Bourton Model Village Guide & Reviews (2026)
Tucked behind the Old New Inn in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bourton Model Village is a must-see for anyone visiting Bourton-on-the-Water. This enchanting 1/9th scale replica of the village itself, built from local Cotswold stone, feels like stepping into a storybook. Understanding the Bourton Model Village ticket prices, knowing where to find convenient parking, and discovering the best nearby spots will help you plan a completely stress-free day out in this picture-perfect corner of England.
Bourton Model Village at a Glance
Essential Visit Information
Time Needed
30 - 60 Minutes
Completed
1937
Best For
Families & Miniature Lovers
Bourton Model Village Address & Location
Getting here
Address & Navigation
Located just behind the Old New Inn in the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water. For sat nav, use GL54 2AF.
Rissington Road, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AF
Venue enquiries: +44 1451 820467
A Brief History of Bourton Model Village
From pub garden idea to listed treasure
Built in the 1930s
The landlord of the Old New Inn started work in 1936, using local Cotswold stone and skilled craftsmen to create an exact 1/9th scale replica of the village as it looked then.
Opened for Coronation
It opened to the public in May 1937, perfectly timed for the coronation of King George VI, and has been delighting visitors ever since.
Grade II Listed
In 2013 it became the only model village in Britain to receive Grade II listed status, protecting every tiny bridge and building exactly as they were.
Is Bourton Model Village Expensive?
Trav's Wallet Score
TRAV’S WALLET SCORE:
(Note: For the 'How Expensive' rating, the lower the number, the cheaper it is!)
Squawk! For less than the price of a coffee in many places, you get to wander through a perfectly detailed miniature world. It really is one of the best-value attractions in the Cotswolds.
Pricing & Entry Tickets
Standard admission rates
Typical Admission Rates
Tickets are purchased on arrival (card payments only, no pre-booking needed). The small entry fee gives you full access to wander the miniature streets at your own pace.
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Discounts and Offers
Ways to save on your visit
Family Savings
While no formal family ticket is listed, the low prices mean a family of four can enjoy the whole experience for under £20.
Old New Inn Perk
Show your Model Village ticket at the Old New Inn Tap Room (Monday-Friday, excluding bank holidays) for 10% off meals.
Seniors
Seniors over 60 receive a small discount on the standard adult rate.
Who Should Visit?
Is it right for your itinerary?
WHO WILL LOVE IT
WHO MIGHT HATE IT
Visiting With Kids
Is the model village family-friendly?
Treasure Hunt
Turn it into a game - spot the model of the model village, count the tiny bridges, or find the miniature ducks on the river.
Scale Fun
Children love feeling like giants in this perfectly scaled world. The detail keeps even older kids engaged.
Short & Sweet
The compact size means little legs do not get tired, leaving plenty of energy for ice cream on the real High Street afterwards.
What to See Inside
Highlights of the miniature village
The High Street
Every shop, bank and cottage is faithfully reproduced exactly as they stood in the 1930s.
St Lawrence's Church
Complete with tiny choir figures visible through the windows - one of the sweetest details.
The Model of the Model
Look carefully in the garden and you will find a miniature version of the Model Village itself - pure Cotswolds magic.
Peak Crowd Heatmap
When to expect the biggest queues
🟢 Early Mornings
Peaceful Strolling. Arriving at opening time lets you enjoy the miniature streets almost to yourself.
🔴 Midday Rush
High Energy. School holidays and weekends see more families between 11am and 3pm.
🟡 Late Afternoons
A Gentle Buzz. After 3pm the crowds thin nicely, giving a more relaxed visit.
Trav’s Insider Hack: Compare Real & Model
“Squawk! Walk along the real High Street first, then visit the model. Spotting the differences and similarities is one of the most charming things you can do in the Cotswolds!”
How Close Is It? (Distance Matrix)
Walking times from major landmarks
🏞️ River Windrush
🚶 2 mins
(Just across the road from the real bridges you will recognise in miniature)
🛍️ High Street Shops
🚶 3 mins
(Perfect for comparing real and model versions)
🐦 Birdland
🚶 8 mins
(A lovely short stroll along the river path)
Best Areas to Stay Near Bourton Model Village
Top neighbourhoods for venue access
Bourton-on-the-Water Centre
Extremely convenient. Step out of your accommodation and you are already in the heart of the village.
Lower Slaughter
Just a short drive away. Peaceful and picturesque with lovely boutique stays.
Stow-on-the-Wold
A charming market town 10 minutes drive away with plenty of characterful pubs and hotels.
Bourton-on-the-Water Parking Information
Where to leave your car
Nearest Car Parks (Postcodes)
The Model Village shares a small car park with the Old New Inn (limited spaces). Other convenient options:
The village can get busy in peak season, so arrive early or use the slightly further car parks to avoid stress.
Other Attractions Near Bourton Model Village
Explore more sights in the Cotswolds
Traveller Reviews
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Quick answers for your visit
