Nestled within the lush, rolling hills of England’s west country lies a quaint and captivating region known as the Cotswolds. Here, time-honored traditions and architectural gems come together to create a truly enchanting experience for visitors. From the quintessential stone cottages of Bibury to the tranquil riverside setting of Bourton-on-the-Water, this area boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural allure that continues to captivate travelers from around the world. Delve deeper into the Cotswolds’ charming villages, and discover why this enchanting corner of England is considered one of the country’s most beloved destinations.

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Key Points

The Cotswolds region of England is renowned for its picturesque villages, including the charming Bibury, known as "the most beautiful village in England."
Cirencester, a former Roman town, boasts historical attractions like the impressive 15th-century St. John the Baptist Church and the largest amphitheater in Britain.
Bourton-on-the-Water, a quintessential Cotswolds village, offers a variety of attractions, such as a perfumery, a vintage car museum, and a model village.
Stow-on-the-Wold, a charming market town, is home to England’s oldest pub and a range of boutique shops.
The villages of Burford and Minster Lovell showcase well-preserved historical landmarks, including a 15th-century tollhouse museum and a ruined manor house.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cotswolds full-day tour from central London offers an immersive experience, priced at $1,112.28 for groups up to 6 people and lasting 10 hours.

A full-day tour from central London exploring the Cotswolds, priced at $1,112.28 for groups up to 6 and lasting 10 hours.

Pickup and drop-off are included from popular locations, with an itinerary covering 7 iconic villages. Highlights include visits to Cirencester, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold, where travelers can enjoy lunch at the oldest pub in England.

The tour also includes a guided walk and free entry to a museum. Visitors should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour operates rain or shine.

With a 5/5 customer rating, this tour provides a comprehensive Cotswolds experience.

Looking for more options in London? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Pickup and Itinerary

Pickup is included from central London (Zone 1) locations, such as Gloucester Road, Marble Arch, and London Eye Millennium Pier.

The itinerary covers 7 iconic Cotswold villages:

Cirencester (30 min visit)
Bibury (20 min photo stop)
Bourton-on-the-Water (15 min visit/photo stop)

After exploring these charming locations, the tour continues to Lower Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, and Minster Lovell, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s historical and architectural wonders.

The tour ends with drop-off at the same pickup locations.

Highlights and Attractions

As visitors explore the Cotswolds, they’ll encounter a wealth of historical and architectural marvels.

In Cirencester, they’ll admire the stunning St. John the Baptist Church and its impressive porch.

In Bibury, they’ll be captivated by the 14th-century weavers’ cottages of Arlington Row.

Bourton-on-the-Water offers a charming perfumery, vintage car museum, and model village to discover.

Stow-on-the-Wold, home to England’s oldest pub, provides the perfect spot for lunch.

Visitors can then explore Burford’s past at the 15th-century tollhouse museum and the Civil War-marked church.

The final stop, Minster Lovell, showcases a ruined manor house with intriguing historical tales.

Cirencester: The Roman Town

Although once a bustling Roman town, Cirencester today retains its historical charm and significance. The town boasts several notable attractions:

St. John the Baptist Church, renowned for its impressive 15th-century porch, the largest in England.
The amphitheater, one of the largest in Britain, where visitors can explore the remnants of this ancient Roman structure.
The Corinium Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Cirencester’s Roman past, with its extensive collection of mosaics, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

Strolling through Cirencester’s picturesque streets, visitors can enjoy the town’s rich history and appreciate its enduring architectural legacy.

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Bibury: The Picturesque Weavers’ Village

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bibury is a picturesque village renowned for its quaint 14th-century stone cottages, which once housed local weavers.

The iconic Arlington Row, a picture-perfect cluster of weavers’ cottages, is the village’s main attraction. Visitors can stroll along the tranquil riverbanks, admiring the ducks and the charming stone bridges.

Bibury’s serene atmosphere and well-preserved architectural heritage make it a popular stop on Cotswolds tours. Its timeless beauty has even earned it the title of "the most beautiful village in England" by none other than William Morris, the renowned Victorian artist and writer.

There's plenty more to explore in London

Bourton-on-the-Water: The Venice of the Cotswolds

Bourton-on-the-Water, often dubbed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," captivates visitors with its picturesque charm.

This quaint village features a gentle river running through its center, crossed by charming stone bridges.

Visitors can:

Explore the village’s perfumery, showcasing unique scents and handcrafted products.
Discover the Cotswold Motoring Museum, home to a fascinating collection of vintage cars and motoring memorabilia.
Wander through the meticulously crafted Model Village, a 1/9th scale replica of the town itself.

With its idyllic setting and array of attractions, Bourton-on-the-Water offers a quintessential Cotswolds experience.

Stow-on-the-Wold: The Charming Market Town

Moving from the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, the tour continues to the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold.

Nestled high on a hill, this quaint town boasts the oldest pub in England, dating back to 947 AD. Visitors can peruse the many antique shops, art galleries, and specialty boutiques lining the streets.

Nestled atop a hill, this quaint town boasts England’s oldest pub dating to 947 AD, with inviting antique shops and boutiques lining its streets.

The tour includes one hour for lunch and a guided stroll, allowing guests to soak in the town’s rich history and picturesque architecture.

From the Market Square’s medieval stone cross to the church featuring a distinctive "wool" spire, Stow-on-the-Wold captivates with its quintessential Cotswolds charm.

Burford and Minster Lovell: Historic Gems

From Stow-on-the-Wold, the tour ventures to the historic town of Burford, a 15th-century gem.

Visitors can explore the town’s highlights, including:

The 15th-century tollhouse museum, which offers a glimpse into Burford’s past as a major wool trading center.
The Church of St. John the Baptist, which bears the scars of the English Civil War.
The charming high street, lined with honey-colored stone buildings housing quaint shops and tearooms.

The final stop is Minster Lovell, a ruined manor house with a haunting history, inviting visitors to imagine the tales of the past.

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Cotswolds Tour?

The tour has no formal dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and casual, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should dress for a relaxed day of sightseeing in the Cotswolds’ quaint villages and scenic countryside.

Can We Make Stops Outside the Scheduled Itinerary?

The tour has a set itinerary and doesn’t allow for additional stops outside the scheduled visits. However, the guide can provide recommendations for places to explore further on your own time before or after the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. However, the company may offer discounts if you inquire directly. It’s best to check with them about any available special pricing options.

How Early Should We Arrive for the Pickup Location?

The tour provider recommends arriving at the pickup location 15 minutes early. This ensures guests are ready for the 10-hour tour and allows the driver to depart on schedule. Early arrival helps the tour run smoothly for all participants.

Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Attractions?

Yes, you can customize the tour to visit specific attractions. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on your interests, ensuring you experience the highlights that matter most to you.

Sum Up

Exploring the Cotswolds’ charming villages is a quintessential English experience. From the picturesque stone cottages of Bibury to the tranquil river in Bourton-on-the-Water, visitors are captivated by the region’s natural beauty and rich history. Whether wandering through Cirencester’s Roman legacy or discovering Stow-on-the-Wold’s quaint boutiques, the Cotswolds offer a delightful blend of pastoral splendor and cultural allure.