Things to do
around North Cerney

North Cerney sits in the Churn valley north of Cirencester, a small settlement of honey-coloured stone where the river, the road and the surrounding farmland do most of the talking. It's the sort of place you come to for a slow half-day rather than a packed itinerary: within roughly two miles you'll find four places to eat and drink, four places to visit, a shop, somewhere to stay and one spot for activities, which is enough to fill an afternoon without ever feeling rushed. Walkers, garden lovers and anyone happy to potter between a pub lunch and a country lane will get the most from it.

A good few hours here might begin at Cerney House Gardens, where the walled garden and woodland paths reward unhurried wandering, with the Bothy Tea Room close at hand when you want a sit down and something warm. The Potting Shed Shop is worth a look before you leave, whether or not you're in the market for plants. Round things off at the Bathhurst Arms by the river, or press on to Scrubditch if you'd rather keep exploring the countryside around Cerney House while the light holds.