Known as 'The Queen of the Cotswolds', Painswick is a popular picture-perfect village that graduated from its sleepy, rural beginnings to centre of commerce during the historic wool trade boom of the 18th century. Known for its beautiful landscape surroundings, famous topiary trees (see below) and pretty streets of honey-coloured stone properties - it offers a great mix of independent eateries, characterful charm and beautiful walks in the surrounding countryside.
“We love Painswick’s charm and character. The town is both quintessentially Cotswolds and elegant with stunning architecture and so much to do on the doorstep!” Francesca Sharvell
There are some 99 standard Yews surrounding the Grade-1 listed Church of St. Mary and if Painswick myths are to be believed, as soon as a 100th tree is planted it immediately die.
The town also lays claim to a number of sporting 'firsts' - with Britain's first bowling green behind the Falcon Inn, and England's oldest village rugby club - dating back to 1872.
A current property in our portfolio, Hambutts House in Painswick is a centrally located, historic family home - with parts dating back to the 17th century. Although nestled moments from the heart of Painswick, the house stands in large, beautifully maintained and secluded gardens.
There's not a huge range of shops and boutiques to peruse in Painswick, but head to New Street where you will find a range of independent businesses, as well as quaint tea houses, inns and eateries.
St Michael's Bistro overlooks the historic churchyard, with restaurant, rooms and farm shop on offer. You can book a table and sample some of chef owner, Matt's classic, local cuisine or book in to the B&B and make a break of it. The Farm Shop has a range of fresh artisan produce as well as gifts and crafts from local makers.
Woodchester Valley is a local, family run vineyard (pictured above) with 3 vineyards across the Stroud Valleys producing a range of white, rosé and sparkling wines. You can drop in for tours and tastings (or virtual tours if you are further afield) and pick up a case of your own to enjoy at home from the cellar shop.
The Painswick Hotel, with 16 beautifully appointed rooms, offers luxury accomodation in the heart of Painswick. The grand house was built in the 18th century at the height of the wool trade and has been sympathetically bought up-to-date with a modern, country house feel. From sharing boards by the fire, to elegant afternoon tea and fine dining experiences, it's a great destination for foodies, looking for a country escape in style.
One of the greatest ways to enjoy Painswick is on foot, with many well marked walks through the town itself, but also further afield at both Woodchester Park (read our round up of local walks here), or at Painswick Beacon - a great vantage point to take in the Severn Vale, the Forest of Dean and the Welsh Mountains.
The jewel in Painswick's crown is the Rococo Gardens (above). Designed in the 1740s as a fanciful pleasure garden for the owner of Painswick House and his guests, today they are open to the public (and as a wedding venue) to explore. With magical follies, formal planting to inspire gardeners as well as fun family trails around the grounds.
If you're looking for a chance to rest and recharge after some long country walks, Richmond Painswick Wellness Spa tucked away in the centre of town is an oasis of calm. There is a gym and pool to enjoy, as well as extensive spa treatments, hair and nail bar for a full pampering MOT.
Located around 30 mins from both Cheltenham and Cirencester, Painswick is within easy reach of the M5 corridor to the West and Kemble station is 30 mins away and direct to Paddington. Stroud is just 10 mins away and also has a train to London Paddington.