The village of Colesbourne sits in the lovely valley carved out of the Cotswold`s by the River Churn on its way to meet the Thames, to the south Pen Hill rises to 876ft (267m) and to the north the ancient earthworks of Norbury camp at 890ft (271m). Colesbourne lies midway between Cheltenham and Cirencester -7.5 miles from each - along the A435. Just over Pen Hill at Combe End is the site of Colesbourne Villa, these Roman remains were found in 1779 by workmen quarrying for building stone. On the main road is possibly one of the most unique pubs in Britain, the Colesbourne Inn, built in 1827 using quartz and tufa, the stone beloved by aquarists for its lighthness. In the grounds of Colesbourne Park is the church of St.James, it probably started life as a Norman Chapel and two pillars date from that period. The church is cruciform with transepts added in the 14th century and a handsome 15th century tower. Inside there is a chalice shaped pulpit and some fine windows including one, the east window, by William Kempe. Colesbourne House is a shade of its former self most of the mansion designed by David Brandon has gone but what remains is a fine structure. But it is the grounds that have gained world renown, for it was here, among the trees and lakes, that the Victorian plants-man Henry Elwes set out his collection of Snowdrops; the collection now numbers over 200 different types with more being added. There are not only Snowdrops to enjoy but daffodils and narcissus and many other woodland species make a spring or early summer visit a sight to behold.
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Places to Stay near Colesbourne
Colesbourne Inn (0.32 miles)
This handsome tufa-type stone house is set in the heart of the Cotswolds within the Colesbourne Estate. Dating back to 1827 and having been sympathetically restored, the Inn is set in ... More
Cowley Manor (1.96 miles)
Designed as a chic alternative to country house chintz, Cowley Manor oozes minimalist cool without pretension. Located just outside Cheltenham and set in 55 acres, this 30 bedroom hotel was recently voted Best Leisure ... More | visit website
Bathurst Arms Inn (3.71 miles)
Royal George Hotel (4.17 miles)
With spectacular views over the Gloucestershire countryside and set in 26 acres of beautiful, peaceful grounds, parts of this charming hotel date back to the 18th century. The Royal George is situated ... More
Cheltenham Park Hotel (4.26 miles)
The Cheltenham Park Hotel is in the heart of the Cotswolds. Just two miles from the centre of Cheltenham, the hotel is the proud owner of the 1999 Silver Award ... More
California Farm (4.36 miles)
Situated in the Cotswolds and surrounded by absolutely stunning countryside, this family run farmhouse B&B accommodation is located one mile from the historic village of Charlton Kings. The traditional limestone built farmhouse commands marvellous, panoramic ... More | visit website
Detmore House (4.36 miles)
Detmore House is a period property set in extensive grounds in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Cotswold way is within a short walk and the elegance of Regency ... More
Hilden Lodge (4.92 miles)
Accredited with 4-star status by Visit Britain, this family-run Regency guest house offers comfortable accommodation and a range of facilities, ideally placed for Cheltenham city centre and the Cotswolds. Hilden Lodge ... More
Hare & Hounds (5.18 miles)
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