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As the Cotswolds ease from autumn into winter, the pace slows and the landscape takes on a softer light. Leaves gather in quiet lanes, smoke drifts from chimneys, and village pubs glow with warmth. It’s the season for unhurried weekends — long walks, good food and early winter adventures.
Whether you’re drawn by countryside trails or the first signs of the festive season, South and Central Cotswolds offer the perfect backdrop for a November escape.
The Cotswolds’ hills and commons are particularly beautiful at this time of year. Around Stroud, Woodchester Park offers woodland paths around a peaceful valley, while Coaley Peak gives wide views across the Severn Vale.
Near Painswick, the Cotswold Way runs over the Beacon— a favourite with local walkers and easy to reach from Saint Mary’s Cottage or Hillworth Coach House. For gentler paths, Minchinhampton Common provides wide-open grassland and far-reaching views, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Further north, near Charlotte’s Cottage, both Batsford Arboretum and Sezincote Gardens remain open as winter approaches —lovely spots to wander before the festive lights begin.
This is the time to settle in beside the fire after a day outdoors. Around Painswick, The Woolpack Inn at Slad remains a classic —relaxed, timeless and filled with local charm. The Oak in Painswick serves modern, seasonal dishes in a warm, wood-panelled setting, while The Potting Shed at Crudwell offers generous Sunday lunches and a welcoming bar.
In Stroud, Juliet has quickly become one of the area’s most celebrated new restaurants — refined yet unpretentious, with an ever-changing menu built around seasonal produce. It’s an ideal choice for are laxed dinner or a long lunch between walks and galleries.
Further south, The Royal Oak in Tetbury remains a favourite for comforting dishes and a lively local atmosphere. For those staying further north, The Fox in Oddington and The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold are favourites close to Charlotte’s Cottage, combining history with hearty food.
The right base makes all the difference to a weekend away. Arlington & Row curates Cotswold homes that blend warmth, comfort and understated style.
Hillworth Coach House, Painswick — A bright and elegant home for up to four guests, perfect for a relaxed friends’ weekend or a girly getaway. Thoughtful touches, soft tones and fresh flowers make it instantly welcoming. Just a short walk from The Painswick Hotel — an ideal spot for evening cocktails after a day exploring the Beacon.
Saint Mary’s Cottage, Painswick — A charming three-bedroom house in the heart of Painswick with wonderful views over the churchyard. Ideal for family getaways, it offers a perfect balance of space and comfort, with a bright conservatory dining area designed for long, easy meals together.
Kingscote House, Kingscote — Sleeping up to twenty guests and set within the peaceful grounds of the Matara Estate, this impressive home is ideal for large gatherings, retreats or milestone celebrations. Expansive social spaces, open gardens and a serene setting make it one of the most distinctive large houses in the South Cotswolds.
Banksia Cottage, Cleveley — Minimalist and tranquil, surrounded by open fields. A calm base for slow mornings and countryside walks— perfect for those who value simplicity and quiet.
Charlotte’s Cottage, Upper Oddington — A two-bedroom cottage with a wood-burning fireplace, ideal for re-creating your own version of The Holiday. Within walking distance of The Fox at Oddington, it’s a lovely base for couples or small families exploring the North Cotswolds.
November marks the start of the Cotswolds’ festive calendar, as markets, light trails and winter events begin to fill the weeks ahead.
Stroud Book Festival (6–10 November 2025) brings together authors, poets and readers for a relaxed celebration of stories and ideas.
The November Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse (14–16November 2025) is one of the biggest sporting and social fixtures of the season, attracting visitors from across the UK.
By mid-month, Gloucester Christmas Market transforms the historic docks with stalls, street food and live music, while the Gateway Ice Rink opens in Cirencester for skating beneath twinkling lights.
The Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle(21–30 November 2025) turns the castle grounds into a glowing winter wonderland, while the Enchanted Christmas Light Trail at Westonbirt Arboretum returns from late November — a firm Cotswold favourite.
In early December, Broadway Late Night Christmas Shopping (28 November and 5 December 2025) brings festive sparkle to one of the region’s prettiest villages, with independent shops, mulled wine and carol singers along the High Street.
Nearby, Jolly Nice Farm Shop and Daylesford Organic continue to showcase local produce, handmade gifts and winter flavours — perfect for thoughtful seasonal shopping.
Together, these events mark the gentle shift from autumn calm to winter brightness — and remind us why the Cotswolds feels so special at this time of year.
Plan Your Stay
Whether you’re walking across open commons, exploring local markets or planning your first festive weekend away, the Cotswolds in November and early winter offer space, comfort and quiet celebration.
Discover more stays and seasonal inspiration at arlingtonandrow.co.uk.