
St Mary’s Cottage is a refined 18th-century home set at the heart of Painswick, overlooking the historic churchyard and its famous yew trees. With honey-coloured stone walls, generous proportions and a private courtyard garden, it offers a peaceful place to stay right in the centre of the village.
Sleeping up to six guests across three bedrooms, with the option of a sofa bed for two additional guests when needed, the cottage is well suited to families, friends or couples looking to spend time together without feeling hurried. Dogs are welcome, making it an ideal base for walking directly from the door and settling into village life at a slower pace.
The sitting room is calm and welcoming, with tall sash windows framing views of the churchyard. Comfortable seating and a decorative stone fireplace create a relaxed atmosphere for evenings in. The sofa bed is located here and can be prepared on request for additional guests.
The dual-aspect kitchen is fully equipped and thoughtfully laid out, with views across Victoria Square on one side and the churchyard on the other. It’s a practical yet pleasant space for easy breakfasts, unrushed lunches and relaxed evening meals.
Leading from the main living area, the glass-lined sunroom forms the dining space. Sitting between house and garden, it’s ideal for long meals, morning coffee or a quiet drink as the light fades, with the church tower beyond the garden wall.
The bedrooms are arranged across the upper floors, offering privacy and lovely views.
On the first floor, a twin bedroom overlooks the churchyard and provides ample storage. This floor also houses the main family bathroom, fitted with both a bath and a separate shower.
On the top floor, the principal bedroom features a Super King-sized bed, a seating area and far-reaching views across Painswick and towards the Slad Valley. A second twin bedroom is also located on this floor, making it well suited to children or friends. A separate cloakroom with WC is positioned nearby.
Enclosed and private, the courtyard garden is framed by a curved Cotswold stone wall that beautifully frames the church tower beyond. It’s a quietly atmospheric space for outdoor dining, reading or unhurried afternoons between walks.
Well-behaved dogs are warmly welcomed at St Mary’s Cottage. The enclosed courtyard provides a safe outdoor space, and some of the Cotswolds’ best walking routes begin just moments from the door. The Cotswold Way runs directly through Painswick, offering miles of scenic countryside walks.
A number of dog-friendly pubs and cafés are within easy walking distance or a short drive, making it easy to enjoy the village with your four-legged companion.
Often referred to as the “Queen of the Cotswolds”, Painswick is known for its elegant streets, independent shops and strong sense of place. The cottage sits just steps from St Mary’s Church and within walking distance of local cafés, pubs and everyday essentials.
Nearby highlights include the Rococo Garden, a rare and beautiful historic garden, and an excellent network of footpaths linking Painswick with surrounding valleys and villages.
From Painswick, the wider Cotswolds are easy to explore. Stroud, Nailsworth and Cirencester are all a short drive away, while classic villages such as Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury make rewarding day trips. The nearby Slad Valley offers literary connections and some of the area’s most memorable walking routes.
Because it offers something increasingly rare — a sense of calm right in the centre of a village. With period character, thoughtful spaces and the freedom to walk, eat and explore without relying on the car, St Mary’s Cottage is a place to settle into Painswick rather than simply visit it.