The Most Haunted Place in the Cotswolds?

Any list I've come across of the "most haunted place in the Cotswolds" lists Woodchester Mansion as number one.  Or at least puts it in the top ten.  I shall leave it to you to decide, should you ever visit.  What I can certainly say, however, is that this unfinished Jacobean mansion set deep in a remote valley near Stroud is as fascinating as it is beautiful.

We went there today for a look, and are looking forward to returning again soon.  I've taken a few photos, including a set from the cellars, where paranormal researchers routinely carry out studies, as this is supposedly a "hot spot" for otherworldly activity.  There just may be a ghost or two captured in the photos... if you spot one, please let me know.

Details of the property and its history are here- http://www.woodchestermansion.org.uk/HomePage.aspx.  And if you want to see just how frightening this place can be, try the all night ghost hunt this Halloween!  http://www.dusktilldawnevents.co.uk/halloween-in-woodchester-mansion-ghost-hunt-p-690.html

And now for the cellar.  Again, if you think you see anything, let me know!

A Spicy Walk around the Farmcotes

It was another delightful day in the Cotswolds today, so we struck out early for a 5k ramble between Little Farmcote and the neighbouring bustling metropolis of Farmcote.  Little Farmcote has three houses, and Farmcote about seven.

There are huge, panoramic views throughout most of the walk, and arguably some of the finest in the area.  The walk uses part of the Winchcombe Way and a bit of the Cotswold Way, and is a circular route between the two villages.  Farmcote itself is gorgeous.  A short, single track lane with just a few houses, each made of honey coloured stone, all perched along the top of the wolds at over 260 meters.  There is also a very pretty little Saxon church, St. Faith's, that is well worth a visit.

Now, for the spicy bit.  Farmcote is home to the one and only Farmcote Herbs and Chilli Peppers.  Not only is the location along well worth a visit- the views from here are some of the best- you can stop by to pick up over 250 kinds of fresh herbs, all manner of chilli peppers and products (Gloucester Old Spot chilli sausages, chili chocoloate, sauces and chutneys, chilli burgers) to take home.  And, if you are on a long walk on a hot day, as we were, they sell some really lovely country ice cream, and have cold water to fill your bottles straight from a Cotswold spring!  

If this has piqued your interest, and you'll be in the area on 20 & 21 August, stop by for their annual Chilli Festival.  Both days from 10:30am to 5pm, and featuring BBQ, Beer Tent, Tea Tent, Live Music, stalls selling handcrafts, and , of course, all manner of chili-related products, including chilli ice cream and chocolate.

See you there!