Chipping Campden is a beautiful, small town and we sometimes take visitors there as part of their Cotswolds day trip.
Did you know that “Chipping” means ‘market place’?
It should come as no surprise to learn then, that Chipping Campden is a market town! Right in the centre of the town is this fantastic market hall which we visited today.
Built in 1627 the market hall stands in the centre of the high street. It was built by Sir Baptist Hicks to provide shelter to traders and is still used today. The National Trust now own and maintain the building which is considered to be one of the most important buildings in the area. Standing there you can imagine the market alive with the hustle and bustle of the traders from 400 years ago.
Chipping Campden is seeped in history. The town is flanked by hills that were discovered to be perfect for keeping sheep and Cotswold wool soon became known as some of the best in Europe. Following from this accolade, Chipping Campden became a major centre of the wool trade.
Some wonderful, traditional events take place in this town. Every year, on the Friday after the Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend the town has hosts its own ‘Cotswold Olimpick Games.’ This has taken place since the early seventeenth century and it’s the place to go if you want to see shin kicking. Competitors are allowed to protect their shins with straw you’ll be pleased to hear… (And don’t worry, we promise there’s no shin kicking involved on your Cotswolds day trip with us!) The Olimpick Games are held on Dover Hill and finish with a dizzying display of Morris Men, Maypole Dancing and a procession through the town.
In 2002, Chipping Campden held its first music festival. It was so successful that it has grown year on year and is now recognised as one of the UK’s leading festivals. We welcome visitors from all over the UK, Europe, the US and even Australia. It’s hardly surprising that the musicians and visitors love coming back here to one of the most beautiful Cotswold towns.
As well as music, Chipping Campden is known as a centre for the Cotswold Arts and Crafts Movement. Strolling through the town you’ll find the work of artists and craftspeople in galleries and craft shops dotted around. Whether you’re after jewellery, pottery or sculpture you’ll find something to delight you.