Jilly Cooper’s Rivals Comes to the Cotswolds: Why The Ormond at Tetbury Is the Perfect Base for Fans

Fans of British author Jilly Cooper have something exciting to look forward to this year as her iconic novel Rivals is brought to life in a major TV adaptation — and the Cotswolds, particularly the charming town of Tetbury, is at the heart of the story. With filming already underway, now is the perfect time to visit the area and immerse yourself in the world of glamour, ambition, and scandal that Cooper so famously created. And for those making the pilgrimage, The Ormond at Tetbury offers the ideal place to stay.

Rivals

: The Return of the Rutshire Chronicles

First published in 1988, Rivals is part of Jilly Cooper’s beloved Rutshire Chronicles — a series filled with media moguls, steamy affairs, and sharp social satire, all set against the backdrop of the English countryside. The new adaptation, starring David Tennant, Aidan Turner, and Emily Atack, promises to capture the wit and drama that made the novel a bestseller.

The Cotswolds has long been the inspiration for Cooper’s fictional Rutshire, and now, with production taking place in Gloucestershire and surrounding areas, the region is set to be in the spotlight once again.

Why Tetbury Is the Place to Stay

Situated just a short drive from many of the key filming locations, Tetbury is one of the most picturesque and historic market towns in the Cotswolds. Known for its antique shops, royal connections, and honey-hued architecture, it’s the perfect base for fans looking to explore the world of Rivals.

And there’s no better place to stay than The Ormond at Tetbury — a stylish and welcoming coaching inn that combines modern comforts with centuries of character. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a literary-inspired getaway, or a family break, The Ormond is perfectly placed to offer comfort, charm, and Cotswold hospitality.

The Ormond at Tetbury: Your Gateway to

Rivals

Country

• Historic Setting: Housed in a 16th-century building, The Ormond at Tetbury exudes the timeless appeal you’d expect from a story like Rivals — think oak beams, stone walls, and a roaring fireplace.

• Relaxed Dining at Bistro 23: The newly launched Bistro 23 offers a refined but relaxed dining experience, with menus that showcase the best of Cotswold produce. Perfect for fans of Cooper’s decadent dinner parties.

• Local Connections: Jilly Cooper herself lives nearby, and Tetbury locals have long been proud of their place in the world she created. Don’t be surprised if you hear snippets of filming news or celebrity sightings while enjoying a pint at the bar.

Plan Your Literary Escape

As Rivals heads to our screens, there’s no better time to rediscover Jilly Cooper’s world — and no better place to do it than Tetbury. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer drawn in by the new series, The Ormond at Tetbury is ready to welcome you.

Book your stay today and experience the drama, charm, and countryside beauty that make Rivals and Rutshire so unforgettable.