One of the unspoilt regions of England, the lovely Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, covers six English counties and draws visitors from all over the world.
Renowned for its rolling meadows, meandering river valleys, pretty woodland, gentle hillsides and of course its sleepy ancient limestone villages and market towns, the area hasn’t changed much for over 300 years.
Steeped in history, growing up on the prosperity of the medieval wool trade in the 15th and 16th century, it has many fine churches and manor houses.
Take a weekend coach break or holidays to visit the quintessentially English town of Broadway at the gateway to the Cotswolds, with one of the longest high streets in England, the delightful market town of Stow-on-the Wold with its many antique shops, galleries and gift and craft shops, or picturesque Bourton on the Water, regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England.
OxfordEnjoy a visit to Oxford. Famous for the university and a place in history, the City of Dreaming Spireshas been home to royalty and scholars for over 800 years. Oxford is a bustling, cosmopolitan town and offers a mix of ancient and modern attractions. Go to the top of Carfax Tower for superb views over the city, explore the intricate network of lanes lined with noble buildings, recognize familiar sights from tv programmes and films from Harry Potter to Inspector Morse, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere of this most remarkable city. Oxford is one of the oldest, most celebrated cities in the world and promises beauty, history and vibrant culture.
Stratford Upon AvonFamous as the birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford upon Avon remains proud of its heritage with memories of the man himself emanating all around, from the romantic setting of Anne Hathaways Cottage to Mary Ardens Farm (childhood home of Shakespeare’s Mother), from Halls Croft, the home to William’s daughter to Shakespeare’s New Place, portraying the last chapter in his life. This pretty market town with over 800 years of history has splendid shopping facilities, quaint cafes all with the gentle flow of the River Avon. Stroll through the narrow side streets filled with unique and individual shops, or along the High Street, with its black and white Tudor frontages and old shop signs giving a feel of what the town may have been like in Shakespeare’s time. Why not visit Sheep Street, home to the stunning Town Hall and the famous Teddy Bear Shop, or bustling Canal Basin, centrally located between the world renowned Royal Shakespeare Theatre and main shopping areas, promising some unique and interesting boat based businesses, permanently moored here. Meander through the open parklands along the banks of the River Avon, or even take a boat ride along this beautiful stretch of river.