mgnapoli

My husband and I will be staying in the Cotswolds for a few days in September and we are trying to decide whether to visit Warwick Castle or Blenheim Palace on one of the days (we have walks planned for the other days). Does anyone have an opinion?

MmePerdu

I've spent a lot of time in the UK over the last dozen or so years and visited both of these as well as dozens of other beautiful historic buildings. Besides my walks it's my favorite thing to do. These 2 were, I think, my least favorite of all of them. The only way they excel is in size.

I suggest you look on the National Trust and English Heritage websites where you'll find scores of more beautiful and interesting places to see without the overtly touristy aspects of these two. There are some great places in the vicinity of the Cotswolds such as Snowshill near Broadway, Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe, Dyrham Park north of Bath and countless others. These are just some I've enjoyed more than either you mention. What I like best in places I visit is a sense of the people who've lived there and there are many better choices in that respect.

MmePerdu

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/

mgnapoli

Thanks for the recommendations - it's good not to waste time on sites that really aren't worth it. I hear Sudeley has really beautiful gardens.

Cathinjoetown

Hidecote is another beautiful garden in the Cotswolds, a National Trust property. The house isn't open but the gardens are lovely and should be blooming in September.

I actually got a kick out of Warwick and Blenheim but given your limited time, agree with Mme Perdu.

MmePerdu

If you like visiting gardens, as Cathinjoetown says, Hidcote Manor is a good choice. Right across the road is another, Kiftsgate Court. If I recall they're not always open on the same days so if you'll be in the area, not far from Chipping Campden, do check the websites for the open times.

Rastaguytoday

Actually, I really liked Warwick Castle, but hated Blenheim.

To each his own.

annhig

depends what you want, really. Warwick Castle and Blenheim Palace are very different from each other [though both are stately homes in their way] and from Hidcote or Kiftsgate which are proper gardens.

if you want a real castle and are in the area, the one at Kenilworth is pretty authentic, though there isn't a great deal left. there is also the Lord Leycester Hospital in Warwick which is very interesting and atmospheric.