Dotted across the UK, we have a catalogue of charming villages offering an idyllic day out, complete with peaceful river walks and breathtaking scenes, as we escape the busy city. And there's one, often used as a halfway point to meet pals, boasting a 19th-century pub and a modern designer outlet just around the corner.

Nestled in the heart of the Gloucestershire countryside and on the banks of the River Avon is a quaint village called Twyning. With a slower pace of life, it's certainly the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the stunning surroundings that envelop Twyning, with its Old English name meaning 'meeting'.

For those who enjoy a good walk, Twyning offers 52 footpaths, and locals have even compiled a booklet of circular walks available for a small donation to the Air Ambulance. Exploring these paths is a great way to discover the hidden gems of this ancient village.

It is also home to the charming The Fleet Inn, a pub with river garden views and cosy rooms available. Visitors have praised the 19th-century inn for its 'fantastic' views, 'delicious' food and 'warm' service. In addition to the town's natural beauty, Cotswolds Designer Outlet is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Twyning. The shopping destination, which opened in 2025, boasts 45 stores. making it an ideal spot for some festive retail therapy.

Shoppers can browse the rails in Calvin Klein, Dune, Levi's, Sweaty Betty and the likes of North Face, or pick up a treat at Cadbury and Lindt. For a lunchtime bite, you can make the most of the numerous eateries on site, from Five Guys, KNEAD Bakery, Pret A Manger or Wagamama. Given its size, you could easily spend a full day exploring the outlet, but why not extend your visit into a charming countryside weekend? Despite being close to the motorway, the surrounding greenery offers a tranquil escape from city life.

Further east along the River Avon, you'll find Bredon Barn, a 14th-century medieval threshing barn made of Cotswold stone, now a National Trust property. Alternatively, take a journey south along the River Avon and you'll discover the charming town of Tewkesbury.

Tewkesbury Abbey, Nature Reserve and Battlefield are just some of the attractions to explore in this quaint location. Just over two miles away lies the Cotswold Designer Outlet, which is hosting festive fairs throughout December on Sunday 7, Sunday 14, Thursday 18, and Sunday 21.

The fairs will run from 11am until 2pm every Sunday and from 6pm-8pm on Thursday. For those interested, the address is Platinum Drive, Tewkesbury, GL20 7FY.

In addition, you could venture a little further afield and explore the charming town of Cheltenham with its Montpellier Gardens, boutique stores and renowned horse racing. Or take a trip into Gloucester, where you'll find another outlet centre at Gloucester Quays for more discounted gifts for loved ones this Christmas.