Bourton On The Water brings together local history, nature and experiences around the River Windrush. The river runs through the centre and is crossed there by low bridges. If you are looking for a hotel in Bourton On The Water, you can use the village’s themes as a starting point for planning your trip: architectural history, walks through the countryside or wildlife watching.
Village Model and Architectural History
The Model Village depicts Bourton On The Water to scale at 1:9. It was built between 1936 and 1940 and is designated a Grade II listed structure. The scale makes the connection between the model and the village itself tangible: what you see is a replica of Bourton On The Water, not just a single building.
A much older link to the village’s history is St Lawrence’s Church. Its chancel is the oldest part of the church building and was built by Walter de Burhton in 1328. Bourton On The Water thus brings together different periods: the church’s medieval architectural history and the Model Village, which dates from the 20th century.
The Cotswold Perfumery combines local craftsmanship with a visitor experience. The company was founded in 1966 and specialises in fine fragrances for the niche market. It is based in Bourton On The Water in a 300-year-old Grade II listed building. The Perfumery runs perfume-making courses and workshops throughout the year. Dates and booking availability may change; check before your trip.
Nature and Trails Around Bourton
At Greystones Farm, ancient meadows and rivers provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The species-rich, wildflower-rich meadows are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Salmonsbury Camp, a Scheduled Monument, is also located at Greystones Farm. Nature conservation and heritage protection are two distinct aspects of this named place.
Greystones Farm Nature Reserve is open free of charge all year round. The Oxfordshire Way long-distance trail runs through the area. Conditions and trail closures may change, so it is worth checking the current situation before your visit.
Two different route descriptions can help you find your way when walking: the Oxfordshire Way runs through the nature reserve; a popular circular walk connects Bourton On The Water with the neighbouring Slaughters. In addition, numerous footpaths around the village cross the gently rolling Cotswold Hills and farmland. This lets you distinguish between a route through the reserve, a connection to the Slaughters and other countryside walks, without combining them into a single route.
Birds and Outdoor Experiences
Birdland Park and Gardens is home to exotic birds, including penguins, flamingos, macaws, emus and birds of prey. The various viewing and hands-on experiences each focus on different aspects of animal life. Penguin Shore offers viewing areas above and below the water, where you can watch the penguins.
The Feed the Penguins experience includes a presentation by an experienced keeper about the penguins’ personalities and lives. In the Encounters Area, you can have close encounters with the animals that live there. Check the availability and programme of these experiences before your trip.
The Dragonfly Maze adds a playful outdoor experience. If you are more interested in the river scenery than an activity, you can enjoy coffee or Afternoon Tea by the riverbank. This gives you a choice between nature trails, birdwatching, a hands-on animal experience and a break by the River Windrush.
Discover more destinations: Birdlip, Flaxley, Miserden, Sevenhampton, Upper Slaughter, Woodmancote, Tewkesbury, Blockley.
For the broader travel overview: Gloucestershire.
