Discover Bourton-on-the-Water – the Venice of the Cotswolds
If you’re looking for hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water, this Cotswold gem is the perfect choice. Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” the village charms visitors with its honey-stone cottages, quaint bridges, and the winding River Windrush running through its centre. Families love paddling in the shallow stream, couples enjoy riverside strolls, and walkers set off on scenic countryside trails. Whether you’re after a romantic retreat, a family stay, or a classic Cotswolds break, Bourton offers a warm and welcoming base.
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Bourton-on-the-Water – the “Venice of the Cotswolds”
Where to Stay in Bourton-on-the-Water
Though compact, Bourton-on-the-Water offers a few distinct areas for visitors:
- Central Bourton (High Street area): Perfect for being at the heart of shops, tearooms, and the Model Village. Great if you want everything on your doorstep.
- Riverside (Lower village): Hotels and inns with direct access to the River Windrush, offering peaceful water views and outdoor seating.
- Countryside outskirts: Inns and guesthouses on the village edge with gardens, parking, and views of the surrounding Cotswolds.
- Walking access areas: Around Station Road and the visitor centre, these stays are ideal for walkers with easy links to trails and parking close by.
The Manse Hotel, Bourton-on-the-Water
Best Hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water
From cosy inns to riverside gems, Bourton has stays for every kind of traveller.
Best Romantic Hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water
- The Old New Inn (3-star): Historic 18th-century inn with nine en-suite rooms, antique touches, and four-poster options. Guests enjoy its intimate charm and complimentary entry to the Model Village.
- The Dial House (3.5-star): A charming period hotel with landscaped gardens, cosy lounges, and a well-reviewed restaurant. Couples love the quiet setting just steps from the centre.
- The Lansdowne Guest House (4-star): Stylish boutique B&B with elegant rooms and garden views. Known for attentive service and delicious breakfasts, it’s ideal for couples seeking a refined stay.
Best Family Friendly Hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water
- Chester House Hotel (3-star): Family-run Victorian hotel with 22 rooms and an Italian restaurant. Located near attractions, it’s popular with families visiting Birdland and the Model Village.
- Old Manse Hotel (3-star): Riverside inn with pub dining and a terrace overlooking the Windrush. Family- and dog-friendly with plenty of character.
- The Mousetrap Inn (3-star): Traditional coaching inn with 11 rooms and hearty British meals. Relaxed and homely, making it a hit with families.
Best Riverside Hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water
- Old Manse Hotel (3-star): Classic Cotswold inn with a riverside terrace and garden. Guests love sipping drinks while overlooking the gentle River Windrush.
- The Old New Inn (3-star): Central and characterful, offering glimpses of the river and direct access to the village’s famous footbridges.
- Riverside View (3-star): Boutique B&B with modern rooms and leafy terrace spaces by the water, just a short walk from shops and pubs.
Best Traditional Inns in Bourton-on-the-Water
- Old Manse Hotel (3-star): Built in 1748, this pub with rooms offers open fires, wood beams, and hearty breakfasts for a quintessential Cotswolds stay.
- The Mousetrap Inn (3-star): With flagstone floors and vintage décor, this coaching inn combines history with warm service and hearty meals
Top Things to Do in Bourton-on-the-Water
Riverside Strolls: Walk along the River Windrush, cross the village’s iconic low stone bridges, and enjoy tea by the water.
The Model Village: Explore a 1:9 scale replica of Bourton, complete with mini bridges, gardens, and cottages.
Birdland Park & Gardens: See penguins, parrots, flamingos, and more in landscaped gardens, perfect for a family day out.
Cotswold Motoring Museum: Discover vintage cars, caravans, and motoring memorabilia in a charming riverside mill.
The Dragonfly Maze: Navigate hedge-lined paths while solving clues to reach the golden dragonfly at the centre.
A cold and frosty morning on the the River Windrush
Getting to and Around Bourton-on-the-Water
By Car: Located on the A429, about 2 hours from London. Public car parks on Station Road and Rissington Road make access easy.
By Train & Bus: Nearest mainline station is Moreton-in-Marsh with connections to London and Birmingham. From there, catch the Pulhams 801 bus to Bourton.
Getting Around: The village is best explored on foot, with most attractions within a few minutes’ walk. Local buses link nearby Cotswold towns.
When to Visit Bourton-on-the-Water
Spring: Blossoms and fresh greenery make riverside walks delightful. Quieter than summer, with mild weather perfect for exploring.
Summer: The busiest season, with long sunny days, family paddling, and quirky events like the August river football match.
Autumn: Golden foliage and peaceful trails make it a great time for walkers. Harvest fairs and cosy pub evenings add charm.
Winter: Serene and atmospheric, with frosty mornings and quiet pubs offering open fires. A cosy time for a romantic escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bourton-on-the-Water family-friendly?
Yes, with attractions like Birdland, the Model Village, and river paddling, families will find plenty to enjoy.
Are there riverside hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water?
Yes, stays like the Old Manse Hotel and The Old New Inn offer riverside views and settings by the Windrush.
Do I need a car to visit Bourton-on-the-Water?
Not once you arrive. The village is compact and easily walkable, though a car is useful for exploring further afield.
How can I book a hotel in Bourton-on-the-Water?
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