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The word Cotswolds can be loosely translated as ‘sheep enclosure in the rolling hills’. This area is home to the quintessential English countryside and is a designated place of outstanding natural beauty. If you join our Cotswolds tours here are a few things you can expect to see…

Sheep…and lots of them!

In many ways, sheep are arguably the Cotswolds’ most important feature. Yes, they are very cute, and yes there are lots of them in this part of England. But historically their importance should not be underestimated. For centuries the Cotswolds was known as an important producer of wool, dating as far back as the Middle Ages. The local sheep breed nicknamed the ‘Cotswold Lion’. Within Europe it was said that the best wool was British, and in Britain the best wool from the Cotswolds. Prosperity followed as a result, and today the region remains affluent, with sheep farming still a major industry.

Historic Cottages

As a result of the prosperity created by the wool trade, people in the Cotswolds had the wealth to construct beautiful homes made out of the finest of material; local Cotswolds limestone. Everywhere you go here you’ll see cottages that are several hundred years old: some nestled in the heart of a village, and others placed out in the middle of farmlands. Possibly the most famous cottages are those of the Arlington Row (see above) in Bibury, which were built in 1380 as wool shops and later turned into homes, which they remain. They have been visited by many, including Japan’s Prince Hirohito and Henry T Ford, and this historic terrace is now one of the symbols of the Cotswolds.

Dry Stone Walls

The art of the stone wall has been perfected in the Cotswolds; a seemingly simple but actually rather complex building process. Here there are over 4,000 miles of dry stone walls, with the stones themselves often dug up during ploughing. But building the walls themselves requires an experienced hand, as there is no binding element and the stones hold themselves together through their precise and structured placements. As the walls are built up, stones must be slotted together carefully, taking into account size, width and angle. The results are beautiful as well as efficient, with many of these walls several hundred years old.

Charming towns & villages

When you are travelling through the Cotswolds, its seems like there’s another charming village around every corner. In this part of middle England there are no large towns and most people live in small villages which are scattered throughout the region, but still have good connections to nearby cities like Oxford and Bath. The villages themselves (like Castle Combe above) are full of history, character and pretty honey-coloured cottages. There are also many historic small towns, like Stow-on-the-Wold, which is where the final battle of the English civil War took place.

Pretty countryside

England’s green and pleasant lands are typified by the gentle undulating hills that make up the scenery of the Cotswolds. This designated area of outstanding natural beauty is spread over more than 750 square miles, and lies largely within the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. The area is 80% farmland and marked as lying between Stratford-up-Avon in the north, and Bath 90 miles to the south. Due to the combination of pretty scenery and charming villages, it is one of England’s most desirable countryside areas to live, and a popular place to visit too! If you want to see the most quintessentially English countryside, then the Cotswolds is the place to come.

If you’re visiting England this year, find out more about our Cotswolds tours and see some of England’s most beautiful countryside!

by GO-tours team.

For any visitor to London, there are some places that you simply have to see, and may actually find difficult to miss! If you are joining our tours from London this year, here’s some extra info about London’s most iconic sights…

The London Eye

Built to mark London’s Millennium celebrations, the London Eye has become one of the Britain’s most recognisable sights, yet it was only ever intended to be a temporary attraction. It’s idea was conceived in the 1990’s, and the initial intent was for the London Eye to be opened for the Millennium, and remain for five years only. But such was it’s popularity and success it stayed, and remains an iconic feature of central London’s skyline today. It has a diameter of 135 metres, with 32 viewing pods (one for each borough of Greater London), and takes approximately half an hour to complete a full revolution. The London Eye provides some of London’s best views for any visitor.

The Houses of Parliament

Although it’s actual name is the Palace of Westminster, this instantly recognisable building is more commonly known as the ‘Houses of Parliament’. Inside you’ll find both the House of Lords and the House of Commons; the two houses of the British Parliament. Located next to the River Thames, the site was formerly a royal residence going as far back as William the Conqueror, but transferred to Parliament duties during the reign of Henry VIII. The current ‘Houses’ were constructed after a fire destroyed the Old Palace in 1834, and it was rebuilt in Charles Barry’s Gothic style. Probably the buildings’ most famous feature is Big Ben (real name Elizabeth Tower, Big Ben is the bell) which is currently undergoing some much needed refurbishment work!

Buckingham Palace

Iconic building and principle residence of the British Monarch. Originally it was called Buckingham House, and was built in the early 18^th century for John Sheffield, the then Duke of Buckingham. Once complete it was the most impressive property in central London and thus was purchased by King William III in 1762. It was then King George VI who decided that this grand house should be the premier Royal residence and he ordered a major face-lift. Unfortunately he did not live to see the work completed, and instead it was Queen Victoria who became the first monarch to move in in 1837, when the House officially became Buckingham Palace.

Trafalgar Square

Located in the heart of Westminster, this famous square takes it’s name from the Battle of Trafalgar, a key Navy victory of the Napoleonic Wars in October 1805. The square is in the area of Charing Cross and has been a landmark of London since the 13^th century and a public square since the mid 1800’s. It’s focal point is Nelson’s Column, which stands at 51 metres tall, including a five metre statue of Lord Nelson himself on top. Nelson was Admiral of the British Navy during that glorious victory at Trafalgar, although this was a battle that also claimed his life. Equally recognisable are the four lions guarding the column and the surrounding fountains. Trafalgar Square is known as a gathering point in London; for celebration, events and even the occasional protest.

St Paul’s Cathedral

For many Londoners, St Paul’s Cathedral holds a special place in their heart. The first Cathedral here was built in the early 600’s and the second when it was re-built later that century. The third Norman St Paul’s included the tallest spire to have ever been built, and was much larger than the Cathedral standing today. Unfortunately, this St Paul’s was destroyed during the infamous Great Fire of London in 1666, so St Paul’s had to be re-built, again, and architect Christopher Wren designed the Cathedral for which the dome became one of London’s most famous features. It was a target during the Blitz, but Winston Churchill famously declared St Paul’s must be saved at all costs. Today, the Cathedral remains a symbol of survival and hope as it looks over London.

If you’re visiting London this year, the check out our website to find out more about our small-group tours from London.

by GO-tours team.

Join our Cornwall tours and discover a place of unique Celtic History and stunning scenery. When you’re here you’ll never be more than 25 miles away from the coast and although our Cornwall tours take in a variety of sights, here are five famous places that you’ll see…

1. St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s Mount is one of the most iconic sights along the coast of England. Home to a 12^th century Benedictine church and priory, it is one of 43 walk-able islands around Britain (walk-able when the tide is out!). The island takes it’s name from the archangel Michael, who appeared in the mist in the 5^th century to warn fisherman away from mermaids who were trying to lure their boats onto the rocks. St Michael’s Mount has remained a place of pilgrimage ever since, and seeing this historic island is a highlight of any visit to Cornwall.

2. Land’s End

Quite simply, the end of the land. This is mainland Britain’s most westerly point, set on a dramatic and beautiful part of Cornwall’s coastline. A famous journey is Land’s End to John O’Groats in Scotland; the place in Britain that is furthest away. This is a commonly trodden, and ridden, endurance route for people raising money for charity. From Land’s End you can gaze out over the Atlantic Ocean towards America, and on a clear day you’ll even see as far as the Isles of Scilly.

3. Port Isaac

For some, this charming village may be more familiar by it’s fictional name: Portwenn, as this is where popular TV series Doc Martin is filmed! Set on Cornwall’s north coast, Port Isaac is in a designated area of outstanding natural Beauty, with origins as fourteenth century fishing port. Most of the buildings here are several hundred years old, making it one of the most idyllic places in Cornwall. The village has featured in several films and on TV, but is now iconically connected to Doc Martin, starring Martin Clunes. The series started in 2004 and tells the story of London surgeon Dr Martin Ellingham who relocates to rural Cornwall, and his clash of cultures with locals often has amusing consequences!

4. Tintagel Castle

The place that proclaims to be the birthplace of King Arthur. The story of Arthur centres on the Castle here, which is perched atop the cliff edge of the rugged Tintagel island. After King Uther Pendragon had fallen in love the Duke of Cornwall’s wife, he attacked his castle with his forces. But the location of Tintagel castle makes in almost impenetrable, so King Uther Pendragon required a disguise (created by Merlin),  to sneak into the castle and seduce the lady of his desires; Arthur’s mother, Igraine. Today, the ruins of a castle remain, although these remains are that of the castle built in the 13^th century on the order of Richard, 1^st Earl of Cornwall.

5. Cornish Pasties

Ok, so this isn’t a place, but a trip to Cornwall is not complete unless you’ve tried an authentic Cornish pasty! Once the favourite staple food of Cornish tin miners, it was created to be easy to eat, but also to fuel the miners during their long and gruelling days. The pasty is now Cornwall’s most popular export and has a savoury pastry exterior with contents of beef, potato, carrot and onion. There are now many variations of this savoury snack, but a true Cornish pasty has to be made in Cornwall!

Find out more about our Cornwall tours and start your adventure with us now!

by GO-tours team

Whilst England may not be internationally famed for its cuisine, the country is still home to some of the world’s most iconic foods. If you join our ‘Cornwall & the Cotswolds‘ tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of Britain’s best loved dishes. Here are seven things we think you should try…

1) Fish and Chips

The nation’s favourite; an English institution! This perfect food marriage fuelled the industrial revolution and boosted morale in World War Two. No trip to the seaside is complete without a visit to the local chippy. We love it!

2) A Cornish Pasty

Cornwall’s most iconic export first became popular among tin miners in the 17^th century as an affordable and hearty meal. Contains beef, potato, swede (turnip) and onions wrapped in savoury pastry. A must try!

3) Devonshire Cream Tea

A popular tradition among English high society, it is the county of Devon that stakes the strongest claim to its creation, with cream tea thought to have originated in Tavistock. The dish features scones with clotted cream, jam and a cup of tea. With Cream Tea in Devon correct etiquette is important, you must always apply cream first and jam second!

4) Cornish Cream Tea

Major cause of dispute with the county of Devon! For details, see ‘Devonshire Cream Tea’, except apply the jam first and cream second.

5) Fresh Seafood

Although Cornwall’s fishing industry has declined, the county has over 300 miles of coastline and there are plenty of places to get fresh local fish. Known historically for its pilchards (sardines) you’ll now find mackerel, hake and crab featuring in the catch of the day.

6) Bath Buns

A favourite of Jane Austen, these sweet rolls are said to have been invented by Sally Lunn although this is disputed. Some say that she never even existed, but Sally Lunn’s buns are iconic and definitely worth a taste for anyone visiting Bath.

7) Full English Breakfast

Includes; bacon, eggs, tomatoes, toast and sausages. Black pudding, baked beans, hash browns and tea/coffee are optional extras but often included. A visit to England isn’t full without a fry-up or two!

Join us on our ‘Cornwall and the Cotswolds’ tour and explore some of the best foods that England has to offer; and try each and every one of these ‘delicacies’ in the process!