Badminton

It's a place steeped in history, primarily known for its grand estate and as the namesake for the sport of badminton – legend has it the game was first played here in the 19th century.

While Badminton House itself is a private residence, the estate comes alive each spring with the internationally renowned Badminton Horse Trials. This premier equestrian event attracts visitors from all over, offering an exciting spectacle of dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. Beyond the buzz of the Trials, the village offers a glimpse into a traditional estate community. You can take peaceful walks along public footpaths that criss-cross the estate, enjoying the tranquil countryside typical of this part of the Cotswolds.

For practicalities, it's a calm spot, and you'll find the nearby hamlets of Little Badminton and Acton Turville offer a closer sense of the local area. Other villages like Luckington, Alderton, Burton, and Littleton Drew are also just a short journey away, each with their own character. This area is more about appreciating the rural landscape and its significant estate history than bustling high streets, making it perfect for a relaxed visit.