Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Samuel Sweet, Pexels
Bourton-on-the-Water presents itself as a picturesque English village in the heart of the Cotswolds, defined by the tranquil River Windrush meandering through its centre and crossed by five elegant low bridges. Visitors are drawn to its charming honey-coloured stone architecture, independent shops, and unique attractions like the Model Village, Birdland Park & Gardens, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum.
The village's High Street, lined with a variety of shops, inviting cafes, and traditional tea rooms, naturally encourages visitors to gather and connect. Additionally, the scenic riverbanks provide a popular setting for people to relax and enjoy the ambiance, while cozy pubs offer venues for social interaction.
Top 5 Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water
The village provides a blend of quaint miniature attractions, diverse wildlife encounters, classic vehicle displays, and serene natural walks along the river and countryside.
1. Strolling Along the River Windrush
Walking along the tranquil River Windrush is an essential part of the Bourton-on-the-Water experience. The river meanders gracefully through the village, crossed by five elegant low bridges that invite you to pause and admire the picturesque scene. Watching the ducks paddle and enjoying the peaceful flow of the water is wonderfully relaxing. Extending your walk to the High Street reveals charming independent shops, traditional tea rooms, and inviting cafes, perfect for a leisurely browse or a cream tea. To best enjoy the serenity, arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon helps avoid the busiest periods.
Cost: Free to walk and enjoy. Costs apply for shopping or refreshments.
Transport: The river and High Street are the heart of the village and entirely walkable.
2. Visiting The Model Village
Stepping into The Model Village feels like entering a miniature world. This one-ninth scale replica of Bourton-on-the-Water, built from local Cotswold stone in the 1930s, is a fascinating journey back in time. It's the only Grade II listed model village in England and meticulously recreates the village as it appeared then, complete with tiny flowing rivers, miniature bridges, and even a model village within the model village. It takes about 20-30 minutes to explore, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail. Please note, due to narrow paths and steps, access for wheelchairs and pushchairs is limited.
Cost: Adults: Approximately £4.75; Seniors: Approximately £4.25; Children (3-13 years): Approximately £3.75. Payments are card-only, contactless preferred.
Transport: Located behind The Old New Inn, it is within easy walking distance of public car parks and the village centre.
3. Exploring Birdland Park & Gardens
Birdland Park & Gardens offers an immersive experience for bird lovers and families, set across nine acres of picturesque gardens and woodland. It is home to over 500 birds from more than 130 species, including a notable breeding group of King Penguins – the only one in the UK. You can see various birds like flamingos, pelicans, owls, and parrots. The park also features 'Jurassic Journey', an area with life-sized dinosaur models, adding an extra layer of discovery. Daily feeding times and keeper talks provide engaging insights into the birds' lives. The park is generally accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Cost: Adults: Approximately £13.95; Children (3-15 years): Approximately £10.50; Seniors/Students: Approximately £12.95. Booking online can save £1 per person. Under 3s are free. There is an additional cost for the 'Feed the Penguins' experience.
Transport: Situated on Rissington Road (GL54 2BN), it's a short walk from the village centre. The closest pay and display car parks are on Rissington Road and Station Road.
4. Discovering the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection
The Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection offers a fascinating journey through 20th-century motoring history. Housed in a converted mill building, it showcases a wide array of classic and vintage cars, motorcycles, caravans, and nostalgic motoring memorabilia, including old enamel signs and toys. It's an engaging experience for all ages, perfect for those with an interest in automobiles and retro culture. The museum is famously home to 'Brum', the BBC TV's little superhero car. The museum is accessible for wheelchair users.
Cost: Adults: Approximately £9.50; Children (5-16 years): Approximately £6.50; Under 5s: Free. Family tickets are available.
Transport: Located on Sherborne Street (GL54 2BY), it is adjacent to the war memorial on the village green, making it central and walkable.
5. Walking at Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
For a peaceful escape from the village crowds, Greystones Farm Nature Reserve is a wonderful option. This working organic farm, managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, offers ancient meadows, gently flowing rivers, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including birds, water voles, and otters. There are two main trails, the Wildlife Walk and the Time-Travel Trail, which can be combined for a circular walk of just under 2 miles. It's a great place to connect with nature and experience the quieter side of the Cotswolds.
Cost: Free entry.
Transport: Within walking distance from the village centre. It is a hidden gem easily accessible on foot.
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