Leave Brighton for a full-day coach tour through the Cotswolds to Bourton-on-the-Water and Stratford-upon-Avon. Enjoy guided walks, photostops at Anne Hathaway's Cottage, and free time to explore Shakespeare's riverside town.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the coach in Brighton as the city blurs behind you and the road opens into rolling hills of the Cotswolds. Stone walls and honey-coloured cottages slip past the window; the coach hums and the guide's voice sketches the route — Bourton-on-the-Water first, then Stratford-upon-Avon, where the River Avon will dare you to stop and watch its slow current.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
11–12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces
Wildlife
History
Stratford expanded in the 16th century with the wool trade and later immortalized by William Shakespeare, while the Cotswolds' characteristic stone comes from Jurassic limestone quarries.
Conservation
The Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; visitors are encouraged to support local businesses, stay on footpaths, and minimize single-use plastics to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds - Day Tour from Brighton today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear stable walking shoes
Cobblestones in Stratford and narrow village lanes in the Cotswolds can be uneven — choose shoes with good tread and support.
Layer for river breezes
Mornings can be mild but riverside winds feel cooler; a lightweight windbreaker is useful year-round.
Carry small cash
Some village shops and tearooms prefer cards, but small stalls and tips are often cash-friendly.
Time museum visits
Use your free time in Stratford to prioritize the Shakespeare houses or theatre tours — queues can form mid-afternoon.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support and grip for cobbles, riverbanks, and village paths.
Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
Protects against sudden showers and riverside wind chill.
Small daypack
Holds water, layers, purchases, and a camera during free time.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
For capturing picturesque cottages, river scenes, and historic façades.