The Model Village
Sightseeing attraction | Cheltenham | England | United Kingdom
"The Model Village" in Cheltenham, England, is a fascinating attraction that transports visitors into the picturesque world of the Cotswolds. More specifically, it is located in the nearby Bourton-on-the-Water, a charming village known for its picturesque stone houses and the River Windrush. This attraction is not a standalone miniature world, but a detailed replica of the village of Bourton-on-the-Water itself, on a 1:9 scale. It was opened in 1937, on the day of the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and is considered one of the oldest and most significant model villages in Britain. What sets it apart is that it is the only model village in the country to have the status of a Grade-II listed monument, highlighting its historical and cultural significance.
The idea for "The Model Village" came from a former landlord of the Old New Inn, a traditional pub in the village. He wanted to create an attraction that would attract tourists while preserving the beauty and character of the place. Over five years, local craftsmen worked on the project, using Cotswold stone to faithfully recreate the buildings. The result is an impressive miniature world that not only reflects the architecture of the 1930s but also shows how the buildings are used today – whether as banks, shops, or assembly halls. Every detail was carefully considered, from the winding paths that correspond to the streets of the real village to the famous stone bridges over the River Windrush, which also flows in miniature form with a functioning water wheel.
A special highlight are the two churches of the model – the Bourton-on-the-Water Baptist Church and St. Lawrence's Church. Through the windows, you can see tiny, intricately carved church pews, and even hear the singing of a choir, enhancing the illusion of a vibrant community. Other attractions include the "Miniature Landscape Exhibition," a collection of seven cottages representing typical rural houses of Britain, including Thomas Hardy's birthplace and the house from John Constable's painting "The Hay Wain." An additional "Exhibition of Miniatures" showcases moving scenes created by over 100 miniature artists, emphasizing the project's attention to detail. Even a model of the model village itself is included, adding a playful level of self-reference.
The gardens of the model village are also remarkable. They are stocked with bonsai-like trees that are regularly pruned to maintain scale, as well as tiny lawns, greenhouses, and garden furniture. This meticulous care ensures that the miniature world remains not just a static replica, but a lively representation of the village. The park is located behind the Old New Inn, allowing visitors to combine a visit with a meal or drink at the pub, and is easily accessible from the surroundings of the real Bourton-on-the-Water, allowing visitors to compare the original buildings after the tour of the model.
"The Model Village" is not just an attraction for children, but also captivates adults with its incredible precision and charm. It offers a unique opportunity to feel like a giant in a miniature world, similar to Gulliver in Lilliput, and encourages appreciation of the details of Cotswold architecture. The historical context – the opening in the 1930s and the use of local materials – adds an extra layer of authenticity to the place. For families, there are small amenities such as a souvenir shop, and the connection to the Robin Hood legend, located in the Sherwood Forest region, is complemented here by the playful nature of the model, even if Robin Hood himself is not directly associated with Bourton-on-the-Water.
The significance of "The Model Village" lies in its role as a time capsule and cultural heritage. It preserves the appearance of a traditional Cotswold village from a bygone era while also showing how the use of the buildings has changed over the decades. Despite minor damages or the need for maintenance after over 80 years, it remains a lovingly maintained testament to craftsmanship and a window into the history of the region. Whether one chooses the miniature world as the first stop on a tour of Bourton-on-the-Water or uses it as a finale to reflect on what they have seen, "The Model Village" is an unforgettable experience that captures the beauty and magic of the Cotswolds in a unique way.
