Location: Cotswolds
Top Things to do in Cotswolds
Countries
What to do and see in Cotswolds, England: The Best Day Trips from
The Cotswolds (/ˈkɒtswoʊldz/ KOTS-wohldz, /-wəldz/ -wəldz) is an area in south central England containing the Cotswold Hills, a range of rolling hills which rise from the meadows of the upper Thames to an escarpment, known as the Cotswold Edge, above the Severn Valley and Evesham Vale. The area is defined by the bedrock of Jurassic limestone that creates a type of grassland habitat rare in the UK and that is quarried for the golden coloured Cotswold stone. It contains unique features derived from the use of this mineral; the predominantly rural landscape contains stone-built villages, historical towns and stately homes and gardens. The population of the District is about 84,000.
Restaurants in Cotswolds
1. Private Cotswold Villages from London: Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
Your expert guide will take you to a number of stunning English villages in the Cotswold region of the UK, near the city of Oxford, during this 10-hour journey. Enjoy free 4G WiFi to use all day inside the vehicle. You will be provided with free water to enjoy inside the vehicle as well. You will even get to stop at a secret place along the way to ensure you really do get that 'wow' factor. Your guide will know all the best places to stop and get that perfect photo and will even take them for you to make sure all of your group is in the photo together.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Bottled water, Professional guide/driver, Private small-group tour, Transport by private vehicle with working air-conditioning and heating and passenger sliding doors, Vehicle will seat 6 to 8 clients depending on group size we use brands like Ford, Mercedes, Hunyadi, Fuel surcharge
Exclusions: Entrance fees. All entry tickets to all chargeable sites need to be purchased by the client direct from the site's own website in advance. You may also purchase them on the day direct from the site, but this may take longer due to queue times and may cost more, Lunch, Gratuities, We do not use coaches for tours we use 7 to 9 seater minivans
Reviewed By Dr_Ooo
First, let me begin by saying that this review is SUPER LONG OVERDUE! My deepest apologies Nikhil! Second, HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROTHER from across the pond (we share the same birthday)!!! I hope this message finds you and yours well during this strange time. Dec 2018 my family made plans to take my mother, who’s never been abroad, to London. My sis (whose birthday is 4.17) booked this tour for the 5 of us. We were Nikhil’s 2nd tour, but we would have never known had he not told us. Nikhil’s love for country, joy, and overall exuberance is infectious. He never lost momentum, energy, and we never wanted for information. Every question from London, to Windsor Castle, to Stonehenge, to Bath, Nikhil could answer it all!! We lucked out! Anyone blessed enough to have Nikhil as their guide/historian is fortunate and any company smart enough to employ him must know how much of an asset he is professional, and how beautiful an individual he is personally. As mommy told you Nikhil, your mum raised you right! Thank you for the joy of your presence and for making our trip to London memorable!! Hope you’re birthday’s been a blast!! I had ice cream cake for breakfast!!
2. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
The beauty of a private driving tour is the flexibility it gives you to see the sights which interest you the most. We have a recommended route but the itinerary is totally flexible so if you would prefer to spend longer in a place you like or add an attraction which interests you then we can accommodate you. Our private tours last seven hours and can start and finish at the location of your choice. The starting time for the tour is flexible and we can collect you from anywhere in the Northern Cotswolds area including Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon. The tour is ideal for a day trip from London and the most cost/time effective option is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Oxford station. If you have any questions about transfers from outside of the Northern Cotswolds then please send us an message.
Inclusions: A seven hour tour of the North Cotswolds, A modern comfortable air conditioned vehicle, Knowledgeable local driver-guide, Full control over the itinerary and route, Pick up/drop off within the North Cotswolds including Oxford & Stratford-upon-Avon
Exclusions: Entrance fees to attractions, Food or refreshments, Pick up outside the North Cotswolds, Oxford or Stratford, Gratuities.
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. Cotswolds Private Day Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
We are the only registered company by Cotswold tourism board and visit Britain. Each and every of our tour guides/drivers are fully DBS checked and license holders. This is a family run business run by people who was born in Cotswolds and we are passionate about what we do.
Inclusions: licensed guide
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Aditya R
We had a most amazing time is Cotswolds this summer. What a place to visit! Our Tour guide was knowledgeable and simply outstanding. Highly rated please to book this company.
4. The Hidden Cotswolds & Dark Age England (from Bath for 2-8 adventurers)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 31 reviews
Embark on a personalised journey of discovery into the authentic 'Hidden Cotswolds' with a friendly expert local guide. Bypass the mass-tourist experience for a truly memorable encounter with the best of the Cotswolds away from the crowds. Encounter ancient hill-towns, learn tales of great Kings & Saints & retrace their footsteps... Explore hidden villages, admire ancient churches and enjoy a walk through English landscapes. Enjoy the very best local food, drink, experiences, stories & more... Enjoy a unique insight into English culture, landscapes, heritage and cuisine for a truly unforgettable experience of authentic England...
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Lunch with beverage of your choice, Bottled water, Small-group tour of 8 or fewer, Lunch, Coffee and/or Tea, Alcoholic Beverages
Exclusions: Gratuities/tips are gratefully accepted. As a company we believe that gratuities are an important part of motivating and recognising outstanding service, and reward the guide for the commitment and care they have provided. They are discretionary., Additional purchases such as gifts, additional refreshments etc. are not included.
Reviewed By sarahbC8792AW
Hiring Around and About Bath was the best decision I made on my dream trip to England. Jules was easy to work with leading up to the tour, communicative and accommodating. He listened carefully to my interests and was able to personalize our tour. His knowledge of the area and of its political and social history is vast. His passion comes through with great storytelling and humor. The Cotswolds are beautiful and rich in history and there is so much to see. It is wise to hire Around and About Bath so you are not overwhelmed with where to go and what to do and can maximize your time there. It was the best part of my 2 week trip to Europe.
5. Royal Windsor Cotswold & Shakespeare Country in Executive Vehicle Private Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Explore 2 of the most Historical sites in England, in a Private Vehicle Shakespeare's Birthplace is a restored 16th-century half-timbered house Visit Mary Arden's Farm Discover the childhood home of Shakespeare’s mother. Visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the beautiful 500 year old cottage where Shakespeare courted his bride-to-be. See original furniture including the Hathaway bed and uncover five centuries of stories in this picturesque cottage and 13 generations of the family who lived there. The Cotswolds. One of the delights of visiting the Cotswolds is exploring the different areas, each with its own identity, yet all with those defining Cotswold features: golden stone and rolling hills, the ‘wolds’. All Tours Carried out in Executive Vehicles Our definition of “private tour” simply means your tour, where all ground services are provided by your very own personal driver, with a private vehicle and chauffeur. Especially convenient if you are traveling with children or elderly people.
Inclusions: Bottled water, WiFi on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Parking Fees
Exclusions: Gratuities, Entry fee to any sites
Reviewed By D A
Could not go on trip because cancellations of travel restrictions because of COVID. They say you get a refund but refused to give refund. Not an honest company. Never again.
6. Father Brown Filming Locations - A Private Cotswolds Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
A private tour visiting the main filming locations of the hit TV show Father Brown. You will be picked up direct from your Hotel or Accommodation by your own private driver and guide and taken to the Beautiful Cotswold villages and locations used in the show. • Private, non rushed tour with personal Driver and Guide. • Stop for Lunch in a traditional Cotswold Pub • Comfortable Private Vehicle • **Optional Stop at Turville, the Village used in the Vicar Of Dibley** • Non rushed tour tailored to you. No large groups to worry about! • 5 Star Rated Tour Guide (And a big fan of Father Brown!)
Inclusions: Transport by private vehicle, Driver/guide, Private tour, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch
Reviewed By 512divines
I'm really glad I booked with Richard's Tours and certainly wasn't dissapointed! I had other things on in the morning so with short notice, Richard responded to agree a meet in the afternoon and he was bang on time. He was presentable, amiable and down to earth. It was immediately obvious that he was very keen to share his well researched knowledge, which was reassuring given that having paid for a private tour, I was getting a lot more than an off the shelf group tour (from what others have described to me). Born a Londoner and more than familiar with the area, he regularly checked that the tour pace was comfortable to ensure I was happy with the 3 hour route. He was very helpful with fotos and encouraged questions and discussions on this still mysterious subject, which is pretty clear that he's personally interested in, so much so that in the short time, not only did I acquire a lot of knowledge, but he's actually perked my own interest in Jack The Ripper! Although some parts of the area are still dodgy, I felt completely at ease being with Richard, who increasingly came across as more of a friendly local rather than a tour guide, and despite the atrocious weather, the 3 hours passed well beyond my expectations given his abilities - so excellent value for money. In conclusion, I should add that I'm also from London, but Richard's Tours aren't just for tourists, so if you're short on time and want a knowledgeable host, then Richard Chambers is your man. I, for one, will be checking out his other tours!
7. Private Guided Tour of the Cotswolds 'Off The Beaten Track' in a Luxury Mercedes
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
With this bespoke tailored private tour our knowledgeable local tour guides will tour you around the beautiful Cotswold countryside in luxury.This ‘bespoke’ tour is designed for anyone and everyone. For photographers, we’ll take you to the very best spots to catch that perfect image, for historians we’ll take you on a journey through the history of our “Sceptr’d Isle. If Literature or crafts are your thing, we’ll take you to Kelmscott Manor, home of William Morris. Maybe you are a Film and T.V. fan and want to see where they filmed ‘Downton Abbey’ or take a risk and visit the locations of ‘Father Brown’. You can tour antique shops in Stow-on-the-Wold, sample specialist food and drink, focus on ‘out of the way’ villages and historic churches, or hear folk tales, ghost stories and legends from around the Cotswolds.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Bottled water, Professional Driver Tour Guide, Transportation will be within a luxury Mercedes vehicle no older than 2 years old, Hotel pick up and drop off
Exclusions: Gratuities, Drinks, food and snacks are not included in the price of this tour
Reviewed By olivia_lucienne
Mr. Robin Dale came to my rescue! I was trying to get from Blockley Village to Moreton-in-Marsh station on an evening in December, and the bus I was waiting for never came. I called several taxi services, all of whom were unavailable, before someone gave me Mr. Dale's number. Though I believe it was after hours for him, he came out to get me and drive me the 15 minutes or so to the station. I was indeed getting a bit stressed and chilly out in an unfamiliar town at night, so to not have to wait another hour for a bus (which I was just hoping would come!) was such a blessing. I will always remember his graciousness with an abundance of gratitude -- he came to pick me up on his own time, simply because he did not like the idea of me waiting alone in the dark and cold, and was so pleasant throughout the drive. I cannot think of better, more above-and-beyond service. Do contact Cotswold Tours & Travel for your taxiing needs -- but preferably according to their schedule!
8. Private Full Day Excursion to the Cotswolds in an Iconic London Black Cab
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Spend a fantastic day out of the city and visit the Cotswolds, a protected 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty', truly one of the most beautiful areas of the country and for sure full of those picture perfect quintessential English market towns villages and hamlets, places like Burford the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds', Stow, the highest market town inn the cotswolds, Bourton on the Water, Venice of the Cotswolds, and the village of Lower Slaughter, regularly voted the prettiest village in the Cotswolds. Please note this is a Full Day excursion, so you are advised not to make any bookings for the evening!
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Fuel surcharge, Parking Fees, refreshments provided in the taxi
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities, any entrance fees to sites, personal expenses
Reviewed By shazzay2020
What a fantastic day, Paul was very professional,very knowledgeable, answered all questìons, in my opinion the best way to see the festive lights and at the same time see the sights of London ....highly recommended..5 star experience.
9. Lacock and Castle Combe - Afternoon Private Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
This tour allows you to visit the charming villages of Lacock and Castle Combe in an afternoon giving you the morning to enjoy other activities in Bath. The villages have changed little over the centuries making them a popular place to film period films and TV series. As a private tour you will benefit from having your own personal guide (a local guide born in Bath) to show you around the villages as well as private transportation. The tour includes the chance to sample the famous traditional English cream tea - an experience all visitors to England should try!
Inclusions: Private tour with local guide, Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, English Cream Tea (scones with cream & jam and a pot of tea)
Exclusions: During the tour we do not visit Lacock Abbey. Should you wish to visit admission fees will apply., 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.
10. Private Tour to Stratford-Upon-Avon, Oxford and The Cotswolds
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Enjoy unrivalled service with collection and drop-off from your hotel; no need to worry about finding a meeting point early in the morning. All our tours are run by some of the most experienced and highest rated guides in London with more than 10 years’ experience in the industry and degrees in history. Your overall tour experience will be greatly enhanced by your local guide. Your tour is entirely bespoke and can be changed at any time; even on the day. We understand that every family has different passions and interests, so we cater our service to your personal needs. Our tour itineraries stand out from the crowd. We won’t ever oversell a product and firmly believe in providing more value through allowing more time at the sights than the big bus tours. We are a small, bespoke company so we guarantee that you won’t be left with an inexperienced backup guide during the busy season. We provide the highest quality guides all year round.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Parking Fees, Fuel surcharge
Exclusions: Lunch
Reviewed By TrentBarn0209
We had an amazing trip to Stonehenge, Bath and the Cotswolds with Oz; our courteous driver and tour guide. The trip was very professional and very well organized. From the outset, we could tell we were in good hands. Oz really knows his way around the area and his depth of knowledge of the history of the locations is fantastic. You could not ask for a better guide. Our trip was a little different because we asked not to go to The Roman Museum and spend more time in the Cotswolds. Oz picked us up on time and the van was very comfortable. We were provided hand sanitizer in the van for our use and offered face masks if needed which was also reassuring. It was quite a long drive out to Stonehenge, but Oz kicked things off with an interesting talk on London as we passed by important buildings. He then gave us an amazing introduction speech about Saxons, Vikings and ancient history that really had us hooked on what we were going to see! The whole day was superb, we never felt rushed and enjoyed it so much from beginning to end. Thanks for a great day Oz - this was the best day of our holiday!
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