The Cotswolds Countryside Retreat
Step back in time through England's most picturesque villages
Tour Overview
Escape to the enchanting Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where time seems to stand still amid honey-colored limestone villages, rolling green hills, and medieval market towns. This carefully curated 2-day retreat immerses you in quintessential English countryside charm that has captivated visitors for generations.
Wander through the postcard-perfect village of Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the "Venice of the Cotswolds," where low bridges cross the gentle River Windrush and elegant Georgian houses line the banks. Discover Bibury, described by William Morris as "the most beautiful village in England," with its famous Arlington Row cottages that have adorned countless calendars and chocolate boxes.
Experience the authentic atmosphere of Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town perched on a hilltop, where antique shops and traditional tea rooms cluster around an ancient market square. Explore hidden gems off the beaten track – peaceful villages where thatched cottages nestle against medieval churches, and where the pace of life follows the gentle rhythms of the countryside.
The Cotswolds offers more than just visual beauty – it's a living tapestry of English heritage, where local crafts traditions continue, where village pubs serve locally sourced food, and where footpaths wind through landscapes that inspired poets and artists. Walk along ancient wool merchants' tracks, browse artisan workshops, and enjoy traditional afternoon tea in historic manor house gardens.
Perfect for photography enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility, this tour combines comfortable boutique hotel accommodation, intimate small-group experiences, and expertly guided tours that reveal the stories and secrets of this timeless region. Rediscover the simple pleasures of village life and return home refreshed by the peaceful beauty of England's most beloved countryside.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 2 Days
- Price: £300 per person
- Group Size: Maximum 12 people
- Transport: Comfortable minibus
- Meals: Daily breakfast included
- Language: English
Tour Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Morning: Begin your Cotswolds journey in the enchanting village of Bourton-on-the-Water. Stroll along the River Windrush as it meanders through the village center, crossed by elegant low stone bridges dating back centuries. Visit the fascinating Model Village, a perfect 1:9 scale replica of Bourton-on-the-Water built in 1937, complete with tiny houses, gardens, and even a miniature version of itself! Browse unique shops selling local crafts, vintage treasures, and traditional Cotswolds products.
Afternoon: Journey through idyllic countryside to Bibury, a village so beautiful it featured on the cover of British passports. Explore the world-famous Arlington Row, a perfectly preserved terrace of 14th-century weavers' cottages with their distinctive steep roofs and stone-mullioned windows. Walk along the crystal-clear River Coln, watching trout swim in the shallow waters, and visit the historic Bibury Trout Farm where you can feed the fish or purchase freshly smoked trout. Enjoy free time to photograph this impossibly picturesque setting and perhaps enjoy afternoon tea at a traditional tea room.
Evening: Check into your charming Cotswolds hotel or boutique guesthouse, housed in a historic building with original features and modern comforts. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at your accommodation or at a recommended local pub serving traditional Cotswolds cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients (dinner not included). Relax in the peaceful countryside atmosphere as darkness falls over the rolling hills.
Morning: After breakfast, travel to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds at 800 feet above sea level. Explore the historic market square where the ancient stocks still stand and where sheep fairs were held for over 500 years. Browse the town's excellent antique shops, art galleries, and bookshops housed in honey-colored stone buildings. Visit St. Edward's Church with its magnificent Norman doorway and discover why this peaceful town was once an important trading center on ancient crossroads.
Afternoon: Discover the secret villages that make the Cotswolds so special. Visit charming hamlets like Lower Slaughter with its working watermill, or Upper Slaughter where time seems frozen in the 16th century. Walk along ancient footpaths, cross medieval packhorse bridges, and see traditional farm buildings unchanged for generations. Your guide will share stories of wool merchants, Civil War battles, and village traditions that have endured for centuries. Stop at a local artisan workshop to see traditional crafts in action.
Late Afternoon: Enjoy a final cream tea experience (included) at a historic manor house or traditional tea room, savoring freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, accompanied by perfectly brewed English tea. Share your favorite moments and photos from the tour before beginning your return journey, taking with you memories of this timeless corner of England and perhaps a few locally crafted souvenirs.
Image Gallery
What's Included
Included
- 1 night boutique hotel accommodation in the Cotswolds
- Full English breakfast on both days
- All transportation in comfortable minibus
- Expert local guide throughout
- Guided village walking tours
- Traditional Cotswolds cream tea experience
- Entry to Model Village at Bourton-on-the-Water
Not Included
- Transportation to/from the Cotswolds
- Lunch and dinner meals
- Entry to optional attractions not in itinerary
- Personal shopping and souvenirs
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Booking Information
Important Notes
- Tours operate year-round with weekend departures (Friday-Saturday)
- Minimum group size is 4 people; maximum is 12 people
- Accommodation in twin/double rooms; single supplement £60
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended for village exploration
- Villages can be busy during peak summer months
- Some shops may be closed on Sundays
- Meeting point: Moreton-in-Marsh Railway Station at 9:00 AM
Cancellation Policy
- More than 21 days before departure: Full refund minus £40 administration fee
- 14-21 days before departure: 50% refund
- 7-13 days before departure: 25% refund
- Less than 7 days before departure: No refund
- Travel insurance strongly recommended
- Itinerary may vary slightly based on local conditions
Ready to Discover the Cotswolds?
Experience the timeless beauty of England's most charming villages. Book your countryside retreat today!