What’s it like to visit the Cotswolds in October?
If you’re planning a trip to the UK this autumn, the Cotswolds is a destination that shines in October. While many travellers prefer the warmth of summer, autumn has its own special charm—crisp air, golden landscapes, and quieter villages waiting to be explored.
Maybe October is the only time you can get away? Or perhaps you’re here for business, studies, or visiting family, and want to make the most of your free time. Whatever brings you to the region, October offers a fresh perspective on the Cotswolds.
And if you’d like to experience it with ease, Go Cotswolds runs guided tours of the Cotswolds in October, so come and explore with us!
3 things you need to know about visiting the Cotswolds in October
1. It’s quieter in the Cotswolds in October
One of the best reasons to visit the Cotswolds in October is because most other people visit in the summer!
During the summer months of July and August, when many families take vacations during the school holidays, some parts of the Cotswolds can be heaving with visitors.
By early September, children are back at school, so those visitors who don’t need to travel in school holidays can enjoy the Cotswolds with far fewer people around!
There is a school half-term holiday near the end of October, so family-friendly attractions like the Cotswolds Wildlife Park, Cotswold Farm Park and Birdland are likely to be busier. But, it’s never jam-packed at this time of year. You might find accommodation is a little more expensive during the half term week though.
All that said, we tend to have better availability for our best-selling tours in October – sometimes even at last minute. So come and join us!
2. The weather is less reliable in October – but don’t let it put you off!
With an average of 11 days of rainfall throughout the month, October is typically one of the slightly wetter months in the Cotswolds. But ‘wet’ can mean anything from a short shower -over in seconds, to constant drizzle. Make sure to pack a raincoat and umbrella just incase – but there’s a good chance it won’t rain and you can always leave them on the bus.
Likewise, the average daytime temperature in the Cotswolds in October is around 14°C (57°F). That’s ‘sweater and boots’ weather, but not yet ‘winter jacket, hat and gloves’ weather – my favourite time of year
Our tours depart whatever the weather – so don’t let a little rain spoil your trip. Bring a raincoat and embrace the Great British Weather with us!
3. It’s beautiful in the Cotswolds in October!
Nestled in the heart of the English countryside, the Cotswolds is simply breath-taking in autumn.
The trees glow with rich shades of red, gold, and amber, while the soft afternoon light makes the famous honey-coloured stone buildings look warmer than ever. Wander through villages and you’ll often find charming seasonal displays of flowers, fruits, and pumpkins, adding to the cosy autumn atmosphere.
October is the perfect time to capture stunning photos—souvenirs you’ll treasure long after your trip.
Ready to book your tour of the Cotswolds in October?
Our best-selling Cotswolds in a Day tours and Secret Cotswolds tours run throughout October and right through the winter. Though we don’t offer our ‘summer special’ Cotswolds Walks & Villages tour at this time of year, you can still join us for a day trip to Bath & Southern Cotswolds!
If you prefer a private tour, then we usually have good availability in October too!
Just need group transport, without a guide? Then, check out our minibus hire options.
Not quite ready? Sign up to receive our newsletter and we’ll send you our news and offers, so you can keep Go Cotswolds in mind. Sign up here.
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