Cotswolds Private Village and History Tour

Explore the beauty and charming character of the Cotswolds, which lies just beyond Bath.
This memorable day will feature visits to some of the region's hidden gems and prettiest villages, such as Castle Combe, Lacock, Corsham and Bradford-on-Avon.

Wander back in time through medieval England and immerse yourself in the history and traditions of the Cotswolds.

Enjoy an indulgent lunch at a traditional and famous pub.

What's included:

• Private tour for up to 6 people
• Fully qualified, insured and licenced local guide
• Hotel pickup and drop off

Not included:

• Refreshments

What to expect:

Duration: 8 hours

Castle Combe Village

Castle Combe, SN14 7HX

The day begins in Castle Combe, which is surely one of the most photographed villages in all of England. Little has changed here since the 15th century - no street lights or TV aerials. This mediaeval gem is famous for its picturesque cottages and babbling brook. Nestled in a wooded Cotswold valley, Castle Combe has been a favourite Hollywood filming location over the years for movies including War Horse, Stardust and Doctor Dolittle.

2 hours

Lacock

Lacock

Thereafter, your journey continues to the quintessential English village of Lacock, which dates back to the 13th century and where cars are the only sign of modern-day life. Little wonder that it has also been used as a filming location for Downton Abbey, Harry Potter and several BBC productions including Pride and Prejudice. The ancient Abbey boasts a fascinating history and a small museum that celebrates the invention of the photographic negative by William Henry Fox Talbot in 1839.

2 hours

Corsham

Corsham

Corsham is a quintessential English market town which boasts many beautiful and historic buildings. This hidden Cotswolds gem is set within acres of beautiful countryside and is acknowledged as one of the most desirable places to live in the South West of England.
The High Street has become a recognisable filming location for both the big and the small screen. Admire the exotic resident peacocks as they strut along the cobbled streets.

The history of Corsham is strongly linked to wool and stone: the wool from the Flemish weavers who based themselves in the town and the famous Bath Stone was quarried locally and used in many of the town’s buildings.

Corsham also boasts wonderful independent shops and you will savour a traditional pub lunch in the historic Methuen Arms.

2 hours

Bradford-on-Avon

Bradford-on-Avon

Situated on the banks of the River Avon, this special place lies at the southern edge of the Cotswolds and it has been a magnet for people since the Iron Age.
Bradford-on-Avon was also famous for the wool and weaving industry that spanned six centuries: pretty medieval weavers' cottages perched on the hillside are dwarfed by the Victorian great mills that still leave a lasting architectural impression.

The Saxons (6th - 11th C.) drove their carts across the ‘broad ford’, which gave the town its name. You will follow in their footsteps as you walk towards the impressive Tithe Barn, one of the largest medieval barns in England. Then marvel at the engineering prowess of the Victorians as you wander back into town alongside the historic canal, which boasts several impressive locks.

Upon leaving the Bradford-on-Avon we will drive over the iconic town bridge. This dates back to the 13th Century and features a medieval pilgrim chapel at its centre, which later became a small prison.

2 hours