Fancy going glamping? In this guide, I share my top picks of the best places to go glamping in the Cotswolds if you’re looking to get closer to nature with your loved ones. Although you may have preconceptions of camping, these glamping spots offer a little luxury in the countryside.
Having been born and raised in the Cotswolds, I might be biased for thinking it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the UK to explore. With rugged countryside, idyllic villages, and historic buildings to explore, glamping in the Cotswolds is a great way to become well acquainted with this gorgeous part of the country. No matter what the weather, there is something for you to do here – just be sure to bring your waterproofs!
Although many of us might look first at luxury hotels in the Cotswolds, you might soon after be searching for the most common lottery numbers when you discover the prices! Glamping offers an affordable and equally as enjoyable way to experience this part of the world. When looking for glamping in the Cotswolds, you’ll find some of the most scenic spots in the UK, with all kinds of facilities and locations available. I’ve done plenty of glamping in my time, and know what to look for when searching for the perfect glamping spot in the Cotswolds.
Whether you’re looking for somewhere romantic, a spot close to hiking trails, or simply somewhere near a pub, here’s my guide to the best spots for glamping in the Cotswolds.
Best places for glamping in the Cotswolds
Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat to get away from it all, or a luxury staycation with all the amenities you could expect for a high end hotel, there’s something for everyone on this list of glamping spots.
Treehouses at The Fish, Broadway
Glamping in the Cotswolds doesn’t get much more glam than staying in one of the incredible treehouses at The Fish. I absolutely love visiting The Fish, and love the different types of accommodation they have on offer, from huts to suites. Already a popular Cotswolds hotel in its own right, The Fish has gone a step further in offering three incredible treehouses hidden away in the woods. Housing four people, the treehouses have an ensuite, underfloor heating, and two wooden bathtubs to relax in. Enjoy a coffee while looking out over the woodland views of Broadway before going for a long soak outside. A delicious breakfast is included in the cost of your glamping experience, and one of the treehouses is dog friendly so you can bring your furry friend.
Mallow Glamping Pod, Cheltenham
Glamping in the Cotswolds doesn’t get more scenic than a stay at Mallow Glamping Pod near Cheltenham. An adorable pod on Village Farm in the tiny village of Notgrove, you can enjoy an indulgent stay with your loved ones overlooking the village and the Cotswold countryside. It’s the perfect retreat, and you can choose from a bunch of walks to take over the 1500 acre private Notgrove Estate. Mallow Glamping Pod has its own ensuite shower and toilet, a double bed and a sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a TV. There’s also outdoor seating, an onsite games room, and a mini football pitch. It’s a perfect little slice of life in the Cotswolds.
Artist Residence, South Leigh
Artist Residence is known around the country for boasting beautifully aesthetic hotels and stunning art collections. I bet you didn’t know they offer glamping in the Cotswolds too. They have a lovely little hideaway in the village of South Leigh in Oxfordshire. As well as a 16th century inn featuring 8 luxurious rooms, there’s a beautiful shepherd’s hut at the bottom of the garden which is perfect for glamping in the Cotswolds. It comes with a log burner and a rainfall shower so you don’t need to miss out on your creature comforts. I think it’s the perfect place to experience the English countryside! There’s also conveniently an onsite pub, The Mason’s Arms, which is perfect for hearty pub grub. It’s a great spot for your first time glamping.
Looking for the best food in the area during your glamping trip? Check out my guide to the best pub lunches in the Cotswolds.
Christie’s Cabin, Euridge
Set in the tranquil Euridge Estate in the countryside near Bath, Christie’s Cabin is one of the best entry points to glamping in the Cotswolds. A peaceful retreat, it has an adorable wooden exterior that leads to everything you need for an indulgent getaway. Inside, you’ll find a lavish interior with Scandi styling, a fully equipped kitchenette, living area, and a comfy double bed with a view. Enjoy a morning coffee with a view over the countryside, and use your glamping experience as an opportunity for a digital detox. When the sun is shining, enjoy a cold glass of wine on the outdoor table and chairs which sit beneath a mature olive tree. It won’t feel like you’re in the UK at all!
Vespers, Faringdon
Vespers is a quirky cabin that is the perfect place for glamping in the Cotswolds. Offering a cosy and romantic retreat for you and your loved one, you’ll enjoy sprawling views across the Cotswolds countryside and the River Thames. Set on Camden Farm near Lechlade-on-Thames, this shepherd’s hut has everything you could need for a relaxing stay, and there’s room for a furry friend too. Rustle up dinner or a delicious breakfast in the kitchen, and enjoy meals or a barbecue al fresco on the terrace. There’s a comfy double bed and a log burner to keep the hut super cosy. There are plenty of activities nearby. Go paddle boarding along the River Thames, or head out for a picnic in the beautiful surroundings. It’s ideal for a romantic break.
The best glamping in the Cotswolds with hot tubs
For a little extra luxury while glamping in the Cotswolds, you might fancy a hot tub with your accommodation. After all, it’s the perfect place for enjoying the sunset with a loved one and a cold glass of wine in the evening. Here are a few of my favourite glamping spots in the Cotswolds with hot tubs.
Secret Island Yurt, Tewkesbury
Secret Island Yurt is literally on its own island, and offers some of the most unique and quirky glamping in the Cotswolds. A twenty foot yurt with its very own hot tub, it’s set in an idyllic and peaceful spot overlooking a fishing lake near Beckford in the Cotswolds. The perfect spot for a romantic break, the yurt has its own living room and an upstairs mezzanine bedroom. There are some great facilities at the yurt. There’s a fitted kitchen, a sauna, and even a projector and screen for watching films. You’ll also find a king sized bed, a luxurious hot tub, a barbecue, and a veranda where you can relax. Light the barbecue, and pour a glass of fizz while you relax in the jacuzzi. The adorable village of Beckford is just a short stroll away.
Outbak Shepherds Hut, Hailes
Outbak is a lovely shepherd’s hut set in the Gloucestershire countryside. It’s a peaceful spot for glamping in the Cotswolds, close to some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes. Offering gorgeous panoramic views of the rolling hills, Outbak has a wood-fired hot tub that’s perfect for relaxing in after a long day of exploring the local area. The Cotswold Way is just a short distance away, so you may fancy walking a portion during your countryside retreat. Inside the luxurious space, you’ll find a comfy king sized bed, a kitchen area, and a rainfall shower room. There’s even central heating with radiators to keep you cosy during the cooler months. There’s a decking area for enjoying a morning coffee with a view too. The historical and picturesque towns of Winchcombe and Broadway are just a short distance from the shepherd’s hut and are well worth exploring.
The Hay Trailer, Bath
Set just on the periphery of the Cotswolds, I absolutely love the look and feel of the Hay Trailer. A handcrafted wood cabin built on a hay trailer, it’s a cosy and homely space set in the countryside of St Catherine’s. For an additional cost, you can use the Japanese style private hot tub to add a little extra indulgence to your glamping in the Cotswolds experience. The cabin itself has an open plan living space, kitchen and dining area, and a comfy king sized bed. There’s also a roll top bath to enjoy with a view over the neighbouring countryside. All amenities including shampoo and conditioner are included. You’ll also find a flat screen TV with Roku so you can snuggle up and watch movies during your stay.
Glamping in the Cotswolds – FAQs
What is glamping?
Glamping combines the words ‘glamorous’ and ‘camping’ – it’s a luxurious type of camping. Unlike regular camping, you’ll have facilities and more indulgent accommodation that allows for a much more comfortable experience than you would find otherwise. For many people, it is a much more enjoyable way to enjoy time in nature but with all the creature comforts you might miss during regular camping. With glamping you can forget any elements of ‘roughing it’. No more leaky tents, communal shower blocks, and campstove food. You’ll be treated to all the amenities you can enjoy at home!
How do toilets work when glamping?
The vast majority of glamping units will have toilets, no matter whether it is a yurt, a cabin, a pod, or a shepherd’s hut. In fact, many have luxurious bathrooms that could fool you into thinking you’re in a 5* hotel! It’s possible to experience glamping in the Cotswolds with a roll top bath, for instance. Rainfall showers are a common feature too. Gone are the days of putting your shoes on and trudging over to a communal shower block like you might when camping!
Does glamping include bedding?
Absolutely – often you’ll find luxury linens and bedding included in your glamping experience. The point of glamping is to make your stay in nature as luxurious as possible, so you’re very likely to find a comfortable experience. Most glamping units have comfy double or king sized beds for a great night’s sleep.
Is glamping warm?
Yes, most glamping accommodation is warm! In fact, many even have central heating systems with thermostat controlled radiators. Often they are well insulated, but you should also be able to control the temperature yourself to something comfortable. Log burners and firepits are often a common feature of glamping accommodation to suit you for all seasons and no matter what the British weather brings.
Is glamping hot in summer?
We all know the British weather is completely unpredictable, but even on the hottest days you shouldn’t be too hot when glamping in the summer. Glamping accommodation is well insulated to stop extreme temperatures, either for heat or the cold. Often you’ll find amenities including fans if there does happen to be a heatwave in the UK. There will be windows too to allow for a breeze if needed.
Do you have electricity when glamping?
Yes, the vast majority of glamping accommodation has electricity. Glamping is about offering a comfortable camping experience, and being able to use electricity and charge your devices is part of this. Many will have fully equipped kitchens for cooking, as well as TVs. Some glamping accommodation will enable you to go ‘off grid’, whereby you will not have access to electricity to completely unplug and unwind. This will be clearly stated when you book, however.
Can you take dogs glamping?
Part of the joy of glamping in the Cotswolds is taking our furry friends with us, especially when long countryside walks are involved. Many glamping accommodation providers understand this, and many will permit dogs to stay. It is worth checking any listing to make sure dogs are allowed. Some of my favourite glamping in the Cotswolds spots above allow dogs.
Is glamping suitable for families?
Of course! Glamping with the family is a fun and affordable way to holiday while getting close to nature, especially in somewhere as beautiful as the Cotswolds. Nowadays, there are so many glamping options available, and some even offer accommodation for parties of up to twenty. I’d recommend using a tool like Booking.com’s search bar to enter your criteria and the number of people you’ll be glamping with. This will conveniently narrow down your options.
Can you enjoy glamping on a budget?
100%! Glamping is a really affordable way to holiday, no matter whether you’re a couple or a larger group. It is a much more reasonably priced alternative to hotels, although you can choose the level of luxury you’re after. Thankfully, in a location as beautiful as the Cotswolds, many offer great views and convenient locations for exploring for a fraction of the price of hotels. When it comes to glamping in the Cotswolds, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
That’s my guide to spots for the best glamping in the Cotswolds! I hope you found it helpful. Let me know if you have any questions about glamping in the comments below. If you need help with planning your trip, I’d recommend reading the following articles next:
