The Cotswolds: High Fashion in the English Countryside

Rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and centuries-old cottages have long made the Cotswolds a picture of the English countryside. But behind its postcard-perfect beauty lies a region being reshaped by global tourism, luxury living, and the power of social media. In this episode, we explore the remarkable transformation of the Cotswolds, tracing how a quiet rural landscape has become an international destination fueled by celebrity appeal, boutique hospitality, and the growing allure of the "cottagecore" lifestyle. We examine the economic opportunities this boom has created alongside the rising challenges of soaring property prices, housing shortages, and the changing character of local communities. The story reveals the delicate balance between preserving a cherished cultural landscape and embracing the prosperity that comes with worldwide attention, asking whether an idyllic vision of England can endure amid the pressures of modern success.https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/23/how-the-cotswolds-became-a-popular-lifestyle-brand