Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London
Description
Covering almost 800 square miles and no fewer than five English counties, the Cotswolds are the single largest designated Area of Natural Beauty in the UK. The area was once renowned for its wool production, reminders of which you can still see today. During this Experience, we will be visiting three picturesque villages hidden in the heart of the Cotswolds, with honey-coloured limestone period buildings and rich cultural heritage. Relax aboard your Luxury Small Group Vehicle with an expert guide as you enjoy the best of the English countryside.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England, Bourton-on -the-Water has a unique appeal to visitors and residents alike. Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, this one village offers a wealth of attractions and shops, restaurants and tea rooms, or simply the space for you to enjoy some tranquil time by the River Windrush, spanned by its five arched bridges. Bourton-on-the-Water’s most prized feature is its tranquil river. Fed from many springs, its source is approximately ten miles from the village, and even in the 1976 drought the flow continued. Where the river enters the village centre, over the rapids next to the Old Mill, its clear waters flow under a miscellany of arched stone bridges past the green with its banks of Cotswold stone.
Bibury - On arriving into Bibury you may think you have been transported back to a different age. The village was once described by the British poet, artist and novelist William Morris (1834-96) as “the most beautiful village in England”. Bibury’s attractions includes Arlington Row, a 17th century row of weavers cottages built of local stone next to the River Coln. It is one of the most photographed areas in the region and was chosen as a location for the 2007 film ‘Stardust’. Close by you will find the Bibury Trout Farm and a Saxon Church. The River Coln flows between the main village street and a water meadow: together with Arlington Row as a backdrop, it makes one of the most picturesque scenes you will find in the Cotswolds.
The picturesque Arlington Row cottages in Bibury were built in 1380 as a monastic wool store. This was then converted into a row of weavers' cottages in the 17th century. The cloth produced at Arlington Row was sent to Arlington Mill on the other side of Rack Isle. The cloth was then hung on wooden timber frames on Rack Isle after being degreased at Arlington Mill.
Burford – “Gateway to the Cotswolds” Burford is known as the gateway to the Cotswolds. Its High Street slopes from the high Wolds, where you have beautiful views over the open countryside, down to the willow fringed River Windrush in the pretty Windrush valley. Choose to visit Burford’s numerous small shops offering Cotswolds cheese, quality meats, freshly made cakes, antiques and books.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(1,991)
This trip is an absolute MUST! The beauty of the countryside cannot be beat. Simon was absolutely brilliant guide and Gary was a masterful driver getting us to all locations safely! So worth it
We visited Bilbury, Burton on the Water and Burford. The towns appeared storybook beautiful as was the countryside throughout the area. Our driver was skilled and our guide pleasant. However, I felt the information she provided was limited. I would have liked to have had details on the size of the region, the number of towns, areas of growth, current quarry activity etc.
Lovely 3 stops in the Cotswolds. Glad I did not combine with another stop. Norma was knowledgeable and helpful. Amajit was a good driver, navigating the London traffic and the narrow roads of Cotswolds.
Well organized small group tour of one of the most beautiful areas of England. Our knowledgable tour guide Richard and Patrick our driver made the journey enjoyable. We stopped in 3 villages on this trip - each unique in its own way. Expect to spent 1.5 to 2 hours in each spot - plenty of time to roam around on your own, shop or grab a bit. Richard also did walking tours of the town which you could choose to join or venture out on your own. The villages are crowded on summer weekends but once you get off the main roadways you'll find empty streets and charming homes.
The guide Simon is really excelent. Actually the best of the tour. Very professional and shared a lot of interesting information. The driver and the mini bus also perfect. And glad to be in a reduce group. I dont give a five star becuase I would have prefer to go to Castle Combe instead of the last town that was very ugly. I know there are other tours that include CC but bc of the meeting point we chose this one. Instead of the time spent there I would have prefered more time in Bibury.
Simon our tour guide was absolutely wonderful! He was very peppy, hilarious, and kept us entertained the entire trip. He knew lots about the Cotswalds and other English history. We learned a lot and are very pleased with how our tour went.
Fantastic! Simon was the best guide of the villages. We learned so much history and fun facts. Gary is a lovely driver.
Simon Says! Simon was an excellent tour guide. Made history fun. Would highly recommend. Enjoyed the Catwolds very much! A dream come true.
Dear Guests, Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear that Simon made history come alive in such a fun and engaging way. It’s fantastic to know that you enjoyed the Cotswolds and that your visit was a dream come true. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back again soon. Kind regards, Evan Evans
Our guide Sam is very knowledgeable and also has a sense of humor to explain the history and the scenery. The villages are lovely. It’s overall a relaxing and enjoyable trip.
Dear Guests, Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re so pleased to hear that Sam’s knowledge and sense of humour made the journey both informative and enjoyable. It’s great to know you had a relaxing day exploring the beautiful villages. Kind regards, Evan Evans
It was a nice tour. Guide, Robert, was quite good. It would only have been better had we been able to visit somewhat less crowded villages
Dear Guests, Thank you for your kind review. We’re pleased to hear that you enjoyed your tour with Robert and appreciated his guidance throughout the day. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the villages and will share your comments with our team as we continue to enhance our experiences. Kind regards, Evan Evans
