From Bristol: 2-Day Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford & Cotswolds

Escaping the bustle of Bristol, this captivating 2-day tour offers a chance to take in England’s storied past. From the birthplace of the legendary Bard to the hallowed halls of Oxford, travelers embark on a journey that seamlessly blends history, literature, and picturesque landscapes. Whether strolling through quaint Cotswolds villages or uncovering the treasures of the Ashmolean Museum, this small-group experience promises an enriching and personalized adventure. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, the true essence of these iconic destinations comes to life, leaving one eager to uncover the next chapter of this captivating exploration.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Bristol takes visitors to the historic sites of Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds villages, and the renowned city of Oxford.
• The tour includes visits to Tintern Abbey, the market town of Ross-on-Wye, the picturesque Cotswolds village of Broadway, and Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
• On the second day, the tour explores the charming Cotswolds village of Chipping Campden, the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ Bourton-on-the-Water, and the city of Oxford, including the Ashmolean Museum and Harry Potter filming locations.
• The tour is a small group experience limited to 16 participants and is led by a live tour guide.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour from Bristol takes visitors to the historic sites of Stratford-upon-Avon, the picturesque Cotswolds villages, and the iconic city of Oxford.

Travelers can enjoy a small group experience limited to 16 participants and a live tour guide. The tour offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance, ensuring flexibility.

Guests will travel by mini-coach and stay at locally-owned guest houses or B&Bs for one night with breakfast included.

Highlights include visits to Tintern Abbey, the market town of Ross-on-Wye, the charming village of Broadway, and opportunities to see Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford.

With a focus on exploration and discovery, this tour provides a rundown of some of England’s most captivating destinations.

Day 1 Itinerary

The first day of the tour begins with a drive through the Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, before arriving at Tintern Abbey, situated on the banks of the River Wye. Visitors will have free time to explore this historic 12th-century monastery, which features stunning Gothic architecture and serene riverside surroundings.

The tour then continues to the market town of Ross-on-Wye, where guests can wander through the charming streets and browse the local shops and eateries.

The day concludes with a visit to the picturesque Cotswolds village of Broadway, known for its honey-colored stone buildings and quaint charm, before arriving in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

1. Explore the stunning Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
2. Visit the impressive 12th-century Tintern Abbey on the banks of the River Wye.
3. Discover the charming Cotswolds village of Broadway and the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon.

Tintern Abbey Visit

Situated on the banks of the River Wye, Tintern Abbey is a 12th-century Cistercian monastery that captivates visitors with its striking Gothic architecture and serene riverside setting. Boasting remarkably well-preserved ruins, the abbey invites guests to step back in time and explore the intricate details of its stone arches, vaulted ceilings, and ornate windows that once illuminated the sacred spaces within.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Impressive Gothic-style ruins, including a nave, chancel, and remaining cloisters
History	Founded in 1131, the abbey thrived for centuries before its dissolution in 1536
Surrounding Area	Picturesque views of the River Wye and nearby Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The tour allows ample time for visitors to wander the abbey’s grounds, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and gain a deeper appreciation for this historic Welsh landmark.

Exploring Ross-on-Wye

Following the tour’s visit to the serene Tintern Abbey, the group headed towards the quaint market town of Ross-on-Wye, known for its charming timber-framed buildings, bustling town square, and scenic vantage points overlooking the meandering River Wye.

The travelers were given free time to explore the town at their own pace, taking in the local atmosphere. Some of the highlights included:

Browsing the weekly outdoor market, which offers a variety of local produce, crafts, and antiques.

Strolling along the river banks and capturing picturesque views of the historic town.

Discovering quaint independent shops and cafes, offering a taste of traditional English hospitality.

The stop in Ross-on-Wye provided a delightful respite before continuing the journey through the Cotswolds.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Discovering Broadway

Leaving the charming town of Ross-on-Wye behind, the tour group ventured into the heart of the Cotswolds, where they discovered the picturesque village of Broadway, renowned for its quintessential English character and idyllic setting.

Nestled at the base of the Cotswold Hills, Broadway’s main street is lined with honey-colored stone buildings, boutique shops, and charming tea rooms. The group strolled along the quaint High Street, admiring the historic architecture and browsing the local crafts and artisan goods.

They also explored the Broadway Tower, a 65-foot folly offering panoramic views across the Cotswolds countryside. With its peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled beauty, Broadway captivated the group, showcasing the quintessential charm of this picturesque region.

Arriving in Stratford-upon-Avon

After exploring the charming village of Broadway, the tour group arrived in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of acclaimed playwright William Shakespeare. The group anticipated visiting the landmarks and sites closely connected to the life and works of the legendary literary figure.

Stratford-upon-Avon offered the tour members several highlights:

1. Visiting Shakespeare’s birthplace, a meticulously preserved 16th-century half-timbered house where the playwright was born and spent his childhood.

2. Exploring the Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptized and later buried, providing a glimpse into the writer’s personal life.

3. Strolling along the banks of the River Avon, which served as inspiration for many of Shakespeare’s plays.

With a deep appreciation for the rich literary heritage, the group eagerly explored Stratford-upon-Avon, the embodiment of Shakespeare’s legacy.

Day 2 Itinerary

The second day of the tour begins with a visit to the picturesque village of Chipping Campden in the Cotswolds region. This quaint town, known for its honey-colored stone buildings and charming high street, offers the group an opportunity to explore its historic architecture and local crafts.

Next, the tour moves on to Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds‘ due to its picturesque bridges and streams running through the village center. After exploring this scenic destination, the group travels to the renowned city of Oxford, home to the prestigious University of Oxford.

There, they’ll visit the Ashmolean Museum, Britain’s oldest public museum, and may have the chance to see some Harry Potter filming locations.

Exploring Oxford and Beyond

Visitors then journey to the historic city of Oxford, widely renowned for its prestigious university and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights of the stop in Oxford include:

1. Exploring the iconic Ashmolean Museum, Britain’s oldest public museum, which houses a vast collection of art and antiquities.
2. Seeking out filming locations used in the Harry Potter movies, where students can relive the magic of the wizarding world.
3. Strolling the charming streets and admiring the stunning architecture, from the renowned colleges to the picturesque old town.

With ample time to enjoy the city’s intellectual and aesthetic delights, guests depart Oxford with a deeper appreciation for its enduring legacy as a center of learning and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to change their plans, ensuring they can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking within the specified timeframe.

How Many People Are Typically in a Small Group Tour?

Small group tours typically have a maximum of 16 participants. This allows for a more personalized and intimate travel experience compared to larger group tours, providing greater access and flexibility for the tour group.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Breakfast?

The tour provider doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included breakfast. Guests with special dietary needs should contact the tour company in advance to inquire about accommodating their requirements.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Tour?

The tour uses a mini-coach for transportation, which is mentioned as part of the inclusions. The small group size is limited to 16 participants, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience during the 2-day journey.

Can Participants Extend Their Stay in Any of the Tour Locations?

Participants can extend their stay in the tour locations, but this would need to be arranged independently. The tour package includes transportation and accommodations only for the specified 2-day itinerary.

Recap

This 2-day tour from Bristol offers a captivating glimpse into England’s historic and literary legacy.

Travelers will visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds, and Oxford, exploring iconic destinations with a small group and a live tour guide.

The tour includes stops at Tintern Abbey, Ross-on-Wye, and the Ashmolean Museum, providing an immersive and personalized experience of some of England’s most renowned landmarks.

You can check if your dates are available here: