Exploring Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water, may be one of the most popular and well-known villages in the Cotswolds but it still retains all of its charm, making it a great place to find your next Cotswold rental. From the wonderful independent shops to the charming tea rooms, cafes and restaurants, Bourton-on-the-Water has a strong community feel. Choosing a property to rent in Bourton-on-the-Water offers far more than postcard views.
Residents enjoy a thriving community, excellent local amenities and easy access to the surrounding countryside, while nearby towns including Stow-on-the-Wold, Northleach and Moreton-in-Marsh are all within easy reach. Families appreciate the well-regarded local schools, professionals value the accessibility to Cheltenham, Cirencester and Oxford, and those relocating to the Cotswolds are often drawn to the village’s unique combination of character, convenience and year-round community life.
History of Bourton-on-the-Water
The name Bourton comes from the Saxon word “Burgh”, meaning fort and “Ton” meaning village or settlement. The river Windrush, which flows through the centre of the village, in earlier times was much deeper and faster flowing, providing power to three mills, of which one remains and today housing The Motor Museum.
The five low stone bridges that cross the river have become the village’s defining landmark, giving Bourton-on-the-Water its unmistakable character and setting it apart from neighbouring Cotswold towns and villages. With wonderful places to eat and drink it is easy to see why Bourton-on-the-Water is such a popular location to search for a cottage to rent in the Cotswolds.
Places to Eat and Drink
The Rose Tree: Located in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water, The Rose Tree is a popular restaurant run by husband and wife team David & Monika. With an emphasis on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, their dishes are a fusion of traditional and contemporary British cuisine.
The Mousetrap Inn: in a fantastic location on the main street and just a few steps from the River Windrush, both the food and the atmosphere here will not disappoint. Serving some of the best good in the village, this proudly independent, family-run pub is an absolute destination restaurant offering old-world charm.
For fabulous coffee, delicious cakes and scones and incredible bread to take home, pop in to The Bakery on the Water, just across the bridge from the Motor Museum. You may have to queue but it is always worth the wait!
Smiths of Bourton is not to be missed. The two brothers, Seb and Theo, serve up some of the best burgers in the area alongside a fabulous cocktail menu. Decorated in their eclectic style, this is certainly a very Instagram worthy burger joint!
For a traditional Cotswold pub experience, The Duke of Wellington offers a warm welcome, locally sourced food and a cosy atmosphere, making it a favourite with both locals and visitors throughout the year.
Local Shops
Pick up a sensational gift, or treat for yourself, at The Cotswold Perfumery. Owner John Stephen has created scents for clients all around the world, including our very own late Queen Elizabeth II. We highly recommend booking a one-day perfume-making course where you will learn how to blend your own unique signature fragrance.
Handcrafted gifts for every occasion can be found at Cotswold Gift Gallery. From Moorcroft pottery and Herend porcelain to Dartington Crystal and handcrafted homeware, it’s the perfect place to browse for something special.
Bourton is also home to a wonderful collection of independent boutiques, delicatessens, galleries and gift shops, making it easy to spend an afternoon exploring the village at a leisurely pace.
Things to do in and near Bourton-on-the-Water
The Model Village Immerse yourself in the charming world of The Model Village – the only Grade II listed model village in the UK. This fascinating attraction offers a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water, complete with its famous bridges and stone cottages.
Birdland Park and Gardens: Just a short walk from the village centre, Birdland Park and Gardens is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Discover a variety of birds, from penguins to parrots, in a beautiful natural setting. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, engage in educational talks, and meet the feathered residents.
The Cotswold Motoring Museum: For car enthusiasts, a visit to The Cotswold Motoring Museum is a must. Located in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water, the museum houses a fascinating collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and motoring memorabilia. Step back in time and explore the history of motoring in a fun and interactive way.
The River Windrush itself is one of Bourton’s greatest attractions. Whether you’re enjoying an ice cream beside the water, feeding the ducks, watching the world go by from one of the riverside cafés or taking a gentle evening stroll, the river creates a peaceful atmosphere that’s enjoyed by residents throughout the year.
With countless footpaths leading into the surrounding countryside, Bourton-on-the-Water is also an excellent base for walking, cycling and exploring neighbouring Cotswold villages.
Considering a move to Bourton-on-the-Water?
With its captivating history, delightful dining spots and distinctive shops, Bourton-on-the-Water is an ideal place to settle down. The Cotswold Letting Agency team, live and work within the Cotswolds, and are keen to share their extensive knowledge of Bourton and its surrounding areas. Our property portfolio includes a diverse range of homes and cottages to let in the Cotswolds, from quaint properties to edge of village and rural family homes, choose from either short-let or long-term rentals, tailored to meet your individual needs.
Why People Love Living in Bourton-on-the-Water
Bourton-on-the-Water is one of those rare places that offers the best of both worlds. It has all the beauty and character people associate with the Cotswolds, yet it also provides the everyday amenities that make life easy, from independent shops and cafés to supermarkets, schools, healthcare facilities and excellent road links.
That balance attracts a wide variety of tenants. Some are relocating to the area for work, others are looking for a village with a strong community feel, while many simply want to enjoy everything the Cotswolds has to offer before deciding where to settle permanently.
For property owners, Bourton-on-the-Water continues to attract consistent interest across a wide range of homes, from charming riverside cottages and period properties to modern family houses. The village appeals to professionals, families, retirees and those relocating from larger towns and cities, helping to create year-round demand for quality rental homes.
As specialist Lettings Agent Bourton-on-the-Water, we understand what tenants are looking for because we live and work in the Cotswolds ourselves. Our experience of the local rental market allows us to match the right tenants with the right properties while providing owners with practical advice and a personal service. While many people researching the local property market will also come across Estate Agents Bourton-on-the-Water, our focus has always been solely on residential lettings and property management.
Property & Houses to Let in Bourton-on-the-Water
For those considering a move to the Cotswolds and seeking rental properties in Bourton-on-the-Water, our team at The Cotswold Letting Agency all live and work in the Cotswolds and are always happy to share their local knowledge of Bourton-on-the-Water and the surrounding villages. Whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage, a contemporary family home or a rural retreat, we offer a carefully selected range of properties available for both short and long-term rental.
Our mission is to provide exceptional service to both property owners and tenants. As an independent, lettings-only agency and a proud Certified B Corporation, we’re passionate about helping people find the right home while supporting the communities that make the Cotswolds such a special place to live.
If you’re considering a move and looking for a property to rent in Bourton-on-the-Water, we’d be delighted to help. From advice on schools and commuting to recommendations for local walks, cafés and village life, our team is here to make your move as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Get in touch on 01993 684572 or drop us an email at hello@cotswoldlettingagency.com
