Take a day trip from Oxford and see the breathtaking scenery, quaint stone villages, and market towns of the North Cotswolds. Visit picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Small group
- Limited to 12 participants
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 9 hours
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Booklets
- English
Experience
Highlights
- Delight in a drive through the sleepy stone villages and hidden valleys in the Cotswolds
- Explore old wool and market towns with quaint cafes and quirky shops
- Enjoy a guided tour of the picturesque riverside town of Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's birthplace
Full description
See the natural beauty of the North Cotswolds and historic Stratford-upon-Avon on a full-day tour from Oxford. Make several stops in quaint Cotswolds villages and learn about the birthplace of Shakespeare.
Head west from medieval Oxford and your first stop will be the old market town of Burford. Explore the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’ and stop for a refreshment. From there you’ll be taken on a scenic drive through some of the old quarrying villages of the Cotswolds until you arrive at Bourton-on-the-Water.
Wander along the pretty riverside with its historic stone bridges and browse some of the country shops and cafes. Next, after crossing some rolling hills you’ll reach the charming old market town of Chipping Campden. Visit the old market hall and perhaps stop for lunch in a local pub or restaurant.
Finally, follow a route that takes you past more breathtaking views until you reach Stratford-upon-Avon. Here you’ll receive a tour of Shakespeare’s hometown, where you’ll see picturesque timber-framed houses, the famous Shakespeare theaters, the River Avon, and Shakespeare’s birthplace.
After Stratford, head back to the Cotswolds via Shottery, where you’ll see the enchanting Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Return to Oxford via the market town of Shipston, the idyllic village of Great Tew, and Blenheim Palace (birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill).
Includes
- Blue Badge Tour Guide and dedicated driver
- Small group tour of the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon
- Entrances to Shakespeare's birthplace and Anne Hathaway's cottage (can be purchased on the day)
- Food
- Tips (optional)
Not suitable for
- Children under 6 years
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers must bring their own headphones
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Please arrive at the departure point 10 minutes before the start of the tour. Please look for a dark blue minibus with 'Explore Oxford and the Cotswolds' written on the sides.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
Not allowed
- Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
- Tour takes place in any weather (besides heavy snow)