Things to do in the area
Woodmancote is a very charming, unspoilt and tranquil village, conveniently located between the historic market tows of Cirencester and Cheltenham Spa. It is also within easy reach to the idyllic and picture-perfect villages of Bibury, Barnsley, and the beautiful Coln Valley. From here, you can set out on beautiful countryside walks across rolling hills and along well-trodden footpaths, discovering postcard-perfect villages built from warm Cotswold stone. After a day of wandering, some of the area’s most charming old pubs await — low beams, crackling fires, and well-earned refreshments in wonderfully cosy surroundings.
Our favourite pubs
The Bathrust Arms is our local traditional pub. Located at a mere 1.3 miles from the house, it is the perfect place to enjoy a pint or a great Sunday roast and mingle with the locals near the open fires. It is easily reached with a beautiful walk across the top of our hill which boasts magnificent views of the rolling hills on both sides. If you prefer, you could take a longer walk along a small river, and with a bit of luck, could spot a deer or two, lots of hedgehogs and pheasants on the way to the pub!
The Bell at Sapperton Just under ten minutes from The Old Tailors, The Bell at Sapperton is a true Cotswold gem, set in the beautiful village of Sapperton. Surrounded by rolling countryside and honey-coloured stone cottages, the setting is as charming as the pub itself. Inside, rustic beams and soft candlelight create a warm, relaxed atmosphere, while thoughtful seasonal menus and carefully chosen wines make it the perfect place for a leisurely lunch or a cosy supper after a day of exploring.
The Village Pub in the charming village of Barnsley, quintessentially Cotswold, with its honey-stone cottages, quiet lanes and timeless, unspoilt feel. At its heart sits an effortlessly stylish yet warmly welcoming pub that blends traditional character with refined comfort — perfect for a relaxed lunch or cosy evening after wandering the surrounding countryside.
The Green Dragon Inn is another favourite spot. Dating from the 17th century, it provides the perfect idyllic cottage-style retreat bringing log fires, beamed ceilings and stone flagged floors, and offers a variety of fine wines, real ales and fantastic food including Cotswold Venison Pie, Wild Boar and Chorizo Sausages.
Cerney House Gardens Just around the corner from us, Cerney House Gardens is one of our absolute favourite spots — easily reached by car or via a wondrous woodland walk. Set within a romantic Victorian walled garden and home to the Angus family, it’s a place of abundant colour and storybook charm, once described by Country Living as “what most people aspire to in their gardens.” Created with love by the late Lady Angus and her daughter Barbara, the gardens now also offer seasonal foraging walks. After exploring, you can browse the little garden shop or settle into the self-service tea room for homemade cake — a simple, lovely way to spend an afternoon.
Kelmscott Manor Tucked beside the River Thames in the idyllic village of Kelmscott, Kelmscott Manor is a truly enchanting country retreat. Once the beloved summer home of designer and writer William Morris, the manor is filled with Arts and Crafts treasures, romantic gardens, and a wonderfully unspoilt atmosphere that feels as though time has gently stood still. The house is typically open to visitors April through to October, Thursday to Saturday. After exploring the manor, wander through Kelmscott village itself — a picture-perfect scene of honey-coloured stone cottages, quiet lanes, and riverside walks that capture the very essence of the English countryside. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to spend an afternoon during your stay.
Tetbury is one of the most stylish little towns in Gloucestershire. With the country Highgrove Estate of Prince Charles located on its outskirts, the small town centre is choco-packed with charming antique and interior design shops, cool fashion boutiques and food shops.
Eastleach Tucked away in the rolling countryside of the Cotswolds, Eastleach is one of those honey-stone villages that seems almost too picturesque to be real. Straddling the gentle River Leach, it is made up of Eastleach Turville and Eastleach Martin, linked by a pretty little stone bridge and surrounded by peaceful meadows. Guests love wandering between the two beautiful medieval churches — St Andrew’s Church and St Michael and St Martin’s Church — both wonderfully atmospheric and steeped in history. After a stroll, there’s nothing better than settling into the welcoming The Victoria Inn, a quintessential Cotswold pub serving excellent food in the most idyllic of settings. Eastleach truly feels like stepping into a storybook — calm, unspoilt, and utterly charming.
What to see and do
Slad Valley
Fire & Flow Our much-loved local café located about a mile from us — serving delicious brunch and truly excellent coffee. It’s a relaxed, welcoming spot with a creative, wholesome menu, perfect for a slow morning, a catch-up with friends, or refuelling after a countryside walk.
Thyme England This is one of our absolute favourite spots — not just in the Cotswolds but in all of England. Set within a beautifully restored country estate in Southrop, Thyme is effortlessly elegant yet wonderfully relaxed, with manicured gardens, honey-coloured stone buildings and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can book a memorable lunch or dinner showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, or indulge in a blissful spa day for a truly restorative treat. We strongly recommend booking well in advance, as this much-loved gem is understandably popular throughout the year.
Jolly Nice located West of Cirencester, a converted petrol station selling fruits, vegetables, garden tools, lovely plants and their deli/shop is full of amazing treats sourced from local farms and businesses.
The Five Valleys are within easy reach of Woodmancote and you must visit the Slad Valley, renown location of Laurie Lee’s ‘Cider with Rosie’. The charming town of Stroud is a perfect scenic spot dotted with small cafes, boutiques and curated gift shops. It offers a breathtaking view of the Five Valleys and is award-winning Saturday Farmer Market boasts more than 50 stalls offering delicious artisan bread, game meat and exquisite local dairy products.
Go for scenic walks! From the doorstep of The Old Tailors in Woodmancote (GL7 7EF), guests can wander straight into rolling Cotswold countryside along peaceful footpaths and bridleways. A favourite circular walk leads through Bagendon, a truly charming village home to the ancient St Margaret’s Church, parts of which date back to the 12th century, before looping back across open pasture and wide valley views. Another lovely circular route heads towards Rendcombe via North Cerney, joining stretches of the Monarch’s Way, with the option to pause for a pint at The Bathurst Arms before strolling home, rosy-cheeked and content. Full details of these scenic walks can be found here. For even more inspiration, guests will find endless beautiful and scenic walks on AllTrails — I highly recommend downloading the app and simply entering nearby places such as North Cerney, Cirencester, Sapperton or Bibury to discover a wonderful variety of walks to suit every mood and ability.