Posted on October 17, 2024
If you’ve reached the bottom of your reading stack and want to find some source of entertainment away from the screen, we have brilliant podcast recommendations both old and new for you this week, all set in The Cotswolds and featuring a mix of local businesses and national broadcasters. The perfect soundtrack whether you’re on the morning run or the school run – plug in, stream and connect to life in The Cotswolds over the airwaves…
Clare Balding’s Radio 4 podcast, Ramblings follows her jaunts around the English countryside, with many episodes featuring walks through The Cotswolds – including a stroll through Bath with Stuart Maconie; along the banks of the Severn at Purton and through the Forest of Dean. Listening in it as if you are striding alongside Clare as she so brilliantly describes not only her location but its stories and history, too. A great series for those looking for inspiration to get out in nature this autumn.
A great one for winding down at the end of a long day, or taking a moment to audibly escape to the countryside, in the enchanting podcast from Michelle's Sanctuary, listeners are whisked away to the idyllic landscapes including those of The Cotswolds. These narratives transport you to a serene world where quaint villages nestle amidst lush greenery and time seems to slow down. Each tale is a soothing retreat, inviting you to relax, dream, and let your imagination wander through the picturesque scenes, offering an escape into tranquillity that calms the mind and nourishes the soul.
Looking to flex your grey cells and scrub up on your academia? Oxford University have a great library of podcasts to listen to, from languages and History of Art to Shakespeare, Business and ‘the secrets of mathematics’. Far from ‘dry and dusty’ – each series showcases some of the colleges’ brightest minds. Inspiring, informative and a wealth of subject to keep you going till spring.
While not technically a podcast, a great way to tap in Cotswolds-related musings and musical vibes is by tuning in live to Cotswolds Radio or catch up on your favourite shows. Whether you're near or far from the rolling hills, feel like you're tuning into the local Cotswolds radio and stay up to date on the latest news or boogie along to their mixtapes.
One from the archives, but worth a listen - self-styled as a ‘web-geek version of Gardeners’ Question Time’, co-hosts Jon Hicks and John Oxton-King draw you immediately into their faintly chaotic and definitely eclectic podcast show, recorded at the ex-RAF base in Upper Rissington. The 20 episodes were recorded a decade ago, but have stood the test of time – covering a compendium of topics from the History of RAF Rissington to Star Wars Lego and their ‘Font of the Week’. Warm, conversational and a little bit bonkers, the perfect distraction for current climes
In the special epsiode, immerse yourself in the magical beauty of The Cotswolds with Victoria, owner of Cotswold Teacup Tours. Her passion for this quintessentially English region shines through as she shares her local knowledge and enchanting stories. Discover the Cotswolds' winter wonderland with snow-clad landscapes, explore charming pubs and tea rooms, delve into the rich history, and learn about locally crafted goods and delightful walks. Let Victoria guide you on a private tour, revealing the hidden gems of this beautiful part of England.
This podcast is dedicated to heritage steam railways across the UK, including those in the Cotswolds. The host, Tom Burgess, shares his passion for steam railways, which are a significant part of the Cotswold's historical and cultural heritage. The podcast often features stories and experiences from the Cotswold railways, making it a great listen for railway enthusiasts or those wanting to learn something new and interesting about The Cotswolds.
Whilst no longer active, this podcast is a great one to listen to whilst gardening as it was recorded live on an allotment in The Cotswolds. It captures the essence of rural life in the area, with episodes featuring the sounds of nature, weather, and wildlife typical of The Cotswolds. Short episodes, most being around 10 minutes, this slow podcast is an easy listen.
A brand new podcast which is, essentially, a celebration of being human. Susannah aims for this podcast journey to go into discovering what really makes us, as human beings, thrive, both physically, mentally, creatively, socially and spiritually, and how we can do more of it and weave it into our busy lives. There’ll be experts in everything from breathwork to brain health, movement to mindfulness, nutrition to neuroscience.
This series features discussions with a variety of special guests who have connections to The Cotswolds. The podcast highlights individuals who have influenced or contributed significantly to the region, offering insights into the local culture, history, and community. It's a great resource for anyone looking to understand the people and stories that shape the Cotswolds.