One of the Cotswolds most prime position, the world is your oyster. Bath is only 35mins away, and Cheltenham is also nearby.
You're spoiled for choice for places to get your spread: guests get a 10 per cent discount at Quail's; or there's the Chef’s Table; or go the whole hog and arrange for Cooper d'Abo's Dan & Bruno to create you a very special picnic. As for where to plot up, we recommend Westonbirt national arboretumin Minchinhampton. Or the grounds of Woodchester Mansion.
They’ll send you off with a map if you like. Then turn right out of the property and drop down the hill and turn right which will take you through the estate where they have polo ponies. Or just amble your way to the Cat & Custard – it's a favourite of William and Harry.
For clothes, Overider at 1 Church Street (www.overider.com) and Moloh at number 4 (www.moloh.com). As for galleries, Lorfords Antiques at 30 Long Street (www.lorfordsantiques.co.uk) and Archangel are worth a visit. Decorators Source at 39a Long Street is a fun spot for homewares such as antler chandeliers and stylish mirrors (www.thedecoratorsource.co.uk). When it comes to cute edible gifts, we love the packaging of all the comestibles from the Highgrove shop (www.highgroveshop.com).
Tetbury Boutique Gallery is also well worth a snoop around (www.tetburygallery.com).
Everything from riding to ballooning can be recommended or arranged as can shooting schools that can come to you. Fly fishing for trout/river and stream is great in this area. We also recommend watersports at the lakes, motor sports at Castle Combe, Walking boots. There are great golf clubs such as the one at Minchinhampton. Beaufort Polo Club is also nearby.
Do you have a hobby that suits sitting in a quiet corner? If so, this is the perfect place to take your knitting/sudoko puzzlebook/voodoo doll* (*delete as applicable) as there are loads of armchairs in random cosy enclaves.
