At the beginning of 2025 we set the ultimate countryside adventure. The Cotswold Challenge invited you to participate in six engaging activities, all while capturing memorable selfies. By completing the challenges, you were in with a chance of winning a three-night stay at one of our
cottages in the Cotswolds. This unique quest blends the beauty of nature with exhilarating experiences and the joy of sharing special moments.
In this post, we will guide you through each of the six challenges that make up the Cotswold Challenge. We’ll also share tips for getting those perfect selfies and inspire you to jump into the adventure and of course we will share the details of the winning couple.
Wild Swimming in the Evenlode at Stonesfield
Start your adventure with the refreshing experience of wild swimming in the River Evenlode at Stonesfield. This serene location is perfect for a dip, surrounded by the stunning Cotswold countryside. In fact, the river is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant flora, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Tips for Wild Swimming
Safety First: Always check the water depth and flow before diving in. It’s best to swim in pairs; swimming with a friend enhances safety and fun.
Get the Gear: Consider wearing a wetsuit, particularly in cooler months. A study by Swim England indicated that about 50% of swimmers prefer wearing suits for warmth.
Capture the Moment: Use a waterproof case for your phone. Snap a selfie right after your swim, featuring the scenic river in the background.
Picnic in Sherbourne Estate
After your refreshing swim, it’s time for a delightful picnic at the beautiful Sherbourne Estate. This magnificent location, with its lush gardens and historic architecture, invites you to relax and enjoy nature.
Picnic Essentials
Pack Delicious Treats: Fill your basket with a mix of your favourite snacks, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks. For an extra treat, don’t forget dessert! In a survey, over 70% of picnic-goers consider desserts essential for a perfect outing.
Find the Perfect Spot: Look for a picturesque backdrop, perhaps near the enchanting fountain or in front of the impressive estate buildings, for that ideal selfie.
Stay Ready: Set up your picnic items creatively for an overhead selfie that captures both the delicious food and the stunning environment.
Take a Selfie with an Ostrich at the Yellow Hat Gallery
As you continue the Cotswold Challenge, make your way to the Yellow Hat Gallery for a quirky experience: taking a selfie with an ostrich! This unique opportunity adds a fun twist to your adventure.
Capturing the Perfect Selfie
Get Close: Approach the ostrich while keeping a safe distance. A friendly, warm smile will enhance your selfie.
Pick up your very own egg: The gallery sell fresh eggs between March and September.
Ostrich Antics: Engage with the ostrich for playful moments. This can lead to some fun candid shots.
Pick Your Own Flowers at Chippy Flower Farm
Next, visit Chippy Flower Farm to immerse yourself in the joy of picking beautiful flowers. This delightful activity not only allows you to create stunning floral arrangements to take home, but it also offers a lovely backdrop for your selfies.
Flower Picking Tips
Wear Comfortable Clothes: Flower-picking can be a bit messy. Opt for clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirt on.
Choose Bright Blooms: Select colourful flowers to create a vibrant bouquet that makes your selfie pop. Studies show that colour can evoke various moods, and bright colours often boost feelings of happiness.
Capture Your Collection: Snap a photo of yourself posing with your flower bouquet against the beautiful farm fields to highlight your efforts.
Please note the farm is closed November to March.
Find the Illegal Stuffed Swan in Swinbrook
Your next challenge is to find the intriguing illegal stuffed swan located in Swinbrook. This local legend is a fun mystery to solve during your adventure, and it's sparked plenty of curiosity among visitors.
The Hunt for the Swan
Do Your Research: Familiarise yourself with local tales and facts about the stuffed swan before heading out. Research can give you clues about its whereabouts. Stop off for a pint at the bar.
Snapshot for Proof: When you find the swan, don’t forget to take a selfie in front of it to document your adventure!
Cycle Part of the Donnington Brewery Pub Tour
Wrap up your Cotswold Challenge with a scenic cycle that takes you through breathtaking countryside to the Donnington Brewery. The brewery tour offers an excellent opportunity to learn about local beer production while enjoying the stunning landscapes.
Cycling Tips
Bring Your Bike or Rent One: Ensure you have a suitable bike that can handle the varied terrain. Look for rental services in the area if you do not have one.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water to stay refreshed during your ride. Cycling can burn up to 500 calories an hour, so staying hydrated is important!
Document Your Journey: Capture selfies along the route. You could take shots with the brewery in the background or snap landscapes that you find beautiful.
Adventure Awaits
The Cotswold Challenge offers an amazing chance to explore the beauty and charm of the Cotswolds while encouraging your creativity through selfies. Completing all six activities is not just fun, but also memorable, especially when paired with the potential to win a wonderful three-night stay. Our adventurous winners were Julie and Steve Dillamore and we were thrilled to announce that they had won a 3 night stay in one of our Cotswold Cottages.
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