BEST FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT LOCATIONS IN THE COTSWOLDS
In all my years of being a photographer I have come across some fantastic photoshoot locations in the Cotswolds. Here are my top five.
Time and time again I get asked for the best photoshoot locations in the Cotswolds so I decided to write this blog post. All the places you read about here I have used for photoshoots myself so I am writing about them through my eyes as a photographer, not just as a visitor. Some of them I stumbled upon with my wedding photographer hat on. Others were simply most convenient for the clients I was meeting at the time.
Castle Combe
One of the quieter locations on this list, Castle Combe is quaint and small and is often said to be Britain’s prettiest village. As it’s a highly protected conservation area with over 100 listed buildings, there aren’t many establishments and shops which helps the village to keep its historic character.
Like many Cotswold villages there is an abundance of flowering gardens that line the streets. This alone I think makes for charming family photos. The most popular photo spot is the iconic stone bridge at the bottom of the village. For good reasons, this is the number one most photographed location in the Cotswolds.
Painswick
Since a recent family photoshoot in the Gloucestershire village of Painswick this village has quickly moved up my list. There is the famous Rococo Garden which has a lot to offer in terms of interesting backdrops. But the village itself is enough to fill one hour of wandering amongst the quiet streets. There isn’t much traffic so less stressful when the kids are running around the place. There is a large church yard next to the main car park which is a convenient place to meet and it includes a tourist information point.
Westonbirt Arboretum
For more nature and less architecture but beautiful nonetheless, there is the famous Westonbirt Arboretum. This place is stunning all year round but highlights for me include the bluebells in late April / early May and the autumn colours in October. There is an entry fee and booking in advance is recommended during the busier periods.
Dogs are allowed (in parts of it) and there is a cafe, gift shop and restaurant on site. If you meet me here for your family photoshoot I highly recommend making a day out of it.
Being very local to Westonbirt Arboretum I regularly hold photoshoots here including family mini sessions during spring and autumn. For more information on mini sessions at Westonbirt click the link below.
BOURTON ON THE WATER
Bourton on the Water is often busy so it’s worth getting up early to avoid the crowds. It’s known for its iconic low bridges across the shallow river which flows through the centre. Sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, it’s bigger than the other places on this list but therefore also has more to offer in terms of hospitality and shops.
If you’re up for a short walk I recommend following the footpath along the river westward of the main thoroughfare. This takes you to a serene bit of the Cotswold countryside, away from the crowds.
CORSHAM
Just on the southwestern edge of the Cotswolds and close to the city of Bath lies Corsham. Corsham is not usually considered when one thinks of the top Cotswold locations however I think it should be included. Not only does it have a very picturesque and thriving High Street, it also has stunning parklands right on its doorstep. In May there is an abundance of cow parsley and other wildflowers in the park and these alone are worth a visit.
Best of all, Corsham is known for its iconic, free-roaming peacocks. I’ve yet to include one in a family photoshoot but I’m always up for a challenge!
best time for FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT IN THE COTSWOLDS
The Cotswolds are dramatically beautiful anytime of year, come rain or shine. Rain is more likely in winter but does occur sporadically all year around. Personally, I think the villages really come into their own when the cottage gardens look their best during the months of April, May and June. Think wisteria, foxgloves and roses, just to name a few of the iconic British showstoppers. But let’s be honest, with a backdrop of Cotswold cottages you can’t go wrong, no matter what time of year.
As the majority of my family photoshoots are outdoors, there are times when I have to postpone shoots due to adverse weather conditions. If you have a booking with me you will be notified approximately 24 hours in advance whether it’s sensible to postpone or not.
how to choose your family photoshoot location in the cotswolds
Where to have your family photoshoot depends on a number of factors.
Firstly, your plans - where are you staying and what is your mode of transport? To travel around the Cotswolds, a car is a must. Most villages have ample parking, especially those that have larger numbers of visitors. If you plan your day well, it’s possible to visit 2 or 3 Cotswold locations in one day. I’m based in the South of the Cotswolds but travel anywhere free of charge up to 50 miles away. (I charge a small travel fee to distances over 50 miles.)
Secondly, consider if you prefer somewhere quieter or if you don’t mind the crowds. Personally I like to avoid the busiest places at certain times of the day. You’ll see in my family photography portfolio, I tend to opt for places with minimal crowds and traffic in the backdrop.
VISITING THE COTSWOLDS WITH YOUR FAMILY?
I’d love to help! I photograph families all over the Cotswolds, including all the places mentioned above and many more.
I‘m always open to exploring new places and welcome suggestions. Drop me a line if you’re interested in meeting me for your family photoshoot in the Cotswolds at any of the above mentioned places or somewhere else.
