September
At Your Leisure Volume 6
Every month we pull together a selection of unmissable events across the Cotswolds, to enjoy at your leisure.
Dates for your diary
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious automotive events, Salon Privé comes to Blenheim Palace from 2–6 September. A masterclass in high-octane luxury, feast your eyes world-class supercars and vintage classics set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Palace’s South Lawn – while quaffing champagne. A must for any car enthusiast – check out the schedule, dress code and get your tickets here.
From high-octane motor shows to soul-nourishing retreats, as the cooler weather arrives, head to the holistic haven that is Bamford Wellness Spa, Daylesford. Beyond their world-class treatments and restorative massages, their September schedule includes a variety of movement classes, from Pilates to Qi Gong, all set in a tranquil, nature-focused environment. Explore their full workshop calendar.
If you’re in the market for a real challenge, check out The Cotswold Way Challenge. This 102-mile endurance trek runs from 10–13 September, with overnight camping stops and food on the way. Start at Chipping Campden and finish in Bath – a brilliant celebration of the region’s most famous footpath and a real way to test your metal. Sign up here.
For a slightly gentler pace, and to appreciate the change in seasons, get at one with nature with a Forest Wander at Westonbirt Arboretum. As the leaves begin to show the very first hints of gold, Westonbirt becomes an enchanted kingdom, with miles of accessible paths, it’s ideal for little legs and four-legged friends. Visit the magical tree garden, where you can explore trees from all over the globe. Discover upcoming family trails here.
From 11–20 September, Heritage Open Days return, England’s largest festival of history and culture offers a rare, a completely free invitation to peek behind closed doors. Across the Cotswolds, extraordinary architectural gems, private stately homes, and hidden historic spaces throw open their doors. An unbeatable opportunity to explore local heritage with expert-led talks and guided walks. Find the full participating program here.
On the 12–13 September head to the circuit for a festival of historic motor racing: The Autumn Classic Historic Racing Festival at Castle Combe. Expect thunderous grids of pre-war sports cars, classic GTs, and single-seaters, all set against a nostalgic paddock atmosphere of vintage stalls and live music.
Get your name down for the Lisa Valentine’s Grounding and Growth Retreat at the Cotswold Park Estate, from 18–20 September. Set within a serene 195-acre private estate, this intimate yoga weekend is designed to detox and revive. Daily sessions ranging from slow flow to restorative, hatha and yin, meditation, mantra, sound healing and hot stone massage, it’s a beautiful way to align your energy with the changing season and reset the nervous system. All abilities welcome. All information here.
On Friday 25 September, join an invigorating afternoon of movement at Far Peak, Northleach. The afternoon includes 45-minutes of reformer Pilates, 45-minutes of Padel, a sauna and ice bath session, a calming sound bath , finished off with light refreshments from roots and seeds and then a PARTY to celebrates Far Peak’s 1st birthday. Tickets are £99.
For the foodies, the annual Broadway Food & Drink Festival will take place on the green on the second Sunday in September (13). Set along Broadway’s iconic main street, celebrating the best of Cotswold produce bringing together artisan makers, street food traders, craft brewers, and live chef demonstrations. Come hungry and bring a shopper for all the goodies you’ll want to take home.
September = lots to get excited about when it comes to eating. Keep an eye on Ox Barn at Thyme for menu shifts that move from summer zucchinis toward deeper, richer flavours picked fresh from the gardens that day. At Moda, Broadway Head Chef James Wilson (formerly The Newt) blends Scandinavian precision with exquisite British produce – his 9-course tasting menu is an evolving, forward-looking journey.
Make a date at The Royal Oak, Whatcote, a historic 14th-century village pub run by chef Richard Craven and his wife Solanche. It holds a prestigious Michelin-star for its hyper-seasonal, farm-to-fork British menu that emphasises wild, foraged ingredients and locally sourced game.
And don’t forget the The Bull, Charlbury, for a more understated yet sophisticated fire-lit affair, The Bull’s wood-fired autumn vegetables and local venison make for the ultimate cosy evening. The Bell at Sapperton, is a dreamy dog-friendly destination and the perfect pit stop to refuel after an invigorating woodland walk. And if you haven’t already got yourself to Canteen in Chipping Norton – errrrr, then what are you waiting for?
For music lovers this month, the hottest tickets in town are The Stow Music Festival; an exquisite week-long event, there’s something for all tastes, with all events take place in the gorgeous St Edward’s Church. We’ll be rocking in the aisles at the infamous SOUL NIGHT. Bag your tickets here.
Dunkertons have free live music every Saturday in the month of September. The bar and eateries will be open. this is a free event- no bookings are necessary for a full listing of artists, from DJs to soloists right here.
And also…Dunkertons Monday Dating Club is back on 28th September – with a brand-new format. If you’re aged 30 – 49, single and tired of endless swiping, Monday Dating Club is your chance to put the apps down and meet people face-to-face. Tickets £8.50, includes a welcome drink. Singletons, book yourself in now.