Nestled within the picturesque Cotswolds of rolling hills, pretty villages, and charming market towns, lies a world of ancient wonders waiting to be explored. English Heritage sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture that once thrived in this idyllic region, from the haunting ruins of Minster Lovell Hall to the remains of Cirencester Roman Amphitheatre.

Whether you’re fascinated by medieval castles, Roman villas, or ancient burial grounds, English Heritage has something to captivate every visitor. Here are a few of the best English Heritage sites in the Cotswolds… many offer free entry.

Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote: Enchantment in the Cotswolds

Nestled in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, just a stone’s throw away from the charming town of Witney lies the enchanting Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote. Steeped in history and surrounded by the stunning Cotswolds landscape, this hidden gem offers a captivating glimpse into the past.

Minster Lovell has been home to a manor house for over 800 years, with the current ruins mainly belonging to a grand residence constructed by William, Baron of Lovell and Holand. Following his victorious return from the French wars in the 1430s, William used his immense wealth, acquired through marriage and fortunate circumstances, to create this extravagant house as a symbol of his affluence.

William’s son, John, was a close ally of Richard III and was rewarded with the position of master forester of the neighbouring royal forest, Wychwood. However, John was imprisoned and later executed after Richard’s defeat at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. The Crown subsequently seized Minster Lovell Hall and fell into disrepair.

The ruins of Minster Lovell Hall stand proudly next to the tranquil River Windrush. Visitors can enter the hall from the north, passing through the neighbouring churchyard, or take a scenic stroll along the footpath that follows the Windrush Valley from the east, historically used as an entrance to this enchanting site.

The most prominent features of the ruins are the Hall with its ornamented entrance porch and the south west tower. A dovecote, probably also built in the fifteenth century, is also part of the site. Much of the site has fallen over the years, but large amounts remain.

The dovecote, which is located to the north east of the hall, is a well-preserved 15th-century structure with a conical roof. Dovecotes were used to raise pigeons, a valuable food source and feathers in the Middle Ages.

Tips for visitors

Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote is open to the public from April to October. Visitors can explore the ruins at their own pace and learn about the site’s history through informative displays.

The site is also home to various wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and deer. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the grounds or walk along the river.

Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote is a unique and fascinating place to visit. The ruins offer a glimpse into the past, while the surrounding landscape is simply stunning. Whether interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, Minster Lovell has something to offer everyone.

 

Belas Knap Long Barrow: A Mysterious and Awe-Inspiring Ancient Burial Site

Belas Knap Long Barrow is a mysterious and awe-inspiring ancient burial site in the heart of the English countryside. It is an exceptional representation of a Neolithic long barrow with a false entrance and chambers on the sides.

The barrow was excavated in 1863 and 1865, revealing the remains of 31 individuals within the chambers. The barrow was subsequently restored to its current state.

Belas Knap is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our Neolithic ancestors. The site is also a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

What makes Belas Knap Long Barrow so unique?

• Its deceptive entrance and chambers on the sides are unusual features of Neolithic long barrows.
• The excavation of the barrow uncovered many human remains, providing valuable insights into the burial practices of our Neolithic ancestors.
• The barrow has been well-preserved and restored, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience this ancient site.
• Belas Knap Long Barrow is an important archaeological site that provides valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of our Neolithic ancestors.
• The barrow is also a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
• Belas Knap Long Barrow is a popular tourist destination that helps to attract visitors to the Cotswolds region.

Tips for visitors

Belas Knap Long Barrow is located in Gloucestershire, England, just a short drive from Cheltenham. The barrow is open to the public year-round, with no admission fee.

Visitors can explore the barrow at their own pace or take a guided tour led by an English Heritage ranger. There is also a visitor centre with information about the barrow and its history.

Belas Knap Long Barrow is a fascinating and mysterious ancient burial site that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our Neolithic ancestors. It is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or culture.

 

The Rollright Stones: A Mysterious Prehistoric Site in England 

The Rollright Stones is a prehistoric stone circle and standing stone complex located near Long Compton, England. It is one of the most mysterious prehistoric sites in the country.

The complex consists of three main elements:

• The King’s Men stone circle, is currently composed of 77 closely spaced stones.
• The Whispering Knights a group of three standing stones arranged in a triangle.
• The King Stone is a single standing stone located about 30 meters from the Whispering Knights.

The Rollright Stones are thought to have been built around 3500 BC, but their purpose is unknown. Some archaeologists believe they were a religious site, while others believe they were used for astronomical purposes.

The Rollright Stones are a popular tourist destination; visitors can explore the site at their own pace. There is a lay-by on Rollright Road where visitors can park their cars. From there, a flat path leads to the stone circle. Access to the path is through a kissing gate.

 Tips for visitors

The Rollright Stones are located near the village of Long Compton, on the borders of Oxfordshire and Warwickshire. They are about 10 miles north of Chipping Norton and 15 miles south of Stratford-upon-Avon.

The Rollright Stones are open to visitors all year round. There is a small admission fee of £1.

Visitors can explore the site at their own pace. A path leads around the stone circle and to the Whispering Knights and King Stone.

Visitors are asked to respect the site and leave no trace.

 

Great Witcombe Roman Villa: The Ruins of Greatness in the Cotswolds

The Great Witcombe Roman Villa is a magnificent structure. Once the centrepiece of a sprawling country estate, it was constructed around AD 250 and inhabited until the 5th century.

Among its remnants are the vestiges of an elaborate bathhouse complex, perhaps even a sacred shrine dedicated to a water deity. The preserved mosaic pavements within a contemporary building offer glimpses into the opulence that once graced this Roman abode. From this vantage point, visitors can revel in breathtaking picturesque countryside vistas.

The villa’s construction and occupation testify to the wealth and prosperity of the Roman Empire during this period. It is a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Highlights of the Roman Villa

• Preserved mosaic pavements: The villa’s mosaic pavements are some of the best-preserved in Britain. They depict geometric patterns, mythological scenes, and everyday life in the Roman villa.
• Bathhouse complex: The villa’s bathhouse complex is one of the largest and most elaborate in Britain. It features a frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (warm room), caldarium (hot room), and plunge pool.
• Water shrine: It is believed that the villa had a water shrine dedicated to a water deity. The shrine was located near a natural spring, which provided water for the villa.
• Countryside views: The villa is situated in a beautiful setting, with stunning views of the Cotswolds countryside.

Tips for Visiting

• The villa is open to the public year-round.
• Admission is free for members of the National Trust.
• Guided tours are available.
• The villa is wheelchair accessible.
• There is a cafe and gift shop on site.
• Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the villa and grounds.

The Roman villa in the Cotswolds is a fascinating and evocative place to visit. It is a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can step back in time and imagine the life that was once lived within these walls.

 

Cirencester Amphitheatre: A Monumental Structure in the Cotswolds

Located a short walk from Cirencester town centre lies the impressive remnants of a Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in Britain. Constructed during the early 2nd century, this monumental structure was built when Corinium (now Cirencester) rivalled London in size and significance, boasting a population exceeding 10,000. With a seating capacity of approximately 8,000 spectators, the amphitheatre was used for various events, including gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and public executions.

The amphitheatre fell into disrepair after the Roman army departed from Britain in the 5th century. However, it was later fortified by the Saxons to defend against invaders. Today, the amphitheatre is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the ruins and learn about its fascinating history.

Tips for visitors

• Be aware of your surroundings and watch your step, as some areas can be uneven.
• Stay on the marked paths, and do not climb on the ruins.
• Do not leave any litter behind.
• Respect the historical site and its surroundings.
• It is open to the public daily, from dawn to dusk.
• Admission is free.
• There is a small car park located next to the amphitheatre, with disabled access.
• There are also public toilets located nearby.

Imagine yourself back in Roman times, sitting in the amphitheatre with the crowd, cheering on your favourite gladiator. Or perhaps you’re a Saxon warrior defending your homeland from invaders. The Cirencester Roman Amphitheatre is a place where your imagination can run wild.

The Cirencester Roman Amphitheatre is a fascinating historical site that is well worth a visit. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the Roman Empire and the Saxon period in Britain.

 

Uley Long Barrow: A Neolithic Burial Mound

Uley Long Barrow, also known as Hetty Pegler’s Tump, is a Neolithic burial mound that is one of the largest and best-preserved long barrows in England. It is estimated to have been built around 3000 BC.

The barrow is located in the Cotswolds, near the village of Uley in Gloucestershire. It is a large mound of earth and stone, measuring approximately 37 meters long, 34 meters wide, and 3 meters high. The barrow contains a central passage with chambers on either side. The chambers were used to bury the dead, and the passage was used for ceremonies.

The barrow is named after Hetty Pegler, who owned the land in the 17th century. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the barrow was excavated by archaeologists, who discovered a number of human skeletons and artefacts.

Uley Long Barrow is a popular tourist destination today. Visitors can explore the chambers and learn about the barrow’s history at the on-site visitor centre.

 

Hailes Abbey: A Tranquil Haven in the Cotswolds

Hailes Abbey, a Cistercian monastery founded in 1246 in the picturesque Cotswolds of Gloucestershire, England, invites visitors to explore its tranquil ruins and immerse themselves in the rich history and heritage of this once-thriving monastic community.

Once a vibrant epicentre of monastic life, Hailes Abbey now stands as a serene oasis for visitors to relax and savour a picnic amidst its historic confines. The newly curated museum on-site offers a captivating journey through time, unveiling the hidden treasures that encapsulate Hailes’ legacy and chronicling centuries worth of devotion and worship by its resident monks.

Highlights

• Explore the ruins of the abbey church, cloisters, and other monastic buildings.
• Visit the museum to learn about the history of Hailes Abbey and its significance as a religious and cultural centre.
• Enjoy a picnic in the picturesque grounds of the abbey.
• Take a walk or bike ride on the Cotswold Way National Trail, which passes through the abbey grounds.

Tips for Visitors

• Hailes Abbey is open to the public year-round, but it is best to visit during the spring or summer months when the weather is milder.
• The abbey is located in a rural area, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
• Be sure to bring water and snacks, as there are no on-site food or drink facilities.
• Admission fees apply.

Hailes Abbey is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a tranquil escape amidst the enchanting Cotswolds landscape. With its rich history, stunning ruins, and captivating museum, Hailes Abbey offers something for everyone.

 

Tips for visiting English Heritage sites in the Cotswolds

• Plan your visit in advance. Many English Heritage sites have opening hours depending on the season, so checking online before you visit is important.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Many English Heritage sites involve walking around uneven surfaces, so wearing comfortable shoes is important.
• Bring a camera. There are plenty of photo opportunities at English Heritage sites, so bring your camera to capture all the memories.
• Take your time. English Heritage sites are full of history and culture, so it’s essential to take your time and explore everything they have to offer.

English Heritage sites in the Cotswolds offer a unique and fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the past, you will surely be captivated by the stories that echo through these ancient stones and landscapes.