Cotswolds and the Heart of England Tour - 9 day tour
At Backroads Britain Tours, we offer unique and memorable sightseeing tours that take you to the most popular landmarks and hidden gems of this marvelous land.
This is, our Cotswolds and the Heart of England tour, is a magical mix of some of the country's most iconic tourist sights and many less well known, but equally wonderful gems.
At 9 days, 8 nights in length, this fully escorted small group tour will take you through five very different counties, each spectacular in their own particular way.
Gloucestershire is a beautiful county of gently rolling arable land, known since Roman times for its rich farming and forestry.
Over ninety percent of the county is countryside, over half of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The county is dominated in the East by a band of limestone hills known as the Cotswolds and to the west by the ancient Royal Forest of Dean. The Cotswolds hills rise to over 1,000 feet at Cleever Hill, a place that is wonderfully scenic and quintessentially English. The lush countryside and picture-postcard villages makes this area of Gloucestershire a highly popular tourist destination.
The River Severn runs through Gloucestershire from north to south. The Severn Valley is about 8 miles wide in the north and known locally as the Vale of Gloucester. To the south of Gloucester it narrows to become the Vale of Berkeley.
Warwickshire, in the heart of England, is best known for the county where William Shakespeare was born, lived and died. The county has royal connections through the magnificent Warwick Castle and also Royal Leamington Spa - made Royal in 1830 by a visit from Queen Victoria.
The county of Warwickshire is a gently undulating county. A range of limestone hills rises on the south-eastern boundary, which includes Edgehill. The north of the county is the site of the ancient Forest of Arden, of which relatively little remains today.
Warwickshire boasts some of the most historic and idyllic locations in the country. During the 18th and 19th centuries the development of the national canal system placed this area at the forefront of the industrial revolution. The county is also rich in historic architecture going back over 1000 years, including the fine medieval Warwick Castle and the many Elizabethan half timbered houses around Stratford and Evesham.
Worcestershire lies in the heart of England, nestled between the mellow Cotswolds and the Welsh Marches. It supports a variety of rich landscapes from open countryside, with luscious fruit bearing orchards, to the ancient and majestic Malvern Hills, which provide bracing country walks and breathtaking views. Worcestershire potteries are famous for their fine bone Chinaware.
The county was once covered by the Wyre Forest, but all that remains is the hilly wooded region in the north west. The central plain of Worcestershire is bordered in the west by the tall ridge of the Malvern Hills, forming a boundary with Herefordshire. Picturesque villages are dotted in-between, leading up to the Cathedral City of Worcester. To the north are the Clent and Lickey Hills. The fertile vale of the River Severn runs north to south through the centre of the county and the Avon gently winds through the wooded Vale of Evesham, in the south. The restored steam railway, that runs through the Severn Valley, provides the ideal opportunity to take a magical journey through some of the county's spectacular scenery, leading all the way into Shropshire.
Malvern in Worcestershire, is home to the oldest mineral water spring in England. Once famed for its miracle healing abilities - taking of the waters dates back to around 1622. In Victorian times people where known to travel hundreds of miles just to collected it. Although no longer considered a miracle cure, it is still very refreshing and today it is still bottled and sold throughout the world.
Oxfordshire is the most rural county in the south east of England. Both the Chiltern Hills and the Cotswolds, which run through the county, have been designated as areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Stretching from the edge of Oxford to the south west corner is the Vale-of-White-Horse, a separate district of Oxfordshire. The name is derived from the oldest chalk figure found in England; that of a white horse carved in the chalk hillside over 3000 years ago.
Oxford, the county town, is most famous for its University, founded over 900 years ago. Its historic buildings, courtyards and colleges are frequently used as backdrops for films and TV dramas. Also because it is within easy reach of London and Heathrow it has become a very popular place to visit.
The county of Buckinghamshire (Bucks) has gently rising sandy hills in the north and east, below which stretches the vast fertile Vale of Aylesbury, famous for the raising of Sheep, cattle, pigs, ducks and geese. The county town of Aylesbury is home to the famous Aylesbury Duck, a large plump duck with all white feathers and a distinctive pink bill. In the 16th-c Henry VIII made Aylesbury the official county town over Buckingham, allegedly to curry favour with Thomas Boleyn in order to woo his daughter Anne.
The south of the county is dominated by the stunning Chiltern Hills, stretching 75 miles across several counties, this ridge of chalk and woodland makes an attractive backdrop. The famous stretch of woodland known as Burnham Beeches lies in the far south of the county, where the River Thames forms the southern boundary.
In the 15th-c the area became know for producing bricks, originally used for in-fill in Timber Framed houses but later used to build grand houses throughout the country.
Itinerary
Day 1
Within an hour of leaving the Heathrow airport area this morning, we will arrive at Castle Combe, a charming village in Wiltshire that is considered one of the most beautiful in the entire country. This quintessentially English village has served as a filming location for various movies, including The Wolf Man, Stardust, and Steven Spielberg's War Horse, as well as the original Dr. Doolittle film. The houses in the village are constructed from the distinctive honey-colored Cotswold stone, which is typical of the region. Within the village, you will come across a Market Cross and St. Andrew's Church, a historic structure dating back to the 13th century. Moving forward, our journey will take us across the border into Gloucestershire, passing through the market town of Malmesbury, one of England's oldest borough and famous for its stunning 12th Century Abbey which is still very much in use today, en route to Cirencester. Established in AD 75 and known to the Romans as Corinium Dobunnorum, Cirencester is a delightful market town with a rich history that is worth delving into. The town's market status was documented in the famous Domesday Book. Bibury, another highlight of our itinerary, is a beloved village in the Cotswolds and a popular spot for tourists. Arlington Row, a collection of ancient weaver's cottages with steeply pitched roofs dating back to the 16th century, is one of the most photographed sites in the Cotswolds and even appears on British passports. Bibury is also home to England's oldest working trout farm, where visitors can observe the trout in their natural environment by strolling along the riverbank. Our day will conclude in the market town of Burford, known for its medieval bridge, old stone houses, and charming Tudor and Georgian facades. Often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds', Burford was originally a fortified Anglo-Saxon ford that later developed into a significant regional crossroads and prosperous wool town. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Reavley's, England's oldest pharmacy, which has been operating as a chemist since the 1730’s.
Overnight - The Lamb Inn, Burford
(or similar)
Day 2
The Cotswolds, a name that conjures up nostalgic images of a bygone era, is a sprawling AONB (Area of Natural Beauty) that spans nearly 800 square miles. Within this vast expanse lies a collection of picturesque villages, characterized by their charming honey-colored cottages, undulating green hills, and meandering country lanes. Our upcoming tour promises to delve deep into the heart of the Cotswolds, offering a comprehensive exploration of this stunning region. Our first destination for the day will be the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, which is situated along the River Windrush. This charming village is famous for its small bridges (seen above), graceful willow trees that hang over the river, and traditional stone houses. In addition to its natural beauty, Bourton-on-the-Water is home to several attractions that are worth exploring. The Cotswold Motoring Museum showcases a collection of vintage cars and an impressive assortment of toys. Birdland is another highlight, where visitors can encounter various bird species including parrots, owls, and king penguins. For those interested in history, the Model Village offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its 1930s replica of the village. Just a short distance away, the twin hamlets of Upper and Lower Slaughter are renowned for their photogenic charm and rich history. However, the true gem of the area is Sudeley Castle, a grade I listed castle with ten stunning gardens. This magnificent castle has witnessed the footsteps of notable figures such as Richard III, Elizabeth I, and Lady Jane Grey. Notably, Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII, resided and passed away within the castle walls. Afterward, we will pass through the ancient town of Winchcombe, an Anglo Saxon settlement, on our way to Hailes Abbey. Founded in 1246, Hailes Abbey is nestled amidst the picturesque Cotswold countryside. Once a thriving center of monastic life, the abbey now stands as a tranquil ruin, offering visitors a serene and historically significant setting to unwind and reflect. Finally, we will journey through a series of delightful villages before reaching our final destination, Broadway. Often referred to as "the jewel of the Cotswolds," Broadway is a charming village that has captivated visitors for centuries. Its idyllic High Street is adorned with horse chestnut trees and a mix of period houses and honey-colored Cotswold stone cottages, creating a postcard-worthy scene that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Overnight - Abbot's Grange, Broadway
(or similar)
Day 3
Located just outside of Broadway, Broadway Tower is a stunning Grade II listed folly constructed from limestone ashlar during the 18th Century. Offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the picturesque countryside, visitors can ascend its three storeys to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Leaving behind the charming Cotswolds for a short while, our journey will take us to Warwickshire. In the quaint village of Bretforton, we will make a stop at the delightful Fleece Inn to enjoy a refreshing morning coffee. This historic pub, originally built as a longhouse in the early 15th century by a farmer named Byrd, has a rich history dating back to the time of Geoffrey Chaucer. Remarkably, it remained in the same family's ownership until it was bequeathed to the National Trust in 1977. Continuing our journey, we will next pass through the enchanting village of Welford-on-Avon, nestled within a loop of the River Avon. This idyllic site has been inhabited for thousands of years and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. Welford-on-Avon is renowned for its charming timber-framed cottages with thatched roofs, exuding a timeless beauty. The village's oldest structure is the St Peter parish church, a remarkable building dating back to 1330. Additionally, the village's pub, The Bell, holds a special place in literary history as, according to tradition, William Shakespeare came here to share a drink with Ben Jonson. On his way home to Stratford, Shakespeare was caught in a rain shower and contracted a case of fatal pneumonia. Before reaching our final destination of Stratford-upon-Avon, we will make one more stop at Anne Hathaway's Cottage. Nestled within a charming cottage garden, this thatched house holds great significance as it was the childhood home of William Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway. The earliest part of the building dates back to 1463, and it serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the renowned playwright. Upon our arrival in Stratford, we will settle into our accommodation for a two-night stay, allowing you the freedom to explore this magical market town at your leisure. With more than 800 years of history, the town still contains many buildings that would have been familiar to Shakespeare.
Notable attractions in the town include Shakespear’es Birthplace, Shakespear’es Schoolhouse and Guildhall, The Royal Shakespeare Company, and Hall’s Croft, which served as the residence for Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna and her husband John Hall. Probably one of the best ways to see everything this fascinating town has to offer would be to take one of the many Shakespeare walking tours that are offered daily.
Overnight - The Townhouse,
Stratford-upon-Avon (or similar)
Day 4
Today, we will be presenting you with a choice. You can either stay in Stratford and continue exploring the town, with options such as visiting Tudor World, the MAD "Mechanical Art & Design" Museum, or the UK's largest butterfly farm. Alternatively, you can join us as we venture out of town to discover the wonders of the "heart of England." Our first destination will be Warwick, where you will be amazed by its mighty and impressive castle. This castle has a rich history, dating back to the time of Alfred the Great's daughter, Aethelflaed, who built a fortress here in 914 to command the River Avon. The oldest surviving structure on the site is the mound from William the Conqueror's era, but the castle itself was built during the 14th century, during the Hundred Years War. While there are numerous other attractions in Warwick vying for your attention, we highly recommend visiting Lord Leycester Hospital, a beautifully preserved example of medieval courtyard architecture. Originally built as a chapel in the 12th century, it was later founded as a hospital by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, in the 1500s. Moving on, we will visit the magnificent ruins of Kenilworth Castle, which was initially constructed in the 1120s. Queen Elizabeth I gifted this castle to Robert Dudley in 1563, and he transformed it into a splendid palace. Notably, he hosted the queen here for 19 days of festivities in 1575. Other historical properties in the area include Baddesley Clinton, a moated Tudor mansion that provided sanctuary for persecuted Catholics in the 1590s, Stoneleigh Abbey, a grand Jacobean stately home with Baroque additions, and Packwood House, a beautifully restored Jacobean-meets-Edwardian style Tudor mansion with stunning gardens and topiary. On our way back to Stratford we will pass through the pretty town of Henley-in-Arden, renowned for its lengthy High Street, as well as the charming villages of Wootton Wawen and Aston Cantlow.
Overnight - The Townhouse,
Stratford-upon-Avon (or similar)
Day 5
En route back to the Cotswolds, our initial destination today will be Mary Arden’s Farm, the childhood abode of William Shakespeare's mother, which still retains some remnants of its original 16th-century structure despite being predominantly Victorian/Edwardian in appearance today. Following this, we will explore the renowned Hidcote Gardens, an Arts and Crafts-inspired garden established in the early 1900s, nestled in a picturesque North Cotswold hamlet. Our journey will then lead us to the charming market town of Chipping Campden, known for its historic High Street spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, the iconic Market Hall constructed in 1627, and the magnificent wool church of St James. In the quaint village of Snowshill, we recommend visiting two notable attractions. Firstly, Cotswold Lavender, a working farm cultivating over 35 varieties of lavender across 350,000 plants and 90 miles of rows, offering a breathtaking display of color during the peak of summer. Secondly, Snowshill Manor, the unconventional 16th-century residence of the eccentric Charles Wade, where he employed architectural and theatrical elements to create a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Wade's collection of diverse and intriguing artifacts transformed his home into a captivating stage of wonder and amusement. Continuing our journey through the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, we will proceed to the ancient Rollright Stones, a complex of three Neolithic and Bronze Age megalithic monuments crafted from local oolitic limestone. These monuments, constructed during different periods of late prehistory, stand as a testament to the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region, offering a glimpse into the ancient past of the Cotswolds. Chastleton House, a rare Jacobean country house listed as Grade I, was constructed between 1607 and 1612 to showcase opulence and authority. Maintaining its original charm, the house remains untouched by modern influences, creating an ambiance that is both informal and timeless within its pristine surroundings. Our journey will culminate in the picturesque town of Stow-on-the-Wold, known for its quintessential Cotswold charm with an abundance of honey-colored stone houses and charming shops. The town boasts a rich history, notably playing a significant role in the English Civil War with the Battle of Stow on the Wold in 1646, where the last royalist field army was defeated at nearby Donnington. St. Edward’s Church, a historic landmark in Stow-on-the-Wold, served as a prison for the captured Royalist troops following their defeat, owing to its secure structure as the only lockable building in the town. The church still bears scars from that tumultuous period, adding to its historical significance. Notably, the 'Tolkienesque' North Door of the church, flanked by ancient yew trees, is said to have inspired the 'Doors of Durin' in the Lord of the Rings, adding a touch of mystique to this already fascinating site.
Overnight - The Kings Head, Bledington
(or similar)
Day 6
If the quaint market town where we make our first stop this morning looks familiar to you, that’s because it’s where all the exterior village scenes for the popular TV show "Downton Abbey" were filmed. Most notably, St. Mary's Church and the library, which served as the entrance to the cottage hospital. This town, boasting numerous charming 17th and 18th-century houses, along with a delightful, albeit small, early 19th-century Italianate Town Hall, stands as one of the oldest towns in England. The picturesque ruins of Minster Lovell Hall, situated behind the local parish church and adjacent to the meandering River Windrush, offer a serene setting for a leisurely stroll. Constructed in the 1430s by William, Baron of Lovell, one of England's wealthiest men, the hall later became the residence of Francis, Viscount Lovell, a trusted confidant of Richard III. Despite changing ownership several times, the hall was eventually abandoned and demolished in the 18th century, leaving behind the extensive ruins that captivate visitors today. Minster Lovell itself, a charming village characterized by Cotswold stone buildings and thatched roofs, is rumored to be the most haunted village in the region. Our next destination will be the splendid market town of Woodstock, originally established as a medieval 'new town' to accommodate visitors to a royal hunting lodge. The present-day Woodstock showcases a fine Georgian town with a rich Royal heritage, featuring numerous attractive period buildings such as the elegant 18th-century Town Hall and the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, boasting a Norman doorway, early English windows, and a musical clock that plays tunes hourly.
Woodstock also offers a variety of independent shops, galleries, and dining establishments, making it a delightful place to explore. At the heart of Woodstock lies the Oxfordshire Museum, providing an in-depth look into the county's history. The museum's galleries cover a wide range of historical periods, from the Jurassic era to the Anglo-Saxons and Victorians, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of Oxfordshire's rich heritage. Woodstock’s main visitor attraction, however, is the spectacular Blenheim Palace, a must-visit destination for tourists. This World Heritage site holds great historical significance as it is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Currently, it serves as the residence for the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. The palace itself is a sight to behold, with its grand architecture and stunning interiors. Surrounding the palace are beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown. Visitors can explore these gardens and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Additionally, Blenheim Palace offers a year-round program of events, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening. Our final stop of the day will be in the famous University city of Oxford. We will have the pleasure of staying in Oxford for the next two nights, allowing ample time to explore the city's rich history and cultural offerings.
Overnight - Malmaison Hotel, Oxford
(or similar)
Day 7
In 1167, King Henry II prohibited English students from attending the University of Paris, prompting them to seek education in a serene town surrounded by lush green meadows. This decision led to the establishment of a prestigious university in Oxford, which was officially recognized by King Henry III in 1248. Since then, Oxford has attracted renowned scholars and intellectuals, becoming a hub of academic excellence and intellectual discourse. The rich history of Oxford is evident in its cobblestone streets and magnificent architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Notable figures such as prime ministers, US presidents, and saints have walked the halls of Oxford, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and wisdom. For fans of Harry Potter, Oxford provides a magical experience with its iconic landmarks and enchanting atmosphere. One of the most iconic landmarks in Oxford is the Radcliffe Camera, a stunning neo-classical building that is part of the Bodleian Library. To fully appreciate its beauty, visitors can climb to the rooftop of the Church of St Mary the Virgin for panoramic views of the city. The Bodleian Library tour offers a glimpse into the Duke Humfrey's Medieval Library, which served as inspiration for the Hogwarts Library in the Harry Potter films. Nearby, Hertford Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Sighs, offers a picturesque setting reminiscent of Venice. The Ashmolean Museum, Britain's first public museum which dates from 1682, and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History provide visitors with a chance to explore art, archaeology, and natural history in a captivating setting. The Covered Market, dating back to 1770, offers a diverse range of traders and is an excellent spot to enjoy a meal. Christ Church Meadow, where one of England's first balloon flights took place in 1784, now provides a peaceful setting along the River Thames and the River Cherwell in Oxford. While there are numerous colleges in Oxford open to visitors, with limited time, a visit to Christ Church College is highly recommended. Founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII, this college has educated numerous notable figures, including 13 prime ministers and Lewis Caroll. The dining hall at Christ Church was even the model for the great hall in Harry Potter, adding to its historical significance and charm. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the exteriors of the colleges you didn't have the chance to visit. Walk down the charming cobbled Merton Lane, passing by Merton College and Corpus Christi. Continue along the High Street and take in the grandeur of Magdalen College before making your way up Longwall Street, passing New College and reaching Broad Street. Here, you will find the historically left-leaning colleges of Wadham and Balliol flanking the impressive grounds of Trinity College. Take a moment to appreciate the architecture and history of these renowned institutions. Conclude your day in Oxford by easing into the evening with a pint at a cozy, traditional English pub. A highly recommended choice is the Turf Tavern, nestled down a quaint, uneven cobbled lane. This charming pub is filled with character, featuring low beams and a lively atmosphere. Notable figures such as Elizabeth Taylor, Tony Blair, and Margaret Thatcher have frequented this establishment. Another noteworthy pub is the Eagle & Child on St Giles', known for its literary significance. Renowned authors Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien were part of a literary group called "The Inklings," where they would gather at this pub to share and critique their work while enjoying a pint together.
Overnight - Malmaison Hotel, Oxford
(or similar)
Day 8
Before we depart, you will be given the opportunity to take one last leisurely walk through the ancient streets of this captivating and culturally rich city. Blackwell's, the renowned bookstore, is believed by many to have served as inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. Established in 1879 by Benjamin Henry Blackwell, this bookstore is recognized as one of the largest academic and specialty bookstores globally. Oxford Castle, a significant medieval castle, was mostly rebuilt in stone during the late 12th or early 13th century. The castle played a crucial role in the conflict of the Anarchy and was largely destroyed during the English Civil War. By the 18th century, the remaining structures were repurposed as Oxford's local prison, which later closed in 1996 and was transformed into a hotel and visitor attraction. The Sheldonian Theatre, known for hosting graduation ceremonies, is another architectural gem in Oxford that should not be missed. For fans of the Inspector Morse and Lewis TV shows, a visit to the bar in the Randolph Hotel is a must. This location was frequently used for filming, and the walls are adorned with images of the iconic detectives. With the gleaming spires of Oxford in our rear view mirror, we will wend our way through the pastoral Oxfordshire countryside, pausing briefly in the charming village of Dorchester-on-Thames to appreciate its quaint main street and the grandeur of its abbey. Established in 1140 atop the ruins of a 7th-century Saxon cathedral, Dorchester Abbey stands as one of the earliest Christian sites in the United Kingdom. Continuing our expedition, we will venture into the breathtaking Chiltern Hills, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, renowned for its picturesque lanes adorned with thatched cottages, meandering rivers, and picturesque villages. Our group will have the privilege of selecting our next destination. The first option is Nuffield Place, the former residence of William Morris, a prominent philanthropist and the founder of the Morris Motor Company. Constructed in 1912, this house holds a special place in history. Alternatively, we can visit Grey’s Court, a stunning 16th-century manor with serene gardens, featuring architectural gems like the Great Tower from the 14th century and a rare Tudor donkey wheel. Lastly, we have the opportunity to explore Stonor Park, a historic estate that has been home to the Stonor family for more than 850 years. This living residence offers a glimpse into the past, with each room brimming with stories and artifacts collected over generations. The estate also houses a chapel dating back to the late 13th century, built on the grounds of a prehistoric Stone Circle. Our next stop will be in the picturesque riverside town of Henley-on-Thames, renowned worldwide for its prestigious regatta. As we explore the charming villages of the Chilterns, we have intentionally saved the most delightful one for last. Hambleden, an utterly enchanting English Village, boasts houses predominantly constructed with the captivating combination of brick and flint, which is characteristic of the Chilterns region. The village's allure is further enhanced by its warm, terracotta roofs and elegantly painted leaded windows. Additionally, Hambleden has remained remarkably unchanged in appearance since 1944 due to a Restrictive Covenant, making it a sought-after location for television and film productions. Our day will conclude a short distance away, in the alluring market town of Marlow, situated along the banks of the river Thames, where we will spend the night.
Overnight - The Compleat Angler, Marlow
(or similar)
Day 9
You will have the chance to explore Marlow further this morning. This vibrant Georgian market town is made up of historic streets and an abundance of boutique shops and eateries that all add to the town’s unique charm. Burger’s Tearooms is a particularly spot to grab a morning coffee and a slice of cake or pastry. The town's most iconic landmark is the suspension bridge, which was first opened in 1832. Notable residents of Marlow have included literary figures such as Thomas Love Peacock, Jerome K. Jerome, T.S. Eliot, and Mary Shelley, who completed her gothic masterpiece Frankenstein while residing in the town. We will next pass through the picturesque Beaconsfield Old Town en route to Bekonscot Model Village, the world's oldest and original model village. With nearly a century of history, Bekonscot boasts a vast model railway, meticulously maintained gardens spanning 1.5 acres, and intricately detailed model buildings, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. Nearby, The Royal Standard stands as a popular visitor attraction. This historic pub, dating back to the 11th Century and reputed to be the oldest Free House in England, welcomed King Charles I during the civil war and offers an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch. The pub's remarkable architecture, both inside and out, is truly captivating. In the afternoon, we recommend a visit to Cliveden, situated high above the Thames and offering sweeping views. The impressive gardens and majestic woodlands of Cliveden exude the grandeur of a bygone era, inviting visitors to follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, and royalty as they explore a series of uniquely charming gardens. This Italianate mansion, constructed in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham as a gift to his mistress, was once the residence of the Astor family, with Nancy Astor becoming Britain's first female Member of Parliament in the 1950s. If time permits, a brief stop at Dorney Court will afford you the chance to visit one final piece of history. This Grade I listed early Tudor manor house, dating back to around 1440, has been featured in various TV shows and films, most notably in the recent hit series Bridgerton. The tour will end when you are dropped off at either Heathrow airport or a local hotel around 5pm.
Alternatively, if you would like to extend your trip with a couple of nights in the royal town of Windsor (which is featured on one of our other tours), we would be delighted to drop you off at one of that town’s hostelries.
Please Note
The itinerary outlined here for each day is merely a recommendation and can be adjusted based on the preferences of the group. With a plethora of activities listed, it is important to avoid feeling overwhelmed or rushed from one location to another. This is why we make it a point to gather during dinner the night before to discuss and plan the following day's itinerary. Whether the group desires a jam-packed schedule or a more relaxed pace, the flexibility of this tour allows for customization to cater to everyone's interests and energy levels. The beauty of a tour like this lies in the fact that there is no rigid schedule to adhere to. It allows for spontaneity and each day can be tailored to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants.