10 Cultural Tours in South West England That You Shouldn't Miss

May 4, 2022 Sachiko Swiger

Discover the best top things to do in South West England, United Kingdom including Bristol private walking tour with a local guide, Private Cotswolds tour from Bath, Authentic English Village & Countryside Tour - Private tour from Bath, Bath City Tour - 3 Hour Private Tour with a Local Guide, Guided Walking Tour of Suspension Bridge, Clifton Splendour & Old City., Guided Walking Tour of Bristol Old City and Harbour, Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol, Cotswold Discovery Trail Self-Guided Tour, 5-Day Devon and Cornwall Small-Group Tour from London, Windsor, Stonehenge, Lacock and City of Bath.
Restaurants in South West England

1. Bristol private walking tour with a local guide

Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine's Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ, UK Bristol pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Bristol is a versatile city located South West of England with the River Avon flowing through the city centre. With its international airport it is easily approachable from all over the world. Let our professional, genuine Bristolian guide take you around the city for a few hours comprehensive private walking tour. Although Bristol is very much a modern European city, it's history goes back thousands of years. This is very visible from the eclectic mix of buildings lining the streets, some of which can be traced back to the origins of the small settling of Brigstow. A bustling hub of activity this private tour takes in part of the historic Harbour Area, the Old City and the city's markets. Bristol is a real melting pot of architecture through the ages from the ruins of the Norman castle in Castle Park to the gothic masterpieces of Bristol Cathedral. If you write your interest or request we will try to customise the tour.

Inclusions: Private guide

Exclusions: Drinks and food

Reviewed By atmostat

Fantastic experience. A brilliant tour of Bristol’s history, pubs and bars - with a lovely local! Such a brilliant way to experience the city, would recommend to anyone wanting a little more from their trip.

2. Private Cotswolds tour from Bath

10 Bridge St, Bath BA2 4AP, UK Undiscovered Cotswolds
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

The beauty of your private Cotswolds Tour from Bath is the freedom and flexibility that it gives you on the day.  This tour has a set itinerary where we have a recommended route. Here we have combined idyllic villages with the more famous Cotswold towns. This gives you a wonderful overview and experience of what the Cotswolds is all about. As it is a private tour we are totally flexible as to how long you would like in each place. We are also very flexible and are more than happy to modify the itinerary on the day if you would like. 

Inclusions: A modern comfortable air conditioned vehicle, A nine hour tour, Fully designed and balanced itinerary with a mix of guidance and free time if required, Knowledgeable local driver-guide, Pick up/drop off within the Bath region and nearby towns and villages

Exclusions: Food or refreshments, Gratuities , Pick up outside the Bath or local region. Please contact us for more details.

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

3. Authentic English Village & Countryside Tour - Private tour from Bath

Bath Insider Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

Exploring any of the villages near Bath independently may give you only a superficial glimpse of rural England. On this private half-day tour, visit a village that encapsulates country life, both past and present. Settle into a private vehicle and travel to an off-the-tourist-trail village with some unusual historical features. Stroll the lanes and surrounding countryside; enjoy refreshments (own cost) at the pub; and gain insight you’d miss if alone. • Private half-day English village and countryside tour from Bath • Visit an off-the-trail village with ease to discover the real, rural England • Learn history and tales you’d miss if alone; walk in the country, and more • Includes choice of departures and hotel pickup and drop-off for ease.

Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle to and from the village

Exclusions: Drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

4. Bath City Tour - 3 Hour Private Tour with a Local Guide

Bath Insider Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 43 reviews

Get a great introduction to Bath on this 3 hour private walking tour of the city. You will see Bath's famous landmarks and learn about the city's past and present with a local guide who was born and grew up in the city. The tour includes a drive to a fantastic viewpoint over the city. There is an option to have either a morning or afternoon tour.

Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Hotel pickup, Transport by private vehicle (to the viewpoint)

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

5. Guided Walking Tour of Suspension Bridge, Clifton Splendour & Old City.

Clifton Observatory, Litfield Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LT, UK Let Me Show You Bristol
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 3 reviews

A guided walk, between 2 and 2.5 hours long, 12,000 steps circa 3-4 miles long, listening to the guide on Audio devices to interesting facts, colourful characters, history and anecdotes on the way. Clifton, a sleepy village in 1700, developed into the ‘Mayfair’ of Bristol. Walk the suspension bridge, view the dramatic ‘Avon Gorge’, Historic Buildings, Grand Terraces, Crescents & Squares, see the Harbour, Banksy’s, University, Museum, Old City Gates, that statue, ending at the Cathedral and Centre. Join your guide, who having moved to Bristol in 1980, attended Bristol Poly (UWE), I have lived, played rugby, worked off and on in the City for 40 years. I am now semi retired, continually research the city as a Hobby and want to give something back to a place I adore.The style is interactive, flexible, light-hearted and personal.

Inclusions: Listening devices

Exclusions:

Reviewed By cathycoyne78

A fantastic few hours exploring, learning & laughing with Mike. The whole family had a great time. Thank you!

6. Guided Walking Tour of Bristol Old City and Harbour

Marriott Bristol Royal Car Park, Marriot Hotel, Bristol BS1 5TA, UK Let Me Show You Bristol
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Walking around a city, whilst listening to a tour guide, is a perfect form of exercise. 1000 years of Trade and Industry made Bristol the UK’s second city. See the Cathedral, Banksy’s, Harbour, Docks, Georgian Square, Old Vic, ‘Bridge’, Castle site, Old City, corn exchange, markets, Guilds, Street Art, and Sugar House. Enjoy a 2-hour guided walk, circa 12,000 steps and 3-4 miles long, listening on to interesting facts, colourful characters, history and anecdotes on the way. Join your guide, who having moved to Bristol in 1980, attended Bristol Poly (UWE), has lived, played rugby, worked off and on in the city for 40 years. He is continually researching the city as a hobby and wants to give something back to the place he adores. The style is interactive, flexible, light-hearted and personal. Nature breaks are limited, so please plan ahead.

Inclusions: Audio Recievers

Exclusions: Coffee and/or Tea

Reviewed By babyhippohannah

Really enjoyed this tour as part of our mini break, great way to see the city and learn about some of the history and street art. Mike was really knowledgeable and entertaining, and gave us some great recommendations for the rest of our trip. Will be recommending to friends and family!

7. Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol

Bristol BS1 5TJ, UK Blackbeard to Banksy the Ultimate Bristol Walking Tour
Excellent
95%
Good
3%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 229 reviews

A fun, informative and educational tour through 1000 years of history and the city's wealth of street art.

Inclusions: Tour guide

Exclusions:

Reviewed By HB1975

A very informative and enjoyable afternoon taking in the sights of historical Bristol on foot. Our guide, Luke, was punctual, personable and very knowledgeable about the local history and origins of the street art. Our two children aged 13 & 11 really enjoyed it too. It was a great way to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy our time visiting the area.

8. Cotswold Discovery Trail Self-Guided Tour

Badminton GL9 1AJ, UK Cotswold Discovery Trail
Excellent
88%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 8 reviews

The COTSWOLD DISCOVERY TRAIL is a self guided private tour enabled by our beautifully designed maps and Trail Pack. There are 2 day long Trails to do. Avoid expensive tour guides, the map is your guide. Explore things on your own, at your own pace with the confidence you know where you are going. The centrepiece of the Trail Pack is a fold out map. There is a Trail on each side, one for the North & South Cotswolds. The Trails are circular to complete in a car, structured around many stops where you explore on foot. There are many start points, so you finish where you start, which is the most convenient place for you. The maps offer comprehensive directions, are packed full of interesting information and loaded with questions and clues to answer which illuminate further on your surroundings. If you have a limited time in the Cotswolds this is the best way to see a lot of it.

Inclusions: Your Complete Discovery Trail Pack

Exclusions: We do not provide the vehicle for you to complete the Trails in., You will also need some small change for some town car parks., No guarantees of good weather.

9. 5-Day Devon and Cornwall Small-Group Tour from London

Green Line Coach Station, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London SW1W 9SS, UK Rabbie's
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.7 based on 191 reviews

Leave bustling London behind for five wonderful days in the countryside of southwest England! On this small-group tour from London to the counties of Devon and Cornwall, your guide will tell you interesting historical facts and stories about the area and show you beautiful towns, famous sights and breathtaking landscapes you’ll never forget. Discover the beauty of these two regions – some of England's best – and visit popular attractions like Stonehenge. You’ll see the South Devon coast, Dartmoor, Exeter and, of course, the idyllic county of Cornwall. In a group of less than 16 people, you are sure to enjoy a personalized and valuable experience with your guide.

Inclusions: 4 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast in either a B&B or 3-star Hotel., Driver/guide, Small-group tour (maximum 16 passengers), Transport by air-conditioned mini-coach

Exclusions: Gratuities, Meals and refreshments, Admission fees

Reviewed By HerbertViola

The Wales tour was a great experience made much better by our excellent guide Rob! It was a difficult one as travel restrictions in Wales were announced on our third day. But Rabbies was quick to make alternative arrangements in Cotswolds and covered the additional cost of bookings. We have been to some magical locations which we would definitely miss on our own. Rob was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic to help, friendly and flexible making everyone feel involved. All in all, it was the highlight trip of the year!

10. Windsor, Stonehenge, Lacock and City of Bath

Bulleid Way, London SW1W, UK Golden Tours
Excellent
57%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
14%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.1 based on 7 reviews

Visit some of the most stunning spots in the UK on this brilliant day trip departing from London Victoria at 8am sharp – make sure you arrive 30 minutes before your journey kicks off! Highlights of the day: • Enjoy a glorious day trip to some of the best UK spots • Explore the beautiful town of Windsor • Visit the world-famous prehistoric monument Stonehenge • Photo stop at Lacock. See Lacock Abbey in the gorgeous village of Lacock • Enjoy a wonderful walking tour of Bath • Return transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach

Inclusions: Admission to Stonehenge, Admission to Roman Baths, Free time in Windsor to explore, Walking tour of Bath, Photo stop in Lacock, Transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach

Exclusions: Gratuities, Entry to Windsor Castle, Entry to the Roman Baths

Reviewed By Pam A

It comes with a live tour guide with great stories. Gemma was a brilliant guide - really knowledgeable and very entertaining. First class tour and only £16.

TAGS

Share on FacebookTweet about this on TwitterShare on LinkedInPin on PinterestShare on Google+Email this to someoneShare on VkontakteBookmark

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.