Bourton-on-the-Water Tourist Information

Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the showpieces of the Cotswolds, its picturesque beauty and charm make it a favourite place for visitors.

The sparkling clear water of the River Windrush flows through the main street, with trees shading the wide lawns on either side, and low ornamental arched bridges spanning the river at intervals as crossing places.

Bourton-on-the-Water is fondly known as 'the Venice of the Cotswolds', due to the presence of the river running through the main street. However you won't find Venice's network of canals or grand palaces, but what is rated as one of the prettiest villages in England.

Situated in an area of outstanding Natural Beauty, Bourton-on-the-Water, is a serene place where little has changed for many years. The buildings are all of the honey-coloured Cotswold limestone. There are many fine houses and quaint cottages, some dating back to Elizabethan times and typical of this part of England.

The Church dates originally from the 14th century, but has been restored and now has a Georgian Tower and Victorian Nave. The resulting mixture of styles go to make up a pleasant and interesting building.

Every visitor to Bourton-on-the-Water should visit the 'Model Village' situated off the main street behind the New Inn. This is a remarkable reconstruction of Bourton in Cotswold stone, which took six men four years to create. Each building is faithfully represented to a scale of one tenth of the original.

Bourton-on-the-Water has several other attractions you will enjoy visiting: Birdland is situated in a lovely garden, and is home to a superb collection of exotic birds and penguins. The Model Railway exhibition is great fun, and will delight railway fans of all ages. You can also visit the old Watermill, now home to an interesting motor museum.