Don and I were due to meet up with friends in England in September 2024. We decided to fly across the “Pond” a week or so before and explore the English countryside. The Cotswolds to be exact.
The Cotswolds is renowned for its rolling hills, storybook villages, impressive churches and lovely sheep farms. It is located approximately two hours west of London and includes several counties, namely Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. The dozens of towns and villages in the Cotswolds are charming, beautiful and friendly.
It was obvious there were strict zoning ordinances in place. I’ve just learned that the zoning is due to its designation as an AONB – Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. An ANOB is a bit like a National Park in the United States but where people live and work. The entire area feels like stepping back in time. Gorgeous stone homes – some with roses or ivy climbing up their exterior walls. Pubs with Michelin starred restaurants and quaint rooms to stay for the night. Small curved roads with scenic views connecting the villages -wonderful for the passenger, a challenge for the driver.
If “a picture is worth a thousand words,” this blogpost will be quite wordy. Enjoy the photos!
Flowers
The Hidcote National Trust Garden
Architecture/Churches
Farmland/Countryside
Doorways
Pubs
Interesting Vignettes
An unusual sight for sure.
The Cotswolds is indeed an area of outstanding natural beauty. I hope you enjoyed the photos.
As always, thanks for reading.
New City New State 