We know we’re biased, but we really don’t think there is anywhere more beautiful at Christmas than the Cotswolds. Here we give you our top five for festive fun, all within a short drive of Lapstone Barn. Whether you’re just here for a short stay whilst you come to view our beautiful wedding venue, or are making a longer trip for a wedding here, be sure to put these on your list!
Broadway Village
The village of Broadway is, without doubt, one of the prettiest in the Cotswolds. The wide street was part of one of the main ancient thoroughfares from Worcester to London and gives its name to ‘broad way’. The tree lined high street and the honey coloured period houses look truly magical covered in twinkling white fairy lights at this time of year. Enjoy late night shopping on Friday 6th December, and be sure to drop in to the The Lygon Arms to marvel at the barrel vaulted restaurant or snuggle up in front of the log fire for a session of wedding planning!
Spectacle of Light
Explore the Spectacle of Light round the stunning grounds of Sudeley Castle from November 30th-December 30th. Follow Peter Pan, Wendy and some of the other characters from J.M.Barrie’s timeless classic round the beautiful illuminated trail, and sip mulled wine and hot chocolate on the castle terrace as you take in your glorious surroundings, steeped in 1000 years of England’s past.
Christmas Markets
Chipping Campden Christmas Market is of course our most local, and this year will be held on the weekend of 7th & 8th December. Gifts, live music, festive food and Christmas lights switch on at 5.30pm on the Saturday!
Gloucester Cathedral is one of the finest medieval buildings in the country, and more recently used for filming in all of the Harry Potter films! On Saturday 14th December, you can join in Carols on the Hour from 10am-4pm in the glorious cathedral, and browse the lovely Christmas market in the cloisters.
Other local markets include Moreton-in-Marsh and Cirencester, or if you want a full day of Christmas shopping take a trip to Cheltenham or Bath where the twinkling chalets are sprinkled through the streets.
Cotswold Farm Park
If you have little ones to amuse in the run up to Christmas, head to the grotto at Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park to meet Father Christmas and his cheeky elves! With plenty of play areas, demos, and hands on fun, Christmas At The Farm is fast becoming one of those family traditions. The grotto is open on selected dates throughout November and December. Booking in advance for the grotto is essential but you can buy tickets at the door for the rest of the park.
Happy Christmas!
