cotswolds tour from cotswolds

Fun, Friendly, Local Small Group Tours

Guided day tours of the Cotswolds from Stratford-upon-Avon and Moreton-in-Marsh

Find out more about our tours

Guaranteed Departures with our TourSure Guarantee

We'll never cancel a tour due to low numbers!

Departures from Stratford-upon-Avon and Moreton-in-Marsh

An easy day trip by train from London, Oxford or Birmingham

Go Cotswolds

Fun, Friendly, Guided Tours of The Cotswolds with a Local Family Business

Our small-group day tours of the Cotswolds (max. 16 people) depart from our home town of Stratford-upon-Avon, or from Moreton-in-Marsh. Private tours for larger groups of up to 16 people are also available! Enjoy as part of a short break, or take an easy day trip by train from London, Reading, Oxford or Birmingham.

We’re a small business with a big love for the Cotswolds – our fun, friendly guides are all local to the Cotswolds and are experts at what they do. Join us for a tour, and discover why we’re so head-over-heels in love with this special place.

Our ‘TourSure’ Guarantee

We promise never to cancel a tour due to low numbers of bookings. That’s one less thing for you to worry about when you book a tour with us! ♥

Cotswolds in a Day

BEST-SELLER! Our signature small-group tour of famous Cotswolds towns, villages and views. Ideal for first-time visitors to the Cotswolds or if you only have one day to spare.

Many dates available, all year round

Departures from Stratford-upon-Avon (8.50AM) and Moreton-in-Marsh (9.30AM). Accessible by train from London, Reading, Oxford, Birmingham and other UK locations.

From £65 per adult, £55 per child (3-15). Sorry, no children under 3.

Learn more about this tour

Secret Cotswolds

As well as better-known Burford and Broadway, on our Secret Cotswolds tour you’ll discover some of the gorgeous Cotswold villages that most visitors miss, but wish they’d seen! A fantastic standalone tour, or pair with Cotswolds in a Day for a comprehensive two-day itinerary.

Many dates available

£65 per adult (16+), £55 for children (3-15). Sorry, no children under 3.

Bath & Stonehenge

NEW for 2024! Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of England with our small group tour to Bath and Stonehenge. Check not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites off your bucket list in a day!

Tuesdays – launches May 2024!

Departures from Stratford-upon-Avon (8.30AM) and Moreton-in-Marsh (9.00AM). Accessible by train from London, Reading, Oxford, Birmingham and other UK locations.

£90 per adult (16+), £80 for children (3-15). Sorry, no children under 3. Admission to Stonehenge is charged separately – payment will be collected on the day of the tour.

Cotswolds Walks & Villages

SUMMER SPECIAL – SELECT DATES ONLY! In small groups of just 12 people, join one of our experienced walking guides in the heart of the Cotswolds walking country. Discover charming villages, meandering trails and timeless landscapes.

Selected dates, May to September 2024

Pick up points in Stratford-upon-Avon (8.50AM) and Moreton-in-Marsh (9.30AM). Accessible by train from London, Reading, Oxford, Birmingham and other UK locations.

£75 adults (16+), £65 children (3-15 years). Sorry, no children under 3, and we do not recommend this tour for children under 8. Not recommended for people with mobility difficulties.

Private Cotswolds in a Day Tour for 1-16 people

Instantly book a private version of our Cotswolds in a Day tour for you and your family and friends (ideal for 6-16 people). Based on our best-selling small-group tour .

Door-to-door pick-up/drop-off available from select locations, including Stratford-upon-Avon, Moreton-in-Marsh, Oxford, Cheltenham and more.

Prices start from £850 per day (includes £50 booking fee). Not recommended for small children. Terms apply for children under 3 .

Private Tours

Ideally suited to groups of up to 16 people travelling together, a private tour with Go Cotswolds allows more convenience and flexibility than our shared guided day tours. Choose a private Cotswolds in a Day Tour , or create an itinerary that is completely tailored to your needs.

Learn more about our private tours

Minibus Hire

When we’re not providing our award-winning small group tours of the Cotswolds, our vehicles are available for private hire. Chauffeured by our friendly, fully qualified and insured drivers, our comfortable, luxury minibuses are ideal for day trips and travel-related services for groups of up to 16 people where a standard car or 8-seater minivan would be too small.

Learn more about minibus hire

Great experiences make great gifts! Gift vouchers are available for any of our Cotswolds tours and, with a two-year expiry, there’s plenty of time to find the right date.

Other gifts coming soon!

Browse our range of gifts

About Go Cotswolds

With a love for independent travel and a spirit of adventure, Tom & Lisa Benjamin founded Go Cotswolds in 2014. Based in Shakespeare’s home town of Stratford-on-Avon, we’re head-over-heels in love with the nearby Cotswolds and want to show visitors around this beautiful region we call our ‘back yard’.

We create the kind of experiences we enjoy on our own travels, right here at home – fun, friendly, welcoming tours, with expert local guides who feel more like friends than teachers.

We’re a small business with a big love for the Cotswolds. Like us, our small team of warm, friendly guides are all local to this area and love it as much as we do! Join us for a tour, and discover why this beautiful region is so special to us.

Read more about Go Cotswolds

Stay Up-to-Date

Go_cotswolds.

Tripadvisor

Secret Cotswolds tour is now on!

How to take a Go Cotswolds tour from Southampton

We help to protect the Cotswolds with the Caring for the Cotswolds scheme

Award-winning tours.

As a small, family-run business, we are incredibly proud of our excellent reputation for delivering fun, friendly day tours.

We were delighted to receive the award for ‘Experience of the Year’ at the 2023 West Midlands Tourism Awards, as well as Tripadvisor’s 2023 Traveller’s Choice Award, which puts us in the top 10% of Tripadvisor listings around the world! We have also received over 1100 5* Tripadvisor reviews, as well as hundreds of further reviews on Google, Facebook, Get Your Guide and Viator.

Go Cotswolds has featured in national and international press, and is recommended in guide books including Rick Steves’ Great Britain, and Japan’s Chikyu-No-Arukikata Plat series.

Sign up for our newsletter

Sign up to receive the latest news and updates!

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *

By providing my email I agree for Go Cotswolds to contact me via email with news, events and updates. Your data is stored securely and we never pass it on to third parties.

Privacy Overview

THE 10 BEST Cotswolds Tours & Excursions

Cotswolds tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

2. Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

3. Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London

4. Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds & Warwick Castle Tour from London

5. Cotswolds Tour from London with Lunch

6. Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)

7. Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon

8. Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon and Cotswolds Tour from London

9. Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol

10. The Cotswolds Guided Day Tour from London

11. Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London

12. Cotswolds Experience - full day small group day tour from Bath ( Max 14 persons)

13. Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London

14. Small Group Cotswolds Village, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

15. Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London

16. 1 hour Axe Throwing Experience at Notgrove

17. England in One Day: Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Day Trip from London

18. Full Day Cotswolds Tour; Where Opulence and Heritage Converge

19. Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

20. Blenheim Palace Tour and The Cotswolds Day Trip from London

21. Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

22. Cotswolds Private Day Tour

23. Private tours to Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

24. Private Cotswold Villages Day Tour see the beauty of the Villages

25. Secret Cotswolds Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-upon-Avon

26. The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

27. Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

28. Private Day Tour to Oxford and The Cotswolds

29. Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol

30. Private Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon

What travelers are saying.

• Elyssa H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend!! This tour was amazing! James was lovely and extremely knowledgeable. Very easy to find the meeting point, stopped along the way for toilet break and to get snacks. Would recommend to anyone! Read more Review of: Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London Written April 28, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Hannah S 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun Day Trip From London Great tour! Our tour guide Godfrey and driver Michaelangelo lead us on a great day trip from London. Definitely recommend to all! Read more Review of: Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London Written April 28, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
• Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)
• Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London
• Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London
• Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)
• Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London
• Cotswolds Guided Tours
• CJP Cotswold Tours
• Cotswold Tours & Travel
• Cotswold Tours by Fowler Tours
• Cotswolds Adventures
• Cotswold Tours & Executive Travel
• Kooky Cotswold Tours
• Cotswold Luxury Tours
• Bloody Bourton Walking Tour
• RAW Photographic
• Baboon Adventures
• Discover Paddling
• Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures
• Cotswold eBikes

Discover Our Guided Tours

Explore the Cotswolds...

Cotswold Gardens Tour

Explore some of England's finest gardens...

Downton Abbey & the Cotswolds

Cotswold Film Locations Tour

“Much more memorable than an impersonal bus tour or just driving around… I felt like we were hanging out with one of the cool insiders of the area!”

Scott R, Alabama, USA

Discover the cotswolds with a private, tailor-made tour for 2024, why choose cjp.

CJP Cotswold Tours was first established in 2002 and is a family-run business owned and operated by Chris and Ruth, who are married with two daughters. We provide private cultural and sightseeing tours of the Cotswolds and other areas of the UK.  

Our private driver guided luxury tours give you the freedom to discover the beauty and charm of the region, whilst enjoying the view from the comfort of our executive 4 and 7 passenger vehicles.

Chris and his team of guides live locally and are experienced professional drivers. Having lived in the area for over 50 years, we are very familiar with those ‘off-the-beaten-track’ and easily missed locations.

Northern Cotswolds Tour

Visit towns and villages such as Broadway, Chipping Campden, Bourton-on-the-Water and the Slaughters.

Southern Cotswolds Tour

Visit villages, towns and cities such as Burford, Bibury, Cirencester, Tetbury and Royal Bath Spa.

Discover our award-winning tailor-made luxury cultural and sightseeing tour options for the Cotswolds and other areas of the UK.

View Our Past Tours Gallery >

Quick enquiry form.

Please provide as much information as possible in order for us to be able to provide a quote for a tour.

Our Luxury Cotswold Tours – Now Booking for 2024 & 2025

 During a tour of the Cotswolds, your local guide will ensure that you visit the best locations within the northern and southern regions. You’ll discover the chocolate-box villages and charming woollen-market towns the Cotswolds is famous for, as well as medieval churches, quintessential English gardens, manor houses and other points of interest – as well as those beyond the usual highlights.

Our private driver guided tours give you the freedom to discover the beauty and charm of the region, whilst enjoying the view from the luxury and comfort of our executive 4 and 7 passenger vehicles.

Throughout the day, your guide will share facts and other information about places as you pass through them, giving you an insight into historic and daily life in the Cotswolds. You’ll also have an opportunity to take short walks around some of the places and stop off at a local 17th or 18th Century inn, restaurant or delicatessen for lunch.

Get in touch to organise your tour and find out how we can help.

Read About The Cotswolds >

Follow us on instagram….

Tours and tales to bring your visit alive

A walk through history, walking tours 10.30am-12 noon.

Sean Callery

Welcome! I live in the beautiful Cotswolds and I love sharing its stories and sights.

I’m a qualified Blue Badge guide for the area and a Green Badge city guide in Oxford. I really love giving tours because there's so much to see and enjoy, plus fantastic stories to share.

Read more >

Pun times in Oxford

Cotswolds safari... continued!

Cotswold safari part one

Ten reasons why you should visit Hook Norton

Chipping Norton: the town that moved up the hill

how does it work

GUIDED TOURS

Www.cotswoldsguidedtours.co.uk [email protected] landline +44 (0) 1608 654 445 mobile / whatsapp +44 (0) 7756513150.

Cotswolds guided tours

'Cotswolds Guided Tours' was created by locals Lucy & Richard Lambert in 2017. Their aim was simple, to provide fun & affordable tours exploring the best the Cotswolds has to offer. The company has grown from strength to strength, with over 800+ excellent reviews. If you book with Cotswolds Guided Tours you will receive unrivalled quality at an affordable price

We are excited to also announce that 'Cotswolds Guided Tours' has been recommended in 'Rick Steve's 2023 England Travel Guide' It is amazing to be recognised for the work that we do & we are proud our little company has been featured !

Lucy & Richard specialise in tours throughout the North Cotswolds, bringing the region to life with local stories & quirky history. They focus on guests enjoying free time for self exploration at each stop & provide live guided commentary between each location. Cotswold tours are designed to ensure you have the maximum amount of time outside & the minimum amount of time in transit. So if you want a fun filled day out enjoying the Cotswolds countryside, towns & villages our tours are the perfect addition to your vacation. Book a Cotswolds Guided Tour with Lucy & Richard today! 

cotswold Tour Guides

Looking to explore a region that seems untouched by the passage of time? The Cotswolds is the perfect escape. Imagine wandering through villages with gorgeous cottages, steeped in history & surrounded by glorious countryside.  Lucy & Richard, love all things Cotswolds & are here to help you explore this wonderful region in a fun & relaxing way. Being locals, Lucy & Richard know all the best places to explore, whether you are visiting the Cotswolds as part of a larger UK holiday or if you are wishing to escape the city for the day, you will receive an unrivalled personal experience with these two fun & friendly local guides.

Lucy Lambert

Lucy loves meeting visitors from all around the globe. Having extensively travelled she has a passion for exploring & quirky history. 15 years ago, Lucy & Richard bought the Cotswold cottage that Lucy used to visit as a child, which they have lovingly restored into a beautiful family home.

Lucy is super organised & loves to help travellers plan their perfect trip. She is in charge of all the behind the scenes admin & social media!

richard lambert

Rich loves nature, exploring new places, walking & generally being outside. He enjoys taking photos, loves travel, history & local folklore which is perfect as he is our lead tour guide!

He is passionate about the Cotswolds & enjoys sharing hidden gems with guests. When he isn't working he can be found pottering in his Cotswolds cottage garden.

the cotswolds

The Cotswolds is one of the largest Area's of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England. Covering almost 800sq miles the region is famed for its picture-perfect cottages, rolling hills & historic market towns. If you are planning a holiday to England, then the Cotswolds is the perfect choice for escaping the big cities & exploring the quintessential English countryside.

The Cotswolds is easily accessible as a day trip from London with regular trains from London Paddington to Moreton in Marsh. It is also only a 30 minute train ride from Oxford, making it super easy to visit for the day. If you are planning to stay in the Cotswolds, taking a tour with a local guide will ensure you don't miss a thing.

cotswold tour  availability

We would love to be part of your time visiting the Cotswolds!

Our little business runs award-winning Cotswold tours visiting the very best villages & market towns.

We fill the day with fun & quirky facts, travel down quiet country lanes & stop in the most wonderful locations. 

We are always over subscribed for our tours so do check we still have your preferred date available.

Lucy & Richard Lambert have created fun & affordable tours, showcasing the best the Cotswolds has to offer.

‘’We want you to feel like you’re visiting old friends; we will share with you the wonders of the Cotswolds. This is a friendly and relaxed Cotswolds tour where we will treat you as our special guests. We have both lived and worked in the Cotswolds for many years and we look forward to sharing the area's famous locations & hidden gems with you.’’ Lucy & Richard

Affordable private cotswolds tours

Our private Cotswolds tours visit t he very best & most beautiful locations. Designed to  maximise your time exploring & limit the time you spend travelling between stops.   Travel with your fun, friendly local guides Lucy & Richard. Enjoy live microphone commentary as you are driven down quiet country lanes. They will share the quirky history, local facts & make sure you don't miss a thing.  Make the most of your trip to the Cotswolds & discover hidden villages, quirky history & explore the region with a local guide. Lots of free time to explore so you can make the most of your day! Private tours are prices start at £395 per vehicle which can accommodate up to 7 guests . Collection & Return from your North Cotswolds accommodation or railway station.

quick links

Cotswolds Guided Tours, is an award winning tour company run by locals Lucy & Richard. Spend a wonderful day out on a private Cotswold tour. Your Cotswolds day trip will be filled with fun & quirky facts, lots of free time to explore & visiting all the best locations. If you are looking to spend time in this beautiful region then taking a guided Cotswolds tour is the best way to ensure you don't miss a thing. Go Cotswolds exploring with Lucy & Richard for a fun & rewarding sightseeing experience. Cotswolds travel couldn't be easier, visit all the must see market towns & hidden villages on tour with us. The affordable way to explore, travel with confidence, Lucy & Richard have over 800, 5* reviews!

Cotswolds Bus Tours

Cotswolds Bus Tours are part of the Shakespeare Coaches family. All our guides are local to the Cotswolds and are dedicated to providing our guests with unforgettable luxury adventures through The Cotswolds!

Our small-group day tours of the Cotswolds (max. 16 people) depart from our home town of Stratford-upon-Avon and Moreton-in-Marsh

Our multi-day Cotswolds Bus Tours for groups of up to 16 people run twice a week from London and our luxury guest accommodation is provided by Grove Road Cottages – luxury self catering cottages located in the heart of Stratford Upon Avon.e can arrange pick up for Private Group Tours from all cities across England.

Top Sellers

Self Guided

Luxury & Tailor-made

Cycling Tours

P.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px lora; color: #24252a} our most popular tours.

Cotswold Walks give you choices. We offer a variety of self-guided and guided walking and cycling holidays suitable for all abilities and interests. We specialise in customised walking tours.

Best of the Cotswolds

From £1,075

Bath & Wiltshire

From £855

The Cotswold Ring

From £945

Classic Cotswolds Cycle Tour

80.75 miles

From £675

Oxford to Bath Walk

From £1,440

Cotswold Scenic

From £2,245

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px Lora; color: #24252a} How booking works

Choose your tour and start date, customise your ideal walking tour, let us take care of the details.

You can trust us to organise and coordinate every little detail of the proposed tour. We will provide you with a comprehensive confirmation and quotation.

Only when you are happy with all the details will we ask for a deposit payment to secure your booking; subject to terms and conditions.

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px Lora; color: #24252a} We take pride in providing a gold standard service

Living and working in the Cotswolds is an essential part of what makes Cotswold Walks different from our competitors. We are out walking every day with our dog, Clover and know the area almost as well as she does. 

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px Lora; color: #24252a} What our customers say…

I can honestly say that it was the best vacation of my life! We loved every minute of it and with your planning it went without a hitch! We did manage to get turned around twice during the walk, which we put down to our own error by misreading the map instructions, but were easily able to get back on track. All of the accommodations provided friendly owners, great breakfasts and locations.

We just came back from a 4 day hiking trip of the Cotswolds Triangle. We had a fantastic time! Everything was very well organised and attention was paid to every single detail (e.g. luggage tags, a plastic cover for our booklet with directions, good suggestions for wining and dining). Communication with the company leading up to our trip, also went very smoothly. I would definitely use Cotswolds Walks again and would highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to explore the beautiful Cotswolds.

We all agreed that we had a wonderful time in the Cotswolds and thank you so much for making it a very special holiday.  Our days were planned so well and it was nice to have everything taken care of ahead of time for us.  You live in a special part of the world and it was a great experience to visit it.  A big thank you to Robert as well - such a pleasure to walk around with him for a couple of days.

My wife and I were initially circumspect for the need of such detail your guide provided and we laughed at the thought and at some of the guide’s vocabulary, but a chance meeting with an American couple the night before our first day on the Walk quickly dispelled any doubt. They had just used your services for their Walk and said to follow the guide and we wouldn’t go wrong. We did, and they were right! Again, thank you for taking good care of us.

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px Lora; color: #24252a} Follow us on Instagram

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px Lora; color: #24252a} Our Blog

Cotswold Gardens

2023: Three Decades of Cotswold Walks

Rick and Lissie’s Cotswold Adventure - The Best of the Cotswolds

P.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 40.0px lora; color: #24252a} our walking tours have been designed to offer the best possible walking routes throughout the cotswolds., guided tours, self-guided walking,  and cycling tours, luxury & tailor-made.

Cotswold Walks

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Cotswolds Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Cotswolds. We've got 65 adventures going to Cotswolds, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 24 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the largest number of tour departures.

65 Cotswolds tour packages with 252 reviews

• Coach / Bus

Heart of England

This tour was excellent. Derek was a very entertaining tour guide & our driver had a great sense of humour. I highly recommend travelling with Tour Rad.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Cycle the Cotswolds: Oxford to Bath

• Christmas & New Year

Discover Wales 5-Day Small-Group Tour from London

This was my first Rabbie's Tour, but I suspect it won't be the last. The mini-bus was small enough to get us down some very narrow roads and tight spaces, but plenty large enough for the 16 of us. The choice of itinerary was inspired; we didn't see the main Welsh towns, but instead the smaller ones and enjoyed the lovely little out-of-the-way stops along the way. But what made the tour truly excellent was Jack, our bus driver/group manager/tour guide. He was unflappable, flexible, and resourceful. A day of dealing with flash flooding in Wales became a one-of-a-kind day, thanks to his driving abilities, knowledge, and adaptability to conditions. If I had any quibbles with the trip, it was that communications beforehand could have been more complete. For example, we didn't understand that we were staying in different hotels in small groups, rather than one larger hotel as one group. It was fine, but quite a surprise the first time.

• In-depth Cultural

Britain & Ireland Discovery (Classic, 22 Days)

Our tour guide was brilliant .I really enjoyed the history.

Highlights of Britain

Elegance of Great Britain (Classic, Start London, 12 Days) (9 destinations)

British Royale (Small Groups, End Edinburgh, 10 Days, Door To Door)

British Royale (Small Groups, End London, 11 Days, Door To Door)

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds (London to Cotswolds) (2024)

Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds (London to Cotswolds) (2025)

• Wine tasting

Elegance of Great Britain (Small Groups, Start London, 12 Days)

Elegance of Great Britain (Small Groups, Start London, 13 Days)

Elegance of Great Britain (Small Groups, Start Edinburgh, 12 Days)

• Coastal Walks
• Hiking & Trekking

Country Roads of Wales, Devon & Cornwall (Small Groups, 11 Days) (from Oxford to London)

Country Roads of Wales, Devon & Cornwall (Small Groups, 13 Days) (23 destinations)

What people love about cotswolds tours.

This tour was excellent. Derek was a very entertaining tour guide & our driver had a great sense of humour. I highly recommend travelling with Tour Rad.

Neil was an excellent tour director/driver. His local knowledge as we passed thru villages was very helpful in understanding how Wales 'works'. I liked the late start in the mornings-9a.m., and the fact that we stayed for 2 nights in 2 locations. I would have liked the opportunity to walk in Snowdoniia

Greg was an enthusiastic snd knowledgeable tour guide. Arthur was an excellent driver. Together they made the tour a pleasure with their dedicated ,good humoured professionalism.

• England Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Top Tours in Cotswolds, England

Cotswolds tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

2. Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

3. Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London

4. Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds & Warwick Castle Tour from London

5. Cotswolds Tour from London with Lunch

6. Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)

7. Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon

8. Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon and Cotswolds Tour from London

9. The Cotswolds Guided Day Tour from London

10. Cotswolds and Lavender Fields Tour with Country Pub Lunch

11. Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London

12. Cotswolds Experience - full day small group day tour from Bath ( Max 14 persons)

13. Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London

14. Small Group Cotswolds Village, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

15. Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London

16. England in One Day: Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Day Trip from London

17. Full Day Cotswolds Tour; Where Opulence and Heritage Converge

18. Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

19. Blenheim Palace Tour and The Cotswolds Day Trip from London

20. Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

21. Cotswolds Private Day Tour

22. 30 Minutes Private Terrarium Making Experience in Cirencester

23. Private tours to Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

24. Private Cotswold Villages Day Tour see the beauty of the Villages

25. Secret Cotswolds Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-upon-Avon

26. The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

27. Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

28. Private Day Tour to Oxford and The Cotswolds

29. Stonehenge and Cotswold Villages Full-day Tour from Bristol

30. Private Cotswolds and Stratford upon Avon

What travellers are saying.

• Elyssa H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend!! This tour was amazing! James was lovely and extremely knowledgeable. Very easy to find the meeting point, stopped along the way for toilet break and to get snacks. Would recommend to anyone! Read more Review of: Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London Written 28 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Hannah S 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun Day Trip From London Great tour! Our tour guide Godfrey and driver Michaelangelo lead us on a great day trip from London. Definitely recommend to all! Read more Review of: Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London Written 28 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
• Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)
• Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London
• Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London
• Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds. Small guided day tour from Bath (Max 14 persons)
• Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London
• Cotswolds Guided Tours
• CJP Cotswold Tours
• Cotswold Tours & Travel
• Cotswold Tours by Fowler Tours
• Cotswolds Adventures
• Cotswold Tours & Executive Travel
• Kooky Cotswold Tours
• Cotswold Luxury Tours
• Bloody Bourton Walking Tour
• RAW Photographic
• Baboon Adventures
• Discover Paddling
• Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures
• Cotswold eBikes

• Chauffeur Services
• Cotswolds Blog

Customize your tour according to your preferences and interests …

We prioritize our guests’ satisfaction at Cotswold Tours & Travel. Our ultimate objective is to create a personalized and unforgettable experience that caters to your every preference and interest. Whether you are seeking guided tours of the Cotswolds with additional stops to explore a castle or a visit to a local family farm, or if you desire a multi-day excursion throughout the entirety of the UK, we will design itineraries based on your desires.

We will take into account your desired starting time, culinary preferences, and historical or cultural interests. Whether you want to explore England while incorporating a Harry Potter tour , visit a unique garden, or indulge in a lavish afternoon tea break, we can tailor each and every one of our tours to align with your preferences. Dip your toes in and modify your experience according to your individual taste – we are here to fulfill your desires! Most importantly, remember that this is your much-needed vacation in the United Kingdom, and with our expertise and luxury transportation, our team is here to listen and make your dream tour a reality.

All Categories

Cotswold tours.

Experience the enchanting beauty of the Cotswolds: a harmonious blend of lush green landscapes, quintessentially British villages, towns teeming with wealth from the historic wool trade, centuries-old history, magnificent stately homes, and dreamy private gardens. Immerse yourself in the true essence of this expansive Cotswold region with our personalized private guided tours. No tourist bus or map can match the hidden treasures we unveil along the captivating country roads and secluded Cotswold villages. Every aspect of our Cotswold tours is tailored to your preferences and desires. So come, let this picturesque Cotswold countryside be your playground for a truly memorable day.

Our Top 10 Most Popular Tours

We are delighted to present a remarkable selection of tours and experiences in the Cotswolds and its surroundings. Celebrate the splendors of the English countryside, cities, and culture with our diverse range of offerings. Flexibility is key, as all our tours can be tailored to your specific interests and preferences. Allow us to introduce the 10 most sought-after Cotswold tours in 2023, loved by our esteemed clientele!

Family Adventures

Are you searching for a way to tire out the little ones? Why not allow them to frolic in the picturesque meadows of the Cotswolds? Our tours cater to families, ensuring that everyone has a fantastic experience and memories to cherish. Treat them to the joy of feeding cute baby farm animals or provide them with an introduction to pastry making – perfect for enjoying British delights in the afternoon. With our amusing activities holding the attention of both youngsters and adults, embark on an exciting journey and explore the enchanting marvels of the Cotswold region as a joyful, united family.

Unique Experiences in the Cotswolds

Seeking to break down the conventional constraints of ordinary tours, we have revolutionized the way you experience the world by interweaving unique experiences into your itineraries. Unearth the substantial richness of each destination as you gain encounters unseen to the average tourist. With our distinctly unequaled method of exploration, bask in remarkable endeavors while still indulging in detachment, supreme luxury, unparalleled tranquility, and an exclusively tailored selection solely curated for our distinguished guests.

Cotswold Day Trips From London

Escape the frantic pace of London life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the English countryside for a day. With our Cotswold day trips, we offer a range of experiences, whether it's indulging in a peaceful picnic on our picturesque family farm, exploring the opulence of Blenheim Palace or stepping into the world of Downton Abbey by visiting its captivating film set locations. Our expertise in the countryside ensures that your time away from the City is optimized and unforgettable. Options aplenty await you in the English countryside.

Day Tours from the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, with its strategic location, invites you to embark on a variety of day tours, discover the enticing neighboring areas of the Cotswolds with their rich history, vibrant cities, and iconic landmarks. Unveil the enchantment of Oxford University, embrace the magnificence of Waddesdon Manor and Blenheim Palace, encounter the mystical charm of Stonehenge, experience the grand City of Bath, unravel hidden secrets at Bletchley Park, and embrace the awe-inspiring atmosphere of Warwick Castle. These are just a few of the captivating destinations frequently explored from the Cotswolds.

Tours for Couples

Embarking on a journey as a couple is a delightful quest, brimming with exciting discoveries, moments of romance, and succulent gastronomy. Designing an idyllic vacation for you and your partner in an unfamiliar locale can be overwhelming. Let us alleviate that burden! Allow us to transport you to captivating vistas teeming with romance, offer gentle indulgences in opulent décor of a stately mansion while relishing afternoon tea. Alternatively, cozy up alongside crackling fires at the best pubs, curated with care, as we navigate through Mother Nature's finery, escorting you across the enticing homelands of England's majestic countryside.

Transfer & Tour

Simplify your travel and vacation exploration with our convenient Transfer & Tour service! Skip the hassle of navigating busy trains and buses when arriving in or moving through the picturesque Cotswolds region. Sit back and relax while we handle your transport needs to your next destination. Plus, discover the remarkable landmarks along the way and get the most out of your vacation time with an enjoyable tour of the outstanding sights throughout the United Kingdom.

Multi-Generational Tours

Our tours strive to take you on a journey beyond the usual visit, providing an exceptional adventure that guarantees fun and education for every person in your family. Perfectly designed for all ages, involving a harmonious mix of timeless and modern activities that doesn't fail to pique the interest of everyone, we ensure an unforgettable experience: A treasure trove of enduring memories awaiting you and your loved ones.

Meet the Locals

Within the enchanting region of the Cotswolds, residents of this stunning area are cherished for their exceptional qualities. Throughout our excursions, we take great pride in commending these esteemed locals, as they truly represent the very essence of our adventure. Here, you'll have the opportunity to interact with individuals like Mervyn, a pioneering breeder of farm animals in the UK, or become acquainted with the esteemed champion of rural advocacy, Robin, who has received heartfelt recognition from King Charles himself. By embarking on these unforgettable ventures alongside us, expect to not only gain profound insights from these knowledgeable souls but also forge everlasting bonds along the way.

Glorious English Gardens

Explore the beautiful English Gardens in all their glory. Nestled in the North Cotswolds, you will find an array of prestigious gardens that have won numerous accolades. Discover the renowned Hidcote Manor, with its enchanting atmosphere, or seek tranquility at the soothing Bourton House. Should you visit the southern part of this region, a visit to Barnsley House and the jaw-dropping Iford Manor Gardens is a must. These gardens offer an unparalleled blend of breathtaking vistas, enchanting borders with fragrant English roses, and an explosion of vibrant color. Furthermore, we have connections to the most exquisite private gardens in England, offering you a truly unmatched and distinctive garden visit.

Tours of Wales

Don't miss out on the remarkable country that often goes unnoticed - Wales, an exquisite gem in the United Kingdom. Explore its breathtaking beaches, flourishing wildlife, incredible abundance of castles (which surpasses any other place on Earth!), impeccable steam train heritage, and unrivaled family adventures. Now, why wouldn't you be enticed to embark on a captivating journey through the wonders of Wales?

Tours of Cornwall & Devon

Cornwall & Devon the golden coasts of the U.K. offer something for everybody; breathtaking coastlines, idyllic beaches, quaint historic fishing villages, adventures for families, a haven of leading food and drink selections, locations famed from tv and film, a relaxing way of life surrounded by some of the most memorable history our shores have seen!

Tours of the U.K

With the United Kingdom bursting at the seams with incredible destinations, it's no surprise that planning a trip there can be daunting. But fret not and let us take care of everything as we venture across this magical country with you. Our expert driver guides are capable of conducting nationwide tours, and with specialist providers located throughout the UK, we guarantee unforgettable tours in Wales, Cornwall, and the enchanting city of Liverpool.

Walking Tours of the Cotswolds

When walking in the Cotswolds you can expect quintessential England; landscapes of lush green rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and charming villages scattered in between. Our walking tour guides will take the stress out of planning and lead you around the footpaths of the Cotswolds.

Don’t see a tour that suits you?

We truly have a tour and experience for everybody, if you don’t see something you want or have seen pictures of an experience on our social media but it is not here, please let us know as certain tours and experiences we keep exclusively off the internet.

Independent Walking Tours & Hiking Vacations In The Heart Of England

Walking holidays in the cotswolds.

Make an enquiry

The Original & Longest Established Independent Provider Of Walks In The Cotswolds

Welcome to The Cotswolds , widely recognised as the walking capital of England. Attracting visitors from all around the world, we’re extremely fortunate to call it home. We have been offering walking tours & hiking vacations in the Cotswolds (sometimes referred to as the Cotswalds) since 1993. We live and work in the heart if this area of gentle hills and extraordinarily beautiful villages, giving us over 35 years experience of helping our clients experience our beloved Cotswolds region first-hand.

Our travel styles

We’ve grouped our holidays into categories so it’s even easier to find your perfect holiday.

• Self Guided Walks

Our selection of self guided tours allow for all levels of fitness and experience

• Guided Walks

Our guided walking tours use a knowledgeable, local guide for history lovers

Tailor Made Tours

Our custom walking tours can be hand-crafted to your ideal specification

• Themed Walks

Choose from cider making experiences, to angling holidays, to garden tours

Luxury Walks

For our clients who are looking for that extra level of luxury when they’re travelling

Cycling Tours

Our cycling holidays can be tailored for all sized groups - families or friends

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an area of gentle hills, but with a maximum altitude of just over one thousand feet, walking here is within the reach of almost anyone. Yet, those same hills mean that wonderful, dramatic views are possible with comparatively little effort – views down to gem-like villages, and across valleys and plains to the Black Mountains in Wales, the Malvern Hills and the Forest of Dean, another beautiful part of Gloucestershire beyond the River Severn.

Cotswold Guide

Malmesbury Abbey

Nov 3, 2023

The abbey, visible from afar, is unmistakable, even though it is much diminished in stature (in all senses). It was founded as a Benedictine monastery around 675 either by an Irish monk named Maildubh (from whom, some say, the town gets its name) or the scholar-poet...

Popular Tours

Best Of The Cotswolds Walking Tour

An 8-night self-guided circular walking holiday

Self-guided walk

Best Of The Cotswolds In Luxury Walking Tour

An 8-night self-guided circular walking holiday with accommodation in manors and luxury hotels

Heart Of The Cotswolds Walking Tour

A 5-night self-guided classic walking holiday 

Heart Of The Cotswolds In Luxury Walking Tour

A 5-night self-guided classic walking holiday with accommodation in manors and luxury hotels

Available upon request

South Cotswolds Ring Walking Tour

A 5-night self-guided walking tour beginning and ending in the beautiful town of Cheltenham

Grand Tour Of The Cotswolds On Foot Walk

A 9-night self-guided walking tour of the best of the Cotswold Way with additional scenery not on the official route 

Heart Of William Morris Country Walk

A 3-night self-guided easy walking holiday in the heart of William Morris country

Cotswolds Interlude Short Break Walking Tour

Bath & The Cotswolds Walking Tour

A 5-day self-guided walking holiday beginning and ending in Bath

Cotswold Circle Walking Tour

A 7-night self-guided walking tour beginning and ending in Cheltenham

Cotswold Way Long-Distance Walking Tour

A 7 – 12 night 102-mile self-guided long-distance walking tour

7 - 12 Nights

Guided Cotswolds Walking Tour

A 5-night guided group walking tour with a personalised experience

The Cotswolds Classic Cycling Tour

4-night self-guided cycling tour that takes you into the classic areas of the Cotswolds

Self-guided cycling

The Cotswolds Highlights Cycling Tour

5-night self-guided cycling tour that takes you into the best of the Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace

What our customers say…

I want to thank you for a fabulous holiday. Sadly it has come to an end. What an amazing area! We will have to return again.  With warm regards."

C & G C, USA

"Dear Christopher,

Kay and I thank you for a wonderful experience in England. Your personal interest in our travels and research was much appreciated.

Please feel comfortable using us a reference for any future clients that might request references. I have attahed a letter to Ms. G. R recommending and complimenting your service to us.

If you ever travel to Tennessee, we would be happy to return the favor.

Best Regards."

Tennessee State Senator, USA

"Hi Ann and Chris,

Just had to contact you to say the holiday in the Cotswolds was fantastic. The accomodation was all very good - the Broadway Hotel and the Redesdale (Morton) were exceptional.

I was also amazed how efficient the taxis were for ourselves and the luggage. Your directions (maps etc.) were so easy to follow and we felt we could relax all the time. So, thanks so much for all the effort which must have gone into the organisation, we really appreciate it.

Kind regards"

"Hi Ann / Chris,

Chris, we had a wonderful time. A few notes are attached with minor suggestions about directions. The snafu over lodging in Winchcombe was handled gracefully, and we think the Lion and Wesley House were actually a step up from the White Hart. We found excellent evening dining options along the way, and pub lunches were always available enroute.

Trust your wife and baby are doing well.

Best regards"

Just a quick note to say thanks immensely for everything. The maps, routes and information was a great help to making our visit to the Cotswolds a very enjoyable experience.

Best Regards"

J.M, United Kingdom

"Hi Christopher,

I would just like to let you know that we had a wonderful holiday & all the hotels that we stayed in were superb! Thankyou very much for arranging it all for us as we had a fabulous holiday staying in complete luxury. We loved the Cotswolds & would love to return again before too long.

We really enjoyed our anniversary stay at The Lords of the Manor, especially the exquisite meal in the restaurant. Thankyou again for sorting out such a special treat for us!

We won't hesitate to use your company & services again.

Mr and Mrs K, England

"Hi Chris & Ann,

Just wanted to let you know that we had a great time! We loved the Cotswolds and especially loved ending our visit in the fabulous "Lords of the Manor". Thanks for all of your guidance and help in planning our trip.

M.D and friends, USA

"We are back from our English adventure and I just wanted to tell you how wonderful our Cotswold walking experience was. Everything went very smoothly and our B&B hosts were great"

Mr and Mrs L, USA

Mrs c.s, usa, our local knowledge & cotswolds walks expertise is second to none.

At Cotswold Journeys, we specialise in:

Meticulously researched local routes & maps featuring the best Cotswolds walks & hiking vacations

Self-guided walking holidays with a range of custom experiences available, including your own private Cotswold cream tea in a stunning thatched cottage

Excellent Cotswolds accommodation including hotels, B&Bs & luxury inns

Luxury walks in the Cotswolds, including The Cotswold Way, as well as our ever popular Bath self-guided walking tour

Tailor-made Cotswold tour s and bespoke holidays of all types for individuals and private groups, including angling tours in a river or lake

Self-guided cycling holidays to include maps, handpicked accommodation, luggage transfers & local support

Latest News

Charity Walks In The Cotswolds

Jan 3, 2024

Walking is something we obviously all like to do in our spare time, getting some fresh air, moving our bodies, and seeing different parts of our planet on foot gives us walkers great pleasure. But...

Cheese Making Is Alive and Well In The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a haven for luxury, home-made food that is celebrated by locals alongside tourists during events and holidays. The history and character of the Cotswolds are also appreciated by the...

The Most Beautiful Gardens In The Cotswolds

Spring is one of our favourite times of the year in the Cotswolds with the countryside bursting into life and looking absolutely beautiful. We really are spoilt for choice of places to visit locally...

We’re Ready To Help You Secure Your Dream Cotswold Hills Walking Holiday…

Get in touch.

Email Address

Cotswold Journeys offers independent walking tours, walking holidays & hiking vacations throughout The Cotswolds. With so many picturesque villages to discover, where will you walk?

• The Cycling
• Cotswold Tours
• Terms + Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Accommodation

Cotswolds Tours & Vacations

At this stage we don't have any organised trips to the Cotswolds.

That said, Intrepid can create tailor-made tours to many destinations, including the Cotswolds. Our fully customised trips still offer the same small group experiences with local leaders, but made just the way you want it. Simply fill out your details on our  Tailor-Made  page and one of our travel specialists will be in touch.

Classified as being an ‘Area of Outstanding Beauty', the Cotswolds are one of the United Kingdom’s best-loved landscapes, from quaint stone villages and their cobble-ridden alleyways to the expansive scenery just waiting for you to immerse yourself in. Our tours and holidays in the Cotswolds are perfect for both outdoor enthusiasts and history-hunters with this romantic region offering you the chance to explore castles straight out of your favourite fairytales and eat at centuries-old pubs. Whether you fancy cycling through the lush greenery on our Cycle the Cotswolds tour or want some time to wander down ancient streets guaranteed to take your breath away, a visit to the Cotswolds should be high on your priority list. 

Our Cotswolds trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Cotswolds highlights

Cotswolds travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How do I get to the Cotswolds?

There are several ways to travel to the Cotswolds regardless of where in the United Kingdom you travel from.

One of the main ways, and perhaps the easiest way, to travel to the Cotswolds is via the British Rail network. Trains run to the Cotswolds from London and other areas of England, with rail stations in major towns in the Cotswolds, including Moreton-in-Marsh and Cheltenham.

You can also drive to the Cotswolds via the national motorway network.

Y ou can fly into Birmingham or Bristol airports, rent a car and make the 1-1.5 hour drive to the Cotswolds. 

How do I get around the Cotswolds?

Getting around the Cotswolds is relatively easy, thanks to England's excellent public transportation network and infrastructure.

If you've driven to the Cotswolds, getting around the region is straightforward, with easy-to-navigate streets and signed motorways.

You can also use the British Rail network, with numerous lines connecting major towns in the Cotswolds.

The bus network is another form of transportation you can use, with many local bus services that travel to and from various towns within the region. 

What is the weather like in the Cotswolds?

The weather in the United Kingdom is primarily rainy and overcast for most of the year, and the temperature in the Cotswolds is no different.

That's not to say the weather in the Cotswolds never gets warm or sunny because it does (especially in Summer). However, the region is more likely to experience cold temperatures.

What do I pack for the Cotswolds?

What to pack for your trip to the Cotswolds depends on what season you're going in.

It can get quite warm in the Summer, so items like T-shirts, dresses, shorts, skirts, and pants are all suitable. However, you still want to pack a cardigan or a light jacket because the temperatures can be cooler in the evenings.

If you travel in Winter, it's best to pack clothes that keep you nice and warm - think scarves, gloves, coats and thick jackets.

No matter what season you're traveling in, it's also wise to pack an umbrella, as rainfall can occur throughout the year. 

What are the best restaurants in the Cotswolds?

There are several excellent restaurants to enjoy a meal at in different towns across the Cotswolds. While the Cotswolds are known to have some of the best pubs, you can also feast on various other cuisines, including restaurants that serve delicious seafood and Italian dishes.

Here are some of our favorites:

• The Bell Inn, Langford 
• The Feathered Nest, Nether Westcote 
• Ox Barn at Thyme, Southrop Manor Estate 
• The Coconut Tree, Cheltenham
• The Porch House, Stow-on-the-Wold

Where is the Cotswolds?

Located in the Southcentral, West Midlands, and South West areas of England, the Cotswolds is a region that spans over 800 square miles encompassing several counties, including Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.

Various towns and villages are situated within this region, all with the same characterizing features of rolling hills and honey-colored, stone architecture.

The Cotswolds is a popular spot for a weekend away, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

What are some of the best walks in the Cotswolds?

You're spoiled for choice when enjoying nature in the Cotswolds.

There are numerous nature reserves and wildlife parks to explore, and the Cotswolds is also home to a heap of walking trails so you can take in the English countryside on foot.

Some of our favorites are:

• Rollright Stones Walk 
• The Blossom Trail 
• Winchcombe to Cleeve Hill 
• Otmoor Nature Reserve
• Windrush Way

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

EXPERIENCE THE COTSWOLDS

£145 Per Person

We offer tour packages and a bespoke tour service.

Welcome to Experience the Cotswolds, where we hope you will join us on one of our many tours. Having lived here for over 40 years we offer a wealth of knowledge and hidden gems. You will be accompanied by our tour guide on all tours. Why not come up from London or Oxford on the train for the day and visit the beautiful Costwolds. There is a direct train from Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh station where we can meet you. Our Tour guide also works for Tourist Information Centre.

TRAVEL PACKAGES

Adventure awaits.

EXCLUSIVE COTSWOLD TOUR FOR YOUR

Group only - duration 4-5 hours, £145 pp minimum of 2 max of 5 people.

Our beautiful Cotswold tour takes you on a stunning journey through many villages and towns, all in the comfort of our luxury vehicles. The tour does a loop from Winchcombe to Stanway - Stanton - Broadway (we stop here for 30 minutes) - Broadway Tower - Chipping Campden - Stow on the Wold - The Slaughters - Bourton on the Water (we stop here for 30 minutes) - Guiting Power - Winchcombe

COTSWOLD MARKET & WINE TOUR

Currently unavailable.

We take you to the amazing Stroud market which is multi award-winning and is well known as one of the biggest, busiest and most popular farmers’ market in the UK. After spending time at the market we then take you to The Fabulous Baker Bros Hobbs House Bakery in Nailsworth. Then we move on to Woodchester Valley for a wine tour and tasting.

COTSWOLD STEAM TOUR

We collect you and take you to Cheltenham Racecourse station where you board the GWSR train to Toddington (where there is plenty to see and do). We then collect you and take you on a tour through Stanway, Stanton and then to Broadway for a visit to local shops and restaurants, where you then board the train from Broadway - Cheltenham and we collect you and return you to your pick up points.

ABOUT 'EXPERIENCE THE COTSWOLDS'

Our chrysler grand voyagers.

We can take from 2-11 passengers in our luxury vehicles which have electric doors and privacy glass for your comfort. Along the way if you wish to stop for a photo opportunity this is more than welcome. All our drivers are licensed by the local council and have been CRB checked. We also offer complementary water for your journey.

We also offer a luxury taxi service www.aprivatehire.com

Airport transfers/local service/shopping trips etc.

Pick up points

Our pick up points are - lygon arms, broadway plaisterers  arms, winchcombe queens hotel, cheltenham, moreton in marsh train station times and dates depending on tour , start times normally 10.30am but can be adjusted to suit, we can also provide a bespoke service, just tell us your requirements and destinations., if your in the cotswolds and can't reach our pick up points contact us to see if we can help..

GET IN TOUCH

9 Lidcombe Way 

Winchcombe 

[email protected]

07540 437 546

07952 596 303

Your details were sent successfully!

The Cotswolds Tour

Cotswolds tour from london (1-day).

Join us on this friendly small-group Cotswolds tour from London and spend a relaxing day exploring the highlights of the Cotswolds. Travel along narrow country lanes, explore beautiful rural countryside and visit the most traditional towns & villages. See the best of a charming region during this Cotswolds day-tour  from London…

• Explore the highlights of the Cotswolds in a day
• Small-groups are guaranteed. This means groups of up to 16 travellers, a friendly atmosphere and more time to explore
• Tour includes minibus transportation & led by a friendly Driver-Guide
• Visit Bibury, described as ‘the prettiest village in England’
• Spend time in Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ and have a traditional lunch
• Explore the ancient town of Stow-on-the-Wold, with links to JRR Tolkien
• Travel off the beaten track to see the quieter parts of the Cotswolds
• Booking Discount – 10% off bookings. Use the discount code ‘go24’

How do I see available dates and book?

Click the green ‘Book Now’ button (above right). Select your date from the tour calendar and follow the simple steps.

Where does the tour start & finish?

The tour starts & finishes at Urban Baristas, South Kensington. Please arrive to check-in by 8.15am. At the end of the tour you’ll return to London by approximately 17.30.

Is there a booking discount?

Yes, bookings currently get 10% off. When you’ve chosen your date, select the ‘ Apply Promo or Voucher’ link and enter the code ‘go24’.

What is included in the price?

All prices include transportation and a friendly Driver-Guide who will provide fun & interesting commentary about The Cotswolds.

What is the cancellation policy?

Bookings are flexible, and can be cancelled or amended up to 24-hours before departure.

How many people are there on a tour?

Small-groups are guaranteed, with a maximum of 16 passengers!

Can children travel on the tour?

Children aged 7 and above may join us on tour and must be accompanied by an adult.

What if I have a question but the answer isn’t here?

Take a look at our full FAQs page and you may find your answer there. If not, please get in touch at [email protected].

This tour includes:

Departure Details

Daily Departures

Urban Baristas

South Kensington

Check-in at 8.15am

(Departs by 8.25am)

Tour Itinerary

Burford - Bibury - Bourton-on-the-Water - Stow-on-the-Wold

Join this friendly small-group tour to the Cotswolds, and see the best of this area of outstanding natural beauty. The Cotswolds are the quintessential English countryside; known for beautiful landscapes, sheep farming traditions and charming villages with honey-coloured stone cottages. This full-day tour travels at a relaxed paced to be fully enjoy the highlights of the Cotswolds.

Our Cotswolds Tour from London begins by travelling north-west towards the scenic Chiltern Hills. It won’t be long before we arrive into ‘the Gateway to The Cotswolds’ and our first stop of the day; the historic town of Burford . This was a prosperous trading village during the Middle Ages and is steeped in local tradition. Burford is also one of the best preserved medieval towns in the region with many of the buildings up to 600 years old and the church of St John the Baptist regarded as one of the finest in England. Whilst here there will be time to explore the town, visit the church and stroll along the picturesque high street.

Next, we’ll continue through the countryside, passing quaint villages as we travel towards our next destination, Bibury , often described as ‘the prettiest village in England’. This is one of the most iconic places in the Cotswolds where we can take a stroll along the river to see the iconic Arlington Row; a set of ancient cottages that are now one of the most symbolic sights of the Cotswolds, as seen in the images above.

This afternoon our journey through the heart of the Cotswolds continues, taking us to the picturesque town of Bourton-on-the-Water . Affectionately known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ due to its river setting, Bourton is one of the most charming places in the region. There will be plenty of time to enjoy this pretty town; take a stroll along the River Windrush, wander over the small bridges, admire the traditional stone cottages and have a traditional countryside lunch.

We’ll also visit the historic town of Stow-on-the-Wold ; a jumble of ancient inns & antique shops located around the bustling market square. Stow has been an important centre of local trade for centuries and is known for being the location of the last battle of the English Civil War in March 1646. The town has provided inspiration to JRR Tolkien and remains home to ‘England’s oldest pub’.

Throughout the day we’ll pass numerous small & lesser-known villages ; travelling off the beaten track to explore the ‘quieter’ parts of the Cotswolds. Enjoy meandering drives through the rolling hills and along narrow country lanes, passing farms, country estates, and miles of dry-stone walls as we are immersed in this beautiful countryside region.

The Cotswolds Tour returns to Urban Baristas, South Kensington  by approximately 17.30.

Tour Summary

Extras: Lunch, Gratuities

Searching Availability...

• Work & Careers
• Life & Arts

Plum Sykes’s guide to The Cotswolds

• Plum Sykes’s guide to The Cotswolds on x (opens in a new window)
• Plum Sykes’s guide to The Cotswolds on facebook (opens in a new window)
• Plum Sykes’s guide to The Cotswolds on linkedin (opens in a new window)
• Plum Sykes’s guide to The Cotswolds on whatsapp (opens in a new window)

Interview by Clara Baldock . Photography by Chris Hoare

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

I’ve had a long love affair with Gloucestershire. I first came here because I worked for the fashion stylist and editor Isabella Blow who had a beautiful place near Painswick – the deepest, darkest part of the county. She rented a cottage on her estate to our family. We eventually bought and renovated a derelict farmhouse close to the village of Bisley, which is where I am today. It is the most poetic part of Gloucestershire, with its valleys, woodlands and hills. At first, people thought we were mad because it’s so remote, but I spent an idyllic childhood on my grandmother’s farm in Kent, and after living in both London and New York, I wanted to be back on the farm because that’s where I felt at home.

Who wouldn’t be inspired by this bucolic paradise?

The area here is rural and quite old-school; people move in, and move out when they die, so there’s a real community. My new book, a satire, is the first one I’ve set in the Cotswolds. The region has become so fashionable, it’s been remoulded into a sort of fantasy version of the English countryside. Who wouldn’t be inspired by this bucolic paradise? But writing is solitary, and doing hours of it is wearying, so I try to go riding every day. I have an Irish Sport Horse called Buster, and both my children have horses so we go out together. I like to hack around the bridleways of the Cotswold Hills where it’s very high. If you can ride, give Dave Guilding of the DG Equine in Berkeley a call; he’ll show up with his twinkly blue eyes and take you on a glorious hack. Speaking of riding, there’s a cash-only shop in Cirencester called Sydney Free Saddlery that has a vintage room with some really good stuff – I’ve bought 1930s jodhpurs there for £20 and a tweed jacket. In that same town is G Horton pharmacy, which is old-fashioned with mahogany cabinets. It sells my favourite bath essence, Olverum: you only need one drop and it literally smells like the mountains.

If I have guests who like to shop, I take them to Cutter Brooks in Stow-on-the-Wold for china and clothes. It’s owned by Amanda Brooks, whose sister-in-law, Annabel Brooks, has an incredible house, Churchill Manor , just over the border from Gloucestershire that you can rent. It’s on a 600-acre estate with a swimming pool, tennis courts and its own gallops. Annabel’s daughter got married in the gardens there. There is nowhere more beautiful in the world than the English countryside on a glorious summer’s day, with radiant sunshine and wisteria in bloom – a wedding in that setting is just perfect.

Badminton House in the south of Gloucestershire is a stately home owned by the Duke of Beaufort; it’s also available for weddings. One of the houses on the estate, Swangrove, is in the middle of the woods and would make a romantic honeymoon spot. It was originally done up by Robert Kime and is like a mini grand house with stone steps and four-poster beds. If you want a modern country house, I’d suggest The Find, designed by my architect friend Richard Found. At the centre of the building is an 18th-century gamekeeper’s cottage, but the interiors of the wings are polished concrete – it’s amazing. Nearby, in Painswick, is one of the most beautiful churches in Gloucestershire, St Mary’s ; the churchyard has 99 ancient yew trees carved like lollipops.

There’s another lovely church in Slad, Holy Trinity , which has seating for about 20 people – Laurie Lee is buried in the churchyard. Close by is the little pub where he drank, The Woolpack Inn , now owned by the artist Daniel Chadwick: the food is exquisite and the views are incredible. It’s quite groovy; you’ll see people in there like Damien Hirst and Lily Allen but also drystone wallers.

Jolly Nice Farmshop is a good lunch spot that has delicious ice-cream flavours such as gooseberry and wild elderflower and fresh mint stracciatella. When it comes to cakes I’d recommend local chef Genevieve Frosch , who covers them in things like geranium and rose petals; they’re to die for. She can also make any wedding cake you want. For flowers, there is a seasonal grower called Saltbox & Co run by a mother and daughter. They’ve done exquisite flowers for parties I’ve thrown, and the arrangements are very romantic; they’ll go out to the hedgerows and pick a load of tree ivy to put in. For roses that go on forever, you must visit Kiftsgate Court Gardens , created by three generations of female gardeners. It’s like a secret garden, full of wildflowers surrounding an incredible Georgian house. Once you’ve walked around, all the plants you’ve seen are laid out on trestle tables to buy.

Looking out of my study window where I write, the views of the valley are gorgeous. It’s hard not to be inspired by the hedgerows full of cow parsley in spring, cascades of roses in June, and the sight of horses and cows grazing as though they are in a painting.

Wives Like Us by Plum Sykes is published by Harper at $28; published in the UK on 14 May at £18.99

Promoted Content

Follow the topics in this article.

• Food & Drink Add to myFT
• Travel Add to myFT
• Style Add to myFT
• Shopping and gifts Add to myFT
• Gloucestershire Add to myFT

International Edition

Plum Sykes' new book sends Cotswolds into a frenzy

•  Plum Sykes' Wives Like Us is reportedly 'creating a scandal' in the Cotswolds
• READ MORE: Inside NBC's BRIDGERTON-inspired dating show, where one woman will be courted by 16 men with carriage rides, balls, and hand-written letters in a Regency-style England setting

Author and Vogue writer Plum Sykes is reportedly causing a major stir with her new novel set in the Cotswolds, as locals try to guess who the main characters are based on.

The book, Wives Like Us, sees the bored spouses of uber wealthy men 'fight for social supremacy', according to the Times .

According to the outlet, the Cotswolds' setting of the novel is 'certainly of the moment', as fascination with the area has increased in recent years.

This, it explains, is largely due to the 'stream of rich Londoners [who] started decamping there during Covid'.

Among those with properties in the area are Jeremy Clarkson , the Camerons, Richard Hammond , Dom Joly, Tony Adams , the Beckhas and Jilly Cooper among others.

Additionally, King Charles' niece Zara Tindall  and her husband Mike have lived in Cheltenham and Princess Annes' Gatcombe Estate, in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Originally from Kent, Plum moved to London, then to the Cotswolds in 2013 with then-husband Toby Rowland.

As someone who enjoyed riding, Plum says she noticed that in contrast to the traditional country look of wellies and Barbour jackets, she noticed more and more 'overdressed women' taking to the stables.

This, she describes, was like a 'satire waiting to happen', with everyone consumed with social anxiety and looking down on each other.  

Wives Like Us is based in a fictional area called the Bottoms, focusing on four female friends, and told through the perspective of friendly, gay butler Ian.

Main character Tata Hawkins, described as a footballer's wife type (dressed in an 'expensively sexy way wearing a Bottega Veneta calfskin jacket, platform gold heels and diamonds') has just split from her husband Bryan, after she found a receipt for a diamond necklace, moving out of their shared house.

Other characters include American heiress and divorcee Selby Fairfax, who lives in the best estate in the Bottoms, and who everyone wants to befriend.

Aristocrat Sophie Thompson (complete with MP husband) and half-Venezuelan half-Swedish heiress Fernanda Ovington-Williams complete the main cast.

Amid 'outrageous Jilly Cooperesque shenanigans and histrionics', Tata attempts to get back together with Bryan, and move back into her large, former home, all the while trying to set up Selby with a 'mysterious oligarch' character.

Plum herself lives around an hour away from an area known as the Tews.

She is friends with many prolific Cotswolds locals, which, according to the Times, 'all of whom are namechecked as the ones her fictional wives set their sights on'.

Among this list is the founder of the Daylesford Organic Farmshop chain Carole Bamford, who Plum describes as the 'absolute queen' of the area.

Others include Jemima Khan, Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, and Winston Churchill’s great-granddaughter Clementine Fraser among others.

And finally, on the list of possible inspirations for the characters are American Amanda Brooks, owner of the Cutter Brooks retail chain, and Vogue stylist Tabitha Simmons. 

Described as 'a perfectly placed social observer in this world', Plum has remained tight-lipped about who Tata and the others are specifically based on.

But this hasn't stopped speculation over the question. 

According to the Times, a Chipping Norton local said everyone is trying to work out who Tata is based on, adding 'it's creating quite the scandal, you know'.