Escape the hustle and bustle of London for a day and learn about the picturesque world of the Cotswolds. This guided tour promises an unforgettable journey, taking you to the charming villages and iconic filming locations that brought the beloved television series ‘Downton Abbey’ to life. Discover the quaint market square of Bampton, explore historic churches and stately homes, and indulge in a traditional pub lunch in the town of Burford. But the adventure doesn’t end there – venture to the quintessential Cotswolds village of Stow-on-the-Wold, where you’ll have the chance to wander the enchanting streets and uncover the region’s rich history and culture.
Key Points
- A full-day tour exploring the picturesque Cotswolds region, including visits to filming locations of the TV series Downton Abbey.
- Pickup from the cruise ship terminal and drop-off at the hotel, Heathrow Airport, or selected train stations for a hassle-free experience.
- Inclusion of a traditional pub lunch in the charming town of Burford and guided tours led by an English-speaking guide.
- Visits to quaint Cotswolds villages, showcasing the region’s honey-colored stone cottages, local shops, and serene atmosphere.
- Exploration of the historic market square and 17th-century church in the town of Stow-on-the-Wold, known for its rich Roman history.
Tour Details
This tour offers a full-day exploration of the Cotswolds region, including visits to picturesque villages and the filming locations of the popular TV series Downton Abbey.
The tour lasts one day and is led by an English-speaking guide, providing visitors with a comprehensive look at the highlights of the area.
Key stops include the village of Bampton, which served as the setting for many Downton Abbey scenes, as well as the charming town of Burford, where travelers will enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a 15th-century inn.
The tour also visits Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic town with Roman roots.
Transportation and pickup/drop-off services are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off options, with guests being collected from outside the cruise ship customs exit for major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Oceania, NCL, Celebrity, Cunard, Princess, or Azamara.
At the end of the tour, customers can be dropped off at their hotel, Heathrow Airport, or selected train stations, ensuring a seamless start and finish to the day’s activities.
The pickup and drop-off locations are designed to provide maximum convenience for travelers, allowing them to easily access the tour and return to their desired destination. This flexibility ensures a stress-free experience from beginning to end.
The tour’s pickup and drop-off options include:
- Pickup from outside the cruise ship customs exit
- Drop-off at your hotel
- Drop-off at Heathrow Airport or selected train stations
Tour Inclusions
The tour package includes comprehensive transportation, professional tour guidance, and a delightful pub lunch, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.
Guests will be picked up directly from the cruise ship terminal and transported throughout the day in a comfortable vehicle.
An experienced, English-speaking guide will lead the way, providing insightful commentary and sharing the rich history and cultural significance of the Cotswolds region.
Midway through the tour, travelers will enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a charming 15th-century inn in the town of Burford.
This all-inclusive package allows guests to fully enjoy the Downton Abbey-inspired journey without worrying about logistics or additional expenses.
Tour Exclusions
While the tour package includes comprehensive transportation, professional guidance, and a delightful pub lunch, certain expenses aren’t covered. Guests will need to cover the cost of any food and drinks outside of the provided lunch, as well as gratuities for the tour guide and other service providers. These additional costs are the responsibility of the traveler, allowing for greater flexibility and personalization of the overall experience.
The main exclusions from the tour package are:
- Any food or drink beyond the included lunch.
- Gratuities for the tour guide and other service providers.
- Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or additional activities.
Cotswolds Village Visits
Travelers on this day trip will enjoy the quintessential charm of the Cotswolds, exploring picturesque villages that have remained untouched by the passage of time.
The tour will take them to some of the region’s most beloved hamlets, where they’ll wander down winding streets lined with honey-colored stone cottages, browse local shops, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
From the quaint market town of Burford to the historic market square of Stow-on-the-Wold, each stop offers a glimpse into the timeless allure of the Cotswolds.
With photo opportunities at every turn, this portion of the tour allows visitors to truly experience the region’s enduring beauty and timeless appeal.
Downton Abbey Filming Locations
On this tour, visitors will have the opportunity to step into the world of the iconic British period drama ‘Downton Abbey’ by exploring the actual filming locations used in the show.
Located in the charming village of Bampton, these sites provide an immersive experience for fans, allowing them to walk in the footsteps of their beloved characters and witness the picturesque backdrops that brought the series to life.
The tour will take guests to:
- The market square, which served as the village of Downton.
- St. Mary’s Church, where many memorable scenes were filmed.
- Churchgate House, the exterior of the Crawley family’s London residence.
These filming locations offer a unique chance to connect with the beloved characters and settings of ‘Downton Abbey’ in a truly authentic way.
Lunch at 15th-century Inn
The tour culminates with a delightful lunch at a charming 15th-century inn nestled in the Cotswolds town of Burford, allowing visitors to savor the region’s rich history and local cuisine.
This quaint hotel, with its exposed beams and stone walls, offers a glimpse into the past while serving up classic British fare. Theres some good hearty dishes like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, or a roast Sunday lunch, all accompanied by a selection of ales and ciders from local breweries.
The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make this the perfect setting to refuel and soak up the quintessential Cotswolds experience before continuing the day’s adventures.
Stow-on-the-Wold Exploration
After indulging in a satisfying pub lunch, guests will make their way to the quaint town of Stow-on-the-Wold, which boasts a rich Roman history. This charming Cotswolds settlement, nestled atop an ancient Roman road, invites visitors to explore its picturesque streets lined with unique antique shops, traditional tearooms, and historic buildings dating back centuries.
The impressive 17th-century St. Edward’s Church, known for its tower and striking architectural features.
The Market Square, where a bustling open-air market has been held since the 10th century.
The Stocks, a well-preserved example of medieval public punishment that serves as a reminder of the town’s storied past.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, a smaller group size is typically preferred for a personalized experience. The exact group size may depend on the tour provider and availability on the selected tour date.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is generally suitable for children, with its focus on picturesque villages, historical sites, and a pub lunch. However, parents should consider their child’s age and interest level to ensure the tour aligns with their needs.
Can We Stop for Photos During the Tour?
Absolutely, the tour allows for frequent photo stops at the picturesque Cotswolds villages and Downton Abbey filming locations. Guests are encouraged to capture the charming scenery and landmarks throughout the day-long excursion.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can request an extended tour with additional stops or a longer stay at certain locations, though this may incur an additional cost. The tour operator can provide details on customizing the itinerary.
How Often Does This Tour Run per Week?
This tour generally runs multiple times per week, although the exact schedule may vary based on demand. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information on departure frequencies.
Recap
This Cotswolds tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the charming villages and filming locations of the beloved TV series ‘Downton Abbey’.
From guided walks through historic market squares to traditional pub lunches and visits to stately homes, the tour provides a seamless way to discover the beauty and history of this picturesque region, making it an ideal choice for fans and history enthusiasts alike.
