A guide to Bourton on the Water. Bourton-on-the-Water is a village in the Cotswolds, a beautiful part of Gloucestershire, England. It’s often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its pretty rivers and bridges. Some people mix up its name and call it Burton Cotswolds, Burton under Water, or even Bourbon on Water!
The village is famous for its houses and cottages made from golden-colored stone, which gives it a charming, picture-perfect look. Many of these buildings are really old—some are 300 years old, and others date back to the time of Queen Elizabeth I, which was 400 years ago!
People love visiting Bourton-on-the-Water because it’s so beautiful and has lots of history. It’s one of the most popular places to see in the Cotswolds.
In Bourton-on-the-Water, a village in the Cotswolds, the River Windrush flows gently with tidy stone banks and shaded green areas. Beautiful 18th-century stone bridges arch over the river, connecting the charming Cotswold homes on either side. There are five of these stone bridges in total, allowing people to cross from one side of the river to the other.
During the summer, local residents and visitors gather along the river in the village center. Kids especially love to splash and play in the shallow waters of the river to cool off.
And here’s something fun: every year, there’s a special football match held right in the river! It’s a unique event that adds to the village’s lively spirit.
The village of Bourton-on-the-Water has a long history that started in 709 AD when a wooden church was first built. Later, in 1110, it was rebuilt using stone, and it even has a special part called a crypt from the 12th century. A chancel was added in 1328, and today, this historic church is still used by people in the village.
Besides its natural beauty, Bourton-on-the-Water has lots of interesting and fun things for visitors to enjoy, including
- Birdland Park and Gardens
- Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection
- Cotswold Perfumery
- Walking Tours
- Model Village
- Shops
- Model Railway Exhibition
- St Lawrence’s Church
- Many other fun things to see and do
How To reach Bourton on the Water
Getting around The Cotswolds can be a bit tricky, especially compared to other parts of England. If you’re exploring this beautiful area, having a car is the best option. Bus services are limited, running only every few hours, and there’s no train station in Bourton-on-the-Water. If you decide to take the train, you’ll need to arrange for a taxi or drive from the nearest station, which is Moreton-in-Marsh.
If you’re traveling to The Cotswolds from abroad, you’ll likely arrive at Birmingham Airport, the closest one to Bourton-on-the-Water. From there, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach your destination. Another option is to spend a few days in London and take a day trip to Bourton-on-the-Water. It’s a great way to explore The Cotswolds if you don’t have access to a car.
Where to park in bourton on the Water
If you’re traveling by car to Bourton-on-the-Water, finding parking is essential. There’s a 24-hour car park on Rissington Road, about a 10-minute walk from the village center. It has 245 parking spaces, including two for disabled drivers, but they fill up fast, especially in peak season.
To avoid missing out, it’s best to arrive early before the crowds. This way, you can make the most of your time exploring rather than hunting for a parking spot. Trust me, getting up a bit earlier is worth it!
A guide to Bourton on the Water
Explore the Cotswold Motoring Museum
Car and motor enthusiasts should definitely plan a visit to the Cotswolds Motoring Museum. This special museum displays the history of cars in the 20th Century and features a large collection of very rare classic cars. It’s a fantastic place to explore!
Discover the Model Village
Alternatively, tourists can visit the model village. This miniature replica, constructed over 80 years ago, is a fascinating place to explore. It offers a unique perspective on this beloved Cotswolds village. Plus, at only £4.50 per ticket, it’s an affordable activity!
Explore the Dragonfly Maze
If you have about half an hour to spare, you should check out the Dragonfly Maze. It’s not your typical maze—it has extra clues to make it more interesting. When you finish the maze, you’ll find a golden dragonfly waiting for you. Visitors often say this is one of the top things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water, so don’t forget to include it in your plans!
Meet penguins and flamingos at Birdland Park
If you enjoy wildlife parks, don’t miss Birdland Park when you visit Bourton-on-the-Water. The park houses many birds of different species, including penguins and flamingos. How amazing is that?! Plus, visitors can also appreciate the park’s lovely grounds.
Here are some activities in Bourton-on-the-Water
Catch a glimpse of the River Windrush
If the weather is good when you’re here, why not pack a picnic and sit by the river? It’s a beautiful spot on a sunny summer day, ideal for enjoying your lunch amidst wonderful scenery.
Take a stroll and browse the shop windows.
Bourton-on-the-Water is a fantastic place for kids to visit in the Cotswolds if you’re looking to buy gifts. There are lots of shops where you can find all sorts of things for your family, like jewelry, perfume, pottery, and much more.
Appreciate the architecture
Cotswolds villages are really special! They have unique houses made from Cotswolds stone that look beautiful. If you like looking at pretty homes, you’ll have a great time in Bourton-on-the-Water.
Places to Eat in Bourton-on-the-Water
1. The Rose Tree (Best Restaurant in Bourton on the Water Overall)
The lovely Rose Tree is among the top restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water, offering a wonderful view of the River Windrush and two ancient stone bridges. They serve a diverse menu of traditional British dishes in a cozy setting.
If you’re in the mood for hearty British food, this is definitely one of the best dining spots in Bourton-on-the-Water and one of my favorite places for dinner. They serve expertly cooked pork belly, pan-fried sea bass with crayfish and caper sauce, or Moroccan vegetable tagine, catering to all tastes.
Prices are fair considering the beautiful location, and you can enjoy a main dish for less than £20 (I suggest trying the sea bass). The Rose Tree is also great for lunch, and they serve a delicious roast on Sundays. You’re guaranteed to find some of the finest food in Bourton-on-the-Water served here with a friendly smile.
The Rose Tree Information
Address: Riverside, Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BX. Tap here for directions.
Phone: +44 (0)1451 820635
Hours: 11:30 am – 8:30 pm, Tue-Sat; 11:30 am – 3 pm, Sun (closed on Monday)
Recommended Dishes: Pan-fried sea bass, slow-roasted pork belly, roast vegetable and stilton lasagne
Average Prices: Starters £7.50-£8.95, Mains £16.95-£29.80, Desserts £7.50
Website: therosetreeinbourton.co.uk
2. Smiths of Bourton
Smith’s is a top restaurant in Bourton-on-the-Water if you’re in the mood for a tasty burger. I’m not usually big on burgers, but even I can’t resist their Smith’s Classic—a juicy patty topped with cheese, homemade pickles, and sauces.
They offer seven different burgers on the menu, including options with chicken and vegetarian choices. The pastrami burger is another favorite of mine, especially with the caramelized onion topping.
Smiths of Bourton Details
Address: Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BT. Tap here for directions.
Phone: +44 (0)1451 810564
Hours: 12 pm – 11 pm, every day
Recommended Dishes: Smiths Classic Burger, Pastrami Burger, Symplicity is Key (vegetarian burger)
Average Prices: £14 per burger, £4 – £9.50 per side dish, £7 – £9 for desserts
Website: smithsofbourton.com
3. L’anatra Italian Kitchen
If you love Mediterranean food (like me), you’ll be glad to know there are Italian restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water, and the best one is L’anatra at the Chester House Hotel (where you can even stay overnight!). Here, chefs cook up authentic Italian dishes such as pizza baked in a stone oven, pasta, meat, fish, salads, and more.
L’anatra is a cozy restaurant with a relaxed feel, and it has Cotswold stone walls that give it a nice atmosphere—a perfect place for a relaxed meal. They also have a good selection of wines and craft beers to enjoy with your food.
With its lovely setting and European charm, L’anatra is one of the most romantic restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water, perfect for special occasions.
L’anatra Italian Kitchen Details:
Address: Chester House Hotel, Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BS. Tap here for directions.
Phone: +44 (0)1451 820286
Hours: 10 am – 10 pm, Tue-Sat; 9 am – 10 pm, Mon
Recommended Dishes: Stonebaked pizza, seafood pasta, steak
Average Prices: £4 – £6 per starter, £13 – £29 per main course, £7 for desserts
Website: chesterhousehotel.com
Here are some fun tips to make your visit to Bourton-on-the-Water even better:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Explore the Model Village | Check out the small version of Bourton-on-the-Water to see everything in mini size. |
| Enjoy Riverside Walks | Take a relaxed walk along the River Windrush and over its old-fashioned bridges. |
| Visit Birdland Park and Gardens | See penguins, flamingos, and other cool birds at this wildlife park. |
| Check Out Cotswolds Motoring Museum | Look at old cars and motorcycles – it’s awesome if you like cars! |
| Try Local Foods | Taste yummy British food at local pubs or try Italian dishes at L’anatra Italian Kitchen. |
| Plan for Parking | Get there early to find a parking spot – it can get busy, especially on weekends. |
| Go When It’s Quiet | Try visiting on weekdays or in the morning to avoid big crowds and have more fun. |
| Wear Comfy Shoes | Bring shoes that feel good for walking on the village’s stone paths and exploring around. |
| Look for Fun Events | Check if there are special events happening, like festivals or markets, during your visit. |
| Be Kind to Animals | If you visit Birdland Park, be gentle with the animals and follow the rules to keep them safe. |
| Take Lots of Pictures | Bring your camera to capture awesome views and remember your trip. |
Here are three FAQ about visiting this beautiful Cotswolds village:
- What are the best things to do in this village?
Visitors can enjoy exploring the charming streets, visiting the Model Village, Birdland Park, and enjoying riverside walks along the Windrush. The Cotswolds Motoring Museum and the Dragonfly Maze are also popular attractions. - How do I get to this village without a car?
While the Cotswolds are primarily accessible by car, there are bus services from nearby towns and cities like Cheltenham and Oxford. Some visitors also arrive via train to nearby stations such as Moreton-in-Marsh or Kingham, followed by a taxi or bus ride. - What are the dining options like in the village?
The village offers a variety of dining experiences, ranging from cozy cafes and traditional pubs to elegant restaurants. You can find options for British cuisine, as well as international flavors like Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Conclusion
Visiting Bourton-on-the-Water is so much fun! You can walk along the river and see beautiful stone bridges. At the Cotswold Motoring Museum, there are awesome old cars and cool toys to check out. You can learn about how people used to travel a long time ago—it’s really interesting! Afterward, you can eat delicious food at a cozy café nearby. Bourton-on-the-Water is great if you like history, nature, or just want a peaceful day with your family and friends. Don’t forget your camera to take pictures of the countryside and make lots of fun memories!