From chaste kisses to nude tennis matches and clandestine encounters, Rivals showcases the entire spectrum of romantic moments set against the backdrop of the Cotswolds countryside. With the first three episodes of season two now streaming on Disney+, it is evident that British audiences remain captivated by the series.
While few may seek the same level of gossip and debauchery depicted in the show, the Cotswolds undeniably appeal as a picturesque setting for a luxurious weekend away. The series would undoubtedly make the late Dame Jilly Cooper proud, as her novels, which inspired the show, have encouraged numerous staycations in her native region.
Whether you desire a glamorous cottage reminiscent of Maud O'Hara or a sprawling estate akin to Rupert Campbell-Black's home, the Cotswolds offers accommodations to suit every preference. For those planning a Rivals-esque weekend, whether with a romantic partner or a group of friends, here are some top recommendations.
A Love Nest for Two
Rookery Hall – Broadway, Worcestershire
Rookery Hall is tucked away near Broadway, offering a polished base for fans dreaming of their own Rutshire retreat. Inside, lofty ceilings, exposed beams, rustic chandeliers, and elegant interiors create a sense of country-house drama that would suit Rupert Campbell-Black's world of rural glamour. For a Rivals moment, pop into the nearby Lygon Arms hotel for a drink or coffee; its fireplaces and ancient interiors will make you feel like a cast member. Book a seven-night stay in June from £991, sleeping four, at www.sykescottages.co.uk.
The Loft, Stow-on-the-Wold
The Loft in Stow-on-the-Wold is ideal for a romantic getaway for two. This attic hideaway allows you to shut out the world and disconnect, with terrace breakfasts, a comfy bed under slanted wooden-beam ceilings, and a cosy countryside feel. Visit The Porch House, one of England's oldest inns, for a Rivals moment. Two nights in June cost £359, sleeping two, at uniquecotswoldcottages.co.uk.
Hammonds Farmhouse – Stroud, Gloucestershire
For those seeking grandeur, Hammonds Farmhouse offers an impressive group getaway on the edge of Stroud. Featuring exposed beams, honey-coloured chimneys, and generous living spaces, it creates a stately atmosphere. A nearby circular walk to Haresfield Beacon provides hidden forest and open fields. Three nights in June cost £2,746, sleeping 16, at www.sykescottages.co.uk.
Pubs with Rooms Celebrities Love
The Falkland Arms, Great Tew
The Falkland Arms in Great Tew dates back to the 16th century and has TV pedigree; millionaire television producer John Lloyd conceived the idea for QI at its bar. Ellen DeGeneres, Portia de Rossi, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge have dined here. With its mazy nooks and crannies, it is a discreet place for a clandestine meeting. Double B&Bs start from around £145 at falklandarms.co.uk.
The Fox, Oddington
Owned by Daylesford Organic creator Carole Bamford, The Fox is a character-filled pub with six trendy suites. Geri Horner and Christian Horner are frequently spotted here. For a Rivals moment, try the Fox roast, including Wootton pork and beef, to recover from a weekend of boozy excess. Doubles B&B from £324 at thefoxatoddington.com.
The Bull, Charlbury
The Bull on Sheep Street in Charlbury offers masterclass minimalism with beamed ceilings, fireplaces, and sink-in leather chairs. Ten accommodation options include two-bed Loaf Cottage with earthy decor and rolltop baths. For an intimate dinner, book The Secret Garden Room for up to 28 guests. Doubles from £195 at thebullcharlbury.com.
Weekend Party Palaces
Cotswold View Manor, Broadway
Situated on a 500-acre estate, Cotswold View Manor sleeps up to 20 guests and features a swimming pool, private spa, hot tub, and sauna. The eight ensuite bedrooms include roll-top baths and four-poster beds. A ballroom fits up to 60 guests for lavish dinner parties. Catch a romantic movie in the cinema room. A two-night weekend in June costs £18,000 at thewowhousecompany.com.
Ebrington Manor, Ebrington, Gloucestershire
This 15th-century abode sleeps 16 across eight beautifully decorated bedrooms, with oak-panelled walls and timber ceilings. The grounds include a tennis court with rackets and balls, reminiscent of a famous scene in Rivals. The Ebrington Arms, an award-winning pub, is nearby. A three-night weekend in June costs £7,475 at bighouseexperience.com.
Ewelme Manor, Dursley
Ewelme Manor is a Georgian country house with an outdoor water fountain, period fireplaces, and a heated pool on the south-facing terrace. Waitress-served in-house catering is available. Berkeley Castle, a 15-minute drive away, featured in polo and lunch scenes in Rivals. A two-night weekend in June costs £9,325, sleeping 14 to 26, at kateandtoms.com.
Glam Hotels to Check Into
Cowley Manor, Near Cheltenham
Cowley Manor Experimental, dating back to 1695, offers immaculate lawns and a sun umbrella-filled terrace. The spa's slate-lined indoor pool provides outdoor views. The Experimental Cocktail Club Cotswolds is perfect for an afternoon cocktail or nightcap. Doubles from £429 at cowleymanorexperimental.com.
Lucknam Park, Wiltshire
Surrounded by 500 acres of parkland, this estate features 42 individually styled rooms, a world-class spa, private cottages, and an equestrian centre. The Michelin-starred restaurant serves dishes like citrus cured trout and miso roasted hispi. Start the evening with a negroni in the Drawing Room or Library. Doubles from £429 at lucknampark.co.uk.
Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire
This 19th-century Neo-Gothic mansion offers 108 ornate rooms, including the Shakespeare Suite, and scenic views of the River Stour. Dining options include Oxford cheddar soufflé and Beef Wellington. Take a dip in the 25-metre swimming pool. Doubles from £725 at estellemanor.com.
Where Did Dame Jilly Cooper Live?
Dame Jilly Cooper, known as the 'Queen of the bonkbuster,' sold over 12 million books. Her Grade II-listed home, The Chantry, is in the Gloucestershire village of Bisley, where she lived for more than four decades. She died on October 5, 2025, at age 88, after a fall. While her home is private, visitors can explore Bisley, which supposedly inspired the fictional town of Rutshire. Highlights include clay pigeon shooting, hiking paths, bike trails, and miniature railways at Mizens.
