Whether you’ve just set foot inside one of our luxurious properties for a Christmas in the Cotswolds, or have invested in one of our award-winning holiday properties, we know how difficult it can be to find the exit after becoming acquainted with your home away from home.
With clearwater sailing, serene fishing, and a competitive game of tennis sitting just outside your front door, you’ll struggle to find a reason to stray too far from our water park. But there is so much more to do in the local area, and it’s all just a hop, skip and a jump away from your private haven.
Watermark Wanderers is a series of blog posts that helps you explore all things Cotswolds and beyond as you enjoy the peace of a lake getaway. In this edition, we’ll be wandering into a Winter Wonderland, and discovering the festivities all over the Cotswolds. From Christmas markets to illuminated castles, the Cotswolds offers thousands of classic Christmas card camera captures, with the authentic winter spirit to go with them!
Festive Food in a Pub
It’s hard to choose your favourite homely eaterie when The Cotswolds is laden with traditional British pubs that serve mouth-watering festive grub. If you’re looking for a nearby nook that serves all the trimmings, The Potting Shed Pub is a swift fifteen minute drive away, and is renowned for its cosy atmosphere, locally sourced ingredients, and exquisite Christmas Menu. Or, if you’re looking to break the norm to enjoy a very festive steak(!), Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa prepares delectable delights, and is a quick 30 minute drive away. Don’t forget to book first!
Sudeley Castle’s “Spectacle of Light”
Unmissable if you’re dazzled by the utterly dazzling, Sudeley Castle’s “Spectacle of Light” event leads you on an irradiated adventure through its grounds. With light displays strewn across the castle, gardens, and ruins, you’ll find it hard to hide the twinkle in your eye. 2019’s theme is Peter Pan, so be prepared to lose yourself in J. M. Barrie’s unforgettable tale, told in a way you could have never imagined.
Bath Christmas Market
Combining wonderment, winter treats, and wondrous stalls, strolling through Bath Christmas Market forces you to reminisce about homemade mince pies and the waft of fresh-out-the-oven gingerbread. Overlooked by the architectural masterpiece that is Bath Abbey, you’ll find it difficult to turn a corner without your jaw hitting the floor – and what better way to close it with a variety of locally baked, tasty winter treats.
Warming Winter Walks
After all that Christmas Market food, what better way to burn those calories than to admire the very best scenery the Cotswolds has to offer. Pack your warmest gloves and don your thickest coat as you set off on a chilly, yet peaceful amble in some of the most beautiful public parks the country has to offer. Two of our favourite hiking trails are Broadway Tower (30 miles from your front door) and Cotswolds AONB (only 15 miles up the road). Make sure to check the opening times before setting off on a superbly memorable mosey.
What are your favourite activities and sights in and around The Cotswolds during Christmas? Do you think we’ve missed something that absolutely has to be included on your Watermark winter itinerary? Get in touch to let us know what you think, tag us in an Instagram post at @watermarkcotswolds, or Tweet us at @watermarkclub.
