Travel Bargain Hunter

The Cotswolds—a region of rolling hills, honey-stone villages, and postcard-perfect countryside—has long been a favourite for British getaways. But this summer, it found itself in the headlines for more than its beauty. US Vice President J.D. Vance stirred up quite the storm during his visit to the tiny hamlet of Dean, near Chipping Norton. His stay at a Grade II listed manor triggered road closures, security sweeps, and even protests from locals and celebrities like Jeremy Clarkson.

While Vance’s visit may have been a diplomatic circus, for the rest of us, the Cotswolds remains a peaceful escape—albeit one that can be pricey. Boutique hotels, artisanal cafés, and charming B&Bs don’t come cheap. But don’t let that deter you. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the best of the Cotswolds without breaking the bank.

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💸 Keeping Costs Down

Here are some savvy ways to stretch your budget:

• Cashback on bookings: Use platforms like Quicdco.com to earn cashback on hotel and travel bookings. I recently scored 15% back on Hotels.com—worth checking before you book.

• Self-catering stays: Opt for cottages or Airbnbs with kitchens. You’ll save a fortune by cooking a few meals yourself.

• Travel off-peak: Weekdays and shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer lower prices and fewer crowds.

• Public transport or car shares: While driving is ideal, buses and trains do connect many villages. Apps like BlaBlaCar can help with ride-sharing.

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🆓 Free Activities Worth Your Time

The Cotswolds is rich in free experiences that rival any paid attraction:

🏞️ Scenic Walks

• Cotswold Way: A 100-mile trail offering breathtaking views and charming stops like Broadway Tower.

• Rollright Stones: Near Chipping Norton, these ancient megaliths are steeped in mystery and folklore 3.

🏰 Historic Sites

• Gloucester Cathedral: Free to enter and famously featured in the Harry Potter films 3.

• Tewkesbury Abbey: Stunning architecture and peaceful grounds.

🖼️ Arts & Culture

• New Brewery Arts in Cirencester: Galleries and studios with free entry 3.

• Churchill & Sarsden Heritage Centre: A small but fascinating museum near Chipping Norton.

🌿 Nature & Wildlife

• Cotswold Lakes: A haven for birdwatchers and walkers.

• Woodchester Park: Miles of trails through a hidden valley.

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🧭 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dodging motorcades or meandering through meadows, the Cotswolds offers something for everyone. J.D. Vance may have brought drama to Dean, but for the rest of us, it’s still a place of quiet charm and timeless beauty. With a few clever tricks, you can enjoy a rich experience on a modest budget