The Cotswolds

Arrive in the Cotswolds

As you make your own way to the Cotswolds today, take your time as you drive along wooded lanes and admire charming villages before arriving at your base for the next four nights, Bourton-on-the-Water. There are so many things to do and see in this part of the Cotswolds that you’ll be spoilt for choice on your first afternoon. Perhaps you might like to stay local and enjoy a tour of the local brewery or take a stroll along the river that weaves its way through the village. Or you might like to venture further afield to visit the nearby town of Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds and home to some wonderful antique shops and a beautiful market square.

Guided Hike

Your guide will meet you at your accommodation this morning to discuss options for today’s hike, which will be tailored to your own experience and interests. The views from Bredon Hill are fantastic, a great choice should you decide to climb a hill. This 950ft/290m peak stands apart from other hills and is subsequently a lot quieter than other high points in the area. It has a rich history dating back over several millennia. A great battle was fought near the hill fort at the summit and there have been many significant archaeological finds, including the largest hoard of Roman silver coins ever unearthed in Worcestershire. Your guide will share their knowledge of the fascinating history, legends (some say the area around the mysterious standing stones is haunted) and nature of the landscape. The steep sections are well worth the effort as you are rewarded with sweeping vistas and if you’re lucky, red kites circling in the thermals above.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Guided Bike Tour

One of the best ways to discover the hidden gems of the Cotswolds is by bike. Your expert guide will join you once again and help you decide which of the many options available will suit you best, depending on your experience and preferences. A circular ride is always immensely satisfying, especially as the length of the route can be flexible, but for sure you will take in some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds such as Great Barrington and Little Rissington. Stopping along the route to soak up the atmosphere of these delightful villages is a highlight of the day, as is riding along the country lanes, spotting wildlife and really getting to know the area.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Day to Explore

After a relaxed breakfast this morning, head out to explore some more of the local area. One option might be to visit Hidcote Manor, an outstanding arts and craft garden, which was designed by the talented American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston, or discover Sudeley Castle, the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within the grounds. Alternatively, you may wish to visit the 600 acre Westonbirt National Arboretum, a wonderful tree garden comprising one of the finest collections of temperate trees and shrubs in the world. With over 27km/17 miles of trails and a treetop walkway it’s a fantastic place to spend the day.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore and Depart

Before you return home, take time to visit the fantastic miniature Bourton-on-the-Water. Crafted from local Cotswolds Stone this is an exact one-ninth scale replica of the village as it was in the 1930s with a water wheel and singing churches. After lunch, head for home or extend your trip by adding one or more of the additional activities on offer. You may also want to link this trip with one of our other Self-Drive Collection itineraries for a longer adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Guided Hiking

Enjoy another day with your expert hiking guide with a route tailored to your group. Perhaps hike up Cleeve Hill, at 1,083ft/330m the highest point in the Cotswolds, or head to the pretty town of Winchcombe and enjoy a guided walk to Belas Knap, a Neolithic long barrow and one of the area’s most intriguing monuments.

Visit Daylesford Farm

Spend the day at Daylesford, a local organic farm that takes huge pride in their approach to sustainable agriculture. If you’re feeling creative, why not join a cookery or floristry workshop or spend some time exploring the extensive grounds, stopping to enjoy a picnic bought from the farm shop. If you would prefer just to relax, treat yourself to some time at the nearby spa.

Travel Through Time

Take a ride on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire steam railway and travel back in time as you gaze through the window and enjoy watching the landscape unfold as you steam past. Later treat yourself to afternoon tea in a luxury manor house.

Extension to Bath

Bath is the UK’s only city designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This two-night extension allows you to sample some of the delights of this wonderful city. Enjoy a walking tour and discover the secrets of the city, sample the delicious food and drink and visit the historic Roman Baths. It’s the perfect way to finish your holiday in the Cotswolds.