Bourton is one of the cutest, most traditional villages in England. So here are the top things to do in Bourton On The Water when visiting the Cotswolds.
1. Cotswold Motoring Museum
By far the most popular of the things to do in Bourton On The Water!
The Cotswold Motoring Museum, full title ‘the Motoring & Toys museum’, is home to some great motor vehicles, an interesting collection of bicycles and even some horse-drawn vehicles. However some may argue that the toys are the real gems.
For anyone growing up in the 90’s, like us, it’s an absolute must visit just to see Brum!
The little yellow car from the British children’s TV series is about the adventures of a self-driven motor. Although, of course there is much more to see.
2. The Model Village
The Model Village Bourton On The Water is a 1/9th scale of the Cotswold village, built in traditional Cotswold stone.
Whereas the real Bourton will take you a couple of hours to walk around, this miniature version will only take around 20 minutes.
From the post office, to the famous river windrush running through the town, everything you can find out in the ‘real world’ you can find here in a cuter, scaled down version.
3. Dragonfly Maze
The Dragonfly Maze Bourton On The Water is by far one of the best activities in the village.
Fun for any age, it’s an adult size, traditional hedge maze. With not only a goal of reaching the end, but also a task to complete along the way.
A great activity to kill an hour, and one of our favourite things to do in Bourton On The Water.
4. Model Railway
A toy store specialising in model railways.
The model railway exhibits are located at the back of the toy shop, which is well stocked with just about anything you need from a kite to your own train set.
The fully functioning toy railways are the true gem though. At £3 per adult, there are three rooms available.
The first operates by itself in daylight mode and then changes into night mode which is pretty impressive.
The second and third rooms allow you to press buttons and start many trains running, a great hit with all children that visit!
5. Birdland
Birdland Park and Gardens, often known as just Birdland, is a wildlife park in Bourton On The Water that first opened it’s door back in 1957.
Home to over 500 birds including Flamingos, Pelicans, Cranes and Storks, it also holds the only group of King Penguins in England, Wales and Ireland.
We didn’t get chance to visit due to time constraints, but it’s highly ranked as one of the top things to do in Bourton On The Water.
6. Visit The Pubs
If you’re looking for traditional English pubs, then where better to find them than in a traditional English village.
The pubs throughout Bourton On The Water have been voted some of the prettiest in the country.
So whether you’re looking to try some local ales, watch some English football or simply enjoy the great setting overlooking the River Windrush, having a beer in a typical English pub has to be on your things to do in Bourton On The Water list.
7. Enjoy A High Tea
Another of the traditional ‘things to do in Bourton On The Water for tourists’ is to enjoy a high tea.
A high tea for those that don’t know was traditionally for the upper class, and consists of sandwiches and a cup of tea or maybe some scones and jam.
Of course nowadays it is accessible to those of all classes and the main place to get one in Bourton is at De la Haye’s Café Tea Room.
The main reason as to why this type of meal was called High Tea, is the fact that it was eaten at a table. In comparison, Afternoon Tea was taken whilst seating in low, comfortable chairs or sofas.
8. Picnic Along The River Windrush
The River Windrush runs all the way through the cute town of Bourton On The Water.
A highlight of the village, and the landmark most commonly used on postcards of the area.
Many tourists choose to take a picnic with their family and lay a blanket down to rest their legs after a full day of exploring.
We, however, highly recommend grabbing a packet of chips from Cor Blimey Fish & Chips shop and perching yourself along the river bank to enjoy them.
If you are based in London there are day trips you can book to visit Bourton on the Water, like From London: Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour. This tour visits the four most popular Cotswold villages including Bourton on the Water.
Where To Stay In Bourton On The Water
Luxury – The Lansdowne Guest House
The Landsdowne Guest House is one of the most highly rated accommodations in the area.
Each room has a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities and light refreshments.
Rooms come with a private bathroom equipped with a bath or shower, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
Free WiFi and private parking is available on site.
Mid-Budget – The Mousetrap Inn
Located perfectly on the high street, The Mousetrap Inn has a beautiful garden and terrace.
The property has a bar and on site restaurant. All units come with a TV and free WiFi.
Buffet breakfast is available each morning at the property.
Budget – Old Manse Hotel by Greene King Inns
With original features and traditional charm, Old Manse Hotel overlooks the .
The hotel has , a riverside terrace and free Wi-Fi.
The elegant rooms at The Old Manse each have a private bathroom. All rooms have tea and coffee facilities, a work desk and hairdryer.
Some rooms even have period features and views.
For more places to stay in Bourton On The Water, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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