North Gloucestershire, which covers160 square miles, including the western CotswoldNational Landscape and the intersection of the Avon and Severn rivers,is full of hiddengems to discover this autumn
North Gloucestershire stands proudly as the gateway to the UK’s stunning Cotswolds and wider south west region and offers visitors a slower pace, less crowds and the chance to discover lesser-known gems, from the chocolate box market town of Winchcombe to the medieval riverside town of Tewkesbury, cosy pubs serving excellent local food to walking routes across the magnificent autumnal countryside, and much more.
The picturesque village of Winchcombe is far less crowded than the typical Cotswold tourist hotspots, and is just as beautiful and packed full of charm and character. Explore the honey-coloured streets, browse the independent shops and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the cafes and pubs, such as the dog-friendly The Lion Inn – a 15th century coaching inn with nine stylish en-suite bedrooms and a delicious, locally sourced seasonal menu. Book a private tour of Winchcombe Pottery and learn how the hand-thrown pottery is made and wood fired, or simply stop by to browse and take home some local stoneware.
Pop into the Winchcombe Museum and see fragments of the rare meteorite that landed in Winchcombe in February 2021. Said to be 4.6 billion years old and of significant scientific importance, fragments of the meteorite are on display at both Winchcombe Museum and the Natural History Museum in London.
Winchcombe is surrounded by the glorious Cotswold National Landscape (AONB) and is renowned for its excellent walking routes, perfect for a leisurely autumn stroll or a more bracing hike. Discover a variety ofself-guided walking routes, highlights of which include a circular loop around the magnificent Sudeley Castle & Gardens (closed to day visitors from 3rd November – March 2026) which looks especially spectacular against the changing colours of the autumn landscape, the Cotswold Way national trail, Bela’s Knapp (a neolithic long barrow), Hailes Abbey (a ruined 13th century Cistercian abbey), and Cleeve Common (the largest common in the Cotswold National Landscape and also the highest point in the Cotswolds at 330m and a great place to take in the patchwork of autumn colours right across to the Malvern and Shropshire Hills).
Hop aboard the majestic steam engines on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway and admire the stunning autumnal colours on a 28 mile round trip from the quintessentially Cotswold village of Broadway, traversing the impressive Stanway viaduct, across to the cosmopolitan town of Cheltenham, passing through some of North Gloucestershire’s most impressive scenery.
While in North Gloucestershire, a visit to the medieval market town of Tewkesbury is worthwhile, especially incorporating a walk around Tewkesbury Nature Reserve (or nearby Beckford Nature Reserve). Both reserves are free of charge, easily accessible via M5 junction 9, dog friendly (on leads) and have good accessibility for all ages and abilities. They are both a haven for wildlife, including hedgehogs, reed warblers, fish and otters. Sixty-eight species of bird have been recorded on the reserves, including some UK BAP priority species, such as song thrush, cuckoo and linnet, plus three species of bat. Immerse yourself in nature, learn bushcraft skills, way-finding, fieldcraft and foraging before taking in your surroundings beside the warmth of a freshly made campfire. Trex Explore offer courses and activity days covering a range of forgotten skills.
Explore Tewkesbury’s historic narrow alleyways lined with quaint cottages and impressive black and white timber buildings. Stroll along the riverbanks of the Severn and Avon, and admire the spectacular autumn colours against the backdrop of the 900-year-old Tewkesbury Abbey. If visiting between 16th October and 4th November, call in the Abbey to see the breathtaking large-scale lunar installation by Luke Jerram.
Pay a visit to the award-winning Nature in Art in Twigworth, said to be the world’s first museum dedicated exclusively to fine, decorative and applied art inspired by nature, and a great place to admire the seasonal autumn colours through the medium of art. The gallery hosts a vibrant programme of contemporary exhibitions, artists in residence and regularly changing displays.
Where to stay?
For a touch of luxury, choose from the five-star Ellenborough Park Hotel nestled on the edge of Cleeve Hill, the 16th century Elizabethan manor house The Greenway Hotel & Spa, or the elegant 17th century Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa. All offer spectacular views across the countryside and a cosy but refined autumnal atmosphere.
Great spots for walkers to stay include Cleeve Hill Hotel, the Rising Sun Hotel or Malvern View B&B, all of which offer excellent access to Cleeve Common and popular walking routes, plus magnificent views across the autumn landscape.
Excellent self-catering accommodation is widely available throughout North Gloucestershire, including characterful cottages in the spectacular grounds of Sudeley Castle and along the honey-coloured streets of centuries-old Winchcombe, and 500-year-old cottages with a view of the magnificent Tewkesbury Abbey. The quirky Escape Room cottage blends a stylish retreat for a group of up to five adults with puzzles and clues for a unique, fun staycation experience.
 | To find out more about visiting Tewkesbury and North Gloucestershire, go to: https://www.visittewkesbury.info/ |
