Pictures of Upper Swell

About Upper Swell

One of the handsome properties to be seen in this village was worked upon by Sir Edwin Lutyens, and Abbotswood is said to have been his major work in the Cotswolds. The gardens of Abbotswood are open to the public through the National Gardens Scheme, they are bathed in beautiful colour throughout the year and it is believed Lutyens was responsible for some of the terraces and the fountain. Abbotswood itself is a classic Cotswold house built of honey coloured local stone.

As with Lower Swell the River Dickler runs through the village racing on to join with the Windrush. It by-passes old farmsteads and some of the loveliest countryside of the Cotswolds. Interestingly, a gallery is open here and visitors are welcome to view a selection of paintings or to attend courses which are offered by Ann Blockley, famous watercolour artist.

St.Mary's Church survives from Norman times, there is a 17th century inn, a school from the 18th century, and Manor Farmhouse dating from the 16th century is converted to a comfortable country house hotel.

Only a mile divides Upper and Lower Swell, so why not abandon your car for a couple of hours while you explore both villages on foot. Everywhere you look is so pretty, the charm of both villages - simply unforgettable, and the landscape is unrivalled by any other Cotswold village.