrounding countryside, further highlighting the beauty of the Cotswolds as a luxury holiday destination.

 

Extravagant activities in the Cotswolds' urban centres

 

The attractiveness of its countryside may underpin the Cotswolds' appeal as a luxury holiday getaway, but there are plenty of extravagant pastimes to be had in its urban centres as well. The affluent spa town of Cheltenham, for example, is a magnet for rich holidaymakers and celebrities thanks to its enviable selection of designer stores and boutiques. Historically known as a destination for luxury spa breaks Cheltenham's waters are no longer in use. However, its Pump Room lets visitors experience a taste of the opulent environment of an old bath house, sometimes offering wine tasting sessions as well.

 

Other towns that cement the Cotswolds' position as the number one destination for <a href="http://www.classicbritishhotels.com/luxury/breaks/">luxury uk breaks</a> are Gloucester, whose breathtaking cathedral was a prominent filming location for the Harry Potter movies, and the medieval market town of Chipping Norton, previously voted one of the UK's top ten country towns. And don't miss a visit to Tetbury, which boasts Royal connections as the home of Prince Charles.

 

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