Christmas Baking Class for Families: Festive Biscuit Decorating in the Cotswolds

Christmas in the Cotswolds? There’s something magical about it. This season, you and your family have the chance to join an intimate, festive experience in Burford—a quintessential English town known for its charm and, now, for its unforgettable holiday baking class. Imagine the smell of spices, butter, and ginger wafting through a cosy upstairs studio, tucked away in a charming tearoom. If you’re looking for an experience that brings your family together and sends you home with treats you’ll be proud to display, this is it. And it’s not just baking; it’s an entire seasonal immersion!

Book the best Christmas day out here:- Family Christmas Baking Class 

The Festive Kickoff: Mince Pies and Royal Icing Demo

The session starts with a bang (and a dash of flour). You’ll dive into a live demonstration that demystifies royal icing—a skill that transforms biscuits into little works of art. From creating the right consistency to piping tips that make your designs stand out, this hands-on demo lets you see and try techniques that give professional results.

Next up: mince pies! Not only do you get to see how the classic spiced filling is made, but you’ll even make your own. Yes, your own, because there’s nothing quite like customising a mince filling to suit your family’s tastes. Maybe you’ll add an extra hint of clove or a splash of brandy? The choice is yours. By the time you’re done, you’ll have a rich, aromatic filling ready to meet its buttery, spiced pastry.

Roll Up Your Sleeves: Baking Time!

Here’s where the fun really starts. You’ll roll, cut, and shape your own shortcrust pastry—perfect for those mince pies—and work with gingerbread dough to create beautifully sculpted biscuits that you can hang on the tree or enjoy at home. This hands-on segment gives everyone a chance to get creative, with designs that range from classic stars to intricate Christmas trees. The dough is prepared with a blend of spices that evoke all the cosiness of the season, creating a holiday aroma that’ll linger long after the biscuits come out of the oven.

Sip, Relax, and Savour

Once the biscuits are baked and decorated, it’s time for a well-deserved break. You’ll be treated to a classic British afternoon refreshment: a warm mince pie alongside a pot of fine tea or a cappuccino. It’s the perfect moment to take in the festive atmosphere, unwind, and admire your creations with family by your side.

Take Home a Slice of Christmas

No baking class would be complete without taking home some of the holiday cheer. At the end of the class, you’ll pack up an assortment of your own beautifully decorated biscuits and tree ornaments, along with the scrumptious mince pies. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing with friends, or (let’s be honest) enjoying yourself.

This 2-hour workshop in Burford isn’t just a baking class—it’s a memory in the making.

Book the perfect festive getaway :-  Burford Bed and Breakfast, Hotels & Guest Houses, Oxfordshire UK | Bed and Breakfasts Guide

Book the best Christmas day out here:- Family Christmas Baking Class in Burford 

Discover The Plough Inn in Cold Aston - Your Perfect Cotswold Escape

Nestled in the idyllic village of Cold Aston, between Cheltenham and Bourton-on-the-Water, lies The Plough Inn—a quintessential country pub that offers more than just a place to stay. It’s a gateway to the heart of the Cotswolds, rich in history and brimming with warmth and character.

A Step Back in Time

As you walk through the doors of this grade 2 listed 17th Century Inn, you’re greeted by the sight of old Cotswold flagstones, original beams, and a welcoming roaring fire. The Plough Inn effortlessly combines its historic charm with modern comforts, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking an authentic Cotswold experience.

Culinary Delights Await

Food is a cornerstone of The Plough Inn experience. Nick and Laura, the passionate owners, ensure that every dish is a celebration of locally produced ingredients. The menu is a seasonal showcase of the finest produce, and the specials board changes daily, reflecting what’s fresh and available.

One unique feature is their Bertha—an indoor charcoal oven that imparts a smoky, rich flavor to their chargrilled steaks and whole fish. Whether you're enjoying a hearty meal in the cozy dining area or savoring a glass of fine wine, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Explore the Cotswolds

The Plough Inn is ideally situated to explore the stunning North Cotswolds. From the enchanting village of Bourton-on-the-Water to the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, and the scenic beauty of The Slaughters and Broadway, there’s so much to see and do. Plus, if you’re visiting during Cheltenham race weeks, you’re in for an extra special treat!

Stay in Comfort and Style

The Plough Inn offers three uniquely decorated ensuite rooms, each named after local villages. They retain the building’s historic charm while providing modern comforts such as crisp white linens, feather pillows, and fluffy towels. The rooms are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. For those traveling with pets, well-behaved dogs are welcome in some rooms (just check ahead for details).

Warm Welcomes and Rave Reviews

One of the highlights of staying at The Plough Inn is the genuine warmth and hospitality you’ll receive from the team. Guests frequently comment on the friendly service and welcoming atmosphere. Ian, who stayed in July 2022, described it as a lovely old pub with friendly staff, and Stephen, in March 2023, praised the beautiful food and comfortable rooms. Hilary, who visited in May 2021, found it to be a wonderful sanctuary in beautiful surroundings.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re looking for a cozy getaway, a culinary adventure, or a base to explore the Cotswolds, The Plough Inn is the perfect choice. Book your stay today and experience the best of what the Cotswolds has to offer.

For more details or to make a reservation, visit The Plough Inn's.

By choosing The Plough Inn, you're not just booking a room—you're securing an unforgettable Cotswold experience. See you soon!

Experience the Warmth of The Masons Arms Inn: A Cotswolds Gem

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds village of Meysey Hampton, The Masons Arms stands proudly on the Village Green, beckoning travellers with its quaint charm and warm hospitality. Steeped in history and surrounded by quintessential Cotswolds beauty, this inn offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking a tranquil getaway.

In the midst of a bustling Cotswolds village, The Masons Arms provides an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Nearby Cirencester, brimming with history and character, invites visitors to delve into its rich heritage, while the surrounding countryside is dotted with charming villages waiting to be discovered, whether by wheels or by foot.

One of the most captivating aspects of The Masons Arms is its prime location on the Village Green. As the seasons change, so too does the ambiance of this charming inn. In spring and summer, guests can bask in the sunshine as they dine alfresco or simply unwind with a refreshing drink amidst the verdant surroundings. When the chill of autumn and winter descends, the welcoming glow of the open fire and wood burners beckon, offering a cosy respite from the elements.

Culinary delights await at The Masons Arms, with a menu that tantalises the taste buds and satisfies the soul. Serving food daily, guests can indulge in delicious lunches and dinners crafted from locally sourced ingredients. From hearty classics to innovative dishes, there's something to please every palate. And on Sundays, the kitchen opens its doors continuously, ensuring a leisurely dining experience for all.

Accommodation at The Masons Arms is both comfortable and inviting. Whether it's a twin room with a bath or a cosy double with an ensuite shower-room, guests are treated to a restful night's sleep in well-appointed surroundings. Recent refurbishments have only enhanced the charm and comfort of the inn, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest.

But it's not just the cosy rooms and delectable cuisine that earn rave reviews from visitors. The warmth and hospitality of the staff are consistently praised, with guests noting the friendly and efficient service that adds an extra layer of comfort to their stay. From families on holiday to solo travellers seeking solace, everyone is made to feel welcome at The Masons Arms.

Don't just take our word for it – let the reviews speak for themselves. David, a returning guest, describes The Masons Arms as a "friendly cosy place" where he "didn't feel like a stranger" and enjoyed "excellent food at a reasonable price." Amanda praises the inn for its "top-quality food" and "friendly and efficient" staff, while Fiona commends the "great accommodation and food" and the "welcoming and polite" service.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure in the Cotswold Water Park or a cultural excursion to nearby historic sites, The Masons Arms offers the perfect retreat for every traveller. So why wait? Come and experience the tranquillity and charm of this Cotswolds gem for yourself – we look forward to welcoming you soon!

Book today; The best dates go quick: 

The Masons Arms, Cirencester, United Kingdom - Bedandbreakfastsguide (eviivo.com)

The Cotswolds

(image courtesy of istock.com artist name jenifoto)

More clichés are churned out about the Cotswolds than practically any other part of Britain, which is a bit of a shame because such cheesy descriptions just do the place down. Chocolate box charm, the stuff of picture postcards and jigsaws, ye-oldie-worlde, pretty-pretty, rural idyll, the list is as long as the undulating Cotswold Hills. Trouble is, all these images can be a bit off-putting; they carry with them a hint of the derogatory, a distinct whiff of condescension that the area really doesn’t deserve.

The Cotswolds are indeed pretty, and pretty in the nicest sense of the word. They are also exceedingly charming and what is wrong with that? The time is ripe to set the record straight and debunk those preconceived notions of cloying charm.                                                                            

So, what's in store for those jaundiced 'been there, got the T-shirt' type tourists who think that the Cotswold Hills have little more to offer than a clutch of golden-coloured villages and towns and some pleasant enough countryside? Quite a lot is the answer, if you're prepared to scratch beneath the region's charming surface. 

Things to do and see in and around the Cotswolds:

       Cheltenham: The Regency Spa town of Cheltenham makes a great base for exploring the Cotswolds. There's always plenty going on in Cheltenham: horseracing, festivals, special events, as well as some distinctly stylish shopping!

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       The Cotswold Way: This long distance walk takes you through less well known Cotswold territory. It is also one of the best ways to take in some of the more dramatic scenery, in the area. Along the Cotswold Way, you will be surprised by the stunning scenery, especially on the western escarpment.

       Chipping Campden: Located in the northern Cotswolds, Chipping Campden, or 'Chipping' for short, is a busy market town with a fascinating history that captures the real character of the region. A financial hub from medieval times onwards, Chipping Campden was an important centre for the wool trade, in centuries past. Chipping's highlights include the imposing fifteenth century Church of St. John, the open-sided, arcaded Market Hall (built in 1627), and the seventeenth century almshouses that overlook Church Street.

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       Bourton-on-the-Water: For many people, the village of Bourton-on-the-Water sums up the Cotswolds, with its undeniable charm and tourist appeal. A series of small bridges spanning a brook that runs the length of the Main Street sets the scene.

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       Burford and Lower Slaughter: If you want to avoid the crowds at Bourton-on-the-Water, head, instead, for the beautiful town of Burford with its attractive Main Street and sheer descent to an ancient bridge, over the River Windrush. Lower Slaughter is another equally pretty village, slightly off the beaten tourist track, that tends not to be as overrun with visitors as Bourton-on-the-Water.

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       Broadway and Stanway: These two picturesque villages will also give you a feel for the Cotswolds. Broadway and Stanway both lie beneath the north-west facing escarpment, from the top of which you can enjoy sweeping views over the border into Wales.

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      Bibury: Who could argue with the famous nineteenth designer and writer, William Morris, who described Bibury as the most beautiful village in England? Pay a visit to Bibury and see if you agree.

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       Sudeley Castle: (Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire). With the Cotswold landscape as an inspirational backdrop, Sudeley Castle is billed as one of Britain's most 'romantic' castles. Keen gardeners will also be impressed by the ten different gardens in the grounds of Sudeley Castle, each with its unique features. The most recent addition was a Knot Garden introduced, in 1995.

       Blenheim Palace: located at the edge of the town of Woodstock and open to the public between mid-March and the end of October, Blenheim Palace is a splendid example of English baroque. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, both the Palace and its surrounding landscaped parkland is a designated World Heritage Site.

       Corinium Museum (Park Street, Cirencester): Among its exhibits, the Corinium Museum contains a collection of Roman artefacts that offer an intriguing insight into Cotswold life, in Roman Britain.

Finally, are the Cotswolds all they're cracked up to be? They certainly are . and more. And, if you're dithering about where to take your next weekend break, why not visit the Cotswold Hills and see for yourself. The secret is to base yourself in one of the many great B&Bs in the area and explore the region, under your own steam. Wander off the coach tour trail; stand back and admire the view, afresh.

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