Chipping Campden

10 Things we LOVE about Chipping Campden

1. Seasonal Splendor: knockout season-round, at Christmas, Chipping Campden looks like a movie set, dripping in twinkling lights. A supersized Christmas tree stands outside the Cotswold House Hotel, whose doorways are flanked by two gigantic toy soldiers. Don’t miss the annual Christmas market, where Santa makes his entrance on a tractor.
2. It’s the Gateway to the Cotswold Way: Surrounded by charming honey-coloured buildings and rolling hills, Chipping Campden is the official starting point of the 102-mile Cotswold Way National Trail. The first leg of the walk leads you up to natural amphitheatre, Dover’s Hill and onto the the iconic Broadway Tower, offering some of the best views in England.
3. Preserved Beauty: The iconic Market Hall in the centre of town dates back to 1627. It still provides shelter for local traders selling antiques, rugs, and sheepskins. The Town Hall opens for the Campden Market on the second Saturday and Sunday of each month from March to December (10am-5pm). The town is a haven for beautiful artisan shops and independent antique stores.
4. Arts and Heritage: Just behind the High Street on Church Street is the Court Barn Museum, which showcases the extraordinary work of the Guild of Handicraft and the Arts and Crafts movement. Nearby, the Town Hall rooms stay busy hosting a theatre group, a ballet school, and yoga classes.
5. Architectural Marvels: The Grade I listed St James’ Church is a masterpiece of “Wool Church” Gothic architecture. It is a central stop on any history walk of Chipping Campden, known for its magnificent 15th-century tower and historic brasses.
6. Cotswold Comfort Food: The Eight Bells (a local favourite) offers cosy nooks and great pub food. While Michael’s Mediterranean has a “secret” courtyard perfect for romantic summer dining. Da Luigi’s a traditional, family-run Italian spot serving up warm hospitality and home-style classics.
7. Glorious Gardens: The Ernest Wilson Memorial Garden is a tiny, peaceful walled garden at the north end of town. For true garden enthusiasts, the world-renowned Hidcote Manor Garden is just a short drive away; its “outdoor rooms” are the epitome of Arts and Crafts romance.
8. Local Vines: Chipping Campden even boasts its own local vineyard, Little Oak. You can book a tour and tasting with the friendly owners and take home a bottle or 3 of their award-winning sparkling wine as a souvenir.
9. Community Spirit: The Town Hall in the centre of the market square hosts regular antique sales and craft fairs (check local listings at the Information Centre). It is also home to a popular community cinema club showing the latest releases.
10. Rest and Recreation: If you’re in the mood for pampering, head to the Cotswold House Spa for a signature treatment, or learn a new skill at the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers – based on the high street it runs a range of floristry courses throughout the year.