One Day Cotswolds Walking Tour

The One Day Cotswolds Walking Tour offers an engaging way to explore some of England’s most picturesque countryside and villages in a single day. Priced at $116.33 per person, this 8-hour experience is designed for those who want to combine scenic walking, cultural sights, and charming towns without the hassle of driving. The tour departs from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh, making it accessible for visitors arriving from London or Oxford via train. With a high customer rating of 5.0 based on 5 reviews, it’s clear that this tour delights its participants with friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and a well-paced itinerary. The option to skip the inside visit of Broadway Tower and the inclusion of multiple walking trails make this a flexible option for moderate walkers who appreciate a relaxed yet enriching day.

While this tour offers a comprehensive look at the Cotswolds’ best sights, it’s best suited for those who enjoy moderate walking on varied terrain and are comfortable exploring small villages and outdoor spaces. The group size of up to 12 travelers ensures a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Keep in mind, admission to Broadway Tower is not included if you wish to explore inside, and food and drink are not provided, so plan accordingly for your meal breaks.

Key Points

• Two convenient meeting points: Stratford-upon-Avon at 8:50 AM or Moreton-in-Marsh at 9:30 AM, with the tour lasting approximately 8 hours.
• Includes up to three scenic walks: a short walk at Broadway Tower, a trail along the Cotswold Way, and a figure-of-eight route through Windrush Valley villages.
• Highlights include: Broadway Tower, Broadway village, Swinbrook, Asthall, and Burford.
• Flexible options: You can choose to omit the inside visit of Broadway Tower or the afternoon walk in Windrush Valley, with alternatives to stay longer in towns.
• Expert local guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel is in a spacious 16-seater Mercedes minibus, with scenic drives between stops.

Starting from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh

This tour begins with pickup at 08:45 in Stratford-upon-Avon or 09:30 at Moreton-in-Marsh train station. The initial drive from Stratford takes around 30 minutes to reach the first walking trail, while the Moreton-in-Marsh pickup is part of a scenic train ride that adds to the charm. The tour’s flexible pickup points cater to different travel plans, making it accessible whether you’re coming from London, Oxford, or nearby.

Exploring Broadway Tower and its Surroundings

The first stop involves a gentle walk along a section of the Cotswold Way to Broadway Tower, which sits atop Beacon Hill, the second highest point in the Cotswolds. The walk covers about 0.85 miles (1.4 km) and passes through woodlands and wildflower meadows, offering broad views of the landscape. Once at the tower, guides share its history, and visitors can choose to explore Broadway Tower Country Park free of charge. An optional visit inside the tower costs £14 per person and provides higher viewpoints and a small museum, but this is entirely optional.

Shopping and Lunch in Broadway’s “Crown Jewel”

Following the tower visit, the tour moves into Broadway village, often called “the jewel of the Cotswolds’ crown”. Here, approximately 90 minutes are allocated for exploring the shops, enjoying a meal, or simply strolling along the historic high street. No walking is required at this stop, giving visitors ample free time to relax, shop for souvenirs, or have lunch in one of the many cafes and eateries.

Visiting Asthall and the Windrush Valley Villages

In the afternoon, the group travels to Asthall, famous as the childhood home of the Mitford sisters at Asthall Manor. The walk begins here with a figure-of-eight route through the Windrush Valley, covering about 2.75 miles (4.5 km), with a shorter option available. The walk passes through Swinbrook and Widford, small villages notable for their classic English charm, historic churches, and the graveyard of the Mitford family.

In Swinbrook, visitors can explore the church and enjoy the quaint village green with its brook, white picket fence, and a red telephone box—perfect for photos. The church graveyard offers a glimpse of the Mitford family history. If preferred, those not wanting to complete the full walk can relax at The Swan Inn in Swinbrook, where refreshments are at their own expense.

Widford completes the figure-of-eight route, crossing stiles, cattle grids, and passing through lush fields and meadows, returning to Asthall. This part of the tour highlights the rural beauty of the Cotswolds with peaceful farmland and traditional village life.

Final Stops in Burford and Moreton-in-Marsh

After the walk, the tour makes a short drive to Burford, a picturesque historic town renowned for its high street, shops, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors have about one hour to explore, shop, or enjoy a drink in one of the local pubs. Maps are provided for self-guided meandering through Burford’s charming streets.

For those who joined at Moreton-in-Marsh, the tour concludes there around 5:00 PM, with an easy return to the train station. Guests departing from Stratford-upon-Avon are returned by 5:30 PM. The entire day balances scenic walking, sightseeing, and free time, with the team ensuring a smooth and relaxed experience.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour operates in groups of up to 12 travelers, fostering an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention. The transportation is in a spacious Mercedes minibus, offering comfort and scenic drives across the countryside. The tour includes souvenir maps with photos and information to enhance understanding and memories of the day.

Meeting points are clearly indicated, with the guides wearing Go Cotswolds uniforms and driving a white minibus with green and purple branding. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 5 minutes early to avoid missing the departure, and the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness comfortable walking up to 3 miles (5 km) over varied terrain.

Optional Extras and Considerations

While admission to Broadway Tower is not included, visitors can choose to pay £14 to explore inside the tower and its museum. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so travelers should bring their own or plan to buy during stops. The tour runs in all weather, so dress appropriately for outdoor walking and variable weather conditions. It is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, given the outdoor terrain and walking distances.

Final Thoughts on the Cotswolds Walking Tour

This guided walking tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh presents a well-paced, scenic introduction to the heart of the Cotswolds. The combination of stunning vistas, charming villages, and expert guides makes it an appealing choice for visitors wanting a manageable yet comprehensive day trip. The flexibility in stops and optional activities allows for customization based on personal interests and walking preferences.

The high praise from past participants underscores the tour’s strength: knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories, beautiful countryside, and a good mix of walking, sightseeing, and leisure time. The comfort of the minibus and the thoughtful itinerary make this a reliable and enjoyable way to experience the Cotswolds in a single day.

If you seek a moderately active, scenic, and culturally enriching day with friendly guides and stunning views, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, cultural insights, and the chance to soak in the quintessential English countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $116.33 per person, which includes transportation, guides, and souvenir maps.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Stratford-upon-Avon at 8:50 AM or from Moreton-in-Marsh at 9:30 AM.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drink are not included, and visitors should bring their own or purchase on stops.

Can I skip inside Broadway Tower?
Yes, visiting inside Broadway Tower costs £14 and is optional. Access to the park surrounding the tower is free.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for those with moderate physical fitness capable of walking up to 3 miles on varied terrain. Children aged 8 and above are suitable, but the tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

What if it rains?
The tour runs in all weather, so dress appropriately for outdoor walking and potential rain.

How do I find the guide?
The guide wears a Go Cotswolds uniform, driving a white minibus with green and purple branding. It’s advisable to arrive early to meet them.

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