Spring is one of the best times to explore the Cotswolds. The landscape is starting to come back to life, the footpaths are more inviting, and there is a sense of space before the height of summer arrives.
If you are planning a day out, there are plenty of places worth visiting, all within easy reach of The Fox at Barrington. Even better, each one pairs perfectly with a stop for food or a drink by the river afterwards.
Bibury and Arlington Row
Bibury is one of the most recognisable villages in the Cotswolds, and in spring it is at its best. The River Coln runs gently through the village, and the surrounding greenery starts to brighten the whole setting.
A walk along Arlington Row and through the village is a simple but worthwhile way to spend an hour or two.
From there, it is around a 10 minute drive to The Fox at Barrington, where you can sit by the River Windrush and carry on the day at a slower pace.
Bourton-on-the-Water
Known for its low bridges and steady stream, Bourton-on-the-Water is always popular, but spring offers a slightly calmer window to enjoy it.
You can take a relaxed walk along the river, stop into a few shops, and take in the atmosphere without the peak season crowds.
Afterwards, heading to The Fox at Barrington (around 15 minutes away) gives you a change of pace. Less busy, more space, and a proper place to sit down and enjoy food or a drink.
Burford
Burford is a classic Cotswold market town, with its high street sloping down towards the River Windrush.
It is ideal for a slower morning, browsing independent shops or stopping for a coffee before heading out again.
From Burford, The Fox at Barrington is around a 5 minute drive. It makes for an easy next stop, especially if you are planning a longer lunch or a Sunday roast.
Walking the Windrush Valley
For those who want to spend more time outdoors, the Windrush Valley offers some of the best walking routes in the Cotswolds.
Starting or finishing near The Fox at Barrington works particularly well. You can follow the river, take in the surrounding countryside, and return ready for something to eat.
It is a straightforward plan that delivers every time.
National Trust Places to Visit
Spring is a good time to visit National Trust sites in the Cotswolds, with gardens starting to come into bloom and estates reopening fully after winter.
Bibury and the surrounding countryside link easily with National Trust-managed land, and Lodge Park near Sherborne is around a 15 minute drive away. It is a quieter site, but worth visiting for something a little different.
Chedworth Roman Villa is another strong option nearby, around 20 minutes from The Fox at Barrington. Set in a wooded valley, it combines history with a scenic walk, making it a good spring stop before heading to The Fox at Barrington.
Northleach and Cheltenham
Northleach is one of the lesser-known Cotswold towns, but well worth visiting. It has a traditional feel, independent shops, and a quieter pace than some of the more well-known spots.
Cheltenham offers something different. Larger, more lively, and known for its Regency architecture, it works well if you want to combine countryside with a town visit. In spring, its parks and open spaces come into their own.
Northleach is around 10 minutes away, and Cheltenham is approximately 30 minutes by car, making it simple to plan a route that finishes by the river at The Fox at Barrington.
Make a Day of It
The advantage of visiting the Cotswolds in spring is how easy it is to build a full day without rushing. A village or two, a walk, and then somewhere reliable to finish.
The Fox at Barrington provides that final part. A riverside setting, seasonal food, and a place to sit and properly enjoy the time you have spent exploring.
If you are planning a visit this spring, it is worth booking ahead, particularly for weekends and Sunday roasts.
Start with the Cotswolds, and finish at The Fox at Barrington.