Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming market town nestled in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It offers a variety of activities, including exploring medieval buildings and art galleries, visiting shops, dining at numerous restaurants, and enjoying one of England’s oldest pubs.
I’ve been visiting the Cotswolds for years, as I have friends in the region. Stow-on-the-Wold is one of my favorite spots due to its beauty and excellent eateries serving delicious seasonal dishes. The town is perched on a hill, 800 feet (244 meters) above sea level, and has been an important trading center for centuries. It even hosts a regular farmers’ market that attracts many visitors.
For a taste of Stow-on-the-Wold, you can start at the Market Square, the town’s main hub. The farmers’ market is held here on the second and last Thursday of the month from April to September and on the second Thursday from October to March. It’s a great place to pick up fresh, local produce, including artisan foods like jams, chutneys, and locally made beers and ciders.
The Market Square is surrounded by beautiful buildings made of honey-colored Cotswold stone, and you’ll find a variety of shops and cafes offering everything from antiques to cream teas. The medieval St Edward’s Church, a Grade II listed building dating back to the 11th Century, is another significant attraction. Its north-facing door, flanked by ancient yew trees, looks like something out of a fantasy novel and is a photogenic spot.
The Porch House, one of the oldest inns in England, is a must-visit for its historical charm and excellent selection of local beers and ciders. The restaurant offers upmarket pub food featuring local and seasonal ingredients, making it a perfect place for any meal.
If contemporary art interests you, head to the Fosse Gallery, which showcases works by various contemporary artists and offers free entry. For antique lovers, the Tara Antiques Centre in the Grade II listed Manor House is a treasure trove with items from over 30 dealers.
For something sweet, the Cotswold Sweet Company in the center of town offers a wide selection of homemade candies and fudges, perfect for a tasty souvenir.
Nearby attractions include the historic Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the countryside around Stow, which is perfect for hiking. Lovely routes include the Heart of England circular walk and the Stow-on-the-Wold to Upper Slaughter hike.
Sudeley Castle, another nearby attraction, offers something for the whole family with its guided tours and beautiful gardens. Daylesford Organic Farm and Batsford Arboretum are also excellent day trips, offering everything from organic produce to thousands of rare plants.
The picturesque village of Broadway, famed for its arts scene and panoramic tower views, is just a short drive away. Another nearby town, Chipping Norton, is known for its vibrant high street and celebrity residents.
Bibury, with its picturesque stone cottages and Arlington Row, is another must-visit village near Stow-on-the-Wold. You’ll find great places to eat and drink and historic landmarks, making it a favorite of mine for its charming location.
For accommodation, Stow-on-the-Wold offers various options, from central spots like Davenford Stow Gardens to more scenic places like Woodland Guesthouse and Cozy Shed.
Foodies will love the town’s many cafes, pubs, and restaurants. The Porch House serves contemporary European cuisine, while The Hive offers a delightful breakfast menu. Alexiou’s Restaurant brings a taste of Greece to the Cotswolds, and The Old Butchers specializes in seafood. The Talbot offers excellent pub classics overlooking Market Square.
The best time to visit Stow-on-the-Wold is during the spring or fall to avoid the summer tourist crowds. Two to three days is ideal for exploring the town itself, but a week allows for day trips to nearby attractions like Blenheim Palace and Bibury.
Stow-on-the-Wold is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. Shopping for antiques, strolling around the town center, and enjoying local pubs are popular activities here. The small alleys, or “Tures,” historically used for moving sheep, add to the town’s charming character.
Now that you know what to see and do in Stow-on-the-Wold, from the farmers’ markets and sweet shops to medieval churches and rustic pubs, it’s clear why this picturesque market town is a favorite among visitors. It’s a fantastic destination and a quintessential English rural town.
