Nine amazing cycle-friendly places to stay in the Cotswolds
In association with BMW Series 2 Gran Tourer
There are plenty of reasons why the Cotswolds should be near the top of any cyclist’s list when it comes to riding in the UK. As the country’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds offer mile upon mile of tranquil lanes and challenging climbs situated in the most beautiful countryside in the south of England.
Easily accessed from south and central England, and just a few hours’ drive from London, the Cotswolds make the perfect location for a long weekend or mini-break. Here are some of the best places to stay if you want to take your bike along with you too.
The Ormond at Tetbury, Tetbury
Hotelier and born-again cyclist Iain Bailey runs The Ormond in a 16th century coaching inn at the heart of the little town of Tetbury. He also runs cycle tours of the Cotswolds, offering a range of bespoke packages with accommodation, food and riding all included.
Letter Box Cottage, Hidcote Boyce
This charming 18th century, Grade II-listed, two-bedroom thatched cottage sleeps four people just outside Chipping Campden and is ideally located for cycling in the north Cotswolds. It’s owned and managed by the husband and wife team at Cotswold Country Cycles, who also offer cycle tours in the area.
cotswoldcountrycycles.com/cottage-rental
Mill House Hotel, Kingham
Windrush Cycle Tours base themselves at this independent, family owned hotel in the east of the Cotswolds just down the road from Chipping Norton. This is the place to head for an indulgent cycling break, offering fine-dining and some luxurious relaxation after a hard day’s riding.
The Volunteer Inn, Chipping Campden
With the hotel’s hire bikes perfect for pootling about in the quiet lanes, the Volunteer Inn makes the perfect base for a laid-back weekend away. Chipping Campden, with its independent shops selling everything from antique books to modern furniture and a wide range of pubs and restaurants, offers plenty for the inquisitive two-wheeled traveler.
Fox Inn, Great Barrington
This traditional inn with oak beams and exposed Cotswold stone walls prides itself as being a ‘Great British pub’. Situated right next to the River Windrush, a few miles from the hustle and bustle of the market town of Burford, you’ll find excellent cycling routes (as well as delightful country walks) in every direction.
Carriers’ Farm BnB, Sherston
Cyclists are guaranteed a warm welcome at this upmarket bed and breakfast just outside Malmesbury. Surrounded by gentle rolling lanes, guests can benefit from secure bike storage and the loan of GPS devices pre-programmed with cycle routes.
Dormy House, Broadway
Set in a traditional farmhouse with soaring views over the Vale of Evesham, this family run luxury hotel and restaurant is named after a term for an unbeatable round of golf. Epic climbs like Fish Hill and Snowshill are right on its doorstep, and Broadway Golf Club is just a mile away too.
Broadway Manor Cottages, Broadway
These award-winning self-catering rural cottages are just a few minutes’ walk from Broadway, a popular town that offers riders that perfect mix of gentle rolling roads and challenging climbs, as well as off-road trails for mountain bikers. With a separate laundry room for when the weather does what the weather does, the cottages are ideally suited to two-wheeled visitors.
Three Ways House Hotel, Mickleton
Welcome to the famous home of the ‘Pudding Club,’ a society dedicated to the preservation of the traditional, Great British pudding that meets every Friday night. Naturally you’d expect the desserts to be top notch, but sweet-toothed guests can even go one step further with a night in the pudding-themed room. For the gourmet-minded cyclist, look no further.
Planning a trip to the Cotswolds? You’ll be glad you chose the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer. This flexible seven-seater is perfect for family trips away — or you can fold down the benches to leave more space for bikes.
To win your own luxury family weekend away in the Cotswolds with the use of a BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer for the duration, click here.
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