📷 Photo by john shortland · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
This country estate in the rolling hills near Nailsworth is the private residence of Anne, Princess Royal.
The house and grounds aren't open to the public for regular visiting, which makes it quite different from many other historic properties dotted around the Cotswolds.
What really draws visitors here is the equestrian programme. Each summer, Gatcombe hosts the Festival of British Eventing, an internationally recognised horse trials that attracts serious competitors and spectators from across Europe. If you time it right, you can experience the beautiful parkland while watching cross-country courses, show jumping, and dressage competitions set against the classic Cotswold landscape. It's genuinely worth a day trip whether you're passionate about horses or just after something different to do during your stay.
You'll only be able to visit during these event days, so it's worth checking the schedule before you plan your trip. The nearby towns of Nailsworth and Tetbury are just a short drive away and have good options for accommodation and food, so you can easily base yourself in the area for an event day. Even if equestrian sport isn't usually your thing, the combination of top-level competition and the setting itself makes for an interesting outing.
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Photos
J. Hutchins · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons