Romantic Things to Do in Bourton on the Water: A Couples' Travel Guide

At a Glance

• Best for: Couples, romantic weekends and countryside escapes

• Ideal stay: 2-3 nights

• Known for: Pretty riverside walks, traditional Cotswold stone cottages, cosy pubs and independent shops

• Nearby places to visit: Lower Slaughter, Upper Slaughter, Stow on the Wold and Broadway

Why Visit Bourton on the Water?

The Venice of the Cotswolds is just as romantic as its Italian namesake. The River Windrush flows through the centre, passing beneath charming stone bridges and alongside traditional Cotswold cottages. It's the perfect setting for couples looking to slow down, enjoy leisurely country walks, browse independent shops and settle into a cosy pub or restaurant.

Romantic Things to Do in Bourton on the Water: A Weekend Itinerary

Day One: Explore the Village

Enjoy a riverside stroll

Start your visit with a walk hand in hand along the River Windrush. A short circular route takes you through the main village and over the famous stone bridges and then along a quieter stretch with fields and trees. It's one of the simplest yet most romantic things to do in Bourton on the Water.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch

There are so many options for lunch in Bourton, from cosy pubs to cute cafes, or even sharing fish and chips by the riverside.

Visit the Cotswold Perfumery

Browse beautiful fragrances and discover the art of perfume making. It's a lovely stop for couples who enjoy something a little different.

Spend the evening together

Enjoy a romantic dinner followed by drinks in one of the village's many pubs and resturants. Check out our recommendations of places to eat in Bourton on the Water.

Day Two: Discover the Surrounding Villages

Walk to Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter

For a romantic countryside adventure, take a scenic walk towards the neighbouring villages of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter. The villages are peaceful clusters of beautiful stone cottages, and you'll enjoy gorgeous countryside views on the way.

Stop for a country pub lunch

A must when visiting the Cotswolds! There are so many lovely pubs in the villlages around Bourton - try The Plough at Cold Aston, The Feathered Nest at Nether Westcote or The Fox at Barrington.

Visit Stow on the Wold

Finish your day with a visit to Stow on the Wold, a ten minute drive away. Explore its independent shops, historic market square and famous church door that inspired Tolkein.

More Romantic Things to Do Near Bourton on the Water

There are plenty of lovely places to explore within a short drive of the village, making Bourton on the Water a great base for couples wanting to discover more of the Cotswolds.

• Hawkstone Brewery: walkable in around 20 minutes from The Lansdowne, you can visit Jeremy Clarkson's brewery for a tour or just a drink in the bar (this is easy to tie in with the walk to the Slaughters)

• Greystones Nature Reserve: peaceful countryside walking routes accessible on foot from the centre of Bourton.

• Cotswold Motoring Museum and The Model Village: fun visits for couples who want a little wholesome, whimsical nosalgia to their trip - explore the old toys and vehicles in the museum, or wander the mini streets of Bourton on the Water at the Model Village

• Broadway: one of the Cotswolds' prettiest villages, with independent shops, galleries and lovely places to eat - make the walk up to Broadway Tower for some of the best views in the Cotswolds.

Where to Eat in Bourton on the Water: Romantic Restaurants and Cosy Pubs

No romantic break is complete without somewhere lovely to eat. Whether you're planning a leisurely lunch, afternoon tea or a special evening meal, Bourton on the Water has plenty of options for couples.

• The Dial House: a stylish, tucked away restaurant for a romantic meal or afternoon tea.

• The Conservatory: exceptionally chic interiors and delicious food for a memorable night.

• Smiths of Bourton: for a more casual dining option, tuck into officially on of the UK's best burgers.

• The Feathered Nest: in a village just outside of Bourton, this fine dining pub with far-reaching views has romance written all over it.

Where To Stay in Bourton on the Water

For a romantic break, you both want to be able to relax, so rather than self-catering choose a B&B where you have breakast made for you every morning and in the evenings you can shut the door and relax together. In one of our Superior Rooms you can also enjoy the complimentary mini bar and snack selection!

FAQs

Is Bourton on the Water good for couples?

Absolutely. Its riverside setting, pretty cottages, independent shops and cosy restaurants make it an excellent destination for a romantic break.

What are the most romantic things to do in Bourton on the Water?

Enjoy a riverside walk, browse the independent shops, have a cosy pub lunch or explore nearby villages such as Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter.

How long should couples spend in Bourton on the Water?

Two or three nights is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the village and visit some of the surrounding Cotswold villages.

Can you walk from Bourton on the Water to Lower Slaughter?

Yes. There is a lovely countryside walking route between the two villages, making it a popular choice for couples.