Downtown Abbey Village in The Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace & Lunch

Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of England’s history and picturesque countryside. Uncover the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of the iconic Sir Winston Churchill, and learn about his captivating life story through the Churchill Exhibition. Venture into the charming Cotswolds villages, where time seems to stand still, and step into the enchanting world of the beloved British television series, Downton Abbey. This tour promises an unforgettable experience that blends the splendor of the past with the allure of the present, leaving you eager to uncover more about this captivating region.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In London.

Key Points

• The tour visits the charming Cotswolds villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, which served as filming locations for the hit TV series Downton Abbey.
• Visitors can explore St Mary’s Church and the Bampton Library, which housed key Downton Abbey filming sites and offers behind-the-scenes exhibits.
• The tour provides an immersive experience at Blenheim Palace, a grand stately home with formal gardens, and the Churchill Exhibition, exploring the life of the famous British statesman.
• The tour includes admission to Blenheim Palace and the Churchill Exhibition, allowing guests to explore English history and the legacy of Sir Winston Churchill.
• The tour combines the grandeur of Blenheim Palace with the picturesque rural charm of the Cotswolds, offering a well-rounded exploration of England’s history and countryside.

Tour Details

This full-day tour from London takes visitors to the opulent Blenheim Palace and the picturesque Cotswolds region, providing an immersive experience in English history and countryside.

The tour includes admission to Blenheim Palace, where travelers can explore the state rooms and gardens, as well as access to The Churchill Exhibition.

In the Cotswolds, the tour stops at the charming villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, and visits Downton Abbey filming locations in Bampton, including St Mary’s Church and the Downton Abbey behind the scenes exhibition.

The tour also includes a 2-course pub lunch and transportation in an air-conditioned coach, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day trip.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is an opulent stately home and UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting magnificent baroque architecture and sprawling formal gardens. Visitors can explore the grand state rooms, marveling at the lavish furnishings and artwork that adorn the palace’s interior. The Churchill Exhibition provides insight into the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, who was born at Blenheim Palace.

Fascinating Facts About Blenheim Palace
1. The palace was a gift from Queen Anne to the 1st Duke of Marlborough for his military victories.	2. Construction began in 1705 and took over 20 years to complete.	3. The palace’s architecture was influenced by the work of Sir John Vanbrugh.	4. The palace’s formal gardens cover over 2,000 acres and include a great lake, formal terraces, and a magnificent ‘water garden’.	5. Blenheim Palace has been the principal residence of the Dukes of Marlborough since its completion.

The Churchill Exhibition

As part of the Blenheim Palace tour, visitors can explore the Churchill Exhibition, which provides a captivating look into the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, who was born at the palace.

The exhibition delves into Churchill’s formative years, his political career, and his pivotal role as Prime Minister during World War II. Guests can peruse personal artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that offer a deeper understanding of this iconic British statesman.

The exhibition sheds light on Churchill’s multifaceted personality, from his unwavering leadership to his literary talents. By seeing this captivating experience, visitors gain a greater appreciation for the man who played a crucial part in shaping the course of history.

Cotswolds Villages

Typically, the tour includes stops at the charming Cotswolds villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, where visitors can enjoy the region’s quintessential pastoral beauty and historical character.

These quaint villages offer a glimpse into England’s rural heritage, with their honey-colored stone cottages, winding streets, and picturesque river landscapes.

Visitors can also explore the filming locations of the popular TV series Downton Abbey in the village of Bampton, including St Mary’s Church and the Downton Abbey behind the scenes exhibition at the Bampton Library.

The Cotswolds villages provide a delightful contrast to the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, allowing travelers to experience the dual charms of stately homes and charming country life.

Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water

The tour also stops at the quintessential Cotswolds villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s pastoral charm and historical character.

Burford, often referred to as the ‘gateway to the Cotswolds,’ boasts a picturesque high street lined with honey-colored stone buildings.

Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ features a charming village center bisected by a tranquil stream crossed by scenic stone bridges.

Visitors can stroll along the quaint streets, admire the charming architecture, and discover local shops and cafes that capture the essence of the Cotswolds’ idyllic countryside.

These enchanting villages offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city and a glimpse into England’s timeless rural heritage.

Downton Abbey Filming Locations

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Downton Abbey filming locations in Bampton, the village that stood in for the fictional village of Downton in the popular television series.

Visitors can explore St Mary’s Church, which served as the setting for many pivotal scenes in the show, and visit the Bampton Library, where they can step into the behind-the-scenes exhibition that offers a glimpse into the making of the beloved period drama.

The tour allows guests to:

• Immerse themselves in the charming Cotswolds setting that inspired the hit series
• Discover the real-life locations that brought the world of Downton Abbey to life
• Learn fascinating insights into the production process and creative vision behind the show
• Connect with the enduring legacy of this iconic British television masterpiece

St Mary’s Church and Library

St Mary’s Church, a centerpiece of the Downton Abbey filming locations, invites visitors to explore its historic architecture and admire the setting that hosted many pivotal scenes from the beloved television series.

The adjacent Bampton Library, meanwhile, houses a captivating behind-the-scenes exhibition that offers a unique glimpse into the making of the show, allowing guests to connect with its enduring legacy.

The church’s striking stone facade and well-preserved interior provide an immersive experience, transporting visitors back in time.

The library’s exhibition delves into the production process, showcasing costumes, props, and insights that deepen one’s appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail that brought the series to life.

Together, these sites offer a multifaceted exploration of the Downton Abbey phenomenon.

Logistics and Reviews

For those interested in joining this tour, the logistics and practical details are worth considering. The tour departs from Bulleid Way in Victoria, London at 8:15 am and returns to Gloucester Road, London around 6:30 pm, making it an all-day excursion.

Travelers should keep in mind that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

According to the 84 reviews, this tour provides an ideal introduction to the English countryside. Highlights include:

• Visiting the iconic filming locations of Downton Abbey
• Exploring the opulent Blenheim Palace and its Churchill Exhibition
• Discovering the quaint Cotswolds villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water
• Enjoying a 2-course pub lunch as part of the tour package

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may not be ideal for families with young children. It involves extended periods of walking, sightseeing, and transportation that could be challenging for young kids. Families should consider the activity level and logistics before booking this tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Stops?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the tour stops. The Cotswolds villages and Blenheim Palace likely offer a variety of local crafts, gifts, and memorabilia for visitors to browse and purchase as mementos of their day trip.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Guests should dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for some walking during the tour’s outdoor components.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the bus, but the tour includes a 2-course pub lunch. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any restrictions on outside food and beverages before the trip.

Is There Any Free Time During the Tour to Explore on My Own?

The tour allows for free time to explore on your own. You’ll have the opportunity to wander the Cotswolds villages and grounds of Blenheim Palace during the day, providing ample time for independent discovery and sightseeing.

Recap

This tour offers an immersive exploration of England’s rich history and picturesque countryside. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, discover the captivating life story of Sir Winston Churchill, and stroll through charming Cotswolds villages that evoke the region’s rural heritage.

The tour also allows guests to step into the enchanting world of the iconic British television series, Downton Abbey, by visiting its filming locations.