Historic Cotswolds Tour with Bespoke England Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
11 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for a range of fitness levels; involves light walking and sitting for extended periods during transport.
Overview
Spend a day discovering Shakespeare’s birthplace and the charming villages of the Cotswolds with Bespoke England Tours. This 11-hour journey offers history, stunning landscapes, and authentic English culture just outside London.
Shakespeare's Stratford-Upon-Avon and The Cotswolds
11 Hours • A Romantic Experience
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an enchanting 11-hour journey through the stunning Cotswolds, exploring Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-Upon-Avon. Marvel at ancient Tudor buildings, enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque villages, and relax in Bourton-on-the-Water. This romantic adventure offers a perfect blend of history and breathtaking landscapes, making it truly unforgettable.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cotswolds.
Entrance fees to venues are not included in our tours but can be arranged by us pre-tour upon request.
Duration
11 hours
About
Visit the beautiful town of Stratford-Upon-Avon. See the house where the world's greatest playwright William Shakespeare was born and grew up. The Cotswolds is an area of designated outstanding natural beauty: the postcard image of the English countryside with honey-coloured towns and villages; thatched and stone cottages and the most beautiful scenery of the rolling green hills of England. Simply delightful.
Highlights
- See Shakespeare's beautiful town of Stratford-Upon-Avon with its ancient Tudor buildings and canals on the river Avon.
- Visit the house where the playwright was born and grew up.
- Enjoy a panoramic drive around the town to see the church where William was christened and is buried -apparently without his head...
- See other original 16th century medieval buildings related to his life such as the school he went to, Hall's Croft and many others.
- Have lunch or afternoon tea (not included) and spend some time in the beautiful town of Bourton-on-the-Water, 'the Venice of the Cotswolds'.
- Explore other quaint towns and villages.
- Drive through the amazing scenery of the rolling green hills of England.
- Complimentary pick up and drop off anywhere in central London.
- A romantic experience.
*Entrance fees to venues are not included in the price of our tours, however, you can add your tickets at checkout.
Adventure Tips
Book Tickets in Advance
Entrance fees to Shakespeare’s Birthplace and other historical sites are not included; pre-booking saves time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect gentle walking on cobblestone streets and village paths; sturdy footwear is recommended.
Carry Weather Layers
The English countryside weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and fall, so dress in layers.
Plan for Lunch or Tea
Many villages offer charming cafés but meals are not included, so budget time and money accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Buzzards soaring over the Cotswold hills
- Kingfishers darting along tranquil streams
History
Stratford-Upon-Avon’s Tudor architecture remains exceptionally well-preserved, offering authentic insight into the 16th century English life that shaped William Shakespeare.
Conservation
Efforts in the Cotswolds focus on preserving its unique limestone buildings and natural green spaces, balancing tourism with environmental stewardship.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven stone streets and village paths comfortably.
Layered clothing
Adjustable layers help adapt to changing spring weather typical of the English countryside.
spring specific
Rain jacket or umbrella
Keep dry during unexpected showers common in autumn and transitional months.
fall specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning architecture, waterways, and countryside vistas along the route.