ABOUT COTSWOLD INSIDER
Your Inside Guide to Unforgettable Cotswold Experiences
What we're building
The Cotswolds is one of the most beautiful and visited regions in the UK, but planning a trip here can be overwhelming. With so much information out there, it’s easy to end up with generic or outdated advice—and not all of it comes from people who truly know the area.
That’s where Cotswold Insider comes in. We’re here to help you experience the Cotswolds properly—not just where to go, but how to structure your visit, how to get around, where to eat, sleep, and explore, and what to expect throughout the seasons.
At the same time, we want to support local businesses—the independent cafés, family-run shops, boutique hotels, and unique experiences that give the Cotswolds its character.
This is a guide built on real knowledge, personal experience, and a love for sharing great places with others.
The story behind Cotswold Insider
By founder, James Long
Cotswold Insider started with a simple idea: help people experience the Cotswolds the right way.
As a private tour guide, and Cotswolds resident, I know how important it is for someone's dream trip to 'work', from beginning to end - staying in the right location, visiting the best places at the right time of day, and going off the usual tour route to truly see the best of the Cotswolds.
I wanted to create a guide that goes beyond the usual lists of "top places to visit" and actually helps people plan a trip that works for them — whether that’s finding the perfect road trip route, knowing where to eat, choosing where to stay, or avoiding the common mistakes that first-time visitors make.
At the same time, I wanted to support the local businesses that make the Cotswolds special—the independent cafés, family-run hotels, and unique experiences that can be hard to find if you don’t know where to look.
Cotswold Insider is my way of bringing it all together—local knowledge, first-hand experience, and a passion for sharing amazing places with others.
About our guides and how to get involved
How we build our guides
Unlike many travel sites, we don’t rely on generic lists or second-hand recommendations. Everything we share comes from real experience, ongoing research, and insider knowledge.
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As a private tour guide, I’ve spent the past year refining the perfect routes, stops, and experiences.
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I’ve personally visited many of the places we recommend, and I’m constantly exploring more to make sure the advice we give is up to date.
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We talk to locals, business owners, and visitors to make sure our recommendations work for real people.
Whether you're looking for a weekend itinerary, a scenic road trip, a foodie experience, or accessible travel options, our guides help you plan with confidence.
How you can get involved
Cotswold Insider isn’t just a website — it’s a community for both visitors and local businesses. Here’s how you can be part of it:
For Visitors
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Follow us on social media for the latest Cotswold travel tips, hidden gems, and special recommendations.
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Join our community to share your experiences and get local advice (coming soon!)
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Tag us in your photos and let us know about your favourite Cotswold finds!
For Local Businesses
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Feature your business — hotels, restaurants, tours, experiences, and attractions can be part of Cotswold Insider.
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Collaborate with us through reviews, interviews, and guest content.
