Hidden Cotswolds & Dark Age England
Embark on a journey of discovery to encounter stunning landscapes, idyllic settlements & uncover the story of England's birth on a tour without parallel.
Available all year round | Start time 9:00 amPick up from your accomodation | Shared & Private options
"Book it; you won't regret it." - Old Traveller. Read more reviews.
Tour Overview
Enjoy an extraordinary day uncovering the story of England's birth alongside the very best of the hidden Cotswolds...
Prepare to experience a truly unforgettable day out.
Depart Bath for an adventure that shares the very best and breadth of the southern Cotswolds: A private guided tour of Castle Combe - the prettiest village in England, A visit to one of the most important towns in English history, to discover the story of a great Saint, a great King over coffee in an 800 year old hotel, before admiring the great Abbey next door that built nearly a millenium ago.
Journey deep into nature, stopping for a delightful lunch at a tucked away Cotswolds Inn and stop by the medieval church that played a key role in the BBC's 1995 adaption of Jane Austen's 'Pride & Prejudice'.
What's Included
Cotswolds Tour Itinerary
9:00 am1. Pick up from your accomodation.
30 minutes2. Journey deep into the Cotswolds, off the beaten track.
09:30 am3. Visit Castle Combe.
Discover one of the most iconic villages in the Cotswolds, Castle Combe, on a private, guided tour, sharing some of the most fascinating gems in this ancient settlement.30 minutes4. Head deeper into the undiscovered Cotswolds.
Head deeper into the Cotswolds, along ancient Roman roads and narrow lanes.11:30 am5. Explore a once, great ancient town.
Discover one of the most beguiling towns in England, off the beaten track. Learn of the great Saint, and the great King and the role they played in England's birth, and marvel at the great Abbey next door, which has been their resting place for over 1000 years.1:30 pm6. Enjoy lunch at a historic Cotswolds Inn.
Stop for lunch amongst the locals at an atmospheric country inn serving sensational food and beverages.2:30 pm7. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon.
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon discovering breath-taking hidden gems and incredible drives adapted to you and at a relaxed pace.4.15-5:00 pm8. Drop back at your accommodation.
Arrive back in Bath, exhilarated yet relaxed and having enjoyed a day that has exceeded your expectations.
Testimonials
★★★★★
Great Cotswolds tour
"We loved this tour, and certainly our diver/tour guide, Simon was the main reason. The charm and beauty of the Cotswolds is amazing. Great place for lunch too. Thanks so much!" - 2024, James C
★★★★★
Wonderful and Informative Tour of the Cotswolds!
"My husband and I did a private tour with Max and it was excellent. We learned a lot about the history of the area and were able to see beautiful parts of the Cotswolds while avoiding the tourist traps. I highly recommend it!" - 2023, mbcostigan
★★★★★
The Cotswolds experience you're looking for
"This is a day of exploring the hidden treasures of the Cotswolds down tiny country lanes and into small villages full of rich historical treasures, which are still so peaceful and unaffected. It's also a tour which gives you time to breathe it all in, by taking a stroll here, and stopping for a cuppa there. We were looked after by the wonderful Jules who has both the personal knowledge and historical depth to give us a wonderful overview of both times past and the here and now. Book it; you won't regret it." - 2022, Old Traveller
★★★★★
- 2024, Sonja P
Heading into the dark ages!
“We had a wonderful trip to the hidden Cotswolds with Ralph as our guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about the area; very accommodating, picking us up at our location. He also contacted me the day before our trip to discuss details and give us an idea what we would be doing for the day. I won’t divulge the locations we visited because it’s a secret and you’ll be very happy to see such lovely spots! Ralph gave us plenty of time to look around. He gave us the background details about the area which was fascinating for history buffs. We also saw an especially stately home, which was absolutely stunning. And the artwork was mind blowing! This is really a perfect trip when you don’t have a lot of time or don’t wanna hassle with rental cars and driving but letting someone else show you around. I certainly did not want to attempt to drive around myself as an US driver! Ralph is an excellent and safe driver who inspired confidence and made us feel safe and secure. It was just an important concern for us after our hair raising taxi journey the previous day. Lol I’m so glad we did this journey with Ralph as our guide. I recommend this trip 100%.” - 2024, Sonja P
★★★★★
A day in the southern Cotswolds.
“Roland served as our driver/guide for a day tour out of Bath, and into the southern Cotswolds. We wanted to see historical architecture, countryside, and local flavor. We were completely pleased with the itinerary Roland planned, as well as his knowledge of the area. We especially enjoyed his historical knowledge . . . unsurprising given that his career was teaching history to 13-18 year-olds. Roland is an engaging and knowledgeable guide, and solicitous of his guests' comfort. I'd enjoy traveling with him again, and would recommend him 100% favorably. Cheers” - 2024, Jerry C