The 6 best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds for an English country escape

Sure this is your classic Cotswold-stone cottage, but beyond that (and that's good in itself) the location is prime walking territory. You see, this is right in the heart of Owlpen Valley. Full of woodlands, lush green fields and a very fancy manor house that's well worth a visit. And after you’ve got your walking boots nice and muddy? Settle in your own little manor house of sorts, in front of the wood-burning stove. Or out on the patio. Lovely stuff.

What’s the budget range? A moderate price for a dog-friendly romantic getaway nestled in the woods.

What’s it like to stay here? Think warm-toned interiors and low ceilings, cosy chats by the fire and long strolls through the woodlands.  

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

On your best behaviour please kiddies, let’s respect the big guy. And if it’s not too sacrilegious to say, we think he’d approve of the conversion of this stunning chapel in the pretty village of Poulton. It’s modern, open-plan and just, well, gorgeous, to be perfectly honest with you. If you're looking for a big family (or friends) getaway, this place sleeps eight. There’s a big garden too and for decent drinks nearby, head to The Falcon, just down the road. Ideal retreating. 

What’s the budget range? An affordable large group stay or a luxury weekend away with the fam. 

What’s it like to stay here? The best of both worlds, this place has all the historic charm of the English countryside while sporting cosy modern interiors.

Rooms: 4 beds, 3.5 baths. Sleeps 8. 

Barn conversions. Done well, there's not much better. Spacious, stylish and super-cosy – just what you need after a day spent roaming the countryside (or sipping pints at a cute village pub, we're not judging). This luxurious medieval barn conversion ticks all the boxes – and look at that gorgeous spiral staircase! This one-bedroom conversion in Fairford is a perfect couple's getaway, and also just happens to be next door to a fifteenth-century inn. Plenty of good food around too. Nice. 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced couple's stay (three nights minimum).

What’s it like to stay here? Hidden down a pretty medieval alleyway, this characterful home and it's surroundings are the definition rural village heaven. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

Nothing screams quintessentially English more than a thatched cottage. We literally refer to them as 'chocolate box cottages' and this three-bed in the impossibly quaint village of Broadway (often dubbed The Cotswolds’ loveliest) certainly lives up to its sweet moniker. It's 400 years old, but you wouldn't know it, as inside it's stylishly decorated with a modern eye and comes with all the usual creature comforts. The garden is lush and blooming, but the view from the upstairs windows also looks out over rolling green hills.

What’s the budget range? A mid-to-high range family stay moments from the high street. 

What’s it like to stay here? Like a tranquil, airy hideaway steeped in modern style.

Rooms: 3 beds, 2.5 baths. Sleeps 6. 

Travelling far afield is looking pretty tricky right now, so you know what you need? The, er, far afield, being brought to you. That’s exactly what this picturesque lodge provides. It’s modelled on the kind of lodge you see all over New England, so you’ll basically be in the big old US of A. You know, painted wooden exteriors, a decking looking over the water out back. Blissful. But if you ask us? We’re most wowed by the fact that it’s in the middle of the Cotswold Water Park. Wildlife abounds. It's an irresistible place to stay. 

What’s the budget range? This spenny weekend away is ideal for a group of friends. The pooch can join too!

What’s it like to stay here? This light-filled lake house is incredibly scenic and peaceful - perfect during the summer months.

Rooms: 3 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 6.

Here's your full-on nature immersion, and fire-side chilling, sans faffing around with tents. Pal, these glamping pods are exactly what you need. In fact, this set of eight individually named cabins (Bluebell! Poppy! Buttercup! etc.) are known as 'mega pods' and sleep up to four. They each have en-suite showers and toilets, TVs, kitchenettes, Wi-Fi and even heating and electrical points. That means you'll have more time to roam the 15,000 acres of private Notgrove Estate or just relax in front of your very own fire pit. There are loads of outdoor activities on offer to book, too. This is the camping break you deserve. There's also a bunch of extra activities available at an extra cost, including beauty treatments, falconry, tennis courts and more. 

What’s the budget range? A cheap and cheerful rural escape in Notgrove village. 

What’s it like to stay here? It's cosy pod meets rolling hills, blossoming fields, and the sound of bleating lambs. Wholesome. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 4.