The Cotswolds

Day 1 - Oxford to Moreton-in-Marsh

Arrive in Oxford this morning and meet your Wilderness guide. After a short scenic transfer, enjoy a lovely picnic lunch as you chat about the week ahead. This afternoon, ride from Combe to Moreton-in-Marsh, a pretty market town in the north of the Cotswolds. On your way, visit an ancient stone circle which dates back over 4,000 years, learning about the history and folklore of the King’s Men and the Whispering Knights. Later, roll into your accommodation, a former 16th century coaching inn, with time to relax and enjoy a drink before dinner. (L, D)

Ride details: 57.5 km/36 miles | 630 m/2,066 ft elevation gain

Day 2 - Shakespeare Country

After breakfast, head out on a beautiful circular ride. Listen out for the bright, trilling call of skylarks as you pedal past rolling green fields and in and out of pretty villages. Stop for a coffee and cake before arriving in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace and burial ground of William Shakespeare. Enjoy some free time wandering around the bustling market town visiting the playwright’s childhood home and popping into some of the boutique and artisan shops that jostle for space on the historic central streets. Return to your lovely hotel later this afternoon and relax after a well-spent day in the saddle. (B, L)

Ride details: 74 km/46 miles | 620 m/2,035 ft elevation gain

Day 3 - Cycling to Cirencester

Pedal out from your hotel this morning to enjoy a day spent exploring with your knowledgeable guide. Bike along peaceful lanes and visit villages distinct in their golden hues of Cotswold stone. Visit Bourton-on-the-Water (often ranked as one of the prettiest villages in the UK), which bestrides the River Windrush. Its many low-arched bridges have given it the affectionate nickname the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds.’ Enjoy a well-earned lunch in a charming traditional pub, afterwards riding to the vibrant town of Cirencester. Relax within the grounds of St. Mary’s Abbey before settling into your boutique hotel in the heart of this quintessential Cotswold town. (B, L)

Ride details: 74 km/46 miles | 610 m/ 2000 ft elevation gain

Day 4 - Exploring Coln Valley

As the soft dawn mist fades from the fields, clip in and head out into the silky morning light. Pedal through old woodland full of twisted ash and ancient oak. Listen to the steady melody of whirring wheels as you weave along lanes flanked by meadows sprinkled with wildflowers. Break for a late morning coffee at a cafe, shop and showroom built on a historical RAF Command Base and dedicated to a brilliant collection of classic cars. Ride through the lush greenery of Coln Valley, stopping for lunch before looping back around to arrive with a crunch of gravel at your hotel for dinner. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 62 km/39 miles | 875 m/ 2880 ft elevation gain

Day 5 - Pedalling to Bath

There are two options for your ride today, with a longer and shorter route, depending on how your legs feel. With the aim to arrive in Bath later this afternoon, wind your way towards Tetbury, enjoying the far-reaching views and beautiful craftsmanship of the rolling stone walls characteristic of the Cotswolds. Stop for a picnic lunch, tucking into a spread of fresh seasonal produce, including a variety of local cheese and chutneys. Arrive together in the architecturally stunning city of Bath. Enjoy dinner this evening, celebrating the end of your adventure with good food, good drink and good company. (B, L, D)

Ride details: 83 km/52 miles | 591 m/ 1942 ft elevation gain (long route) | 57 km/36 miles | 384 m/ 1260 ft elevation gain (short route)

Day 6 - Homeward Bound

After breakfast, transfer to the train station to begin your journey home. (B)