What's to do in the area?
There are events and many things to do in the local area throughout the year. Below is a selection to give you some ideas.
Badminton Horse Trials
A short drive from Withymore Bed & Breakfast, the Badminton Horse Trials take place every May at the historic Badminton Estate in South Gloucestershire. Established in 1949 by the 10th Duke of Beaufort, the event was originally designed to help prepare British riders for international competition and was inspired by the success of the 1948 Olympics.
Over the decades, Badminton has grown into one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world, attracting elite riders and thousands of spectators from across the globe. Set within the 1,500-acre estate, the event features a world-renowned cross-country course, showjumping arenas, extensive trade stands, and a lively atmosphere for all ages.
Now a firm fixture in the British sporting calendar, the Trials offer a thrilling showcase of skill, stamina and horsemanship – all within easy reach of your stay at Withymore
The Fleece Inn, Hillesley
Not far from Withymore Bed & Breakfast, The Fleece Inn in Hillesley is a welcoming 17th-century village pub full of character and charm. Known for its quality real ales and hearty pub food, it’s a popular spot with locals and visitors alike.
The pub features a cosy main bar with a wood-burning stove, a separate dining room, and a relaxed snug area. Up to six real ales are usually on tap, including regular favourites like Butty Bach and Sharp’s Atlantic, alongside rotating guest brews. For something different, you can sample a “Paddle of 3 Thirds.”
Food is served Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, with a traditional roast on Sundays – booking is recommended. Outside, there’s a large garden with a play area for children, and dogs are welcome too. A great place to relax, eat well, and enjoy a drink in a classic Cotswold village setting.
Wotton-under-Edge
Not far from Withymore Bed & Breakfast, Wotton-under-Edge is a vibrant Cotswold market town full of history and character. With roots dating back to the medieval period, it’s home to a mix of independent shops, traditional pubs, cafés, and historic buildings.
The town sits on the Cotswold Way, making it a great starting point for scenic walks through rolling countryside. Highlights include the 13th-century church of St Mary the Virgin, the old Town Hall, and the Wotton Hill viewpoint, offering sweeping views across the Severn Vale.
Wotton also boasts its own community-run cinema – the Electric Picture House – and a lively calendar of events and markets throughout the year. Whether you’re browsing local shops, walking the trails, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Wotton-under-Edge offers plenty to enjoy during your stay.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Just 20 minutes from Withymore Bed & Breakfast, Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is one of the UK’s most celebrated tree collections. Situated just outside Tetbury, it’s managed by Forestry England and offers over 600 acres of beautifully landscaped woodland and rare plant species.
Founded in 1829 by Robert Stayner Holford, the arboretum was designed with an artistic eye, following the ideals of the Picturesque movement. Holford funded global plant-hunting expeditions, bringing back exotic trees and shrubs to create a living collection unlike any other. His son, George Lindsay Holford, expanded the site with Silk Wood – now famous for its maples, rhododendrons, and sweeping tree-lined avenues.
Opened to the public in 1956, Westonbirt remains a popular destination throughout the year, especially during autumn and spring. It sits next to the Highgrove Estate and offers scenic walking trails, seasonal events, and peaceful spots to enjoy nature at its best.
Tetbury
The historic market town of Tetbury sits in the heart of the Cotswolds and is well known for its royal connections, antique shops, and honey‑coloured buildings. Once a centre for the medieval wool trade, its 17th-century Market House still stands at the centre of town life.
Today, Tetbury offers a mix of independent boutiques, delis, and galleries, especially along Long Street – known for its antiques and characterful architecture. There's also a good choice of cafés and traditional pubs for a relaxed bite to eat.
Highlights include the striking church of St Mary the Virgin, the quirky Police Museum, and events like the annual Woolsack Races. It’s also close to Highgrove Gardens, Westonbirt Arboretum, and scenic walking routes through classic Cotswold countryside.
Castle Combe Circuit
Castle Combe Circuit, located just outside the village of Castle Combe in Wiltshire, is a historic racing venue set on a former World War II airfield. Since opening in 1950, it has become a favourite among motorsport fans for its fast corners and classic layout.
The track hosts a packed calendar of events throughout the year, including club car races, motorbike meets, and popular car shows. There are also regular public track days for anyone wanting to get behind the wheel.
Spectators can enjoy excellent views from grassy banks around the circuit, along with on-site catering and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a great option for anyone looking for an exciting day out during a visit to the area.
Chipping Sodbury
Chipping Sodbury is a lively market town with a broad high street, historic buildings, and a strong sense of community. At its centre is the old market square, where regular events, farmers’ markets and fairs bring the town to life throughout the year.
Independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs line the high street, making it an easy and enjoyable place to explore on foot. The town also has green spaces, a nature reserve, and access to local walking routes including parts of the Cotswold Way.
With its mix of character, local flavour, and relaxed pace, Chipping Sodbury offers a pleasant change of scene and a good stop for lunch, shopping, or a gentle wander.
Beaufort Arms
The Beaufort Arms in Hawkesbury Upton is a traditional 17th-century village pub full of local charm. Inside, you’ll find low-beamed ceilings, cosy bars, and a collection of old brewery signs and village memorabilia.
It serves a changing selection of real ales and locally brewed beers, with food available daily from lunchtime onwards. Dishes are home-cooked and served in a relaxed dining area that was once the pub’s stables.
There’s also a garden for warmer days, a skittle alley, and classic pub games like darts and cribbage. A popular stop for walkers on the Cotswold Way, the Beaufort Arms offers a laid-back welcome in a characterful setting.