Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour

Explore the Undiscovered Cotswolds in Comfort and Style

The Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour offers a beautifully flexible way to experience some of England’s most picturesque villages. Priced at $666.76 per group, this tour is ideal for small groups of up to seven people seeking a personalized adventure. It lasts approximately seven hours, with a starting time that can be tailored to your schedule, and departs from locations in the Northern Cotswolds or Oxford.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of private transport in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable local driver-guide, and the ability to customize the route to match your interests. The tour provides a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop, making it perfect for those wanting an intimate glimpse into England’s charming countryside. An added highlight is a lunch at an awarding-winning traditional pub, where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine in a cozy setting.

While the tour doesn’t include entry fees or refreshments, the focus on personalized service and a flexible itinerary make this an appealing choice for those who prefer a tailored experience over large group excursions. The reviews praise the expert guides and the opportunity to visit small villages inaccessible by large coaches, giving this tour a reputation for quality and intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable 7-hour tour exploring the Northern Cotswolds villages
• Departure points include Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, and other locations in the Northern Cotswolds
• Small group size of up to 7 people ensures personalized attention
• Comfortable transport in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with a local driver-guide
• Includes lunch at an award-winning traditional pub, with options to enjoy local ale
• Visit iconic villages like Great Tew, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Burford

Starting from Oxfordshire: Flexible Pickup and Departure Times

The tour begins at 10:00AM but offers flexible starting times to suit your plans. Pickups are available from anywhere within the Northern Cotswolds area, including Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon. This flexibility makes it especially convenient for visitors arriving from London or other parts of the UK.

Departure logistics are straightforward, with full control over the timing and location of pickup and drop-off. If you’re coming from London, the most efficient option is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Charlbury station, with pickup arranged from there.

Visiting the Village of Great Tew and the Cotswolds Town of Stow-on-the-Wold

The day kicks off with a visit to Great Tew, a village known for its charming character and traditional stone houses. The guide leads you through this fascinating village, helping you appreciate its history and architecture at your own pace.

Next, the tour takes you to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds. Here, you can explore honey-colored buildings, cozy pubs, narrow streets, and small shops. The area is renowned for its interesting shops and tiny tea rooms, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee break.

Lower Slaughter: One of the Most Picturesque Cotswold Villages

After Stow-on-the-Wold, the route heads to Lower Slaughter, often regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in the region. Surrounded by stunning countryside, Lower Slaughter features traditional stone cottages and running streams, creating an idyllic setting perfect for photos or a peaceful walk.

This stop stands out for its scenery and quaint charm, making it a favorite among visitors seeking authentic Cotswold scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Vibrant and Scenic Bourton-on-the-Water

Perhaps the most famous stop on the tour is Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the Venice of the Cotswolds. Known for its series of small bridges crossing the River Windrush, this village offers a mix of attractions, shops, restaurants, and tea rooms.

The guide helps you explore the honey-colored buildings and enjoy the lively atmosphere. There’s plenty to do here, whether browsing local shops or relaxing in a café, making it a highlight of the day.

Lunch at an Award-Winning Cotswolds Pub in Burford

The tour continues through more charming villages until reaching Burford, often called the Gateway to the Cotswolds. Here, you enjoy lunch at an award-winning pub, renowned for serving traditional ales and hearty local fare.

Guests have the option to sample local ale outdoors in the sunshine, making for a relaxing and authentic experience. The pub’s reputation for quality food and drinks complements the scenic surroundings, setting a perfect midday pause.

Exploring Windrush Valley and Hidden Villages: Swinbrook, Asthall, and Minster Lovell

In the afternoon, the route takes you along the stunning Windrush Valley, revealing hidden villages and less-traveled paths. Stops include Swinbrook and Asthall, along with the highlight of the tour — Minster Lovell.

This village features ancient ruins of a 15th-century hall, once owned by the Lovell family. Known as the region’s most haunted village, Minster Lovell’s Cotswold stone cottages, thatched roofs, and River Windrush create a picture-perfect scene.

The ruins and village atmosphere provide a sense of history and mystery, making this a memorable part of the day.

Return Journey and Practical Details

The tour concludes in the late afternoon, with arrivals back at your starting point by 5:00PM. The private nature of the tour allows for a relaxed pace, giving you as much time as you wish at each stop.

The full control over the itinerary and personal guide ensure a tailored experience, with opportunities to add or skip locations based on your interests. The tour does not include entrance fees or refreshments, but the focus on comfortable transport and flexible scheduling makes it a convenient option.

Why This Tour Offers Value for Small Groups

The private tour setting ensures a more intimate experience compared to large coach trips. The knowledgeable local driver-guide adds depth with stories and insights about each village, enriching the sightseeing.

The flexibility to customize the route, combined with the opportunity to visit lesser-known villages inaccessible by large vehicles, makes this tour attractive for those wanting a genuine, unhurried exploration of the Cotswolds.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized day out. The 7-hour length allows for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around villages, but no strenuous activity is involved.

Since the tour is not suitable for pets and entrance fees are not included, travelers should plan to budget separately for any paid attractions they wish to visit. The flexible start times and private setting also make it suitable for travelers coming from outside Oxfordshire, including those staying in London.

The Best Parts as Highlighted by Past Participants

Reviews consistently highlight the personal service of the driver-guide, Graham, who is praised for being informative and kind. The ability to access small villages that large coach tours can’t reach is a major plus.

The opportunity to spend as much time as desired at each stop and the stunning scenery of villages like Lower Slaughter and Minster Lovell are frequently mentioned as the tour’s strengths.

Final Thoughts on the Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour

This tour offers a relaxed, personalized way to see some of the most charming and less-touristed villages of the Cotswolds. Its flexible itinerary, comfortable transport, and expert guiding make it a solid choice for those wanting a private day trip from Oxford or nearby areas.

While it doesn’t include entrance fees or meals (besides the lunch stop), the value lies in the tailored experience, accessibility to hidden gems, and the opportunity to enjoy authentic English countryside scenery in comfort. Perfect for small groups seeking intimacy and flexibility, this tour stands out for its personalized approach and the quality of its stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for anyone comfortable with walking and spending the day sightseeing, but it is best suited for older children or adults due to the walking and rural locations.

Can I customize the route or stops?
Yes, the full control over the itinerary allows for tailoring the day to your interests, including adding or skipping stops within the available options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around villages and exploring. No specific gear is required, but weather-appropriate clothing is advised.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to attractions are not included, and meals or refreshments are separate unless specified. You can choose to pay for entrance or additional activities during the day.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the date, so it’s best to check directly with the provider for current options and seasonal considerations.

How do I get to the pickup location?
Pickup is included within the Northern Cotswolds area, including Oxford. The most economical way from London is via a direct train to Oxford or Charlbury, where pickup can be arranged.

This detailed review captures what makes the Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour a standout option for discovering England’s countryside in a relaxed, personalized way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby