From London: Small Group Cotswolds Day Trip Including Bourton-on-the-Water

Unwind amidst stone cottages & rolling hills

Escape to the captivating Cotswolds on a small-group guided tour and discover the area's exceptional beauty and hidden treasures. Renowned for its idyllic villages, rolling hills, cream teas, and Victorian follies, the Cotswolds offers a quintessential English experience. Setting off from London on a luxury minibus, your first stop is the historic market town of Burford on the River Windrush, where you'll have the opportunity to wander through its quaint streets at your leisure. Explore the fascinating sights, browse the charming shops, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this captivating town with your English-speaking guide. Continuing your exploration, venture into smaller, picturesque villages like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds' due to its charming stone bridges that span the flowing river, where you will also have lunch. You'll find postcard-perfect stone cottages as you walk the cobblestone streets of these hidden gems.

Marvel at Broadway Tower

After a quick lunch, stop by the magnificent Broadway Tower, an architectural gem from the Georgian Era. Built as a folly for the Countess of Coventry, this towering structure sits atop Beacon Hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The surrounding parkland is also home to a herd of red deer, offering excellent photo opportunities. Climb to its summit and be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas that showcase the true essence of the Cotswolds. Lastly, you will tour Stow-on-the-Wold, a market town and a quintessential English town with mellow Cotswold stone houses and shops.

From London: Small Group Cotswolds Day Trip Including Bourton-on-the-Water

Embark on an enchanting journey through England’s pastoral heart, where winding lanes lead to hidden gems and the air whispers tales of old. Visiting the Cotswolds’ most captivating corners, experiencing the gentle charm of its ancient villages, discovering picturesque landscapes dotted with thatched cottages and rolling green hills, this tour is crafted for explorers of tranquility, devotees of history, and seekers of natural beauty. Delve into a day filled with enchanting stops like Bibury’s quintessential Arlington Row, Bourton-on-the-Water’s serene riverbanks, and the atmospheric Stow-on-the-Wold. With access to Broadway Tower, you’ll stand atop its dramatic heights for panoramic views stretching across the Cotswolds and into Wales, this adventure weaves history and nature, offering memorable encounters to forge cherished memories while understanding that each village holds stories waiting to be discovered.

Discovering Bourton-on-the-Water’s Tranquil Riverbanks

Experience Bourton-on-the-Water during the tour's highlight segment where the river Windrush meanders through the heart of this charming hamlet, creating an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll. The village itself is often referred to as "the Venice of the Cotswolds" due to its picturesque bridges and clear streams that reflect the quaint cottages lining both banks. Explore the village’s history by visiting the Model Village, a miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water itself, offering an enchanting perspective on this timeless locale. Wander along the riverside paths, marvel at the local craftsmanship displayed in the numerous artisan shops, and indulge in traditional English treats from its charming tea rooms. Each corner reveals another layer of beauty, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the Cotswolds’ timeless charm.

Visiting Broadway Tower's Panoramic Heights

Access Broadway Tower included in the tour package enabling a climb up to its panoramic observation deck where the views stretch across the Cotswold Hills and into Wales. This Victorian folly, built in 1798 by Lady Coventry as an observatory, stands at 1024 feet above sea level on Cleeve Hill, offering breathtaking vistas that include the Malvern Hills to the east and the distant Brecon Beacons to the west. Marvel at the tower’s elegant architecture adorned with decorative finials and topped by a small iron weather vane, symbolizing its role as a landmark for centuries. Inside, explore the fascinating history through interactive displays that highlight the area's geological significance and historical importance. This stop represents the tour’s centerpiece where visitors can connect with both the natural splendor and rich heritage of the Cotswolds.

Exploring Bibury’s Picturesque Arlington Row

Explore Bibury as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring one of England's most photographed villages, home to the charming Arlington Row. This row of 16th-century stone cottages with their iconic thatched roofs and picturesque gardens is a quintessential representation of Cotswolds charm. Each cottage tells its own story through centuries-old architecture and local traditions preserved within. Stroll along the peaceful River Coln nearby, where ducks swim gracefully while visitors relax on benches under ancient trees. The village also boasts an array of quaint shops and cafes, perfect for picking up a piece of Cotswold heritage or enjoying a locally sourced meal.

Experience Stow-on-the-Wold’s Ancient Market Square

Visit Stow-on-the-Wold during the tour's highlight segment where you will find yourself in one of England's oldest market towns, rich with history and charm. The heart of this bustling town is its Market Square, a hub for both commerce and community activities since medieval times. Explore the cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, including the imposing church of St Edward’s which dates back to 1296. Discover charming boutiques and cafes nestled among these timeless structures, each offering unique insights into the Cotswolds' way of life.

Tour Highlights

• Experience Broadway Tower panoramic views stretching across Cotswolds
• Explore Bibury’s Arlington Row picturesque thatched cottages and gardens
• Discover Stow-on-the-Wold’s ancient market square history and charm
• Access Model Village miniature replica of Bourton-on-the-Water, showcasing village beauty
• Include round-trip train transfers convenient seamless travel

Surrender to the allure for explorers of serenity, enthusiasts of heritage, and seekers of natural wonder, this curated journey through the Cotswolds delivers an enchanting tapestry of history and picturesque landscapes. Join this small group adventure to uncover timeless villages and panoramic vistas, crafting memories that resonate like a melody played softly in the gentle wind of the English countryside.