Cotswold Water Park Retreats Yellowstone Cottages Collection

RIAT 2026 – Royal International Air Tattoo Important Information RIAT 26 Dates: 17 – 19 July 2026 Location: RAF Fairford, Fairford The Royal International Air Tattoo 2026 returns to RAF Fairford from 17–19 July 2026, bringing the world’s largest military airshow back to the skies above the Cotswolds. Held annually at RAF Fairford, the Royal International Air Tattoo attracts aviation enthusiasts from across the globe. Over three days, visitors can experience spectacular flying displays, rare aircraft from international air forces, and one of the most impressive static aircraft exhibitions anywhere in the world. For guests staying in the Cotswolds, RIAT is one of the region’s biggest summer events and is just a short drive from Cirencester and the surrounding lakes. RIAT 2026 Theme – “Fighter Meet” The theme for 2026 is “Fighter Meet”, celebrating the evolution of fighter aircraft and air-to-air combat over the past century. Visitors can expect a strong line-up of modern fast jets from international air forces, alongside historic aircraft that have played key roles in aviation history. Fighter aircraft have always been among the most popular displays at RIAT, and the 2026 programme will place them firmly in the spotlight. A secondary theme, “Royal Flight,” will mark 30 years since the event received Royal status, highlighting aircraft used for royal and VIP transport. These aircraft are expected to form part of the static displays on the ground. What to Expect at RIAT The Royal International Air Tattoo is famous for combining breathtaking flying displays with a huge exhibition of aircraft on the ground. Visitors typically enjoy: Flying displays featuring fast jets, helicopters and historic aircraft Over 200 aircraft from around the world Static displays where visitors can walk among military aircraft Opportunities to meet pilots and crews from international air forces Family entertainment areas, aviation exhibits, food and shopping The combination of flying displays and ground exhibitions makes RIAT one of the most comprehensive aviation events anywhere in the world. Iconic Display Teams RIAT regularly hosts some of the world’s best known aerobatic teams and military aircraft. Previous shows have included appearances from: Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (Red Arrows) Frecce Tricolori from Italy modern fighter aircraft from NATO and international air forces historic warbirds and rare visiting aircraft The full flying programme for RIAT 2026 will be announced closer to the event. Watching RIAT Aircraft Over the Cotswold Lakes One of the unexpected pleasures of the Royal International Air Tattoo is that you don’t always have to be at the airfield to experience it. In the days leading up to the show, aircraft from around the world begin arriving at RAF Fairford for rehearsals and practice flights. Because the airbase sits just a few miles from the Cotswold lakes, it’s quite common to see aircraft flying overhead throughout the week before the event. Visitors staying around Cotswold Lakes will often spot transport aircraft, helicopters and fast jets approaching or departing the airbase. During the RIAT weekend itself, aircraft frequently pass over the lakes as they arrive, depart or reposition for the flying programme. The contrast of modern military aircraft crossing the skies above the lakes and countryside makes for a memorable experience even away from the showground. For aviation enthusiasts, simply sitting outside by the water and watching aircraft movements can be an unexpected highlight of a stay in the area. Places to Stay During RIAT RIAT weekend is one of the busiest times of the year in the Cotswolds, and accommodation close to RAF Fairford tends to book well in advance. Staying around the lakes offers the advantage of being close enough to the airshow while enjoying a quieter countryside setting. If you are planning to visit the airshow, you may want to explore some of our nearby lakeside stays: Lakeside lodges at Waters Edge – peaceful accommodation close to the lakes with easy access to Fairford Little Horseshoe Lake lodges – private fishing lodges in a secluded setting Luxury glamping pods – including Foxes Den, Squirrels Drey and Badgers Sett Many of these properties are within around 20–25 minutes of RAF Fairford, making them an ideal base for attending the airshow or watching aircraft activity across the skies during RIAT week. Visiting RAF Fairford RIAT takes place at RAF Fairford, located between Cirencester and Swindon in Gloucestershire. Transport options typically include: Pre-booked parking at the airfield Shuttle buses from Swindon and Cheltenham Local bus services from Cirencester Park-and-ride services during the event weekend Because of the scale of the show, visitors are advised to plan their transport in advance.

Bibury Trout Farm Bibury Trout Farm sits on the edge of the village of Bibury beside the clear waters of the River Coln. Founded in 1902, it is one of the oldest working trout farms in England and remains an important part of the rural landscape of the Cotswolds. Today the farm continues to raise rainbow trout in a series of spring-fed ponds while welcoming visitors who want to experience a quieter corner of the countryside. Paths run around the ponds, allowing visitors to watch the fish, feed the trout and learn how traditional trout farming works. The setting is calm and spacious. Trees line the water, the river runs gently through the site and wildlife is easy to spot throughout the year. Many visitors come simply to walk around the ponds and enjoy the slower pace of the surroundings. Families often spend an hour or two here feeding the fish, exploring the grounds and enjoying the outdoor space. The farm also offers fishing experiences where visitors can catch their own trout from designated ponds. Because Bibury Trout Farm sits only a short walk from the centre of Bibury, many visitors combine it with a visit to the famous Arlington Row cottages and the village itself. Together they offer a glimpse of both the historic charm and natural beauty that define the Cotswolds. For guests exploring the eastern Cotswolds, Bibury Trout Farm provides an easy and relaxed stop while travelling between Burford, Cirencester and the surrounding villages.

Important Information Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026 Dates: 29 April – 4 May 2026 Location: Montpellier Gardens and venues across Cheltenham Main venue: Festival Village, Montpellier Gardens Distance from the Cotswold Lakes: around 35–40 minutes Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026 The Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026 returns from 29 April to 4 May 2026, bringing six days of live music to the elegant Regency town of Cheltenham. Held over the May Bank Holiday period, the festival is one of the UK’s leading jazz events and attracts thousands of visitors each year. Just over an hour from the Cotswolds lakes, it makes an excellent day trip during a stay in the region. World-Class Artists Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, the festival has built a reputation for mixing legendary performers with contemporary artists and emerging talent. The 2026 programme includes major international names such as: Van Morrison Jessie J Joss Stone Jack Savoretti Courtney Pine Nigel Kennedy ABC alongside many other jazz, soul and blues performers appearing throughout the week. Festival Village Atmosphere The heart of the event is Festival Village in Montpellier Gardens. Large headline concerts take place inside the Big Top while outdoor stages host free performances throughout the day. Visitors will also find food stalls, bars, pop-up performances and relaxed seating areas, creating a lively festival atmosphere from morning until late evening. Music Across Cheltenham In addition to the outdoor stages, concerts take place in venues throughout the town including: Cheltenham Town Hall Parabola Arts Centre bars, clubs and intimate music venues around the town centre. This mix of large concerts and smaller performances turns the whole town into a live music destination during the festival. Free Events and Around-Town Gigs A major attraction of the festival is the large number of free performances. Pop-up gigs and street performances take place across Cheltenham as part of the “Around Town” programme, making it easy to enjoy the festival atmosphere even without a ticket to the headline shows. Visiting from the Cotswolds Cheltenham is around 35–40 minutes from the Cotswold lakes, making the festival a popular day out for visitors staying in the area. Guests can combine live music with exploring the town’s independent shops, cafés and Regency architecture. Check our current availability for your dates. We also have some properties in the town – check out the Atelier here for availability

The farm is a popular destination for visitors to The Cotswolds, particularly during lambing in the spring, Halloween and the run up to Christmas when they have their enchanted light displays – although you will find something going on most times of the year. The Christmas experiences normally start around the end of November and the beginning of December and include an enchanted light trail and Santa’s grotto. Book early to avoid disappointment! You’ll need to book to be sure of a slot – check here for Cotswold Park Farm bookings Pets are welcome on some parts of the farm – restaurant area and woodland walks although not the park itself due to contact with farm animals. The farm prides itself on accessibility so you can even hire mobility scooters during your visit. You can take your own food or you can buy from the farm restaurant.

Laying claim to being ‘England’s Oldest Inn’, The Porch House was built in 947AD. That’s a lot of pints. Complete with cosy nooks and roaring fires it’s just the image of a pub you want on a Cotswold visit. The first customers back in 947 would have their minds blown by the negronis and cauliflower wings now on the menu but would probably feel right at home ordering the lamb shank and a pint of Brakspear ale.

We love the Jolly Nice Farm Shop over towards Stroud and make it a regular stopover whenever we are that side of town. Perfect if you are going across to Minchinhampton Common or Stroud. Check out their website before you he’d over as they often have events going on – Christmas, Halloween, Easter etc as you would expect but often live events such as music. The cafe is excellent and we can certainly recommend the home made scotch eggs!! Just a short drive from Cotswold Water Park Retreats, Jolly Nice Farm Shop offers an authentic taste of the Cotswolds. This award-winning, family-run farm shop is dedicated to sourcing the finest local and sustainable produce. Originally a petrol station, Jolly Nice has been transformed into a excellent destination with wooden buildings, yurts, and gardens that blend seamlessly into the beautiful countryside. At the heart of Jolly Nice is a commitment to regenerative farming and supporting local suppliers. Their native breed butchery offers high-quality meats, while the shop is filled with seasonal vegetables, freshly baked goods, and handmade ice creams. Each product reflects their ethos of sustainability and quality. For a relaxing break, visitors can enjoy the on-site café and bar, which serve seasonal dishes crafted from the very produce they sell. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, a light lunch, or an afternoon coffee, the café provides a cosy spot to savour the flavours of the region. For added convenience, there’s even a drive-through for those on the go. Jolly Nice also stands out for its dedication to eco-friendly practices, from their packaging choices to their farming methods. Whether you’re a local stocking up on your weekly essentials or a visitor looking for a memorable Cotswolds experience, Jolly Nice Farm Shop is a must-visit destination that showcases the best of the region’s food, sustainability, and hospitality.

Cheltenham Racecourse is one of the most famous and prestigious horse racing venues in the UK, known as the home of jump racing. Nestled in the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, just outside the town of Cheltenham, the racecourse hosts numerous events throughout the year, with the highlight being the Cheltenham Festival in March. This four-day event attracts top horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world, culminating in the legendary Gold Cup, one of the most coveted prizes in horse racing. The racecourse boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including grandstands with stunning views of the track and the surrounding Cotswold Hills. Visitors can enjoy a variety of hospitality options, from fine dining to casual eateries, making it a destination for both racing enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant social experience. The combination of thrilling racing action, a lively atmosphere, and beautiful scenery makes Cheltenham Racecourse a must-visit venue in the sporting calendar.

We’re huge fans of the Ivy in Cheltenham, normally going as a treat when we are going to the Jazz Festival around the May Bank Holiday. The inside of the restaurant is a bit special with the bar in the centre of the room and beautifully decorated reflecting Cheltenhams racing heritage. The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie in Cheltenham is a destination for those seeking a blend of fine dining and relaxed elegance in one of the town’s most picturesque areas. Located in a beautifully restored Regency building in the stylish Montpellier district, the restaurant is known for its lavish interior, combining Art Deco-inspired elements with touches of classic British design. This creates an inviting yet refined ambiance, perfect for any occasion. The menu offers a diverse range of dishes, from modern British classics to international flavours, catering to breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Seasonal ingredients are often featured, ensuring that every meal is fresh and flavourful. In addition to its regular menu, The Ivy is also a popular spot for afternoon tea, offering a selection of delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and fine teas in a beautifully presented setting. Whether you’re looking for a special night out, a leisurely brunch, or simply a place to enjoy a cocktail, The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie provides a memorable experience with top-notch service and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a go-to destination for both locals and visitors wanting to indulge in Cheltenham’s finest culinary offerings.

Discover the Charm of Cotswold Lavender Fields Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Cotswold Lavender offers an enchanting experience for visitors. Stroll through expansive lavender fields in full bloom, enjoy the calming scent, and explore vibrant wildflower meadows. The farm features a working distillery where you can learn about lavender oil production and a Lavender Cabin shop for unique lavender-based products. We normally have our annual trek around July each year – it’s a very short window and we try and combine it with a catch up elsewhere at that end of the Cotswolds, Broadway, for example. The trip is definitely worth it if only to have your senses overwhelmed by sights and smells of the lavender fields as I can guarantee that you have probably not seen anything quite like it. Very instagrammable pictures in the offing and we would love you to tag us! Visitor Information: Open Dates: 14th June to 4th August 2024 Booking: No prior booking required Experience the tranquil beauty and aromatic delights of this unique destination. For more details, visit Cotswold Lavender.

Walks Around Cotswold Water Park Probably the best source of information on walking in the Water Park comes from Cotswold Water Parks own website which we are quite happy to link to rather than trying to reinvent them ourselves. There are 6 walks around the western lakes and and couple over on the eastern side, starting in Lechlade. There are also some pointers to the Thames National Path as well which can be a couple of hours, a full weekend or a navigation of the whole length of the thames. We have tried a number of these – some you can combine to enjoy a longer walk others give you options for short cuts they also give you cycling routes. Cotswold Water Park offers a variety of picturesque and serene walking routes, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some highlights of the walks you can enjoy: Tow Paths, Train Tracks, and Water Meadows Starting at the Gateway Centre, this walk offers options for 1.6km, 5km, or 7.3km routes. It combines gentle towpaths, old train tracks, and scenic water meadows, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll​ (WaterPark)​. From Bulrushes to Bow Wow This 5.5km route takes you from the Gateway Centre to the charming village of South Cerney. It’s a delightful walk through diverse landscapes, providing a taste of the local flora and fauna​ (WaterPark)​. Rivers, Brooks, and Lakes Beginning at Neigh Bridge Country Park, this walk covers 5.8km or 7km, showcasing all the water park’s varied landscapes. You’ll experience winding river trails, serene brooks, and expansive lakes​ (WaterPark)​. Three Villages Walk This 14km walk takes you through three picturesque villages along part of the Thames Path National Trail. It’s a great way to explore the local history and enjoy the peaceful countryside​ (WaterPark)​. Cleveland Circuit One of the most tranquil circular routes, this 7km walk follows the historic Thames Path and winds around some of the oldest lakes in the area. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat​ (WaterPark)​. Bike It or Walk It! This versatile 16km to 18km route from the Gateway Centre is excellent for both walking and cycling. It’s an off-road circular path that allows you to explore the area at your own pace​ (WaterPark)​. These routes are well-marked with public rights of way signage and maintained by local councils and the Cotswold Water Park Trust ranger team. Each walk provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beautiful natural surroundings and enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Cotswold Water Park​ (WaterPark)​​. For more details and maps, visit the Cotswold Water Park website.