The Cotswolds: A Journey of Charm, Inspiration, and Adventure
In episode 107 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins sits down with Lisa Benjamin, co-founder of GoCotswold, to uncover the hidden gem that is the Cotswolds. Lisa shares her inspiring journey of meeting her husband, founding the company together, and curating unique tours that showcase the beauty and charm of this picturesque region. From their popular “Cotswolds in a Day” tour to the lesser-known “Secret Cotswolds,” Lisa and her team at GoCotswold offer a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you wanting more.
Located in south central England, the Cotswolds is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and attracts visitors from all over the world with its rolling hills, quaint villages, and rich history. It’s no surprise that the Cotswolds has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
But what makes the Cotswolds truly special is the people who call it home. Lisa Benjamin is one of those people. Born and raised in the Cotswolds, Lisa has a deep love and appreciation for this region and its unique charm. She met her husband, Ian, in the Cotswolds and together they founded GoCotswold, a tour company that aims to share their love for the area with others.
In the podcast episode, Lisa shares her journey of how she and Ian started GoCotswold. It all began when they realized that there was a lack of tours that truly captured the essence of the Cotswolds. They wanted to offer visitors an authentic experience, one that goes beyond the typical tourist spots and delves into the heart of the Cotswolds. And thus, GoCotswold was born.
One of their most popular tours, “Cotswolds in a Day,” takes visitors on a journey through some of the most iconic and well-known villages in the region. From the charming village of Bibury, known for its picturesque Arlington Row, to the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, this tour offers a taste of the Cotswolds’ beauty and character.
But it’s their “Secret Cotswolds” tour that truly sets GoCotswold apart. This tour takes visitors off the beaten path and into the lesser-known areas of the Cotswolds. Lisa and her team have carefully curated this tour to showcase hidden gems and local favorites that are often overlooked by tourists. From a secluded lavender farm to a charming pub tucked away in the countryside, the “Secret Cotswolds” tour is a journey of discovery and adventure.
Lisa’s passion for the Cotswolds shines through in every aspect of GoCotswold’s tours. She and her team go above and beyond to make sure their guests have an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s recommending the best local restaurants or sharing fascinating stories about the history of the area, Lisa and her team’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the Cotswolds are infectious.
In the podcast episode, Lisa also shares some of her favorite spots in the Cotswolds. And with over 800 square miles to explore, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Lisa recommends visiting Broadway Tower, a historic folly that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and exploring the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its picturesque bridges and river.
But it’s not just the picturesque landscapes and charming villages that make the Cotswolds special. Lisa also highlights the strong sense of community and the warm and welcoming nature of the locals. This is evident in the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the annual cheese rolling event in Brockworth and the Cotswold Show in Cirencester.
As the podcast episode comes to an end, it’s clear that the Cotswolds has captured the hearts of both Tracy and Lisa. Tracy expresses her desire to visit the Cotswolds and experience it for herself, and Lisa’s passion for the region is infectious. The Cotswolds may be a hidden gem, but with Lisa and GoCotswold’s dedication to showcasing its beauty and charm, it won’t stay hidden for long.
In conclusion, the Cotswolds is a region that is full of charm
