Downtown Abbey Village In The Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace & Lunch

Venture into the quintessential English charm of the Cotswolds region, where the beloved TV series Downton Abbey came to life. Discover the picturesque village of Bampton, the filming location for key scenes, and learn about the historic atmosphere. Then, marvel at the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting stunning 18th-century baroque architecture and a fascinating Churchill exhibition. Complete the day with a classic pub lunch, savoring the local cuisine and beverages while soaking in the tranquil beauty of the Cotswolds. What lies ahead promises a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Key Points

Visit the quaint village of Bampton, the primary filming location for the popular TV series Downton Abbey, and explore its picturesque streets and historic sites.
Marvel at the grand baroque architecture and lavish interiors of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
Discover the interactive Churchill Exhibition at Blenheim Palace, showcasing the life, military career, and political achievements of the former British Prime Minister.
Indulge in a traditional British pub lunch, savoring classic dishes like roast beef or fish and chips while soaking in the rustic charm of the Cotswolds region.
Enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned coach transportation with centralized pickup and drop-off locations in London, allowing for a hassle-free day trip.

Explore Blenheim Palace

Visitors can explore the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent 18th-century palace boasts stunning baroque architecture and is set amidst 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland.

Guests can wander through the grand state rooms, admiring the lavish furnishings and impressive artwork. The Churchill Exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the life of the famous statesman, with interactive displays and personal artifacts.

Strolling through the beautifully manicured gardens, visitors can discover the picturesque formal gardens, the tranquil lake, and the iconic grand bridge. Blenheim Palace offers a glimpse into England’s rich history and the life of one of its most influential figures.

Churchill Exhibition at Blenheim

As part of the tour of Blenheim Palace, guests can explore the Churchill Exhibition, which provides an in-depth look into the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, the former prime minister who was born at the grand estate.

The exhibition features:

Interactive displays that showcase Churchill’s early life, military career, and political triumphs.
Artifacts and personal belongings, including his iconic cigars and hats, that offer a glimpse into his daily life.
Multimedia presentations that highlight Churchill’s pivotal role during the Second World War and his enduring impact on British history.

Insightful information about Blenheim Palace’s connection to the Churchill family and its significance as the birthplace of this renowned statesman.

Cotswolds Picturesque Villages

After exploring the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, the tour then takes visitors on a delightful journey through the picturesque Cotswolds villages.

These quintessential English hamlets, with their honey-hued stone cottages, winding streets, and charming town squares, offer a glimpse into the region’s idyllic rural heritage.

The tour stops at the quintessential villages of Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bampton, which served as filming locations for the beloved TV series Downton Abbey.

Visitors can stroll along the medieval streets, browse local shops, and admire the beautiful natural scenery that has drawn travelers to the Cotswolds for centuries.

This picturesque interlude allows travelers to experience the timeless charm of the English countryside.

Stroll Through Burford

From the tranquil villages of the Cotswolds, the tour now leads visitors to the charming town of Burford, where they can stroll along its medieval streets and discover the town’s rich history.

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds,’ Burford boasts:

A grand 15th-century church with stunning architecture.
Rows of picturesque honey-colored stone buildings that line the high street.
Quaint shops and galleries showcasing local crafts and artisanal products.
The Priory, a historic manor house that now houses a boutique hotel and restaurant.

As visitors explore Burford, they’ll be transported back in time, immersed in the quintessential charm of the Cotswolds region.

Bourton-on-the-Water Charming Attractions

The next stop on the tour is the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, known for its charming attractions and tranquil setting.

Visitors can stroll along the River Windrush that runs through the heart of the village, admiring the quaint stone bridges and the unique model village that recreates the local architecture in miniature.

Plus, the village is home to several fascinating museums, including the Cotswold Motoring Museum, which showcases a collection of classic cars and motorcycles.

Bourton-on-the-Water’s peaceful atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it a delightful stop on the Cotswolds tour, providing a chance to take in the region’s quintessential charm.

Downton Abbey Filming Locations

The Cotswolds village of Bampton served as the primary filming location for the beloved television series Downton Abbey, with its charming streets and historic buildings providing the perfect backdrop for the show’s quintessential English countryside setting.

Fans can explore the village and recognize key landmarks, such as:

St Mary’s Church, which stood in for the fictional Downton Abbey church.
The Downton village pub, which was filmed at The Swan Inn.
Churchgate House, used as the exterior of the Crawley family home.
The village green and market square, where many outdoor scenes were shot.

These Downton Abbey filming locations offer visitors a chance to step into the world of the show and enjoy the charming Cotswolds setting.

Pub Lunch Experience

A delightful 2-course pub lunch complements the Cotswolds exploration, offering visitors a quintessential English countryside dining experience. At a charming local pub, guests savor classic British cuisine, such as a hearty roast or fish and chips, paired with refreshing local ales or ciders. The rustic atmosphere and friendly service create a cozy ambiance, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich culinary heritage. The pub lunch is a welcome respite after a morning of sightseeing, providing a chance to refuel and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Cotswolds before continuing the tour.

Menu Items	Description	Price
Roast Beef	Tender roast beef, roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding	£12.95
Fish and Chips	Battered white fish, hand-cut chips, mushy peas, tartar sauce	£10.95
Cotswold Ale	Local craft ale, amber in color with a malty, hoppy flavor	£4.50
Cider	Crisp, refreshing cider made from apples grown in the Cotswolds	£4.25
Chocolate Brownie	Rich, fudgy chocolate brownie served with vanilla ice cream	£6.50

Tour Pickup and Dropoff

After enjoying a satisfying pub lunch, travelers embark on the next leg of the tour, which begins and ends at specific pickup and drop-off locations in London.

The tour departs from Bulleid Way in Victoria at 8:30am and drops off passengers at either Gloucester Road or Victoria around 6:30pm and 7pm, respectively.

This convenient transportation allows guests to focus on the sights without worrying about navigation. The tour includes:

Pickup from a central meeting point in London
Air-conditioned coach transportation
Drop-off at two different locations in London
Arrival back in the city around 6:30-7pm

With the logistics taken care of, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the charming Cotswolds and the grandeur of Blenheim Palace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch?

Yes, the tour offers a 2-course pub lunch, and vegetarian and vegan options are available. Customers can select their preferred dietary requirements when booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a 2-course pub lunch is included in the tour package, which provides a convenient dining option for those who prefer not to bring their own.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes several restroom breaks throughout the day, allowing guests to use the facilities at Blenheim Palace and in the Cotswolds villages. The tour schedule is designed to ensure adequate breaks for guests’ comfort and convenience.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or children. The all-inclusive price applies to all participants, regardless of age. Travellers can still enjoy the tour’s highlights at the regular rate.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Cotswolds After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in the Cotswolds after the tour. The tour provider does not arrange accommodations for the extended stay, so you’ll need to book additional lodging on your own.