Chipping Norton

You know when Americans make films about Britain and we all live in cottages on cobbled streets, drink tea & eat cake all day? Well the Cotswolds are to blame for this. As it is literally the most fairytale dream of the English countryside, except it’s actually real. I’ve been a few times now and each time I feel like I can physically breathe the fresh air pumping pollution out of my lungs and also always overwhelmed to see the starriest skies I’ve ever seen in the U.K.

I’ve stayed in a few spots now. Stow on the Wold-idyllic. As was;

The Falkland Arms-Chipping Norton

Stunning, beautifully preserved old style pub with delicious food and lovely room overlooking the pretty village and fields. And importantly, dog friendly!

The Swan Inn

Another beautiful old stone country pub with modern design and incredible food. Dog friendly & rooms with robes & coffee etc which are now my essentials for an early morning sit in my robe pretending I’m the Queen.

We also found a nearby river for some wild swimming. Head to Minster Lovell and park near the church and head for the ruins and you’ll find a lovely spot. Also good for walking if jumping into a random river doesn’t float your boat.

Yes. It was bloody freezing. But so invigorating! Trying my best to be all Wim Hof and embrace the cold water movement. Really rather enjoying it!

Little Tew, Air B n B

Found this little gem in the middle of a tiny village. It’s a small barn, with just one loft bed, but the perfect space for a romantic weekend or, like me, with your pal! It’s basically a mini version of my dream house. So quiet and secluded, with the most stunning views. Woke up, down the ladder to make a coffee looking out over the fields. Bliss!

Link here 

Soho Farmhouse

Think you can book rooms if not a member, but will need to be months in advance as gets so booked up. Or if you know a member, beg them to sign you in. It’s worth it. The most beautifully designed rooms and cabins along a river, with outdoor tin baths (which I spent-no exaggeration-almost 4 hours in), whilst it was actually raining (red wine helped). If you’re staying the night, every detail is thought of, from personalised bikes & wellies, cocktail & breakfast trucks that stop at your door. And if not, you can enjoy the boating lake, spa with outdoor pool and all the farmyard animals. They also win on best robes & comfy slippers.

Peggy loves it! It’s dog friendly in the day but sadly not overnight (but The Falkland Arms I mentioned before is just down the road).