There’s an underrated Cotswolds town everyone should visit (Image: Amy Jones)
With honey-coloured cottages, rolling hill countryside and fairy-tale towns, the Cotswolds undoubtedly offer some of the most sublime scenes across the country. Yet there’s one picturesque Cotswolds town that’s often been overlooked, and it’s by far my favourite.
During my years living on the edge of the Cotswolds, I spent weekends exploring its charming towns, whether that was for brunch with pals, a day of shopping, a countryside walk, or an afternoon spent at a cosy pub. I felt lucky to have the heart of the Cotwolds, almost on my doorstep, or within easy reach by car at least.
From this, I found a great appreciation for the towns that often go unnoticed by tourists and discovered the hidden gems that lurk behind the popular hotspots. While Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold are notoriously beautiful, they are frequently overrun by tourists, with coachloads of them piling out onto the cobbled paths to snap a photo in front of a resident’s Grade II-listed property, which bears a polite sign that reads, ‘No photos please’.
Nailsworth is a charming town in the Cotswolds (Image: Getty Images)
It surprises me how many tourists continue to flock to the same Cotswolds destinations when there are so many breathtakingly beautiful areas to explore that are away from the hectic crowds. One of which is the pretty town of Nailsworth, nestled in one of the Stroud Valleys in the Cotswolds.
Nailsworth has the charm and community of a small village, but the scale of a flourishing town, making it an idyllic day out that I love. It boasts a number of cosy cafés, which I’ve always taken advantage of, including Cafe Vincent, Willow & Co. and Hobbs House Bakery, but The Canteen has always been my favourite.
Since expanding a few years ago, it offers a selection of seating among its quirky interiors and a delightful menu, from mega brunches to tasty sweet treats. I’ve spent hours catching up with friends in the cosy café, sinking into one of the sofas, before browsing Domestic Science, the shop in the same building.
Aside from its extensive selection of cafés, there are plenty of restaurants and pubs. The Olive Tree Mediterranean Restaurant & Pizzeria is a favourite among locals, along with the seafood restaurant William’s, the fine-dining establishment Wilder, and the Egypt Mill Hotel & Restaurant.
The food at Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria is by far the best (Image: Amy Jones)
Yet when it comes to great food and atmosphere, it’s the Italian family-run Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria that wins every time. I can’t praise it high enough as I devoured scallops before tucking into a seafood linguine during one visit, had a friendly chat with the waitress, all before being offered a complimentary shot of limoncello – a signature end for every visitor!
Others have agreed, as one recent visitor to Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria shared on TripAdvisor: « Perfect night, the food was amazing, a real taste of Italy! The staff were incredible and gave our friend the most amazing 40th birthday. »
A second also said: « My wife and I had an absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. The customer service was exceptional, warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. We were introduced to some fantastic specials that were on offer, and every dish we tried was absolutely delicious. The complimentary limoncello shot was a lovely surprise and a really nice touch. We’ll definitely be returning and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this place to others. »
The town is also packed with thriving independent shops offering goodies you never knew you needed. Some of my favourites include Armed & Gorgeous, Yellow-Lighted Bookshop and Red Hen Trading, while Domestic Science has always been my go-to for gift inspiration and stylish homeware, and James Lear of Arundel Ltd. for when I don’t know what to buy my dad for Christmas.
There are gorgeous walking routes to enjoy around the area (Image: Getty Images)
It’s easy to spend time wandering around all the shops for a pleasant browse, and you’ll rarely enter a store without striking up a warming conversation with the shop owner. Everyone has always been so welcoming in Nailsworth, and a far cry from the snootiness I’ve experienced in other Cotswold towns. Perhaps it’s thanks to its lesser-known location and village feel.
For a longer day out, there is a selection of walks to enjoy in the area, including routes along the Cotswolds canals or valley walks passing historic sites, Ruskin Mill and Gig Mill. There’s also the Nailsworth, Chavenage, and Avening Circular route, which offers a challenging 9.5-mile hike across the iconic rolling countryside and wooded valleys.
Not to mention, Nailsworth’s nifty location means you can reach Bristol and Bath in less than an hour, with the vibrant town of Stroud just a 10-minute drive away. Stroud is another favourite spot of mine, buried in the Cotswolds, with its thriving high street, weekend farmers market, covered food market, independent shops, taprooms, music venues and further countryside walks that surround the bohemian-style town.
So next time you’re thinking of a Cotswolds escape, try one of the lesser-known locations like Nailsworth, where I guarantee you’ll be greeted with open arms and a friendly conversation with whoever you stumble upon.
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