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INTRODUCTION
Bourton on Water is a perfect example of
an English chocolate box village. Most of the
buildings are built from the attractive local
Cotswold stone and everywhere is neat and tidy.
On top of this, the town has several tourist
attractions which are neatly sited so as not to
detract from beauty of the village. The attractions
include the Model Village, Motor Museum, Birdland, a
Perfumery and Model Railway.
Bourton on Water also has a long and interesting
history with many signs of Stone Age occupation.
Above all though, what makes Bourton on Water one of
the most attractive villages in the UK is the River
Windrush which runs through its centre. Originally
the river was contained naturally but over the years
it has been contained and five bridges constructed
to cross it at various points. |
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War Memorial |
BOURTON ON
WATER HISTORY
There is clear evidence of Stone Age occupation in
the area around the town with several burial mounds
still clearly visible. The Saxons gave the town its
name, with the meaning of "town (ton) beside
the camp (burgh)".
The Romans considered the town sufficiently
important to build an encampment just outside the
town.
Charles I frequently visited Bourton on Water during
the Civil War and stayed in the Manor House and
camped his army on the local school grounds. |
The River Windrush |
THE RIVER AND BRIDGES
The River Windrush splits the town in two, running
along side the main road. It's a fast running river
but it is now contained by stone walls. Over the
last 300 years it's path has gradually been altered.
It is spanned by five bridges. The earliest is known
as the Broad Bridge which was constructed from local
Cotswold stone in 1654. The most modern of the
bridges was built in 1953 to celebrate the
coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. This Coronation
Bridge replaced an earlier wooden bridge which had
fallen in to disrepair. This bridge is next to the
quaintly named Old New Inn. |
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THE TOWN
Bourton on Water is a great place to visit for a
stroll along the river and to have a picnic. It does
get a bit crowded during the tourist season but even
then it's still pleasant. The majority of the houses
are built from the local stone making a very
attractive appearance. Victoria Hall (see left)
dates back to 1897 and dominates the High Street.
There are lots of shops selling touristy gifts.
Cafes, restaurants and pubs are there in force
selling food and drink at a variety of prices |
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NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Not far away is
Stow on the Wold, another typical Cotswold village
which is well worth a visit.
DIRECTIONS AND PARKING
Click
here for a map of Bourton on Water.
When you arrive in the town there are signs
for the main car park and that's your best option. Don't
park on yellow lines, the traffic wardens patrol constantly.
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