7 best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water, The Cotswolds

When I was writing my list of the 15 prettiest Cotswold villages to visit, I grappled with the difficult decision of which beautiful village to put first.

Bourton-on-the-Water has so much that makes it an absolute favourite of mine, and it’s earned its place on the list without a shadow of a doubt.

From the quirky quintessential English charm of the Bourton-on-the-Water model village to the welcoming pubs and shops, I highly recommend a visit to this central village in the Cotswolds.

For a village, Bourton-on-the-Water succeeds in retaining its slow-paced charm, with a sense that you’ve come to a totally unique place.

It’s known affectionately as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ due to the wealth of bridges traversing the River Windrush which meanders through the village centre.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a village which easily wins over your heart and quickly puts you in a relaxed mood.

My guide will explain everything you need to know when visiting this village, from the best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water to my favourite walks. 

Bourton-on-the-Water – what you need to know

Five charming bridges span the tranquil River Windrush in the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water and the buildings are set back, showcasing the iconic Cotswolds golds of the region.

I’m sure you won’t be surprised to learn that this village is frequently voted one of the prettiest villages in England.

For its size, it is packed with things to do and interesting things to see. But don’t underestimate how much you’ll simply want to unwind and relax here.

The village has a history dating back over 6,000 years, and is even mentioned in the Domesday Book. The character of the history is not all ancient though.

A fascinating slice of living history in Bourton-in-the-Water is that every August Bank Holiday, the football team have match actually in the river!

Kicking and splashing, the aim is to still score goals, and has been a tradition now for 100 years!

Where is Bourton-on-the-Water?

Bourton-on-the-Water is quite a central Cotswolds village. It is also central to the UK, making it relatively easy to get to from most places.

For visitors to Gloucester and Cheltenham, it is one of the closest villages to tag on for a visit. The village is close to the A429, which makes it very easy to get to. 

From central London, Bourton-on-the-Water can be reached in around 2 hours by car. You can also visit by train from Paddington to Kingham or Moreton-in-Marsh (both journeys take around 1.5-2 hours).

From Kingham you would need to pre-order a taxi to take you on to Bourton-on-the-Water. From Moreton-in-Marsh, there is a bus which will take you to the village in 20 minutes.

What about Bourton-on-the-Water parking?

Many Cotswold villages, like Castle Combe, can be tricky for parking. But I’m pleased to say that it is generally much easier to park in Bourton-on-the-Water.

There are two large car parks open to anyone, both of which are pay and display. One is on Station Road and the other can be found on Rissington Road.

You can easily walk to the centre of the village in just a few minutes from either of these car parks. 

There is a small amount of parking in the village centre, but this is often full. There are some Blue Badge spaces within the village too, but the bulk of disabled parking in Bourton-on-the-Water is in Station Road car park.

You should be aware that coaches and motorhomes are very much not welcome in the village. You cannot enter via Lansdowne and must not travel down the High Street in these vehicles. Dedicated parking for both is available in the Station Road car park. 

Many walks and cycle routes take you through Bourton-on-the-Water, if you’re feeling more active.

Best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water

In my opinion, Bourton-on-the-Water is the perfect place to just stop, slow down, and take in your surroundings.

I recommend reserving some time to chill out on the grass by the river and even dip your toes, especially in the summer months.

Relaxing aside, here is my pick of the best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water:

1. Birdland

Just outside of Bourton-on-the-Water, and indeed one of the primary draws for people to this corner of the Cotswolds, is Birdland.

Whatever you do though, don’t come and visit this famous attraction and miss out on the village itself!

Nonetheless, young and old alike will delight in the nine acres of woodlands and gardens given over to 130 different species of birds.

Marvel at the flamingos, squawk like a parrot or be amazed by the King Penguins. The Jurassic Journey is a particularly popular trail with children and the Flamingo Café is a great place to refuel.

2. The Model Village

The Old New Inn is home to the Model Village which dates from the 1930s.

This is a popular attraction which is a one-ninth scale replica of the village, created by a previous landlord in 1937. It’s a way to get a bird’s eye view of the whole village.

See if you can spot the model village itself or marvel at the singing church and the ambling waters of the river.

If you’ve got time, within the model village you can view Miniature World. This is a remarkable display of detailed miniature scenes and room sets, some of which move.

Incredibly, over 100 craftspeople were involved in its creation. 

3. Dragonfly Maze

A charming activity to keep you amused is the wonderful Dragonfly Maze – and another one that I think is great for families.

Embark on your quest through the yew hedge solving 14 hidden clues and trying to locate the golden dragonfly at the centre.

4. Bourton-on-the-Water walks

Bourton-on-the-Water has a bustling heart but lots of different walking trails take in or pass near the village.

I think the Bourton to Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter walk is particularly lovely and will see you make your way through a handful of Cotswold villages and countryside.

The route is circular and just under seven miles. Plus, I’m pleased to say that there are plenty of pubs to stop off at along the way!

5. Greystones Nature Reserve

Greystones Nature Reserve is wonderfully delightful and I particularly love their glorious wildflower meadows.

Here you’ll also find a replica Iron Age roundhouse, Iron Age ramparts, a Discovery Barn (with its live camera feed to a Barn Owl box) and a working organic farm. Entrance is free, so what are you waiting for?

The Greystones Courtyard Café is a relaxed place to enjoy afternoon tea in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Greystones is also great for Bourton-on-the-Water walks. You can pick up a map which shows you all of the different marked trails through the wildflower meadows.

This is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and if you come in May or early June you may even be treated to seeing some rare local orchids.

Sit quietly by the river and you could just spot an otter or vole. Look up and you may even see a bird of prey silently circling. 

6. Bourton-on-the-Water shops

It may be a village, but I think that Bourton-on-the-Water is the perfect place for some interesting shopping.

Cotswold China & Cookware is a popular boutique-style shop selling china, gifts and cookware with names such as Emma Bridgwater, Portmeirion and Yankee Candles.

While Cotswold Pottery is a studio where you can have a go yourself. Cotswold Sheepskin and The Cotswold Perfumery are another couple of quirky shops worth your visit.

Buy souvenirs at The Victorian Christmas Shop and finish off with a little something from Sweet Treats & Gifts. 

7. The Cotswold Motoring Museum

One of the most-loved attractions of the Cotswolds, and certainly one of the must-do things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water is the Cotswold Motoring Museum.

Found in The Old Mill, here you’ll find more than 40 classic cars and bikes, many of which are notably rare. Some even date back as far as the early 1900s. 

The museum’s most-famous exhibit is Brum from the 1990s hit TV series. There are also all sorts of enamel signs to keep you curious as well as an eclectic range of motoring paraphernalia.

You’ll enjoy seeing the replica garage which is like stepping back to the early days of motoring.

There’s also the Paved Paradise Gallery showcasing 1960s and 1970s memorabilia, which is a must-see. Don’t forget to nip into the gift shop before you leave.

What else to do in Bourton-on-the-Water?

Bourton-in-the-Water is a beautiful village that encompasses all that the Cotswolds is. It can get quite busy with tourists, but I’d recommend trying to get absorbed with the vibe.

Make sure you factor in some time to discover the best places to eat in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Or if you really want to soak up the atmosphere, I’d suggest staying overnight. Have a read of my guide to the best hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water for my favourite places to stay.

Alternatively, there’s something wonderful about visiting at Christmas time and you really can’t beat seeing the twinkling lights as carols are sung. A Christmas tree even gets planted right in the river!

Whenever you visit, I know you’ll love Bourton-on-the-Water and realise why it really is so often hailed as one of England’s prettiest villages.

Looking for more inspiration? Start with my guide to visiting the Cotswolds or discover my Cotswolds articles:

• 15 luxury hotels in the Cotswolds
• 15 best brunch spots in the Cotswolds
• 23 fun things to do in the Cotswolds
• 15 lovely spots for afternoon tea in the Cotswolds
• 21 amazing restaurants in the Cotswolds
• 14 dreamy spa breaks in the Cotswolds

Or check out more of my Cotswolds villages guides:

• Castle Combe
• Bibury
• Burford
• Cirencester
• Lower Slaughter
• Stow-on-the-Wold
• Upper Slaughter