Tucked Away Recommends: A Day Out in Bourton-on-the-Water

Family Fun, Romantic Days Out & Dog-Friendly Adventures

Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the region’s most iconic and well-known destinations. With its pretty stone bridges crossing the River Windrush, traditional tearooms, and a host of attractions, it’s a must-visit for our Tucked Away guests. Whether you’re travelling with children, enjoying a romantic break, or bringing your four-legged friend along, here’s how to spend the perfect day in Bourton-on-the-Water.

For Families

Morning: Start with the Cotswold Motoring Museum, home to Brum (the little yellow car many parents will remember from TV). Kids will love the vintage vehicles and quirky displays.

Midday: Head over to Birdland Park & Gardens where you’ll see flamingos, penguins, and parrots and much more! The Jurassic Journey trail with life-size dinosaurs is always a hit with little ones.

Afternoon: Treat the family to fish and chips by the river, or grab an ice cream and let the children paddle in the shallow waters of the river Windrush and maybe feed a duck or two.

Be sure to pop to Bakery on the Water too for some yummy treats to take back to the cottage.

For Couples

Morning: Begin with a gentle stroll around the village, crossing the famous low stone bridges, grabbing a coffee and browsing the independent shops and galleries.

Late Morning: Visit the Model Village, a 1/9th scale replica of Bourton itself. It’s quite charming and it’s always fun to see a model village, within a model village, within a model village!

Lunch: Head to Smiths of Bourton, famed for its gourmet burgers and relaxed vibe. It’s a must visit place in our opinion – just make sure you’ve brought your appetite.

Afternoon: Escape the bustle with a walk along the Windrush Way, or visit The Dragonfly Maze for something a little bit different.

Evening: Stay for golden hour and enjoy a glass of wine at The Dial House, watching the light change over the village and the water. There are less people about at this time of the day, so it’s the perfect time to see Bourton at its very best.

For Dog Owners

Morning: Start your day with a riverside walk. The shallow streams and grassy banks are perfect for dogs to explore.

Late Morning: Many of Bourton’s attractions are dog-friendly including the Cotswold Motoring Museum and some areas of Birdland (check seasonal restrictions).

Lunch: Stop for a pub lunch at The Mousetrap Inn or The Old New Inn. Both great pubs with traditional menus and great food. Sure to accompany a delicious pint of something local.

Afternoon: Extend your day with a countryside walk up towards Lower Slaughter. Some lovely views and fairly flat, so not too strenuous after a big lunch.

Why Bourton-on-the-Water is a Must-Visit

No matter who you’re travelling with, Bourton offers something for everyone with attractions for kids, romantic riverside charm for couples, and plenty of dog-friendly spots for pet owners. And with our Tucked Away cottages nearby, you can enjoy the best of Bourton while returning to a cosy home base.

Bourton-on-the-Water is the kind of place where memories are made, whether they involve ice creams by the river, romantic strolls over little bridges, or wagging tails splashing in