5 Enchanting Places in Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water, also knowns as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, is a charming, picturesque village in Gloucestershire, England. Known for its idyllic stone bridges that cross the River Windrush, the hone-colored limestone buildings, and lush greenery. It blends country English charm, well-developed businesses and attractions, and a rich history that make it a must-see when visiting the Cotswolds.

Let’t take a tour of Bourton-on-the-Water courtesy of Evan Evans tours.

Sat, Jul 29: Gloucestershire, Cotswolds, England

Arriving at Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the water is a well-planned and laid out village. Parking for tour buses is at the edge of the village, which keeps the town center pristine, and it’s just a short walk to the village. There are toilet facilities in the parking lot as well as a designated location in the village.

The Venice of the Cotswolds, River Windrush

The tranquil River Windrush meanders through the Cotswolds, from its source in the Gloucestershire hills. It passes through the Bourton-on-the-Water being spanned by several stone foot bridges creating a charming atmosphere and idyllic landscape.

During our hour long tour, there was a fundraising duck race, where plastic ducks are dumped in the river from one bridge. The first duck to reach the next bridge downstream is declared the winner.

Bourton-on-the-Water Village Tour

The Bourton-on-the-Water Village is centered along the Windrush River with a bunch of businesses and restaurants. Behind the first row of shops on one side, is a sort of alleyway with more places to visit. It’s easy to walk through the town in the hour given, provided you don’t sit down somewhere to have a casual lunch.

I managed to do a bit of shopping, and visited the Motoring Museum at one end of the village.

Bourton-on-the-Water Motoring Museum Tour

For a nostalgic journey to the past through the lens of automobiles, take a walk through the Bourton-on-the-Water Motoring Museum. There’s a large collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, signage, and other memorabilia. It’s a glimpse into the golden age of motoring of the 20th century.

One strange experience, there is an old radio station set up among the displays. They are playing the theme music from Hawaii Five-O, the police-drama television series from the 70’s. They played that song a lot in Hawaii.

More details are on the official Cotswold Motoring Museum site.

Evan Evans Bourton-on-the-Water Tour Review

Bourton-on-the-Water was the first stop on our Evan Evans Cotswolds tour and ended up being the best as well. The River Windrush, along with the Cotswolds limestone buildings are simply beautiful. The larger size and layout of the village makes for a complete town look and feel. Would highly recommend visiting Bourton-on-the-Water on your next Cotswolds tour.

Speaking of stones, now check out the amazing stone circles at Stonehenge.

Have you already been to the Bourton-on-the-Water, other Cotswolds villages, or on an Evan Evans Tour? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Part of the Evan Evans Cotswolds Small Group Tour Review