Guests say
Bow Cottage is a charming, beautifully decorated property in a superb location within walking distance of Bourton-on-the-Water and local amenities. Guests praise its cosy atmosphere, open fireplace, and suitability for dog owners. While the cottage is generally clean and well-equipped, some guests noted issues with the third bedroom, occasional damp smells, and minor maintenance points. The property can be tricky to find, especially after dark, and parking is tight for larger vehicles. Overall, Bow Cottage offers a delightful base for exploring the Cotswolds, with most guests enjoying a comfortable and memorable stay.
Most guests found the cottage clean and in good condition, though a few mentioned hygiene concerns and a damp smell in the downstairs bedroom. The majority of reviews were positive, but these recurring issues slightly lowered the score.
The location is highly praised for its proximity to the village, local pubs, shops, and beautiful walks. Some guests found the cottage difficult to locate, especially after dark, but overall the setting is considered excellent.
Guests appreciated the cosy decor, open fireplace, and comfortable atmosphere. However, the third bedroom's lack of a window, damp smell, and impractical bed arrangement for some guests affected the comfort score.
The cottage is well-equipped and dog-friendly, with a safe garden and good kitchen facilities. Some guests noted missing essentials (e.g., non-slip mats, more pillows, curtain issues) and minor maintenance needs, which impacted the score.
Guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as dog bowls, treats, and throws for the sofa. Please note that these items are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
A beautifully styled Cotswold cottage with characterful interiors, rare parking for two cars, a sun-trap garden, and an easy, gentle walk into the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water and its many attractions..
Ground Floor:
Living room: Smart TV, Sky, Netflix, Open Fire, French Doors Leading To Garden
Kitchen/dining room: 2 x Electric Oven, Gas Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher, Coffee Machine, Washing Machine
Bedroom 1: ¾ Double (4ft) Bed, Cubicle Shower (In Room)
Separate Toilet.
First Floor:
Bedroom 2: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bedroom 3: Double (4ft 6in) Bed
Bathroom: Bath, Cubicle Shower, Toilet.
Gas central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Initial logs for open fire included (during winter months only). Cot and highchair available. Doggy extras. Enclosed back garden with sitting out area and garden furniture. Electric car charging point. Private parking for 2 cars. No smoking. Please note: There is a step in the garden.. Located just under half a mile from the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water, Bow Cottage is a beautifully presented Cotswold retreat ideal for couples, families, friends and those with a less mobile family member. Not forgetting our furry guests who have an enclosed safe outside space to explore.
With private parking for two cars, a rarity in the Cotswolds, the cottage features a well-equipped kitchen and dining room and a spacious living room with an open fire, perfect for cosy evenings in. French doors lead out to an enclosed garden with a raised decking area that captures the sun, ideal for morning coffee or evening drinks. There is also a separate patio area with a further table and recliners so you can follow the sun or relax in the shade. There is a portable doggy shower for muddy paws after countryside walks.
Inside, charming details like exposed honey-stone walls and Farrow & Ball tones create a calming, stylish feel throughout. The ground floor also offers a single bedroom with a ¾ double bed, shower cubicle and basin, and a separate downstairs toilet. While upstairs you’ll find a king-size bedroom, a double room, and a stunning bathroom with a freestanding roll top bath and separate walk in shower.
Step outside and you’re just a short stroll from Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” thanks to its gently flowing River Windrush and picturesque low-arched bridges. The village is packed with attractions for all ages, including the famous Model Village, Birdland Park and Gardens, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum. You’ll find quaint tea rooms, traditional pubs and charming gift shops lining the streets, ideal for a relaxed afternoon. Scenic footpaths lead directly from the cottage to the beautiful neighbouring villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter. Stop off at Clarksons Hawkstone Brewery and Tap House on the way it is just a 5 minute stroll from the front door and well worth a visit.
A little further afield, enjoy exploring classic Cotswold gems such as Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford and Broadway, all within a short drive. Nearby walks take in rolling hills, woodland trails, and sweeping views of the countryside. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a walking holiday or a family adventure, Bow Cottage provides the perfect base for discovering the best of the Cotswolds.
Free WiFi
Electric vehicle charging at charging points only.
EPC Rating = B
Suitable for up to 3 pets
Reviews (9)
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Confirmed Guest
Lovely location and a cottage of great potential.This cottage has been modified to accommodate a third bedroom downstairs which has an en-suite shower and sink. Unfortunately (and it has been included in a review prior) this bathroom initially smells of drains, which is quite nauseating for the occupant. It is also worth noting that this bed is pushed up against a wall so not practical for our aged parents to sleep together, as we had hoped as one would have to climb over the other; we hadn’t realised this. The cottage is clean and practical with lots of cottage charm but lacks some of the essentials that make for a comfortable and safe holiday. For example, non-slip mats for shower and bath upstairs, door mat for garden entrance, more standard drinking glasses and practical sofa seating to accommodate six people comfortably. Additional items like tea pot, kitchen weighing scales, hand towels for guests and more pillows for the front bedroom (only two for two people at our stay), would also be helpful. We found the WiFi info and recycling info in the welcome to be incorrect but we muddled through and got it right (later finding a QR code on a mirror!). We found the cottage easily from the description left but recommend the placing of a cottage name sign on the roadside - like the neighbours to help even further. Parking is tight for two large cars and care manoevering needed as the neighbouring cottage has an access ramp for their occupant. Lovely tidy small garden with a couple of tables and plenty of chairs to catch the evening sun. Lots of dog bowls, dog treats, poo bag roll and the throws for the sofa which were appreciated. Lots of lovely walks and the village is just ten minute walk for the able bodied and slightly longer for our elderly parents. We also reported to Cottages.com that in heavy rain the lintel over the front door was saturated and dripping, making the door mat very wet.
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Confirmed Guest
Lovely cottage but was let down by the 3rd bedroom which is on the ground floor sandwiched between the kitchen and living room with no window. Room itself was lovely but the smell of damp was overwhelming. Curtain rail at patio doors but unfortunately no curtains were hanging. Great location within easy walking distance of the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water.
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Confirmed Guest
Clean, well equipped holiday cottage in a convenient location and parking for two cars. Nice stroll down to lovely village with most amenities. Excellent cottage for dogs with a lovely safe area for them out at the back. Good position for all other places of interest in the Cotswolds.