Nestled in the heart of southwestern England, the Cotswolds region beckons travelers with its serene landscapes and charming villages. This private tour from Bath promises an immersive exploration of this picturesque area, led by a knowledgeable local guide. Guests will be transported in a luxurious Mercedes vehicle, visiting iconic destinations like Castle Combe, Lacock, and Bradford-on-Avon. Along the way, they’ll savor a traditional pub lunch, soak in the region’s natural beauty, and uncover the rich history that has shaped this beloved corner of the country. With a comprehensive itinerary and insider access, this tour offers a truly unique opportunity to discover the Cotswolds’ timeless allure.
Key Points
- A private tour departing from Bath or Bath Spa Train Station, with pickup and drop-off included, in a luxury Mercedes V Class vehicle for up to 6 people.
- Guided tour of the picturesque village of Castle Combe, the National Trust village of Lacock, and the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon.
- Opportunity to savor regional cuisine during a traditional pub lunch in Corsham.
- Scenic drives through the Cotswolds countryside, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
- Tour led by a fully qualified, insured, and licensed local guide who provides a rundown of the region’s history and attractions.
Tour Details
This private tour to the serene Cotswolds departs from Bath or Bath Spa Train Station, with pickup and drop-off included, and is conducted in a luxury Mercedes V Class vehicle for up to 6 people.
The tour is led by a fully qualified, insured, and licensed local guide who’ll provide a rundown of the region’s history and attractions.
Over the course of 8 hours, you’ll visit picturesque villages like Castle Combe, Lacock, Corsham, and Bradford-on-Avon, with ample time for guided tours, sightseeing, and a traditional pub lunch.
Whether you’re interested in the area’s natural beauty or its architectural gems, this private tour offers a tailored experience to suit your interests.
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Itinerary Overview
The tour begins with a visit and guided tour of the picturesque village of Castle Combe, often considered one of England’s most beautiful.
Afterwards, travelers will discover the National Trust village of Lacock, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour, free time for sightseeing and walks.
The next stop is Corsham, where a traditional pub lunch featuring regional cuisine is served, followed by a guided tour and additional time to explore the town.
The final destination is Bradford-on-Avon, where guests can wander along the river and canal while taking in the sights during a guided tour.
Visiting Castle Combe
Nestled in a picturesque valley, Castle Combe captivates visitors with its quintessential Cotswold charm, boasting a well-preserved medieval streetscape and serene atmosphere that have earned it the reputation as one of England’s most beautiful villages. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore Castle Combe’s charming streets and admire its honey-colored stone cottages, some dating back to the 15th century. The guided tour will provide insights into the village’s rich history, from its medieval origins to its role as a thriving wool town. Strolling through the quaint lanes, visitors can soak in the tranquil ambiance and snap memorable photographs that capture the essence of this picturesque Cotswolds gem.
Attraction | Duration | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Castle Combe | 45 minutes | – Explore the well-preserved medieval village – Admire the honey-colored stone cottages – Learn about the village’s history and role in the wool trade |
Discovering Lacock Village
After exploring the charming medieval village of Castle Combe, the tour continues to the National Trust village of Lacock, where visitors can discover a well-preserved 15th-century village frozen in time. Lacock boasts a wealth of historic buildings, including the 13th-century Lacock Abbey, the Parish Church of St. Cyriac, and the tithe barn. Visitors can wander the picturesque streets, admiring the quaint cottages and shops, and learn about the village’s rich history from the knowledgeable guide.
The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to:
- Explore the halls and cloisters of Lacock Abbey, a former nunnery that has been used as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows.
- Discover the village’s connection to the birth of photography, as Lacock was the home of William Henry Fox Talbot, a pioneer in the field.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Avon, which runs through the heart of the village.
- Indulge in a traditional Cotswolds lunch at one of the charming local pubs or cafes.
Lunch in Corsham
What better way to experience the local flavors of the Cotswolds than with a traditional pub lunch in the charming town of Corsham?
Visitors on the tour can look forward to savoring regional dishes and sampling the area’s finest produce at a carefully selected hotel, where they’ll be treated to an authentic taste of Cotswolds cuisine.
The lunch stop provides a welcomed midday respite, allowing guests to refuel and revitalize before continuing their journey through the picturesque countryside.
With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes, the Corsham pub lunch promises to be a highlight of the tour, offering a delightful glimpse into the culinary traditions that make this corner of England so beloved.
Exploring Bradford-on-Avon
The tour then takes visitors to the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon, where they’ll have the opportunity to wander along the serene river and canal, soaking in the town’s charming atmosphere.
A guided tour provides insights into Bradford-on-Avon’s rich history, highlighting its well-preserved architecture and the role it has played in the region’s development over the centuries.
The highlights of exploring Bradford-on-Avon include:
- Admiring the iconic Tithe Barn, a 14th-century structure that showcases the town’s medieval heritage.
- Strolling across the ancient arched bridge that spans the River Avon, offering picturesque views.
- Visiting the Church of St. Laurence, a stunning example of Norman architecture.
- Discovering the town’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, with local artisans and boutique shops lining the streets.
Scenic Cotswolds Drives
As the tour departs the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon, it winds through the picturesque Cotswolds countryside, showcasing the region’s serene natural beauty.
The scenic drives take visitors past rolling green hills, charming stone cottages, and quaint country churches. Along the way, the guide points out the area’s unique architectural styles and shares insights into the local history and culture.
Passing by tranquil canals and babbling brooks, the journey offers a chance to soak in the peaceful ambiance that makes the Cotswolds so captivating.
Whether it’s admiring the stunning vistas or simply watching the world go by, these scenic drives are a highlight of the private tour experience.
Restrictions and Inclusions
This private tour to the serene Cotswolds has a few important restrictions and inclusions for guests to be aware of. While the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old or wheelchair users, it does include a fully qualified, insured, and licensed local guide who provides hotel pickup and drop-off services.
Plus, the tour price covers the private transportation in a luxury Mercedes V Class vehicle as well as a traditional pub lunch and refreshments during the day.
The key highlights of this tour include:
- Visiting the picturesque Castle Combe, often voted England’s prettiest village.
- Discovering the National Trust Village of Lacock.
- Enjoying a regional lunch in the charming town of Corsham.
- Wandering along the river and canal in Bradford-on-Avon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Private Tour for Fewer Than 6 People?
Yes, the private tour accommodates groups up to 6 people. Smaller groups can be arranged, as the tour is private and customizable to the client’s preferences and party size.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour can be extended beyond 8 hours. Travelers can request a longer tour duration when booking, allowing more time to explore the Cotswolds’ villages and attractions at a leisurely pace.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?
The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences with advance notice. The local guide will work to ensure guests with special dietary needs are provided suitable meals during the lunch stop in Corsham.
Do We Get to See the Inside of the Lacock Abbey?
Yes, the tour includes a guided visit and tour of Lacock Abbey, a historic country house and former abbey that features prominently in the village. Visitors can explore the abbey’s interior and learn about its rich history.
Is There an Option to Visit Additional Cotswolds Villages?
The tour does not explicitly offer visits to additional Cotswolds villages beyond the scheduled stops. However, guests can inquire with the tour guide about the possibility of adding optional visits to nearby villages, depending on time and interest.
Recap
This private Cotswolds tour from Bath offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s serene countryside.
Guests are transported in luxury and guided by a local expert, visiting picturesque villages, enjoying a traditional pub lunch, and taking in the area’s stunning natural beauty through scenic drives and walking opportunities.
It’s an immersive experience that showcases the rich history and architecture of the Cotswolds.
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