AN expert has revealed how you can plan a Cotswolds staycation without breaking the bank.
More than 23million tourists visit the Cotswolds every year, so its no surprise that includes a few celebrities along the way.
Beyonce, Kourtney Kardashian and even Kamala Harris have all been spotted in recent months, while the Beckhams are known for having a house there.
But despite this, there is still a way to do it on a budget as well as away from the crowds.
Local Amanda Stecker, who founded Unique Cotswold Cottages, explained: “There’s a perception that the Cotswolds is reserved for the wealthy.
“But you can stay in charming self-catering cottages or friendly B&Bs for a fraction of the cost of high-end hotels, and still enjoy the villages, countryside, and experiences that make the area so special.
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“Even smaller towns and lesser-known attractions have a charm all of their own, and often a story you’ll remember far longer than the postcard-perfect spots.”
Here are some of her top tips.
Stay in less well-known villages
She explained that while Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water are the popular spots, there are nearby villages that are just as beautiful but far more affordable.
Amanda said: “Look at towns such as Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, or Chipping Campden.
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“These locations still offer charm and convenience but at much lower rates.”
Not only did she say this could save as much as £300 for a three-night stay, but cottages mean you can head to the nearby deli for some groceries and cook yourself, saving you even more.
Visit during shoulder season
If you try and visit the Cotswolds during the summer holidays, expect huge crowds.
The same is during school half terms as well, especially in the spring and autumn.
But the villages are just as beautiful off season, usually November, January and February.
Not only is accommodation cheaper but you won’t be stuck in queues at the car park or the cafe.
Make the most of the free attractions
Just walking through many of the villages and towns feel like they are from a postcard, which is a great free activity.
Not only that, but heritage trails and even attractions like Broadway Tower are free to visit.
The Oxford Museum, Witney Museum and Swinford Museum are just some that are free too.
Amanda advises checking some of the local stately homes which can be affordable especially with a National Trust or English Heritage membership.
Otherwise there are often farmers markets or fairs which you can explore without spending a penny.
According to Amanda, this could save as much as £50 per person during a long weekend.
Check the local transport
Many of the small villages have train stations so you can hop between many of them.
For example, try the Cotswolds Line, which runs from Oxford to Kingham, with stops in Hanborough, Finstock, Charlbury and Shipton along the way.
Otherwise bus routes connect many of them as well, saving you on expensive car parking.
Amanda suggests this could save as much a £30 a day.
Here are some of the Cotswolds pubs where you might bump into a celebrity.
And here are some other places to go away from the crowds.