In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Tom Burdett, Managing Director of StayCotswold, about the enchanting Cotswolds region. They discuss the area’s appeal to international travelers, the impact of film and television on tourism, and the advantages of self-catering accommodations. Tom shares insights on the evolution of StayCotswold as an online destination for booking self-catering accommodation in the Cotswolds, the importance of local experiences, and practical tips for visitors, including driving in the UK and must-see locations. The conversation highlights the Cotswolds’ unique charm and the benefits of exploring it like a local.

Links

• StayCotswold
• The Cotswolds
• Diddly Squat Farm Shop.
• The Farmer’s Dog
• Bourton-on-the-Water
• Stow-on-the-Wold
• Cotswold National Landscape

Takeaways

• The Cotswolds is a magical place for travelers.
• Self-catering offers more freedom and space than hotels.
• Driving in the Cotswolds unlocks hidden gems.
• Borton on the Water is a must-see destination.
• Clarkson’s Farm has significantly boosted local tourism.
• The Cotswolds is known for its unspoilt beauty.
• Local pubs provide a traditional dining experience.
• Pre-arrival information helps guests plan their stay.
• The Cotswolds has something to offer all year round.
• Experience the Cotswolds like a local for the best adventure.

Sound Bites

• 1. The Clarkson Connection: “Do you know where Clarkson’s Farm is? Diddly Squat? I live two miles from that. That puts it on the map.”
• 2. Holiday Happiness: “What surprised me is how generally happy and positive the people are in holiday letting. People are going on holiday, what’s not to like?”
• 3. Instant Gratification: “If we list a holiday cottage today, it’ll usually get a booking by the end of the day. Someone will be arriving within a week.”
• 4. Quality Over Quantity: “We don’t want to be the biggest because I don’t think that always makes you the best. We want to be the best.”
• 5. The Perfect Cottage: “The ideal property is a double-fronted period cottage with roses around the door and lavender in the front garden.”
• 6. Local vs. Corporate: “We’re local people on the ground. We have an office in Stow-on-the-Wold. You can pick up the phone and call us or come speak to us face to face.”
• 7. Year-Round Appeal: “It’s become a year-round destination. You won’t be as busy in January, but you’ll still see people wandering around spending money.”
• 8. Driving Advice: “Stay on the left hand side for sure. Go steady around country lanes. The speed limit is 20 to 30 miles an hour in most cases.”
• 9. Authentic Experience: “By staying in a cottage you get a much more traditional and authentic experience. You’re living there, surrounded by people that do live there.”
• 10. Must-Visit Village: “You’ve got to go to Bourton on the Water. It’s such a pretty village with the river and little bridges. Nine times out of ten people knew where it was.”

Chapters

• 00:00 Exploring the Cotswolds: An Introduction
• 05:06 Transitioning from Estate Agency to Holiday Lettings
• 09:46 The Cotswolds: A Year-Round Destination
• 14:30 Defining the Cotswolds: Geography and Identity
• 19:31 The Allure of Self-Catering in the Cotswolds
• 24:26 The Impact of Film and Television on Tourism
• 25:31 Authentic Cotswolds Experience in a Cottage
• 26:58 Maximizing Your Cottage Stay: Tips for First-Time Visitors
• 28:30 Internet Connectivity in Cotswold Cottages
• 29:16 Seasonal Patterns and Visitor Trends
• 29:42 Driving in the UK: Overcoming American Fears
• 32:33 Must-See Cotswolds Itinerary for Short Visits
• 33:58 The Future of Holiday Lettings in the Cotswolds
• 35:56 Dining and Cultural Differences in the Cotswolds
• 37:04 Myths Americans Believe About the Cotswolds
• 38:56 Impact of Clarkson’s Farm on Cotswolds Tourism
• 41:25 Final Recommendations: Bourton on the Water and Beyond
• 43:37 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version