With the Oxfordshire Cotswolds market town of Burford just over an hour from London Heathrow, Stratford upon Avon to the north and Bath on its southern border, the Cotswolds really can claim to be England’s TRAVEL LESS, SEE MORE destination.  The news gets even  better for clients cruising in or out of Southampton where Burford is an easy 90-minute run or a little longer if you stop to visit Highclere Castle aka Downton Abbey on the way (main season 7^th July – 3^rd September 2019).

Last weekend, hordes of spectators flocked to the Cotswolds Olimpick Games (dating from 1612) where they enjoyed a variety of weird and wonderful sporting trials such as the famous shin-kicking competition.  It reminded me of other festivals/events that take place ANNUALLY.  This week, I offer you an Air Show, an Opera Festival, an Antiques Fair and a 3-day horse Equestrian event.

Please check out the last 2 stories as they’re perfect for a couple of clients or a small group of 6-8 looking for a close Cotswolds encounter with the real England.

The World's Greatest Air Show!

Few events can rival the intensity, drama and spectacle on offer at the Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford with one of the most diverse flying displays in the world.  Taking place between 19^th-21^st July, they've got 28 air arms so far confirmed from 20 different nations, which means the Air Tattoo is the best place to see military aircraft on display to the public.

Wagner's Das Rheingold in The Cotswolds

Running from 5^th June and 3^rd August, the internationally renowned Longborough Festival Opera is an intimate 500-seat theatre set amidst the glorious rolling hills of the Cotswolds. The exciting 2019 programme includes four new productions: Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Donizetti’s Anna Bolena, and Cavalli’s rarely-performed La Calisto, along with Wagner’s Das Rheingold.  It’s their first step to a new Ring Cycle.

An Antique Collector's Paradise

Antiques aficionados will appreciate your steering them towards the Cotswolds, home to one of the largest concentrations of art and antique shops outside London.  With those in Stow on the Wold, Tetbury and Broadway topping the list you could time their visit to coincide with the Cotswolds Antiques, Decorative and Art Fair (2^nd-4^th August), a must for collectors, home furnishers and interior designers.

Festival of Eventing

I’m certain that several of you have contacts at riding schools/equestrian centres.  For families, offer them the Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park (3^rd-5^th August) at the home of the Princess Royal and her family.  Topped and tailed with London, you have clients that will love this new idea.  Notice too short?  Consider the Badminton Horse Trials 6^th-10^th May 2020 also in the Cotswolds. Read more

Tapestries, A Spa and Some Royal Connections

William Morris, the Woodstock Textile Trail and ecclesiastical vestments at Christ Church Cathedral Oxford have been blended together with some self-improvement at the beautiful and privately-owned Herbs for Healing, a traditional English Afternoon Tea and a treatment at the Thermae Bath Spa.  The return to London includes a look at the Duchess of Cambridge’s early childhood years in and around Bucklebury. Read more

Tastes, Favours and Essences of the Cotswolds

If you’re into foodie tours, your clients will love this 4-night, mid-week itinerary as it brings together a fascinating, palette-tingling and tasty collection of edible and drinkable experiences including a close encounter with the Herb Society and the Parade of Puddings.  It’s further enriched with visits to privately owned stately homes and gardens and some carefully selected, ancient coaching inns. 
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