As the chill of December settles over the English countryside, the  Cotswolds transform into a landscape of quiet enchantment. Rolling hills are dusted with frost, ancient stone walls glisten in the pale sun of winter and the gentle pace of village life seems to slow even further.

There’s an irresistible appeal to this region at this time of year and amidst the Cotswolds’ many picturesque villages and charming market towns, one destination stands out for its unique beauty. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ during the warmer months thanks to its idyllic riverside setting, Bourton-on-the-Water is just as captivating in winter, offering visitors a magical retreat in the heart of this beloved region.

The festive display in Bourton-on-the-Water is a sight to behold each December, with a Christmas tree that appears to float on the water. The mesmerising reflection of twinkling lights on the River Windrush’s calm surface has rightfully earned its place on countless Cotswold postcards.

Bourton is described by the visitor information centre as a “vibrant village home to some 4,000 residents, buzzing with many community groups” and boasting “a wealth of attractions and shops,  restaurants, cafes and tea rooms”. For a more peaceful visit, it recommends arriving early or late in the day, as the village can become quite crowded with tourists, especially during peak holiday periods.

The village offers a variety of independent shops for those seeking unique gifts, including the Victorian Christmas shop which fully embraces the festive spirit. Open year-round, the shop sees a surge in customers during December. Located on the High Street, it’s easy to spot with its distinctive green window arches, typically adorned with baubles and sparkling decorations.

You could easily while away the hours exploring the diverse array of shops nestled within the charming, golden-hued Cotswold stone buildings that are so quintessentially British. When hunger strikes, take a breather at one of the numerous dining establishments and pubs.

The Kingsbridge, with its inviting riverside setting, is perfect for relaxing with a pint while watching the world go by. The Mousetrap Inn, frequented for its cosy atmosphere and friendly service, is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, especially on frosty winter days when the roaring fires are crackling. And the Duke of Wellington, another beloved spot, is thought to serve up a tasty Sunday roast if you’re craving some traditional comfort food.

If you fancy something warming yet light enough to leave room for dinner, grab a pasty from the Cornish Bakery or treat yourself to a steaming portion of takeaway chips from The Chip Shed. One recent visitor even proclaimed they offer “the best chip and cheese we have ever had”.

Sharing their experience of the town on TripAdvisor, one person wrote, “A very beautiful and lovely town with many things to do, like the Motor Museum, Model Village, small bridges on the river and Birdland Park/Gardens. Warm sunny days resulted in very busy days with families making picnic days out.

“The small river was packed on both sides, and kids were enjoying free ‘Water Park’ We spent maximum time here and enjoyed it. Plenty of choices for food.”

Meanwhile, another impressed visitor shared: “Having visited most of the Cotswolds’ villages in our trip, Bourton is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful. With a huge car park just at its entrance, you then follow the river to the village centre. It was overcrowded, as in other villages, but it’s very pleasant to stroll down the main street with lots of shops everywhere.”