Escape the bustle of everyday life and learn about the idyllic splendor of the Northern Cotswolds. This private driving tour invites you to uncover the region’s hidden gems, from quaint honey-hued villages to historic market towns steeped in timeless charm. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll savor a traditional pub lunch, meander along peaceful country lanes, and marvel at the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds’ picturesque landscapes. Prepare to be captivated by the quintessential English countryside as you discover the Cotswolds’ most alluring – and often overlooked – treasures. Where will this journey take you?
Key Points
- A private 7-hour driving tour through the Northern Cotswolds, exploring idyllic villages, famous market towns, and local culture at a flexible pace.
- Curate your own journey through the Cotswolds, discovering charming streets, antique shops, and tranquil landscapes with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.
- Savor an award-winning pub lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients and classic British fare, immersing in the region’s thriving food culture.
- Wander through the moss-covered ruins of the 15th-century Minster Lovell Hall, uncovering the Cotswolds’ rich heritage and captivating history.
- A seamless, customizable experience to explore the hidden gems of the Cotswolds at your own pace, starting from €584.89 per group of up to 7 people.
Tour Overview
This private 7-hour driving tour through the Northern Cotswolds promises an enchanting exploration of the region’s idyllic villages and famous market towns, perfect for a day trip from London.
Guests will have the flexibility to set their own starting time and pickup location, ensuring a truly personalized experience.
From the charming cottages of Great Tew to the quaint high streets of Bourton-on-the-Water and Burford, the tour uncovers the quintessential Cotswolds charm.
Along the way, visitors will stop for a traditional pub lunch, seeing the local culture, before uncovering the medieval ruins of Minster Lovell.
With a knowledgeable local guide and modern, comfortable transportation, this tour offers an unforgettable journey through one of England’s most picturesque landscapes.
Flexible Itinerary
Unencumbered by rigid schedules, guests curate their own journey through the quaint villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds, allowing them to linger at will and bask in the region’s serenity. Savor the freedom to meander through Great Tew’s charming streets, marvel at Stow-on-the-Wold’s antique shops, and discover the quiet tranquility of Lower Slaughter. Saunter through Bourton-on-the-Water’s picturesque bridges, wander the medieval lanes of Burford, and learn about the timeless allure of Swinbrook, Asthall, and Minster Lovell. Your guide’s local expertise ensures each stop aligns with your interests, creating an unparalleled experience tailored to your preferences.
| Village | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Great Tew | Charming streets |
| Stow-on-the-Wold | Antique shops |
| Lower Slaughter | Quiet tranquility |
| Bourton-on-the-Water | Picturesque bridges |
| Burford | Medieval lanes |
Idyllic Villages
Beyond the flexible itinerary, the Cotswolds driving tour offers a chance to revel in the idyllic charm of the region’s quaint villages.
Visitors can stroll through the honey-hued cottages and peaceful lanes of Great Tew, marveling at the timeless elegance that seems to emanate from every cobblestone.
In Bourton-on-the-Water, they’ll wander along the gently flowing River Windrush, pausing to admire the historic bridges and the colorful flower boxes that adorn the limestone buildings.
The charming high street of Burford delights with its antique shops, cozy pubs, and medieval architecture, while the quintessential Cotswolds village of Swinbrook enchants with its tranquil ambiance and picturesque stone houses.
Famous Cotswolds Towns
The Cotswolds tour also takes visitors to several famous towns in the region, each with its own distinct character and captivating history.
Stow-on-the-Wold, a charming market town, beckons with its quaint stone buildings and antique shops, while Lower Slaughter enchants with its picturesque river and ancient mill. In Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ travelers can admire the delightful stone bridges that span the gentle River Windrush.
The tour also includes visits to the historic towns of:
- Burford, with its remarkable 15th-century church and medieval architecture
- Swinbrook, a picturesque village that exudes rural tranquility
- Asthall, home to the captivating Minster Lovell Hall ruins
Award-winning Pub Lunch
During the Cotswolds tour, guests will enjoy a savory lunch at an award-winning traditional pub, where they can enjoy the region’s quintessential culinary delights.
The cozy interior, adorned with rustic charm, sets the stage for a sumptuous feast featuring locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes that celebrate the Cotswolds’ rich gastronomic heritage.
Diners can indulge in classic British fare like hearty pies, succulent roasts, and decadent desserts, all while soaking up the convivial atmosphere of the historic hotel.
The knowledgeable driver-guide will be on hand to recommend the best local specialties and share insights into the Cotswolds’ thriving food culture, ensuring an authentic and memorable dining experience.
Minster Lovell Ruins
Nestled amidst the rolling Cotswolds landscape, the Minster Lovell village enchants visitors with its 15th-century hall ruins, a poignant testament to the region’s captivating history.
Explorers can wander through the moss-covered stone foundations, imagining the lives that once thrived within these hallowed walls. The ruins evoke a sense of timelessness, inviting visitors to step back in time and uncover the tales whispered by the weathered stones.
The peaceful setting, with its tranquil stream and verdant meadows, adds to the site’s allure, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to enjoy the Cotswolds’ rich heritage.
Discover:
- Crumbling stone fireplaces and archways
- Overgrown pathways leading to hidden corners
- Atmospheric ambiance that transports you to centuries past
Inclusions and Exclusions
This private driving tour includes a modern, comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable local driver-guide who’ll grant you full control over the itinerary and route.
However, it excludes entrance fees to attractions, food or refreshments, and pickup outside the Northern Cotswolds – though gratuities aren’t compulsory.
You’ll be immersed in the region’s idyllic villages and famous Cotswolds towns, from the charming Great Tew to the picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a lunch at an award-winning traditional Cotswolds pub and explore the beautiful Minster Lovell village and its 15th-century hall ruins.
This tour offers a seamless, customizable experience to discover the Cotswolds’ hidden gems at your own pace.
Booking Details
Travelers can reserve this private driving tour of the Cotswolds starting at €584.89 per group of up to 7 people, with the option to pay later. Guests are free to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance without any penalties.
This flexible and convenient booking process allows visitors to plan their Cotswolds adventure with ease:
- Secure your spot today and finalize details closer to your travel date
- Choose a pickup location within the Northern Cotswolds that suits your needs
- Enjoy the freedom to explore the region’s idyllic villages and charming towns at your own pace
Whether seeking an escape from the city or a deep dive into English countryside, this private driving tour promises an unforgettable Cotswolds experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour can accommodate a group of up to 7 people, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience as they explore the charming Cotswolds villages at their own pace.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit My Preferences?
This private driving tour can be tailored to suit one’s preferences. The flexible itinerary and routes allow travelers to curate their experience, ensuring they enjoy the Cotswolds’ charm at their own pace.
Are There Any Restrictions on Pickup Locations?
The tour offers flexible pickup locations within the Northern Cotswolds, allowing travelers to start their enchanting journey from a convenient spot. This ensures a seamless and personalized experience amidst the region’s idyllic charm.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera or Binoculars?
You don’t need your own camera or binoculars – the tour provides a knowledgeable local guide who’ll capture the Cotswolds’ idyllic beauty for you. Sit back, relax, and let the scenery unfold before your eyes during this immersive experience.
How Do I Contact the Tour Provider if I Have Any Issues?
If any issues arise, guests can easily contact the tour provider via the provided phone number or email address. The knowledgeable staff will promptly address any concerns, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.
Recap
Enjoy the quintessential English countryside with this private tour through the Northern Cotswolds.
Explore charming villages, renowned market towns, and historic sites at your own pace. Savor a traditional pub lunch, wander peaceful lanes, and marvel at the timeless beauty of honey-hued cottages and idyllic landscapes.
Discover the Cotswolds’ hidden gems, from the captivating Minster Lovell Hall ruins to the picturesque bridges of Bourton-on-the-Water, in a seamless, customizable experience tailored to your interests.
