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Discover the Beauty of the Cotswolds

Things to Do Around Cranham

πŸšΆβ€β™‚οΈ Walking & Nature

Cotswold Way

This famous long-distance footpath runs directly through Cranham, offering some of the most spectacular views in the Cotswolds. Perfect for both serious hikers and casual walkers, with well-marked trails and stunning countryside vistas.

Distance: Various sections available

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Starting Point: Cranham village

Cranham Common

An expansive area of natural beauty perfect for peaceful walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting. In spring, the common comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, making it a photographer's paradise.

Best Time: Spring for wildflowers

Activities: Walking, picnicking, nature photography

Distance: 5 minutes from studios

Painswick Beacon

Offering breathtaking panoramic views across Gloucestershire, this elevated spot is perfect for sunset walks. The beacon provides stunning vistas that stretch to the Malvern Hills on clear days.

Distance: 2 miles from Cranham

Best Time: Sunset for spectacular views

Note: Shared area with golf course

Crickley Hill Country Park

A delightful circular walk through ancient grassland with wonderful views across Gloucestershire. This area is rich in archaeological interest and offers excellent walking trails for all abilities.

Features: Ancient hill fort, visitor centre

Distance: 4 miles from Cranham

Facilities: Car park, toilets, cafΓ©

πŸ›οΈ Historic Sites & Gardens

Painswick Rococo Garden

Hidden in a beautiful Cotswold valley, this unique 18th-century garden features whimsical structures and spectacular seasonal displays. Famous for its snowdrop carpet in February and March.

Highlights: Snowdrop displays, garden buildings

Season: Open Feb-Oct

Distance: 3 miles from Cranham

St James the Great Church

A beautiful example of 12th-century Norman architecture located in the heart of Cranham. This historic church offers a peaceful setting for quiet contemplation and features fascinating medieval stonework.

Architecture: 12th-century Norman

Features: Medieval stonework, peaceful setting

Distance: In Cranham village

Painswick Village

Known as the "Queen of the Cotswolds," this picturesque village features honey-colored limestone buildings, antique shops, and the famous St Mary's Church with its 99 yew trees.

Highlights: Historic churchyard, antique shops

Famous for: 99 yew trees legend

Distance: 3 miles from Cranham

Woodchester Mansion

An unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion that offers fascinating guided tours. This unique building provides insight into 19th-century construction techniques and houses a large bat colony.

Special: Unfinished Victorian mansion

Tours: Guided tours available

Distance: 8 miles from Cranham

🍷 Local Attractions & Experiences

Woodchester Valley Vineyard

Experience English wine-making in the beautiful Cotswold countryside. Enjoy guided tours of the vineyard, wine tastings, and learn about the growing English wine industry.

Activities: Wine tours, tastings

Products: Award-winning English wines

Distance: 6 miles from Cranham

Cooper's Hill

Famous worldwide for the annual cheese rolling competition, this steep hill offers spectacular views and walking opportunities. The event takes place every May and attracts visitors from around the globe.

Famous for: Annual cheese rolling

Event: Late May each year

Distance: 1 mile from Cranham

Stroud Farmers Market

One of the largest farmers markets in the UK, featuring local produce, artisan foods, and crafts. A great place to experience local culture and sample Gloucestershire specialties.

When: Every Saturday

Features: Local produce, crafts, food

Distance: 5 miles from Cranham

Slad Valley

Made famous by Laurie Lee's "Cider with Rosie," this beautiful valley offers scenic walks and literary history. Visit the Woolpack Inn where Laurie Lee used to drink and explore the landscapes that inspired his writing.

Literary connection: Laurie Lee's "Cider with Rosie"

Highlights: Scenic walks, historic pub

Distance: 4 miles from Cranham

πŸ“ Practical Information

Getting Around

πŸš— Car: Most convenient for exploring the area

🚢 Walking: Many attractions accessible on foot

🚌 Public Transport: Limited bus services to Stroud and Gloucester

🚴 Cycling: Quiet country lanes perfect for cycling

Local Pubs & Dining

🍺 The Black Horse Inn: Traditional pub in Cranham village

πŸ›οΈ The Royal Oak: Historic pub in Painswick (3 miles)

πŸ“š The Woolpack Inn: Literary pub in Slad (4 miles)

🍽️ Various restaurants: Stroud town centre (5 miles)

Shopping

🏺 Painswick: Antique shops and galleries

πŸ›οΈ Stroud: Independent shops and weekly market

🏒 Gloucester: Main shopping centre (12 miles)

✨ Cheltenham: Designer shops and department stores (15 miles)

Seasonal Highlights

🌸 Spring: Snowdrops at Painswick Rococo Garden

πŸ§€ May: Cheese Rolling at Cooper's Hill

β˜€οΈ Summer: Perfect walking weather, outdoor events

πŸ‚ Autumn: Beautiful colors in the beech woods

Ready to Explore?

Book your stay at our beautiful Cranham studios and discover all that the Cotswolds has to offer

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