Winchcombe is the ideal base for exploring the wider Cotswolds but don’t miss out on all the things you can do in Winchcombe itself, here’s our round-up of the top 10.

1. Sudeley Castle

A trip to Winchcombe isn’t complete without visiting Sudeley Castle. Formerly home to Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s last wife, the castle boasts well-preserved chambers, fascinating displays, and award-winning gardens. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the Queen’s Garden, Knot Garden, and the Tithe Barn ruins. Children will love the adventure playground, featuring an impressive wooden fort.

2. Winchcombe Museum and meteorite

The Winchcombe Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Situated in the Old Town Hall in the centre of town, one of its most fascinating exhibits is the Winchcombe meteorite that landed in the town in 2021. The museum provides an insightful look into the meteorite’s significance and the story behind its discovery. In addition to the meteorite, the museum features displays on local history, archaeology, and geology.

3. Town Centre Heritage Trail

Taking you through Winchcombe’s streets, you’ll see historic buildings and learn a little about the town’s rich heritage. Purchase the Heritage Trail map at the Winchcombe Museum for just £1.50 and spend the next 1hr or so discovering the town’s visible history.

4. The GWSR Steam Train

Just a 20 minute walk from Winchcombe town centre, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR) runs from Cheltenham Racecourse to Broadway stopping at Winchcombe along the way. The vintage steam trains offer a unique way to experience the scenic beauty of the Cotswolds including rolling countryside and picturesque villages. Take a look at their website for seasonal events such as the yearly Santa Express.

5. Food and Drink

Winchcombe offers a wide variety of places to stop for a little refreshment. The White Hart and The Lion Inn are popular choices for traditional meals but you’ll also find other casual dining venues including The Old Bakery Coffee & Wine Bar, where you can stop for coffee and homemade cake or a delicious charcuterie board and glass of wine.

6. Retail Therapy

For a small town, Winchcombe delights visitors with an array of independent shops and boutiques. Find unique gifts, antiques, and locally made crafts at the charming stores lining North Street and the High Street. For fresh produce, you’ll find the Farmers Market every third Saturday of the month at Isbourne Arts on the High Street.

7. St Peter’s Church

History lovers will appreciate a visit to St Peter’s Church, known for its impressive architecture, intricate stone carvings and a rogues gallery of grotesques. The church dates back to the 13th century and features a beautiful collection of medieval stained glass.

8. Belas Knap

A short drive from Winchcombe lies Belas Knap, a Neolithic long barrow and ancient burial site. This atmospheric site offers a glimpse into prehistoric life and provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

9. Winchcombe Pottery

Established in 1926 on the site of a pottery dating back to the early 1800’s, this is one of the longest-running craft potteries in the UK making some of the finest domestic pottery in the world.

10. Hailes Abbey

Founded in the 13th century, nearby Hailes Abbey is a short drive or a 2-mile hike from the Winchcombe town centre. Visitors can walk through the ruins and enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the site and uncovering stories of the monks who lived and worshipped at the abbey for nearly three centuries. The onsite museum shares the stories of monks who lived and worshipped at the abbey for nearly three centuries.

The post Top 10 Things To Do in Winchcombe appeared first on Winchcombe; a historic Cotswold town with charm and style.

Held at Winchcombe Park, it’s 3 loops of the path at the bottom of the field and back up to the finish line, a total distance of 2km.  Everyone is invited to walk, skip, jog or run around the park!

Simply register each participating child at parkrun.org.uk/register and print off their barcode (or save it to your phone) to be scanned at the end of the run.

Everyone meets at 8.45am by the zip wire and after a quick briefing and a warm up, it’s 3-2-1 go! parkrun tourists are welcome!

If you are interested in volunteering, the run directors and core team are a friendly bunch! You’ll be fully briefed and can either marshal or if you’re feeling more adventurous you can do the warm up, scan barcodes, timekeeping or hand out the position tokens.  Simply visit parkrun.org.uk/winchcombe-juniors for more information and become part of the parkrun family.

Every Sunday, 9:00am (arrive at 8:45am)
Free Entry at Winchcombe Park, Pennylands Way, Winchcombe, GL54 5GD
To register beforehand visit parkrun.org.uk/register

The post Winchcombe Junior Parkrun – every Sunday at 9am appeared first on Winchcombe; a historic Cotswold town with charm and style.

Saturday 21st September 2024, 10am to 1pm
Saturday 19th October 2024, 10am to 1pm
Saturday 16th November 2024, 10am to 1pm

Whether you’re looking for seasonal fruit and veg for your family feasts, unique condiments and local cheeses to impress guests, fresh bread for a lunch time platter or just fancy treating yourself to a homemade cake or a new plant for the garden, Winchcombe Farmers Market is waiting to be explored.

Situated right in the centre of town at Isbourne Arts, High Street, Winchcombe, if you’re travelling by car you can park in Back Lane car park for just £1 all day (just follow the town centre parking signs).  Grab some local produce and then support the high street with a wander through town to complete your shopping.

Planned for the third Saturday of the month, it is hoped this will become a permanent fixture in the Winchcombe calendar.

The post Winchcombe Farmers Market appeared first on Winchcombe; a historic Cotswold town with charm and style.

Let Experience Winchcombe guide you with our top picks for family fun and adventure this summer.

1: EXPERIENCE THE ANCIENT ART OF FALCONRY AT SUDELEY CASTLE

This exciting falconry experience gives you the rare opportunity to see birds of prey demonstrating their incredible acrobatic skills. Under the guidance of an expert falconer, witness the magnificent swoops and dives of these beautiful hunting birds. For nature lovers and those in search of a very special time at Sudeley, this is an experience not to be missed!Every Tuesday & Thursday, from 23rd July to 29th August
10:00am Tickets: available with general admission

2: SEE A REAL METEORITE ON DISPLAY AT WINCHCOMBE MUSEUM

Special exhibition “From the Cosmos to the Cotswolds” tells the remarkable story of the meteorite’s arrival and explains its significance as a witness to a time when the solar system was still being formed.  Every Tuesday to Sunday
10:00am to 4:00pm  Free Admission

3: PICK YOUR OWN AT HAYLES FRUIT FARM

Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a chance to stock up on fresh produce, pick your own is a great option. And with Hayles’ commitment to providing a unique and fun-filled experience, you’re sure to have a great time.Farm Shop & Cafe open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00am to 5:00pm
Last entry onto the field at 4:30pm

4: JOIN JUNIOR PARK RUN AT WINCHCOMBE PARK

Part of the parkrun family, junior parkrun is a free, community event dedicated to 4-14 year olds and their families. You can walk, jog or run your way around the 2km course. junior parkrun tourists are welcome!Every Sunday, 9:00am (arrive at 8:45am)
Free Entry at Winchcombe Park, Pennylands Way, Winchcombe, GL54 5GD
Must register beforehand at parkrun.co.uk/register

5: ENJOY FREE CHILDREN’S CRAFT ACTIVITIES WITH A VALID STEAM TRAIN TICKET

Go Wild at Winchcombe is offering a variety of free crafting activities for young passengers travelling on the steam engine with a valid train ticket. From colourful paper crafts to hands-on DIY projects, there’s something to spark every young artist’s imagination, all while surrounded by the charm of the countryside and the rhythm of the steam engine.
Suitable for children aged 2-10 years.
10th August – 26th August
10:00am – 3:00pm Tickets:
Adult – £26.00
Child – £10.00
Family – £65.00 (2 adults and up to 3 children)

6: CALLING ALL KNIGHTS FROM ACROSS THE KINGDOM!

Children of all ages are invited to dress-up and join the fun of Sudeley’s Knight School, every Wednesday & Thursday throughout the summer. The ancient art of sword-fighting, archery and jousting are just some of the knight-themed activities and adventures that lay in store.Every Wednesday & Thursday, from 24th July to 29th August
10:30am
Tickets: available with general admission

7: LET’S GO FLY A KITE – KITE FLYING ON CLEEVE HILL

Kite flying is a great family activity and we have the perfect launch location just up the road at Cleeve Common! Don’t have a kite? Don’t worry, you can pick one up from JUST inCASE in Winchcombe or join in with the crafting team at Cleeve Hill Golf Club to make your own (Friday 16th August only, 10.30-12.30pm, £3.50, booking essential).Visit Cleeve Common website for more summer activities.
Kite Flying – Weather permitting

8: SIGN UP FOR ARTS AND CRAFTS AT NEW COMMUNITY VENUE ISBOURNE ARTS

Children’s Painting Workshop – Mixed media painting inspired by the story of The Tiger Who Came to Tea!
Suitable for 5-7 years, must be accompanied by an adult
Tuesday 6th August, 9am to 10am, £8 per childChildren’s Typography Workshop – Mixed media experiments exploring lettering and design.
Suitable for 8-11 years, must be accompanied by an adult
Tuesday 6th August, 11am to 12.30pm, £10 per childYoung Person’s Still Life Drawing Workshop – Experimental mark-making working towards an expressive drawing inspired by still life.
Ages 12-16 years, under 16s must be accompanied by an adult
Wednesday 28th August, 10am=12pm, £10 per young person.For more information email adrienne.willcox@outlook.com.

9: ENTER A COMPETITION AT THE WINCHCOMBE COUNTRY SHOW

There are numerous competition categories for children of all ages, so from pasta pictures to master baker, it’s time to get creative!
The theme of the show this year is the Paris 2024 Olympics/Paralympics.Deadline for entries Saturday 24th August
Judging takes place at the Country Show on 26th August, Bank Holiday Monday, from 12:30pm,
Winchcombe School, Greet Road

10: TAKE A PICNIC TO HAILES ABBEY

Once the centre of monastic life, the tranquil ruins at Hailes Abbey are now the perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic in a unique historic setting. Run by English Heritage, you don’t need to book your ticket in advance, but you will always get the best price and guaranteed entry by booking online ahead of your visit. If you are a Member and wish to book, your ticket is still free.Open Weds-Sun, 10am – 5pm.
Hailes, Nr Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5PB

The post Family Fun this Summer Holiday – Our Top 10 Picks appeared first on Winchcombe; a historic Cotswold town with charm and style.

Charming Stay Options

• The White Hart Inn – An historic 16th century coaching inn with open fires, stylish rooms, and a special “Taste & Toast to Winchcombe” package: one night stay with a Prosecco cream tea on arrival and a Rise & Shine cooked or continental breakfast – ideal for a romantic treat
• The Lion Inn – Quaint and cosy, with exposed beams, roaring fireplaces, boutique rooms, and excellent pub dinners focusing on seasonal local fare
• Sudeley Castle Guest Cottages – Stay within castle grounds in period cottages for a unique historical ambiance
• The Feathered Nest – A highly rated boutique, 2-bedroomed cottage on the picturesque Vineyard Street in the heart of Winchcombe

More options on places to stay.

Romantic Activities

• Sudeley Castle & Gardens -Wander through 10 award-winning gardens, the Queen’s Garden, Tithe Barn ruins, and explore the chapel where Queen Katherine Parr is buried. A beautiful spot for an intimate stroll.
• Cotswold Way & Cleeve Hill Walk – Embark on a scenic 7-mile circular route from near Cheltenham, passing Belas Knap neolithic long barrow, then ascends to Cleeve Hill – the highest point in the Cotswolds – offering breathtaking Severn Valley views
• GWSR Steam Railway – Ride the vintage steam engines on the Gloucestershire–Warwickshire Railway. Hop off for a stroll in Winchcombe, return to countryside views and nostalgic charm
• Local Heritage Sites
  • Belas Spoonley Wood Roman Villa – Discover ancient Roman ruins and mosaics nearby
  • Winchcombe Pottery – Visit a renowned traditional crafts studio with roots back to 1926 – perfect for picking up a keepsake
  • Hailes Abbey – Ruined medieval abbey, tranquil gardens, and lovely picnic spots on the town edge

Dining for Two

• Day 1 Morning:
  Arrive and check in. Café breakfast at one of the inns.
• Day 1 Late Morning:
  Explore Winchcombe’s antique shops & pottery gallery.
• Day 1 Afternoon:
  Visit Sudeley Castle & gardens. Tea at Pavillion Cafe.
• Day 1 Evening:
  Dinner at 5 North Street or Lion Inn; finish with a nightcap.
• Day 2 Morning:
  Steam train ride; hop off for countryside views and coffee.
• Day 2 Late Morning / Early Afternoon:
  Walk Cleeve Hill via Belas Knap, or explore Hailes Abbey with a picnic.
• Day 2 Evening:
  Enjoy pub dinner, or a tasty Indian meal at The Winchcombe Restaurant

N.B. Please check availability and opening times for your chosen dates

Additional Tips

• Transport: A rental car is handy for reaching trails, abbeys, and nearby villages. Cheltenham public transport also connects
• Reserve ahead: Book tables at 5 North St and cottages at Sudeley early, especially spring–summer.
• Best time to visit: Spring–early summer offers blossoms and quieter paths.

With charming stays, tranquil countryside, historical splendor, and delightful dining, your Winchcombe base guarantees a romantic Cotswold weekend to cherish.

The post A Romantic Weekend in the Cotswolds appeared first on Winchcombe; a historic Cotswold town with charm and style.

Experience Winchcombe’s alfresco dining guide

1: THE OLD BAKERY COFFEE & WINE BAR, WINCHCOMBE

Overview – The Old Bakery is set in a 17th-century building providing a classic Cotswold Experience. With a relaxed atmosphere and great selection of wines and locally sourced produce, you can take in the views from the conservatory and soak up the sunshine in the courtyard, whilst enjoying coffee, cake or perhaps a sharing plate.
Menu Highlights – Tasty boards of Charcuterie, Cheese and Bread. Filling bowls of home made soup, chilli and chick-pea curry. Small plates of tasty treats such as Manchego cheese and honey.
Opening Hours – Wed: 10am – 4pm, Thu – Sat : 10am- 9.45pm
How to Book – Call on 01242 437632

2: THE LION INN, WINCHCOMBE

Overview – The Lion is a beautifully restored 15th-century coaching inn serving traditional pub food using local produce. Behind the bar is a wide range of cask ale and craft beer, plus local cider and wine selection. Outside, the large beer garden is ideal for al fresco drinking and dining, and if it get’s a little chilly, the outdoor heaters will keep you warm.
Menu Highlights – Plenty to choose from with Breakfast, Brunch, Main, and Children’s menus as well as a mouth watering Sunday Roast.
Opening Hours – 7 days a week, 8am to 11pm
How to Book – Online or Call 01242 603300

3: THE CORNER CUPBOARD, WINCHCOMBE

Overview – Whether you are looking for a traditional meal, or a pint of real ale, the Corner Cupboard Inn provides a delightful venue. With an enclosed outdoor seating area an.d plenty of seats, you can enjoy the evening sunshine.
Menu Highlights -Their menu includes a wide range of meals, from bar snacks to three course meals, serving locally-sourced great tasting food.
Opening Times – Open everyday – 10:00am till Midnight
Food Service – Mon-Tues no food, Wed-Fri 12:00pm-3:30pm, 6:00pm-8:30pm, Sat 1:00pm-7:30pm, Sun 12:00pm-3:30pm
How to Book – Call 01242 602303

4: THE PHEASANT INN, TODDINGTON

Overview – The Pheasant at Toddington is a traditional Cotswold Inn serving homemade food and Donnington Ales. With plenty of outdoor space, simply order at the bar and the friendly staff will bring your food to you in the sunshine.
Menu Highlights – An extensive menu with a good variety of pub meals including From the Grill, salads, vegetarian and gluten free options as well as the more traditional lamb shank, fish and chips, steak and ale pie – too much to mention!
Opening Hours – Tues – Sat 11:00am – 11:00pm, Sunday – 11:00am = 10:00pm, currently closed Mondays until further notice.
How to Book – Call 01242 621271

5: THE ROYAL OAK, GRETTON

Overview – Stunning views give a wonderful back drop to your al fresco eating experience, including a newly fitted children’s play area and the regular sight and sound of the GWSR steam engine in the distance.
Menu Highlights – A great variety of pub classics including sirloin steak and beer battered fish and chips plus a selection of mouth-watering desserts!
Opening Hours – Mon – Sat 11am to 11pm, Sun 12pm to 10.30pm
How to Book – Call on 01242 604999

The post Winchcombe’s Alfresco Dining Guide appeared first on Winchcombe; a historic Cotswold town with charm and style.