The Cotswolds is a rural part of Middle England that is considered especially pretty. So pretty in fact that this area is an official area of outstanding natural beauty. The landscape is generally rolling green hills and farmland, with small villages scattered about. One can always recognise the Cotswolds because the houses are built of golden-hued Cotswold stone which is gentle on the eye and harmonises with nature. Cotswold cottages are very pleasing when they have a typical English country garden overspilling with flowers and plants and rambling roses round the porch.

The Cotswolds is an affluent area. Historically the wealth came from sheep farming and textiles and is still evident in the handsome elaborate buildings. People want to live in a beautiful area and high demand results in high property prices. Do go and visit the Cotswolds, the arboretums, the gardens and stately homes. For foreigners, the Cotswolds provide a good experience of the English at their best.

Rent a cottage or apartment for a comfortable stay, a home from home, and enjoy your holidays in the Cotswolds.

There are so many country walks in the Cotswolds – whether you enjoy walking through pretty villages and towns or like walking deep in the countryside, you should find plenty to interest you in the Cotswolds. And if cycling is your thing then it it would be hard to find a more idyllic part of England to enjoy cycling around country lanes and through picturesque villages. There are also a number of fascinating Arboretums in the Cotswolds which offer wonderful woodland walks.

Some parts of the Cotswolds are well known and during peak season attract a large number of tourists. Places like Bourton on the Water are particularly popular and can get packed out. Equally interesting and more peaceful places in the Cotswolds which are a bit more off the beaten track include Painswick, Chipping Campden, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter.