Cotswolds: the loveliest villages in England

Key Points

• Full-day private tour exploring the most iconic villages of the Cotswolds for up to 6 people.
• Highlights include the wool church of St. John the Baptist in Cirencester, Arlington Row in Bibury, and the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with guided walking tours at key stops and scenic drives through the countryside.
• A flexible itinerary with time allocated for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying traditional pub lunches.
• Cost is $1,353 for the entire group, offering a personalized experience with experienced guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Charm of the Cotswolds in a Private Day Trip

This 10-hour private tour takes you through the heart of South East England, focusing on some of the most picturesque villages and towns in the Cotswolds. For a flat rate of $1,353, groups of up to 6 people enjoy a day filled with beautiful scenery, historic landmarks, and quaint architecture. The tour is designed for those who want a personalized experience with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What makes this tour stand out is its well-balanced itinerary that combines scenic drives, guided visits, and free time for exploring at each stop. The tour is suitable for those interested in architecture, history, and natural beauty, with many highlights such as the wool church in Cirencester and the thatched cottages of Minster Lovell. While the pace is generally relaxed, some walking and moderate fitness are required, especially at the walking tours.

Key Points

• Private, guided day trip exploring seven key villages of the Cotswolds.
• Highlights include Cirencester’s wool church, Bibury’s Arlington Row, and Bourton-on-the-Water.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in London and guided walks with audio guides available in multiple languages.
• Scenic drives over more than an hour of countryside views provide a true sense of rural England.
• Cost of $1,353 covers all tolls and taxes, with no hidden expenses for entry fees.

From the Wool Church in Cirencester to the Watermill at Lower Slaughter

The tour begins with a visit to Cirencester, often called the “capital of the Cotswolds.” Here, the highlight is St. John the Baptist Church, notable for having the largest porch in England. The guided tour lasts about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to appreciate the massive wool church and explore the charming town.

Afterward, a scenic drive takes you into the countryside, setting the scene for the seven stops planned for the day. The first scenic drive lasts about 20 minutes, offering views of rolling hills and traditional stone cottages as you leave the town behind.

Arlington Row in Bibury: The Quintessential Cotswold Village

The next stop is Bibury, renowned worldwide for Arlington Row, a row of fourteenth-century weavers’ cottages that look like they came straight out of a storybook. Visitors have about 20 minutes for quick photos and to soak in the tranquillity of this famous village.

Bibury’s quiet streets and historic cottages are among the most photographed sights in the Cotswolds, making this a favorite for many. The stop’s brief duration allows for a stroll around town and perhaps a quick visit to local shops or a traditional tearoom.

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The Oldest Pub in England and a Hobbit Door in Stow-on-the-Wold

A lunch break in Stow-on-the-Wold offers a chance to enjoy a pub meal in an authentic setting. This market town is known for its historic churchyard and old pubs, including the oldest pub in England. The stop here lasts about 1.5 hours, providing time for sightseeing and a relaxed meal.

After lunch, the tour continues with a guided walk around the town, where visitors can see the market square, browse local shops, or take photos of the churchyard. The town’s windy streets and quaint shops are perfect for a relaxed exploration.

The Victorian Watermill at Lower Slaughter and the Medieval Charm of Upper Slaughter

The tour then ventures to Lower Slaughter, famous for its Victorian watermill and tranquil setting. This stop lasts about 15 minutes, just enough for photos and a quick walk along the river.

A scenic drive past Upper Slaughter and Lower Swell enables travelers to enjoy the classic Cotswold scenery. With these stops, the tour balances sightseeing with relaxing moments in idyllic settings.

Bourton-on-the-Water: The “Venice of the Cotswolds”

Next, the group visits Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its lovely river and arched stone bridges. Visitors have approximately 20 minutes here to take photos, visit the perfumery, browse shops, or explore the model village.

This town’s charming streets and water-based attractions make it a favorite among visitors. The brief stop allows for a quick but memorable experience before moving on.

Burford and the Medieval Tollhouse Museum

The next major stop is Burford, where a 45-minute visit offers a glimpse into medieval England. The fifteenth-century tollhouse now hosts a small museum, explaining ancient building skills and local history.

Nearby, the churchyard bears marks from the English Civil War, and wool merchant graves add to the historic atmosphere. This stop combines history, architecture, and local stories in a compact visit.

The Ruined Manor House and Minster Lovell’s Cottages

The grand finale of the tour is at Minster Lovell, home to a ruined fifteenth-century manor house steeped in macabre tales. This stop lasts around 20 minutes, allowing visitors to explore the ruins and see the thatched cottages nearby.

The thatched cottages are classic Cotswold scenes, and the setting sun often enhances their charm. This final visit captures the peaceful, historic essence of the region.

Practicalities: Transport, Guides, and Flexibility

The transport is a comfortable coach with a professional driver and guide, who provide insightful commentary throughout the scenic drives and stops. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from designated London locations such as the London Eye Millennium Pier, Embankment Pier, Gloucester Road, and Marble Arch.

The guided walking tours at key stops are complemented by audio guides in several languages—including Dutch, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish—making the experience accessible to international visitors. The small group size of up to 6 people ensures a personalized, flexible day.

The Cost and What’s Included

At $1,353 per group, the tour covers all tolls and taxes, hotel pickup and drop-off, and guided walking tours. Entry to specific sites like the Old Tolsey museum is included when open, adding value to the experience.

Food and drinks are not included, so travelers may wish to bring snacks or plan for additional meals outside the tour. The duration of 10 hours makes it a full but comfortable day, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private guided tour suits those who appreciate historic villages, beautiful scenery, and small-group intimacy. The focus on key attractions like Bibury’s Arlington Row, the wool church in Cirencester, and Bourton-on-the-Water makes it ideal for architecture and history enthusiasts.

The tour’s scenic drives and relaxed pace appeal to visitors looking for a comfortable day out without rushing through each location. It is especially suitable for small groups or families seeking a personalized experience in the Cotswolds.

Cotswolds: The Loveliest Villages in England – A Worthwhile Day Trip

This tour offers a carefully curated itinerary that covers some of the most iconic villages and landmarks of the Cotswolds. The combination of guided walks, scenic drives, and free time makes for a well-rounded experience. The professional guidance and personalized attention elevate it from a standard day trip.

While the price point may seem high for some, it reflects the private group setting and inclusive services. The beautiful villages, historic sites, and picturesque scenery ensure a memorable day in one of England’s most loved regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all tolls and taxes, guided walking tours, and entry to the Old Tolsey museum when open.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours from pickup to return.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Cirencester, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford, and Minster Lovell.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included; optional pub lunches are available during the stop at Stow-on-the-Wold.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Moderate fitness is required, especially for walking tours. The pace is generally relaxed, but some sites involve uneven terrains.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for audio guides?
Audio guides are available in Dutch, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Is this a private or group tour?
It is a private group experience, designed for up to 6 people for a more personal setting.

Where does the tour depart from?
Pickup is available from London Eye Millennium Pier, Embankment Pier, Gloucester Road, and Marble Arch.

What is the cost for this tour?
The total cost is $1,353 for the entire group of up to 6 people.

This Cotswolds private day tour offers a beautiful, relaxed exploration of some of England’s most cherished villages. With expert guides, scenic drives, and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s a compelling choice for those keen to experience the timeless charm of the Cotswolds.

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