Cotswolds

Tudor hunting lodge set proudly in an estate on top of the Cotswold escarpment, looking down into the Ozleworth valley and to the Mendips beyond.

The garden of this Cotswold manor house is the perfect place to unwind and explore hidden vistas, quiet corners and unexpected delights.

Cradled in a beautiful Cotswold valley rest the remains of one of the grandest Roman villas in Britain. See extensive mosaic floors, hypocaust systems and bath house rooms in a tranquil setting, with plenty of opportunities for walks, relaxation and reflection.

A rare and beautiful survivor, explore the canals in this Dutch water garden near Gloucester; the only restored one in the country.

Situated near Bath, this ancient parkland is full of magnificent trees and view points with extensive vistas that stretch as far as the Welsh mountains. The garden is home to sumptuous planting, formal areas and peaceful wooded terraces.

Arts and Crafts-inspired garden with intricately designed outdoor spaces in the rolling Cotswold hills. Explore the maze of narrow paved pathways and discover secret gardens, delightful vistas and colourful planting.

Find out which other gardens and outdoor spaces we care for in the South West are open by county, and how to book to visit.

Stuck for something to do on a rainy day, or looking for houses to explore for a dose of history? In the South West, we're reopening the buildings you love, safely and in line with government advice.

The Cotswolds are home to some outstanding gardens, and during the autumn they fill with colour from late flowers and vibrant foliage. The crisp days of autumn are a great time to explore these gardens which we've reopened in line with Government guidelines.

The changing colours that arrive with autumn make this the ideal time of year to get out and explore on foot.

Whether it is gardens of leaves to crunch through and nature to spot, family trails, or walks for little legs, Gloucestershire had lots to offer just now. Remember to book ahead if you're planning a visit to Dyrham Park, Hidcote, Newark Park, Snowshill, Westbury Court Garden and Chedworth Roman Villa.

Whether you’re looking for fuel to kick-start a chilly ramble on the coast, or are returning from a gentle stroll in the woods, you’ll find these kiosks, cafés and tea-rooms are great places to refuel and enjoy a treat or two. What's more, every visit you make and piece of cake you buy helps us carry on looking after special places for everyone to enjoy, for ever.

Make the most of seasonal food with these recipes which celebrate the best of autumn produce. In the South West we care for acres of ancient orchards, so apples feature heavily in our recipes, as do foragable berries and other seasonal favourites.

Every year we usually run a programme of events celebrating the orchards and apple harvest across the South West. Due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis we are unable to host our usual apple festivals in the orchards we care for this year. However at Cotehele we have moved lots of great content online so you can enjoy the festivities and continue to the celebrate the orchards from your home.

Looking for some inspiration for your next walk? Here's the nine most popular National Trust walks in the South West at the moment. Please follow social distancing measures, and don't forget to check the property home pages before you set out for your walk, for up to date opening details and see if you need to book.

We’re doing everything we can to make space for nature in the countryside, thanks to your support. Find out about the projects that are taking place in the South West to create space for nature.

We’re shining a light on some of our favourite second-hand bookshops you’ll find tucked away at South West places, which we've reopened safely in line with government guidance.

Extraordinary books can transport us and take us beyond ourselves - and some even transport us to recognisable places from around the South West. Archaeologist Martin Papworth reflects on the beauty of the English countryside as portrayed in literature, through four of his must-reads.