Holiday homes & rentals in Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire's rolling hills cradle villages of thatched cottages reminiscent of Tolkien's Middle Earth – a peaceful green paradise. Filled with some of Britain's most ancient sites and impressive palaces, the lush countryside beckons biking, canoeing, and horseriding enthusiasts. The majority of holiday cottages in Gloucestershire are in traditional stone houses with views of the countryside or surrounding city. You will find a range of house sizes to suit your needs for a cottage rental when on holiday in Gloucestershire.

What to do on your holiday in Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire Cathedral was built between the 11th and 15th centuries in the English Gothic Style. Look for the medieval stained glass windows, the vaulted ceilings, ornate decorations, and the tomb of Edward the 2nd from 1327.

The Gloucester Docks have been turned into a series of museums and art galleries. You can stroll around the buildings and learn about the history of the area and the importance of these inland docks. A few of the sections are now restaurants and cafés with views over the water.

Stroll around the Highnam Court Gardens which were designed in the 17th century. These gardens were recently restored and feature a kitchen garden, wisteria walk, winter garden, knot garden, and a series of waterfalls and ponds.

Why you need to come to the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are 800 square miles of pure England: golden stone and rolling hills punctuated by some of the most fantastic palaces and castles. Villages of thatched roof houses are cradled in verdant countryside, threaded by rivers and swathes of wildflowers. Discover rhinoceroses strolling the grounds of Blenheim Palace, visit the birthplace of Winston Churchill, and indulge in the finest English cream tea in Chipping Norton's famous tea rooms.

Unforgettable festivals

The Soul Circus is an internationally renowned summer yoga festival held in Gloucester. Classes, superb live music, and delicious food and drink will satisfy the yogi in you at this relaxing gathering. Cheltenham Literature Festival, held in October, has played host to famous fiction writers Ian McEwan, Alan Carr, and Jacqueline Wilson.

Gloucestershire's greatest attractions

The International Centre for Birds of Prey

Visit the oldest centre for the conservation of birds of prey in the world. Get up close to your new feathered friends, including eagles, vultures, falcons, and miniature owls. Experience the majesty of these creatures firsthand.

Royal Forest of Dean

The famous Forest of Dean is renowned for its ancient trees and the enchanting open-air Puzzlewood Caves. Besides gliding on zip-wires, kayaking, and cycling, you can follow the Sculpture Trail, or take in the views at the area’s numerous castles, museums, and cathedrals.

Symonds Yat Rock

Gaze over the winding River Wye from this celebrated natural landmark, which is often circled by birds of prey. An ancient hill fort awaits you at the peak, where you can enjoy a snack from the log cabin cafe. In preparation for your journey, you can download the Symonds Yat stargazing guide, which locates constellations and regional points of interest.

Chedworth Roman Villa

This nationally significant Roman villa dates to the Roman occupation of Britain some 2,000 years ago. Snuggled in the stunning Cotswolds, it is one of the grandest sites in the area. Come and see the spectacular mosaic floors, hypocaust heating system, and bathhouse that have been unearthed by archaeologists in recent years. Enjoy the tranquil setting, which teems with wildlife, or treat yourself to something sweet in the tea room.

Clearwell Caves

Step back 4,500 years at these caves, which were mined by our ancient ancestors to make ochre paint. Miners created a maze of subterranean passageways within the gigantic natural caverns. Go caving, visit the museum documenting its long history, or experience one of the magical events that regularly animate the caves.

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