With

With
cobbled streets sprinkled with independent boutiques,
quaint pubs and charming hotels, this lesser-known Warwickshire
town makes for a great day trip or micro break within easy reach of
London.

Where?

Shipston-on-Stour, Cotswolds, UK

Don’t miss

Perched on the northern edge of the Cotswolds in Warwickshire, the handsome
Shipston-on-Stour is your quintessential historical English town, with narrow streets lined by
sloping roofs and a happy mish-mash of red-brick, stone and
half-timbered fronts. Don’t be surprised to see a smattering of
bunting.

Less than a couple of hour’s drive or train ride from the hustle
and bustle of London, it’s prime territory for city types in
need of a bucolic day trip or micro weekend break – there’s plenty
of free parking should you bring your car.

Beyond the pretty townscape studded with independent shops –
you’ll find antique homewares, women’s clothing and wine cellars –
there’s plenty of greenery to delve into. In need of a creative
recharge? Head just outside town to the Court Barn Museum and beyond that to Chedham’s
Yard – both places champion local, traditional
craftsmanship.

Where to stay?

Bed down at The Bower House in part for its central
location, but mainly for its rooms that hit the sweet spot between
stylish and snug. Its restaurant menu is rather spectacular, also –
the flat-iron Cotswold chicken salad followed by a gooseberry fool
is a strong order. Don’t miss the award-winning A Taste of the
Country deli next door.

Where to go for dinner…

You’ll want to reserve a table at The White Bear.
Dig into its classic Sunday roasts, hearty soups and fish and chips
(mushy peas, optional). All produce comes from local farms, so if
you’re after a taste of Warwickshire, this is it.

And for a drink…

Standing at the centre of the high street, The George
Townhouse fuses 18th-century style with modern flair. On a
summer’s evening, its spacious terrace is where we like to linger
with a Cotswolds Dry Gin.

Who to take with you…

Your friend that religiously weaves through the crowds of
Columbia Road Market. They’ll appreciate the
tranquillity of the countryside and will likely have the
determination to wangle the last punnet of strawberries from the
farmers’ market (held on the fourth Wednesday of every month).

When to go

The town is especially inviting in winter. Locate a hearth – be
it in a pub or a hotel – and cosy up with an extra-large mug of hot
chocolate.

Essentials to pack

If you plan on some off-grid exploring farther afield, a pair of
Hunter Original Tall Wellington Boots won’t go
amiss.

How to get there

Trains from London Paddington take 1 hour and 45 minutes. If
you’re travelling by car, the M40 will get you there in a similar
time, traffic depending.