Description
One of the unspoilt regions of England, the lovely Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, covers six English counties and draws visitors from all over the world. Renowned for its rolling meadows, meandering river valleys, pretty woodland, gentle hillsides and of course its sleepy ancient limestone villages and market towns, the area hasn't changed much for over 300 years. Steeped in history, the Cotswolds have always been looked upon as the heart of England, with unsurpassed idyllic charm and breath-taking scenery at every turn. This short break takes you through some of the best known Cotswolds towns and villages as well as to magnificent Georgian Bath for a day
Itinerary
Winter Getaway Weekend
DAY 1 - After joining your holiday coach, continue on for a stop in Burford and see the medieval bridge, old stone houses and attractive Tudor and Georgian frontages - justifiably one of the most picturesque towns in England. Often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds', the town was originally a fortified Anglo-Saxon ford which later grew to be an important regional crossroads and wealthy wool town. Continue onto Bibury, once described by William Morris as 'the most beautiful village in England' with its charming cottages of Arlington Row. Onto your hotel to check in for your 2-night stay DBB (may be buffet or served dinner)\n\nDAY 2 - After breakfast drive the short distance to the Georgian City of Bath with its many historical treasures, monuments and beautiful architecture dating back to Roman times. Explore this magnificent city with its many attractions from the Abbey to the Roman Baths (entrances not included) and view the famous Pulteney Bridge or just relax on the banks of the River Avon. Bath's extraordinary array of architectural treasure has earned the whole city UNESCO World Heritage status and it is, of course, also home to many of the locations and scenes of the popular Netflix production 'Bridgerton' and its portrayal of Regency England. Enjoy free time or join an optional city sightseeing tour (details available from your driver).\n\nDAY 3 - After a leisurely breakfast, depart the hotel to head off through the Cotswolds AONB to lovely Stow-on-the Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds, with its impressive large Market Square as well as the enchanting door of St Edwards Church, locked between two trees and rumoured to be the inspiration of JRR Tolkien's 'Doors of Durin' in Lord of the Rings. Last stop is Chipping Norton, affectionately known as 'Chippy' by the locals, a real, working Cotswold market town, renowned for its antique shops. In the afternoon head for interchange and your onward coach travel to your local area.
Tour Highlights
- Hotel for 2 nights with breakfast & dinner (may be buffet or served)- Porterage- Free use of leisure facilities- En-route stops in Burford, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold & Chipping Norton- Full Day in Bath
Venue Information
Delta by Marriott, Swindon 4* Renovated Hotel
Newly renovated and surrounded by woodlands on the edge of this historical old town, this modern 4* hotel features a restaurant, bar and outdoor seating area. En-suite bedrooms are smartly decorated and feature TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Enjoy use of the hotel's leisure facilities which include indoor pool & fitness centre. There is a lift. Singles are double rooms for sole use.