Bath, The Cotswolds & Oxford Tour

Our journey begins by departing London and travelling west into the beautiful countryside of the North Wessex Downs. The first stop of our tour will be the charming and unique village of Avebury, home to the largest stone circle in the world. The village is set within the stone circle itself, making for a quirky scene where you can get close to the stones and even touch them. Take a relaxing stroll around Avebury and visit the historic church. Next, we continue to another charming location, the medieval village of Lacock. With an appearance that looks to be from a different era, this place has remained unchanged for several hundred years and retains a wonderfully unspoilt appearance. As a result the village has been a popular location for filming, and has appeared in productions such as Downton Abbey, Pride & Prejudice and Harry Potter. Take a wander around this small but delightful village. This afternoon we’ll arrive in arguably the most beautiful city in Britain; Bath. Founded by the Romans as a Spa town, the legend of the city suggests that the water here possess healing powers. Upon arrival we’ll travel straight to the overnight accommodation, and then the rest of the day will be free to explore. Whilst here be sure to visit the Roman Baths and absorb the beautiful Regency architecture of the Royal Crescent and the Circus. You may also wish to visit the Jane Austen Centre, stroll across the iconic Pultney Bridge and try the local delicacy: a Bath Bun. Tonight we stay in Bath.

This morning we depart Bath and our journey takes us straight into the Cotswolds, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty. The Cotswolds is home to the quintessentially British countryside and famed for its elegant rolling hills and sheep farming scenes. Our first stop of the day will be the picturesque settlement of Castle Combe, often described as the ‘prettiest village in England’. Take a walk around the quiet streets of this picture-perfect place where most of the buildings are several hundred years old. Then we’ll continue to meander along country lanes towards Bibury, another claimant to the ‘prettiest village’ title. Upon arrival, take a stroll alongside the river to see the iconic Arlington Row, a set of old weavers cottages that have become one of the most symbolic sights in the Cotswolds. Next, we make our way to Cirencester, an ancient town affectionately known as the ‘capital of the Cotswolds’. This was the second most important settlement in Roman Britain, and here we can explore the market square, historic church and have tea. Then we continue east to our final stop, the ‘city of dreaming spires’, Oxford. Home to one of the world’s greatest and oldest universities, Oxford is a centre of education with Alumni that includes JRR Tolkien, Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking and many world leaders. Upon arrival we will take a short guided walking-tour around the heart of Oxford and all of the most important points of interest. After that, we’ll be free to explore and see the iconic Radcliffe Camera, Bodlean Library and visit inside Christchurch College, where you’ll find the hall that inspired Great Hall of Hogwarts in Harry Potter. After plenty of time exploring Oxford, it’s time to return to London where our adventure concludes.