Exploring the enchanting Cotswolds and the birthplace of the Bard, this 2-day tour offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and local charm. Enjoy the region’s quaint villages, visit Shakespeare’s legacy, and unwind in a cozy vacation cottage. With a knowledgeable guide, delightful dining options, and a personalized experience, this journey promises to leave you with memories that will linger long after you’ve returned home. Let’s dive into the details and discover why this tour is the perfect way to experience the heart of England.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours in Stratford Upon Avon.
Good To Know
- This 2-day tour offers an immersive experience exploring the English countryside, including the Cotswolds and Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
- Accommodation is provided in a centrally-located, 2-bedroom vacation cottage that can accommodate up to four travelers for a private and authentic stay.
- Transportation is via a comfortable mini-coach with a local driver/guide, ensuring a personalized and organized journey for up to 5 travelers.
- Meals are not included, allowing guests to explore local eateries at their leisure, with recommendations provided for traditional English pubs and cafes.
- The tour highlights key sites such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Snowshill Manor, and Shakespeare’s birthplace, providing an opportunity to immerse in the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Tour Highlights
The tour takes visitors on a journey through the quintessential English countryside, showcasing the picturesque villages and historical landmarks of the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Highlights include the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the "Venice of the Cotswolds" for its picturesque bridges and streams.
Travelers will also visit the historic town of Chipping Campden, admire the magnificent Snowshill Manor, and explore Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The two-day tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Stratford upon Avon.
Accommodation Details
Overnight accommodation is provided in a centrally-located 2-bedroom vacation cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The cottage offers a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the town and the surrounding Cotswolds region. It features a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and two bedrooms that can accommodate up to four travelers.
The cottage is within walking distance of the town center, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and the iconic Shakespeare’s Birthplace.
This private accommodation ensures a more authentic and immersive experience compared to a hotel, allowing guests to truly feel at home during their stay.
Transportation and Logistics
The tour begins with pickup from either Stratford-upon-Avon town centre at 9:00 AM or Moreton-in-Marsh rail station at 9:30 AM.
Transport is provided by a comfortable mini-coach with a local driver/guide included. The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
The transportation and logistics are designed to make the journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible, allowing visitors to focus on the stunning Cotswolds scenery and Stratford-upon-Avon’s rich Shakespearean heritage.
Meals and Dining
Meals aren’t included in the tour, allowing guests to enjoy the local eateries at their own pace. The driver/guide provides recommendations for traditional English pubs, cafes, and restaurants in the area. Diners can opt for a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning Cotswold scenery.
Recommended Eateries |
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The Hathaway Tea Rooms |
Bosun’s Bite Cafe |
The Saintbridge House |
The Rose & Crown |
Hathaway Brasserie |
Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are readily available. With flexible dining arrangements, guests can savor the local flavors of the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon at their leisure.
Health and Accessibility
Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart issues, or pregnant women. However, service animals are allowed.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Guests should consider their physical abilities before booking. The tour involves walking, entering historic buildings, and navigating uneven terrain.
Travelers with mobility concerns are encouraged to discuss their needs with the operator in advance. Safety is the top priority, and the tour staff will make reasonable accommodations whenever possible to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.
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Customer Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive reviews speak to the tour’s success, with travelers awarding it a perfect 5.0 rating based on 33 assessments.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable tour guide, who provides rich historical insights into the Cotswolds and Shakespeare’s legacy in Stratford-upon-Avon. The comfortable experience and well-organized logistics also receive high marks.
Key highlights mentioned by past guests include:
- Visiting Anne Hathaway’s cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon.
- Attending a play performance at the Royal Shakespeare Company.
- Exploring the charming villages of the Cotswolds, such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Campden.
The overwhelmingly positive customer feedback underscores the tour’s ability to deliver a memorable and enriching experience.
Itinerary Overview
The 2-day Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon tour begins with a pickup from Stratford-upon-Avon town centre at 9:00 AM or Moreton-in-Marsh rail station at 9:30 AM.
Travelers will be transported by a comfortable mini-coach with a local driver/guide.
The tour highlights include the picturesque villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, and Snowshill, as well as Shakespeare’s Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Overnight accommodation is provided in a 2-bedroom vacation cottage in the center of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Meals aren’t included, but the tour guide provides tips for traditional eateries.
The maximum group size is 5 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Additional Recommendations
Travelers may want to consider visiting Anne Hathaway’s cottage, the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife, for a glimpse into 16th-century rural life.
Plus, attending a play performance at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in Stratford-upon-Avon is highly recommended. The RSC is renowned for its world-class Shakespearean productions, providing an immersive theatrical experience.
Other suggestions include:
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Exploring the picturesque village of Snowshill, known for its quintessential Cotswold architecture and charming tea rooms.
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Visiting Chipping Campden, a historic market town with a beautiful High Street and the magnificent St. James’ Church.
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Stopping by Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds" for its low bridges and picturesque river.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour provider and the itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate their preferences within the tour’s overall structure and duration.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Schedule?
The tour offers flexibility, as customers can request to visit specific sites within the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon regions. The driver-guide will work to accommodate reasonable changes to the itinerary based on traveler interests and time constraints.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with visitors exploring picturesque Cotswolds villages and touring Shakespeare’s Birthplace. While some walking is required, the pace is leisurely, and there are opportunities to rest during the trip.
Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?
The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there’s some light walking involved. Travelers should also bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the Cotswolds can be quite picturesque but also changeable in terms of weather.
Can We Arrive or Depart at Different Locations?
Travelers can opt for pickup from either Stratford-upon-Avon town centre or Moreton-in-Marsh rail station, providing flexibility in arrival and departure locations. The tour’s logistics accommodate these preferences to ensure a convenient and customized experience.
The Sum Up
This captivating 2-day tour of the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon offers travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With charming towns, historic sites, comfortable accommodation, and delightful local dining, the tour promises an unforgettable experience. A knowledgeable guide ensures a personalized and insightful journey, leaving visitors with cherished memories of this captivating corner of England.
More 2-Day Experiences in Stratford upon Avon
More Tours in Stratford upon Avon
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- Stratford upon Avon: Shakespeare Guided Tour
- Stratford-upon-Avon: River Cruise & City Audio Tour
- The Alternative Shakespeare Tour + 3 Course Carvery
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