Cots

This small village sits on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment, offering access to some genuinely spectacular views. From Birdlip Hill, you can look out across the Severn Vale with the Malvern Hills visible in the distance on clear days. It's the kind of place where you can pause and really take in the landscape.

The village carries a bit of history. Birdlip lies along the route of Ermin Way, an ancient Roman road, so you're walking where Roman legionaries once travelled, even if dramatic ruins aren't part of the experience here. For anyone who enjoys the outdoors, the surrounding woodlands like Buckholt Wood are threaded with public footpaths that make for easy, pleasant walks. You could easily spend a couple of hours wandering through the trees and enjoying the air.

Birdlip itself is fairly quiet and low-key, which is partly what makes it appealing. It works well as a base for exploring further afield. Gloucester is just a short drive away with its cathedral, while Cheltenham with its shopping and cultural events is equally close. Cirencester, often considered the heart of the Cotswolds, is also within easy reach. If you prefer somewhere peaceful where you can connect with the natural surroundings rather than chase tourist hotspots, this village fits the bill nicely.