Fun Things to Do in Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds, England

Visiting the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water and figuring out what to do during your visit? I appreciate it can be a little overwhelming to decide upon the best things to do in Bourton-on-the Water as this pretty village offers a wide range of activities, sights and experiences.

Look no further. In this guide to Bourton-on-the-Water, you shall find meaningful information about where to stay, the best things to do, places to eat and drink, along with local shops to visit, exploring the nearby places and country walks, curated from my recent visits to this picturesque region. You can confidently plan your trip with this guide, and be assured of a rewarding visit.

Home to a rich wildlife and history, Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds with some really good attractions. The village has a popular appeal to visitors and residents alike.

While Bourton is a tourist hot-spot in the Cotswolds, it is also a really nice place in the English countryside for a day or weekend visit. Great for solo travellers who want to enjoy the tranquility of the unspoilt landscape, a super destination for couples who wants to explore and cherish the countryside and a wonder destination for great family days out. This quaint Cotswold village will quickly win your heart and it is easy to lose oneself in the relaxed surroundings of the English countryside.

10+ Fun Things to Do in Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire for an Amazing Day Out was first published in March 2023 by Timeless Travel Steps and is regularly updated. The Last Update was on Jul 10, 2025.

Visiting the UK from Abroad?

Welcome 🙂

The best and the most convenient way to visit Bourton-on-the-Water is on a day tour. The best tour is this one here that combines a visit to other Cotswold villages that are worth visiting. It is also possible to drive to Bourton as it is well connected to the M4 from London and then onto the A429. If you are planning on driving in England, try the wide range of cars available at Discover Cars for all budgets.

Additionally, visit my travel pages about London, England, and Scotland for travel inspiration around the UK.

Are you visiting some of the English Heritage sites such as Stonehenge, Dover Castle, 1066 Battle of Hastings and Battle Abbey or Osborne House on the Isle of Wight? If so, you may want to take advantage of the discounted Overseas Visitor Pass. This visitor pass is worth buying if you are visiting more than two of the over 100 sites covered by this scheme.

There are several informative pages about travels in Lake Como, Milan, Verona and Barcelona also, if you are extending your vacation to Europe.

Why Bourton-on-the-Water is Worth a Visit?

Bourton-on-the-Water lovingly known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” for its many beautiful low arched stone bridges is one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds and is absolutely 100% worth a visit. The village tops as one of the prettiest destinations in this picturesque region reputed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Known for its lush woodland, rolling hills, warmly coloured stone quaint cottages, and historic buildings with a history dating back to Neolithic times.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a haven for wildlife and has a rich heritage in farming.

The gentle River Windrush runs through Bourton-on-the-Water which adds to the charm of this quintessential English village. There are clusters of gift shops, and antique stores, making them ideal for browsing.

Dainty tearooms are sprinkled around the village, making them perfect stops for lunch, coffee and cake or scrumptious cream teas. They are just so simply beautiful…

Bourton-on-the-Water is arguably one of the best Cotswold villages with the best attractions. Take a fascinating journey through time in their motoring museum and learn all about the village from an incredibly detailed replica of the village which offers a unique perspective on the architecture and layout of Bourton.

Overall, Bourton-on-the-Water is a charming village with plenty to see and do, and it is definitely worth making a trip for.

Where is Bourton-on-the-Water?

Bourton-on-the-Water is located in the county of Gloucestershire, within the Cotswolds, a region in southwest England, known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

More specifically, Bourton lies on the A429, at a little less than 5 km (3 miles) southwest of the town of Stow-on-the Wold, 26 km (16 miles) north of Cirencester, 22.5 km (14 miles) east of the larger town of Cheltenham, 119 km (74 miles) west of London and less than 5 km northwest of the Oxfordshire border.

Getting to Bourton-on-the-Water

Reaching Bourton on the Water is fairly straight forward whether you have a car or not. For those driving, it’s easily accessible via the A429 from the M40 or M4, offering a scenic route through the heart of the Cotswolds. If you need to hire a car, get one from this renowned supplier who has a good variety available to suit all budgets.

Public transport options are also available, with regular bus services connecting Bourton-on-the-Water to nearby towns and cities. Additionally, the closest train stations are in Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham, both of which are a short bus or taxi ride away, making the journey to this picturesque village straightforward for everyone from various parts of the country.

Moreover, if you are starting your journey from larger cities, there are organized tours available from London and Oxford that provide a hassle-free way to visit Bourton-on-the-Water. These tours often include transportation and a guide, making it an ideal option for those looking to explore the Cotswolds’ beauty without the worry of planning the travel details themselves.

The postcode for Bourton-on-the-Water is GL54. You can use this Google map to configure directions.

The Weather in Bourton-on-the-Water and Best Time to Visit

Bourton-on-the-Water has mild temperatures throughout the year, with moderate rainfall. Summers are usually warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18-22°C (64-72°F). Winters are cool, with temperatures ranging from 0-7°C (32-45°F). The wettest months are usually October and November, while the driest months are typically April and May.

Like most places in the UK, the weather in Bourton-on-the-Water can be changeable, so best to bring along a raincoat or an umbrella.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a tourist attraction and is a busy destination all year round. The summer months of July and August are especially busy. If you are visiting during these months, try and get here earlier in the morning or late afternoon.

Spring and autumn are a good time to visit for their colourful spring bulbs and autumn colours. It can still be busy but bearable. There are less tourists around during these seasons.

The August Bank Holiday is particularly a favourite time for the residents. A 100-year old tradition is observed where the local football team plays a match on the River Windrush!

Where to Stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water has a good selection of hotels, inns, self-catering cottages and bed & breakfast accommodations to suit all budgets.

The Dial House sits on the High Street, right in the heart of this idyllic village, and has been around since 1698. This honey hued stonewall building is steeped in historic character. Weaved with modern charm, this boutique hotel is a perfect getaway for quiet relaxation. The restaurant serves several award winning dishes, delicious and flavoursome, both international and English cuisines.

Occupying an enviable location by River Windrush, the Old Manse Hotel was built in 1748 as a coaching inn. This property brims with character and charm. The restaurant overlooks the beautiful river and serves a traditional English menu along with real ales. This hotel is dog friendly and there are some rooms dedicated to accommodating pets and their owner.

The Chester House Hotel offers contemporary country style accommodations along with a restaurant and bar. It offers parking for its guests also.

Puddleduck House, a fabulous self-catering property is situated within minutes of the village centre. This property offers a large living space, overlooks a garden and accommodates up to 6 people.

Go here for a greater selection of accommodations in Bourton-on-the-Water.

The History of Bourton-on-the-Water

With the discovery of Neolithic pottery outside of the village, and excavations near Salmonsbury Camp showing evidence of settlement during the Neolithic period, through the Bronze and Iron Ages, one can safely say that the history of Bourton-on-the-Water dates back to at least 4000 BC. Currency bars used for the exchange of goods during the Iron Age were discovered also. These are now housed at the British Museum. 

The Romans

When the Romans arrived, they built a settlement on the west of the village. Roman coins and pottery has been discovered here. 

For the Romans, Bourton was an important strategic point because of its position on River Windrush. The village provided a crossing point of a river which would have been much wider and deeper than it is today. The present A429 at the edge of the village was part of the Roman Fosse Way, which led to Londinium (London), connecting to Exeter, Lincoln, Bath, Cirencester and Leicester.

The Saxons

The first firm settlement is said to have been established by the Saxons in the 8th century. The village’s name “Bourton” is formed of two of Saxon’s words. “Burh” meaning camp or fortification and “ton” meaning a settlement. Hence, Bourton means a “fortified settlement”. 

In the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, the village grew as a market town. Many buildings were constructed during this period. Some of the buildings and landmarks exist to this day. One of the most famous landmarks from this era is the Grade II listed Church of St Lawrence which dates back to the 12th century. 

During the Wool Heyday & Victorian Era

Bourton-on-the-Water became a hub for wool production during the 17th and 18th centuies. Many of the buildings in the village were converted into mills. The river was diverted to the centre of the village to power three mills. One of them is housed in the Motor Museum today. 

The industrial revolution brought further developments to the village, and many new buildings were constructed during this period. Many of the stone cottages using the honey coloured Cotswold stone were built during the 17th and 18th centuries. For a hundred years, from 1862 to 1962, a train service operated between Cheltenham and Oxford via Bourton-on-the-Water which brought visitors and boosted tourism, making this village a tourist hub. 

Bourton-on-the-Water Today

Today, Bourton-on-the-Water is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe who come here to enjoy the village’s natural beauty, quaint architecture, and rich history. There are a number of museums, showcasing the rich history and heritage of this pretty Cotswold village.

Delightful Things to Do in Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire

Here are some enjoyable things you could do in Bourton-on-the-Water, a beautiful village in a picturesque region.

Enjoy a Stroll along the River Windrush & Crossover the Bridges

The River Windrush runs through the heart of the village, and there are plenty of benches along its banks where you can sit and enjoy the peaceful scenery. The village green along the river bank is a popular spot for picnics. You can also watch the ducks or hire a rowing boat.

The Windrush is crossed over by five low-arched stone bridges. The oldest is the Mill Bridge, built in 1654. You’ll find this near the war memorial.

The second was built in 1756 and is called the High Bridge. Paynes Bridge from 1776, New Bridge from 1911 and the Coronation Bridge from 1953.

The River Windrush is a tributary of the Thames which begins near Winchcombe and joins the Thames at Newbridge, Oxfordshire.

Have Fun in a Fascinating Visit to the Model Village

Bourton-on-the-Water is famous for its Model Village, which is a one-ninth scale replica of the village itself. It is the only Grade II listed model village in the country and offers a fascinating insight of the village from a different perspective.

The Model Village was built in the 1930s by a local craftsmen named Gerald Cooper. It took him five years to complete.

The Model Village covers an area of approximately 1.5 acres and includes miniature versions of Bourton-on-the-Water’s. From shops, pubs, houses, trees and tiny bridges across the Windrush as well as most famous buildings and landmarks, including the Old Water Mill and the village church. It features a model railway, which includes a replica of the village train station and a working model of the train that runs through the village.

The model village even has its own one-ninth scale model village with the tiniest of details. 

The buildings in the Model Village are made from local Cotswold stone, and many of them are exact replicas of the originals. It is kept updated with new shops and buildings in the village.

Located in Rissington Road,  on the grounds of The Old New Inn, the Model Village is open to visitors where you can admire the details of the buildings and landscaping. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.

Explore the Cotswold Motoring Museum

Take a step back and explore the fascinating collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles at the Cotswold Motoring Museum. There’s also a display of caravans, toys, and enamel signs from the early 20th century. This is a must visit, especially for car fans.

The museum features a collection of over 50 classic cars, motorcycles and bicycles along with vintage motoring memorabilia in its seven galleries. Exhibits include vehicles going as far back as the early 1900s, up to the 1970s. It includes a 1926 Bugatti Type 35, a 1937 Alvis Speed 25, and a 1969 Morris Minor Traveller. The museum features a recreated 1930s garage, complete with tools and equipment from the era. 

My favourite was “BRUM”, the self-driven TV star from the 1990s which went on adventures, a popular children’s series. Brum’s home is the Mill Gallery.

The Cotswold Motoring Museum is located in the Old Mill, Bourton-on-the-Water and is open daily.

Stop-by at St Lawrence Church, Bourton-on-the-Water

Set just a short walk from the High Street, St Lawrence Church occupies a peaceful setting in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water. Built on the site of a wooden Saxon church from the 8th century, and a Roman temple, St Lawrence Church dates from the 12th century. The first stone church was built in 1110 AD in Norman design. 

The present church features a Norman doorway and a medieval font as well as stained glass windows. Other architectural features to look out for are a 14th century chancel built by Walter de Burhton, a nave built during Victorian times and a Georgian tower. Look out also for the unique domed clock tower, and the painted ceiling in the chancel.

The church is dedicated to St Lawrence, a Christian martyr in the third century. Open daily and is free to enter.  

Learn the Art of Perfume-Making at the Cotswold Perfumery

The Cotswold Perfumery is a small independent perfumery located in Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water within a 300-year old Grade II listed characterful historic building. It was established in 1966 by John Stephen, who had a passion and desire to create high quality fragrances for his clients. 

Today, the Cotswold Perfumery continues to produce handcrafted perfumes using traditional methods and the finest natural ingredients. You can take a tour of the perfumery to learn about the history of perfume-making or signup for a perfume-making class and learn the art of fragrance creation. 

The Cotswold Perfumery offers a range of perfumes for everyone as well as a selection of home fragrances, skincare products, and other gifts. 

Have Awesome Fun at The Dragonfly Maze

The Dragonfly Maze is a fun and entertaining attraction. It is one delightful way to experience unique things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water.

The maze is a traditional English yew hedge maze constructed from over 1500 yew trees. It is designed to resemble the shape of a dragonfly and its not a huge maze. There’s also a viewing tower where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the maze.

The maze is a puzzle that you can solve by finding your way through the twists and turns to reach the centre. You follow a quiz trail which provides clues to help solve the puzzle. It is easy to get disoriented and lose your way but staff are always on point if you are totally lost. The activity takes about 30-50 minutes to reach the centre.

The Dragonfly Maze is open from March. and costs £4.50 (adult) and £3.50 (child: 4-14). Dogs are welcome.

Step Back in Time at Greystones Farm

Greystone Farm Nature Reserve is a small nature reserve of 31 acres managed by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust. A secret corner located just outside Bourton-on-the-Water village centre, it takes about a 13-minute walk. 

Greystone is a working organic dairy farm with free roaming cattle and wildlife. Gloucester and Friesian cattle roam and graze freely here. 

The reserve features a variety of habitats, including wet meadows, hedgerows and woodland. There are walking trails to explore where you can see a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies and wildflowers. The bird hide on the reserve provides a good vantage point for bird watching. 

Greystone Farm is also the site of Salmonsbury Camp, an important historic site where Neolithic and Iron Age remains were found. This was their meeting point and

Go for a stroll through its peaceful wildflower meadows along the Wildlife Walk or Time-Travel Trail. Explore the interactive barn and the replica Iron Age roundhouse. 

The Oxfordshire Way long-distance path runs through the reserve.

There are no seats along the trails, although visitors can relax by the River Eye. The landscape is gently undulating with no steep sections, level paths and there are no stiles to cross.

Greystones Farm Nature Reserve offers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Cotswolds countryside where you see a variety of wildlife up close. It’s a peaceful and serene setting that provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of Bourton-on-the-Water.

 Entry is free. Closed during winter.

Bloody Bourton Walking Tour

If you plan to visit Bourton-on-the-Water for a weekend, you may like to join this historical tour that delves into the gruesome past of the charming village.

The Bloody Bourton Walking Tour is led by Edward Charnel, dressed in full costume. He reveals the secrets of this lovely village and shares tales of ghosts, witchcraft, secret room, crime and punishment, murder and much more. This is a history walk from the Iron Age, Saxon, Roman and through to the 20th century. 

The tour takes place on Friday and Saturday at 19:00, from the war memorial. It lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can reserve your place at the Visitor Information Centre or purchase your ticket from the guide on the day. However, you must pre-book for tours taking place between November 1 and April 1.

Visit the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

The Cotswold Wildlife Park is a short drive of approximately 20 minutes from Bourton-on-the-Water and is a destination that the whole family will enjoy.

The Wildlife Park has over 260 species of animals and is set in 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens. There’s plenty of space to relax and get a close encounter with the wildlife.

It is home to one of the largest reptile collections in the UK. Highlights include a farmyard with goat petting area, daily penguin feeding, the lemur walk-through and the rhino paddock.

Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens is open daily from 10:00 A.M.

Summary of Delightful Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water:

• Enjoy a Stroll along the River Windrush and Crossover the Bridges;
• Have Fun in a Fascinating Visit to the Model Village;
• Explore the Cotswold Motoring Museum;
• Stop-by at St Lawrence Church, Bourton-on-the-Water;
• Learn the Art of Perfume-Making at the Cotswold Perfumery;
• Visit the Birdland Park and Gardens;
• Have Awesome Fun at the Dragonfly Maze;
• Step Back in Time at Greystones Farm;
• Bloody Bourton Walking Tour;
• Visit the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens;

Bourton-on-the-Water Walks

One of the pleasures of visiting Bourton-on-the-Water is to headout to the surrounding countryside. The Cotswolds is known for its beautiful scenery, and there are plenty of walks and hikes to choose from. You can walk along the river, through the fields, or up into the hills for some stunning views.

There’s a variety of walks to choose from: 

Bourton to Slaughter Walk: This is a 8.6 km (5.4 miles) circular walk to the neighbouring villages of Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter. The walk takes you along River Windrush, River Eye and across fields. The route takes about three hurs to complete and you can stop off for lunch at either of the villages.

If you find this route to be too long, you could just make the trek to Lower Slaughter and back, which is about 2 km (1.2 miles) each way.

Wyck Rissington Walk: This circular walk takes you to the nearby village of Wyck Rissington and the trail is 7.5 km (4.6 miles). This walk takes you through Greystone Farm Nature Reserve, an old mill, River Eye and lakes. 

Bourton-on-the-Water is also well placed for a number of long-distance walks. This includes walks to Winchcombe (14 miles each way), the Oxfordshire Way, from Bourton to Henley-on-Thames 108 km (67 miles) and the Diamond Way Circular Walk 106 km (66 miles).

Buy this book about the best 28 Walks in the Cotswolds, published by the Ordnance Survey. This is one of the best guides there is about Cotswold Circular Walks or if you prefer short walks, buy this one for leisure walks, suitable for all ages and levels.

In case you are wondering, Ordnance Survey is the authoritative mapping agency for Great Britain. They create, maintain and distribute detailed location information about the UK. This includes miles and miles of walking routes and pathfinders, graded by length, levels and suitability. Their guidebooks come with written detailed descriptions, an OS map, GPS waypoints, busy roads to avoid (if any) as well as best things to see, parking and pubs.

Places to Eat and Drink in Bourton-on-the-Water

The attractive Bakery on the Water is well known for its crusty bread, using a long fermentation process to develop its flavour and texture. They make delicious bakes scones, pastries, cakes and quiches also. Great coffee too! Grab yourself a takeaway and have a little picnic by the water or eat at the cafe whilst enjoying the cafe atmosphere. 

The Den is another lovely cafe to go to if you fancy a lunchtime bite. They serve both hot and cold meals for lunch as well as delicious cream teas and ice cream.

For a good British pub grub, head to the Old Manse Hotel, a Green King pub. Here, you can enjoy the traditional meals like pies, burgers and chips, scampi and fish & chips along with a good pint.  

For something more sumptuous and home-cooked feel, go to the Rose Tree Restaurant. Set in a cosy Grade II listed stone cottage with a garden that overlooks the River Windrush, the Rose Tree offers hearty traditional English cuisine like chicken pie, steak & kidney pie or Gloucestershire sausage accompanied by vegetable and mash/new potatoes. 

Shops in Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water offers a variety of local shops and boutiques, from unique gifts, home decorations and bespoke products where you can find something special.

Head to Cotswold Sheepskin Company and explore a range of leather goods. Cotswold Candlemakers offer a range of beautifully scented candles that can embellish any home. Additionally, there are several gift shops that offer handmade creations and bespoke gifts. For those craving sweets, the Candy Shop is a must visit

FAQs

finally…

The quaint village of Bourton-on-the-Water is known for its picturesque architecture, idyllic countryside scenery and its long history going back to the Neolithic times. It is highly attractive as a tourist destination and offers something for everyone, be it exploring the local museums, visiting the dainty tea shops for delicious cream teas or strolling along the River Windrush along with the many scenic circular country walks.

Bourton-on-the-Water most notable landmark is its series of low arched stone bridges that span the river and give the place its nickname, “Venice of the Cotswolds.” The village also boasts an impressive collection of historic buildings and attractions, including the Cotswold Motoring Museum, Birdland Park and Gardens along with the Model Village. 

Bourton-on-the-Water is a delightful destination that captures the essence of rural England. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an authentic cultural experience, this charming village is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. 

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