Bourton-on-the-Water & the Cotswolds
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Things to see and do in Bourton on the water
Bourton on the Water is one of the show places of the Cotswolds, attracting visitors again and again with its special charm. The village’s delightful old-world Cotswold houses are built of locally quarried stone – some dating back to the seventeenth century – The Dial House is the oldest Cotswold Stone building in Bourton on the Water. However, Bourton can trace its history way beyond this. Archaeological evidence indicates there was a Bronze Age settlement located here circa (1500 – 700 BC). The Saxons named this village for us – Burghton – meaning the town by camp.
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The Bridges Over the River Windrush
On the Western edge of the village lies Bourton Bridge built in 1806 and widened in 1959. An inscription on the downstream side reads: “The fosse way has passed here since Roman times”. In the village centre the earliest stone built bridge is Mill Bridge (also known as Broad Bridge) built in 1654 and crossing where one of the fords existed.
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Model Village
The Model Village behind the Old New Inn is a one ninth scale model of Bourton-on-the-Water. Here you will find the River Windrush with its distinctive bridges, the beeches, willows and chestnuts all in miniature. At the churches you can hear the choirs. The buildings are all constructed and maintained in Cotswold stone from the local quarry. Built by local craftsman in the 1930's it was opened to the public in 1937 on Coronation Day. A unique experience which appeals to all ages, the Model Village remains one of the Cotswolds most popular attractions.
www.completely-cotswold.com/bourton/attract/village/village.htm
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The Cotswold Motor Museum
The museum is familiar to children throughout the world as the home of Brum, the much loved television character. After every adventure superhero Brum would always return to his favourite museum where he lives surrounded by a superb collection of motoring history. This is a trip down memory lane at its very best. Housed in the old mill on the banks of the River Windrush and flanked by a row of pretty cottages, the collection of vehicles and memorabilia serve to remind us of a time when the pace of life was altogether gentler.
www.cotswold-motor-museum.co.uk
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Birdland
Beautiful park and gardens containing over 500 birds. Birdland was first established in 1957 and was sited in the centre of Bourton. It moved to its present site, a few hundred metres down the road in 1989. The current location was a trout farm and poplar plantation, for match stick production owned by Bryant and May. There are still over 150 trees which create a high canopy for the Windrush enclosures. BIrdland is set in woodland, river and gardens. This natural setting is inhabited by over 500 birds: flamingos, pelicans, penguins, cranes, storks, cassowary and wildfowl can be seen on various aspects of the water habitat. Over 50 aviaries of parrots, falcons, pheasants, hornbills, toucans, ibis and many more. Take time out to wander, relax and learn in the tranquil environment. There are large areas to picnic and watch the activities of the birds.
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Bourton Model Railway
Finest operating indoor model railway layout covering 500 sq feet.
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The Perfumery
A shop, an experience, a tour - there is lots to do and see to excite the senses at the Cotswold Perfumery.
www.cotswold-perfumery.co.uk
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The Living Green Centre
Traditional Cotswold Home designed to show 21st century lifestyle tips.
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Dragonfly Maze
The Dragonfly Maze was inspired by a long line dating back to the year 2500 BC and was begun in 1995. The creator's ambition was realised by combining a traditional Yew Hedge Maze with a Rebus Puzzle. The central pavilion, constructed of local materials, houses the fabulous automated sculptures hand crafted by artist, sculptor and writer Kit Williams. Find your way to the centre of the maze, picking up clues on the way. Once you reach the ornate central pavilion which houses the mysterious 'Minotoad', see if you can discover the secret hiding place of the Golden Dragonfly.
News & Offers
Halford House Open for Business
If you want great accommodation, a warm welcome and to be in the centre of a beautiful village but without staying in a hotel, then Halford House is perfect for you. After several months renovating this property to the very highest standards, the rooms at Halford are now hotel quality but at bed and breakfast prices. If you need more room for the kids or are travelling in a group then the Jupiter and Saturn suites offer the perfect answer, 2 bedrooms with a shared bathroom.
Online bookings for Halford House.
or Call 01451 822 244
Gift Vouchers - Save Time
Are you looking for a special present for a birthday or an anniversary? A Dial House gift voucher is the perfect way to say thank you, I miss you, or I love you!!
We can tailor make a Gift Voucher, personalised exactly as you want it and best of all is we can email it to you straight away for you to print and put in a card.
Our gift vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase and here are some ideas.
• One night stay for 2 with full English breakfast from £155
• One night stay for 2 with 3 course a la carte dinner included from £225
• 3 course Sunday lunch £20 per person
• Delicious cream tea £13 for two people
• Afternoon tea £25 for two people
Alternatively we can provide a cash voucher so that the recipient can choose what they spend it on.
Call us on 01451 822 244 or email info@dialhousehotel.com
Tuesday Night Special
£19.95 per couple for 2 main courses including a bottle of house white or red wine.
Due to the popularity of our Tuesday night special offer we are continuing to offer 2 mains meals together with a bottle of wine for £19.95 per couple.
Call us on 01451 822 244 in order to book your table.
Upcoming Events
The Cheltenham Festival
The Festival at Cheltenham is the shining jewel in Jump racing's crown. It is four days of magic, madness and magnificence, played out on a stage framed by the breathtaking vista of the Cotswold Hills. It features a cast of the best horse, jockeys and trainers playing to an audience of 220,000, all of who are determined to have the time of their lives. For racing's professionals, victory at The Festival is how greatness is measured and how careers are defined. Witness the sheer elation of winning connections as they return to the cheers of the crowd and you are seeing dreams fulfilled and years of planning and effort coming to fruition. The Festival is one of those rare events that exude pleasure, passion and fun in equal measure. For anyone who appreciates top class sport and the opportunity to share a special experience with like-minded people, it truly is a life affirming four days.Website: www.cheltenham.co.uk
Football in the River
Yes you did read it right. August bank holiday sees the ritual of football in the river. Come and watch this amazing spectacle and perhaps follow with a delicious cream tea at the Dial House Hotel in the garden at the back. All the fun kicks off with a fete in the morning with the real kick-off at 4pm
The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival
Formed in 1949, The Cheltenham Literature Festival is the longest-running festival of its kind in the world. The Festival was started by the Spa Manager George Wilkinson, in conjunction with the Tewkesbury-based author John Moore who served as its first director. Actor Ralph Richardson who was born in Cheltenham, launched the festival, and poet Cecil Day Lewis, who taught at Cheltenham college, read a selection of contemporary verse. The Festival prides itself in showcasing the biggest names from contemporary culture with award- winning authors, up-and-coming writing talent and controversial debate. Runs in October.
Christmas Shopping Event
Bourton-on-the-Water annual Christmas late night shopping extravaganza! Shops will be open till 9pm and there will be plenty to entertain with the lighting of the Christmas Tree in the river at 6 pm. Childrens Roundabout, Punch & Judy, Pig Roast, Candy Floss, Fairground Organ, Father Christmas and much more. Please feel free to dress for the occasion. The Cotswold School Jazz Band, Choir & Drama Group will be taking part.
Book your room early as this weekend fills quickly. Dinner also served in the restaurant.
