Nestled quietly in a valley just a few miles north of Stroud lies Painswick. Affectionately known as the “Queen of the Cotswolds,” this historic wool town is widely considered one of the finest, most architecturally intact settlements in England. Built almost entirely from pale, honey-coloured Cotswold stone quarried from the nearby beacon, walking down its steep, winding streets feels like stepping straight into a period drama.

Stroud has gained a reputation as a must-visit in the Cotswolds, but the real charm often lies just beyond the bustling town centre in the enchanting Stroud Valleys. This network of winding valleys, filled with quaint villages and rich history, draws in more people looking for a distinctive and fulfilling Cotswold lifestyle.