Tucked away in the heart of the English countryside, the Cotswolds region beckons travelers with its quaint villages, rolling hills, and timeless charm. This guided tour offers a tantalizing glimpse into the enchanting world of Downton Abbey, as well as the grandeur of Blenheim Palace – the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Whether you’re a devoted fan of the beloved TV series or simply seeking to learn about the captivating beauty of the English landscape, this full-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience. As you step into the picturesque settings that have captivated audiences worldwide, you’ll be left wondering what other hidden gems await your discovery.
Key Points
• This full-day escorted trip from London explores the Cotswolds region, Blenheim Palace, and Downton Abbey filming locations.
• The tour includes a 2.5-hour visit to the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, 75 minutes in the charming Bourton-on-the-Water, and a 45-minute panoramic tour of the Cotswolds.
• Guests can visit the village of Bampton, the setting for the Downton Abbey TV series, as part of the tour.
• The tour is priced at $101.09 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, with a designated Evan Evans kiosk for check-in and instructions.
Tour Information
This full-day escorted trip through the English countryside offers visitors the chance to explore the enchanting Cotswolds region, marvel at the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, and discover the charming Downton Abbey filming locations.
Likely to sell out, the tour is priced at $101.09 per person and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring a seamless booking experience.
The itinerary includes visits to Blenheim Palace, Bourton-on-the-Water, the Cotswolds, and the village of Bampton, the setting for the beloved TV series Downton Abbey.
With an expert guide, air-conditioned transportation, and included entry fees, this comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable day in the English countryside.
Itinerary
The day-long tour kicks off with a visit to the magnificent Blenheim Palace, where guests can explore the grandeur of its state rooms and wander through the expansive gardens for around 2.5 hours. Next, the group heads to the quintessential Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water, where they’ll have 75 minutes to soak in the charming architecture and tranquil streams. After a quick 45-minute panoramic tour of the Cotswolds, the journey continues to Bampton, the quaint setting for the beloved TV series Downton Abbey. The tour culminates with a visit to this picturesque village, allowing participants to discover the filming locations that brought the show to life.
| Destination | Duration |
|---|---|
| Blenheim Palace | 2.5 hours |
| Bourton-on-the-Water | 75 minutes |
| The Cotswolds | 45 minutes |
| Bampton (Downton Abbey) | – |
| Total Tour Duration | 1 day |
Highlights
Visitors to this tour can look forward to uncovering the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, wandering through its stunning state rooms and vast gardens.
They’ll then soak up the quintessential Cotswolds charm, exploring two picturesque villages and taking in panoramic views of the rolling countryside.
The tour culminates with a visit to Bampton, the charming village that served as the setting for the beloved TV series Downton Abbey, allowing participants to discover the real-life filming locations that brought the show to life.
The highlights include:
- Blenheim Palace: Explore the opulent state rooms and beautiful grounds of this magnificent stately home.
- Cotswolds: Enjoy the quintessential English countryside, visiting two charming villages.
- Panoramic tour: Take in the stunning vistas of the rolling Cotswolds hills and valleys.
- Bampton: Step into the world of Downton Abbey and discover the actual filming locations.
Inclusions
Along with exploring the grandeur of Blenheim Palace and the quaint Cotswolds villages, the tour includes transportation by air-conditioned bus, a knowledgeable guide, and entry to Bampton – the charming Downton Abbey filming location.
Guests will enjoy the comfort of traveling in a climate-controlled coach, led by an expert who can share insights and historical context throughout the day.
The Blenheim Palace ticket provides access to the magnificent state rooms and sprawling grounds, while the visit to Bampton allows you to step into the world of the beloved television series.
With included headsets and audio guides, you’ll be able to fully learn about the rich cultural experience.
Meeting Point
At the Victoria Coach Station, just opposite Gate 1, travelers will find the Evan Evans kiosk – the designated meeting point for this captivating Cotswolds and Downton Abbey adventure.
This convenient location ensures a seamless start to the day as participants gather, ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the idyllic English countryside.
The meeting point offers several benefits:
- Easy accessibility, situated right at the entrance of the coach station.
- Clear signage and a friendly staff to welcome and direct guests.
- Ample space for the group to assemble and receive pre-tour instructions.
- Proximity to public transportation options for those arriving by train or bus.
With this centralized and well-organized meeting point, the adventure is poised to begin on a positive note.
Getting to the Tour
Travelers often arrive at the Victoria Coach Station early, eager to begin their captivating journey through the Cotswolds and Downton Abbey locations.
They’ll find the Evan Evans kiosk, conveniently located opposite Gate 1, where they can check-in and receive their headsets and audio guides.
The air-conditioned bus departs promptly, whisking passengers away from the bustling city streets into the serene English countryside.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, setting the stage for the day’s adventures.
Whether first-time visitors or seasoned travelers, everyone looks forward to the day’s itinerary, which promises a delightful blend of history, picturesque villages, and the enchanting world of Downton Abbey.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a captivating journey through the idyllic Cotswolds countryside and the charming villages that served as backdrops for the beloved television series, Downton Abbey. This full-day escorted tour offers a delightful blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty.
Some highlights include:
- Exploring the magnificent Blenheim Palace, with its grand state rooms and expansive gardens.
- Wandering through the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds.’
- Discovering the quaint village of Bampton, the real-life setting for much of the Downton Abbey series.
- Enjoying a panoramic tour of the stunning Cotswolds region, with visits to two charming villages.
Throughout the tour, guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and have the opportunity to use provided headsets and audio guides to enhance their experience.
Book Your Tour
Embarking on this captivating journey through the Cotswolds and Downton Abbey destinations is as simple as reserving a tour spot. Travelers can secure their place on this immersive exploration, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and the option to pay later.
The tour’s full-day itinerary promises an unforgettable experience, whisking guests through the English countryside to visit Blenheim Palace, the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, and the iconic filming locations of Downton Abbey.
With transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and exclusive access to key attractions, this tour offers unparalleled value, making it a must-book experience for anyone seeking to enjoy the enchanting world of the Cotswolds and Downton Abbey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?
Passengers are welcome to bring their own snacks on the tour. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the tour operator to ensure a comfortable and considerate experience for all participants.
How Much Free Time Is Allowed at Each Location?
The tour allows for ample free time at each location, with approximately 2.5 hours at Blenheim Palace, 75 minutes at Bourton-on-the-Water, and 45 minutes in the Cotswolds villages. This gives guests the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
Are There Any Stops for Restrooms During the Tour?
The tour includes several breaks for restroom stops, allowing participants to refresh themselves and rejuvenate during the day-long journey through the picturesque English countryside. Drivers are attentive to the group’s needs, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
Can I Take Photos Inside Blenheim Palace?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside Blenheim Palace, though some areas may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the staff upon arrival to ensure you can capture the palace’s grand interiors and beautiful gardens during the tour.
Will the Tour Make Any Shopping Stops Along the Way?
The tour does not include any scheduled shopping stops along the way. The focus is on visiting historical sites and cultural landmarks in the English countryside. However, guests may have some free time to explore local shops and boutiques at their own pace during the tour.
Recap
This immersive tour offers a delightful escape into the charming Cotswolds, the opulent grandeur of Blenheim Palace, and the picturesque settings of the beloved Downton Abbey.
With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible booking options, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover the enchanting English countryside at an excellent value.
Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories in this remarkable region.
