A short history of Bourton-on-the-Water

Affectionately known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is probably the most touristed village in the whole of the Cotswolds area. The River Windrush runs through the centre of town spanned by a series of pretty bridges dating back as far as 1654. Bourton-on-the-Water has an undeniable charm despite the tourists.

Its history started in the Iron Age with the building of a settlement to the east of the village of which remains can still be seen today Salmondsbury Camp. Evidence of Roman occupation has been found near to where the Roman Foss Way joins the River Windrush. Many idyllic 16th & 17th century Cotswold stone cottages are spread around the village and the pretty Church of St Lawrence dates back to 709AD.

Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds

Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water

Birdland Park and Gardens-Established in 1957 in Bourton-on-the-Water, Birdland is set in nine acres of gardens and woodland, creating a picturesque canopy for the winding River Windrush. Discover exotic and rare birds as you explore the Park and Gardens. Flamingos, pelicans, cranes, storks, cassowary and waterfowl live in our riverside habitat with parrots, owls, pheasants, hornbills, touracos and many more inhabiting over 50 aviaries. Adult £8.95/Child £5.95

The Dragonfly Maze-A traditional yew hedge maze with an added twist!Can you solve the riddle to reveal the hidden Golden Dragonfly? An exciting participation game for all the family! Adult £3.00/Child £2.50

Bourton Model Railway Exhibition– Enter the world of your childhood dreams with some of the finest operating indoor model railway layouts in the country, covering over 500 feet and 40 British and Continental trains. Adult £2.75, Child £2.25

The Cotswold Motoring Museum– home to Brum from the cult kids TV programme, the Motoring Museum is overflowing with vintage car collections, classic cars and motorcycles, caravans, original enamel signs and an intriguing collection of motoring curiosities, it is a genuinely captivating experience and a fun day out at Bourton on the Water in the Cotswolds. Adult £4.99/Child £3.50

The Model Village– The Model Village is a one-ninth scale replica of the heart of the beautiful Cotswold village of Bourton-on-the-Water, containing all the buildings from the Old Water Mill (now the Car Museum) down to the Old New Inn and the ford. Adult £3.60/ Child £2.80

Places to eat in Bourton-on-the-Water

The Rose Tree– a nice restaurant by the river with a varied menu and mains for around £12

The Manse Hotel– Traditional pub food sometimes offering 2 main meals for £10.

Bakery on The Water-artisan bakery cafe ideal for those looking for quick and light.

Why not visit Bourton-on-the-Water  and other pretty Cotswold villages on one of our driver-guide or cycling Tours of the Cotswolds. 

More information at

www.cotswoldsadventures.co.uk

For a tour that visits Bourton-on-the-Water

Classic Cotswolds Tour- https://www.cotswoldsadventures.co.uk/package/classic-cotswolds-private-tour/