Trip Reports Home | My Trip Reports | Create Trip Report | Recent Reports | Search Trip Reports

Report 2039: Ten Days in Great Britain: London and the Cotswolds

By teaberry from USA, Fall 2012

Page 10 of 11: Hidcote Manor, Painswick, and another great ST GTG

an October blooming garden at Hidcote

Our last full day in the Cotswolds started in Moreton-in-Marsh, where they were having Market Day. It seemed more like a flea market to us, with only one stall selling fresh produce. But we did pass by a local pub called the Bell Inn, which, according to local legend, was the inspiration for JRR Tolkien’s Prancing Pony Inn in his Lord of the Ring series. From there, we took the short drive to Hidcote Manor, one of the most beautiful gardens I’ve ever visited.

In the afternoon, we drove down to the South Cotswolds to the town of Painswick to visit SlowTrav friends, Pauline and Steve. An entirely different character to this Costwold town, and just as quaint and lovely. We took a hike just outside their doorway, and of course, got caught in more rain. We walked through the town’s church-grounds with 99 yew trees planted – it was enchanting. Back at their home, we enjoyed a yummy dinner with more SlowTrav friends, Jonathan and his wife Philippa. SlowTrav friends are among the very best!

Previous Page | Next Page