It’s been an amazing 60 years since being awarded the protection of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty! Let’s look at what that means and what’s been happening in the Cotswolds since…
The first designation of a UK Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) was awarded to the Gower Peninsula in South Wales, on May 9, 1956. Shortly after, the Cotswolds joined the prestigious group of incredible landscapes in 1966. So, we’re celebrating 60 years of our beloved Cotswolds.
What makes the Cotswolds outstanding?
“The Cotswolds is one of England’s best examples of how a landscape shapes people, and people shape a landscape. The underlying limestone here has influenced our built heritage, our cultural heritage, our farming, and our natural habitats. It’s that special combination of human influence and natural elements which have led to designation as a protected landscape.” Cotswolds National Landscape
Areas which are chosen show a distinctive character, and the people live, work and build in harmony with the land, not against it. Dedicated landscapes are protected from overdevelopment by agreeing to 2 major principles:
- Conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Cotswolds
- Increase the understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities.
We think it’s these principles that have endeared so many people to the Cotswolds over the years, and helped it retain its unique attraction…
How the Cotswolds has changed in 60 years
From quiet to bustling: Following the rise of car ownership in the 1950s/60s, the region became a top destination for day-trippers and weekend holidaymakers. This led to many traditional village and town shops becoming services such as cafes, gift shops and boutique hotels.
Conservation efforts: The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens were established in the late 1960s; they now maintain miles of trails, trees, and hedges to support the wildlife and provide quiet, natural recreational amenities.
Expansion: The protected area was significantly extended in 1990 and then adopted the new name for an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, National Landscape in 2023.
Development: While traditional building styles are maintained, the last 60 years have seen modern developments appear in towns like Cirencester, where large commercial buildings share their space with ancient properties – many of which now house modern businesses.
Decline in traditional farming: While still very much a rural area, traditional farming methods have declined over the years in favour of larger-scale, mainly arable farming utilising modern and more efficient methods and technology.
Dry-stone wall revival: While many old dry-stone walls fell into disrepair due to a lack of traditional skills, the historical craft has experienced a revival, largely for repairing and renewing the old walls and bordering new, high-end, residential properties sympathetic to the surrounding villages.
Event growth: The Cotswolds has established a massive, year-round calendar of events, including the Cheltenham Festival (Gold Cup), Badminton Horse Trials, Royal International Air Tattoo, Wilderness and the Big Feastival, as well as many literary festivals.
Heritage events: Traditional events have been preserved or revived, such as Cheese-Rolling on Cooper’s Hill, Aunt Sally pub leagues, Football in the River at Bourton on the Water, the Cotswold Olimpick Games (revived in 1966) and the Tetbury Woolsack Races.
Filming locations: The area has become a popular backdrop for television and film, including the series, Bridgerton and Queen Charlotte, Downton Abbey, and Father Brown.
Welcoming famous faces: The region has recently seen an influx of wealthy individuals, commuters, and second-home owners, often described as “High and Very High Net Worth Individuals” alongside a few famous faces such as the Beckhams, Beyonce and Jay-Z, Prue Leith, Kate Moss, Liam Gallagher and Jeremy Clarkson.
It’s heartening, as locals who have resided in the Cotswolds for decades, to see the growth and development of the region hasn’t had too much of an impact on the heritage and traditions of such a special place. And even more fascinating that some of the older (and more bonkers) traditions are returning.
We would be utterly delighted to take you on a tour of this area of outstanding natural beauty and show you the traditions, the locations and all the wonderful tons, villages, shops, pubs and of course, nature…
A Cotswold tour from London is easily accessible in a day, or a weekend simply gives you more time to decompress and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
