The Cotswolds, celebrated for its stunning scenery and charming villages, is experiencing a remarkable rise in holiday bookings. With soaring airfares and extended queues at Europe’s borders reshaping travel plans this summer, more travellers from the UK and abroad are choosing to stay closer to home in this picturesque region.
Pass the Keys Cotswolds, a leading manager of short-term holiday rentals, reports that bookings in May jumped by 70% compared to last year, with June already tracking 40% ahead. Franchise owner Tim Griffiths attributes this surge partly to the geopolitical tensions following the conflict in Iran, which, combined with wider trends, has turned the spotlight onto domestic and secure “safe haven” destinations.
The Cotswolds continues to attract strong demand not only from British and European holidaymakers but also from growing numbers of American, Chinese, and Japanese visitors. Unlike many seasonal destinations, the region maintains steady demand year-round, with only minor slowdowns during November and January.
READ MORE: Cheltenham Honors WWII GCHQ Codebreaker Mary Body with Blue Plaque
READ MORE: ‘We Feel Forgotten’: Cheltenham Traders Voice Concerns Over Cavendish House Closure
For those considering a getaway, Pass the Keys offers a range of exceptional properties. One highlight is a stunning five-bedroom lake-house with panoramic views, a hot tub, and three levels of luxurious barn-style living near Cirencester. This property, winner of the 2026 Property of the Year award, is ideal for families or special celebrations.
Another option is a Grade II listed townhouse located in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold. This charming home combines exposed beams and Cotswold stone with modern comforts, featuring three king-size beds, a twin pull-out room, two private gardens, and a spacious outdoor dining area.
For a more traditional countryside experience, there’s an 18th-century cottage a five-minute walk from Bourton-on-the-Water’s center. Positioned close to scenic walks and attractions such as the Model Village and Birdland, it’s perfect for nature lovers and explorers alike.
Just outside Chedworth, Collingwood House offers a tranquil retreat set on two acres with its own vineyard and orchard. The self-catering home sleeps eight, is dog-friendly, and boasts a newly fitted kitchen, large drawing room, and spacious bedrooms—providing plenty of room to relax in peace.
Smaller groups or couples might prefer The Old Reading Room, a cosy two-person bolthole in Bledington village. Nestled near a picturesque stream and the famed Kings Head pub, it provides an authentic Cotswold village experience, close to attractions like Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm.
For larger groups seeking luxury and entertainment, a 14-bedroom property in Faringdon accommodates up to 14 guests and two dogs. This impressive residence features a swimming pool, tennis court, games room, sauna, cinema, and open fire—perfect for milestone celebrations or grand family holidays.
According to Holidaycottages.co.uk, this grand estate offers “the ultimate playground for the bold and beautiful,” delivering an array of amenities that ensure both relaxation and excitement for its guests. Recent reviews praise the property’s cleanliness, comfort, and excellent location.
With such diverse and high-quality accommodation options, the Cotswolds remains a top choice for travellers seeking memorable UK staycations amid an evolving travel landscape.