There’s nowhere more charming than the Cotswolds, and no place in it more beautiful than Bourton-on-the-Water, aka the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. Famed for its honey-coloured houses, gently flowing river, and picturesque landscapes, it’s in many ways the picture-perfect chocolate box village. So, where else would you like to do your Christmas shopping?
Bourton-on-the-Water’s idyllic high street boasts an eclectic mix of shops—from homeware and antiques to perfume and pottery. But one of its most extraordinary stores, open most of the year, is the one-of-a-kind Victorian Christmas Shop, which boasts an exclusive range of beautiful Cotswold-inspired Christmas decorations.
What is The Victorian Christmas Shop?
You won’t find many year-round Christmas shops in the UK, let alone one that embraces Dickensian traditions. But for those who are always looking out for festive souvenirs, you’ll find a lovingly hand-picked collection of bespoke decorations from well-known brand names and independent designers.
Step inside and discover the most beautiful Christmas decorations for your tree—from a Bourton-on-the-Water découpage bauble to a handmade felt beefeater pigeon. Disney fans can even pick up festive ornaments inspired by ‘Beauty and the Beast’, ‘Cinderella’ or Marvel films. Snow globes, nutcrackers, wreaths, it’s all here.
Why else visit Bourton-on-the-Water this Christmas…
Bourton-on-the-Water is already lit up for Christmas. With fairy lights consuming the high street and its various shops, the showstopper has to be the ‘Floating Christmas Tree’ in the middle of the River Windrush. It’s a spectacle that cannot be missed and only builds upon the magic of this fairytale village.
But it’s not just for Christmas… Elsewhere, you will find a tiny model village that’s a replica on a 1/9th scale, the Cotswold Motoring Museum is home to TV’s very own Brum, and there are plenty of scenic strolls to take in and around this stunning village.
How do I get there?
Driving from Bristol to Bourton-on-the-Water takes an hour and a half. Follow the M5 to A417 in Gloucestershire, and take exit 11A, then follow A417 and A436 to Lansdowne in Bourton-on-the-Water.