Cotswolds Day Tour from Oxford - Explore Downton and Beyond

Oxford , United Kingdom

Cotswolds Day Tour from Oxford - Explore Downton and Beyond

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About this experience

Discover the picturesque beauty of the Cotswolds on this new day tour from Oxford with an established, award-winning local company! Visit charming villages like Bampton (the real-life 'Downton'!), and enjoy free time to explore the idyllic surroundings of Shilton, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water and Burford. With insights from fun, friendly, local driver-guides, you'll learn about the rich history and culture of the Cotswolds while enjoying a leisurely day in the countryside. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking an affordable and enjoyable day trip experience.

- Full-day tour departs central Oxford at 09:30 and returns by 16:30
- Explore Bampton, Shilton, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Burford
- Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus with a local guide
- Free time at each location to enjoy shops, cafes, and stunning views

Available options

Oxford Departure: 9:30am

What's included

Pickup from central Oxford (St Giles Bus Stop C, outside the Ashmolean Museum) at 9.30am.

Souvenir booklets with maps, photos and information

Travel the back roads in a spacious, comfortable, 16-seater Mercedes minibus

Fun, friendly, local driver-guide to share stories and enhance your day

Detailed itinerary

A scenic, 40-minute drive from Oxford city centre brings us to the edge of the Cotswolds and the pretty village of Bampton – though fans of a certain TV show may know it better as ‘Downton’! There are cafés and shops here to stock up on snacks and a small Downton Abbey exhibition for the superfans!

After a 15-minute drive from Bampton, we'll arrive in the lovely village of Shilton - a hidden gem here in the Cotswolds! This charming village is off the tourist trail, quiet and peaceful, with a very picturesque ford (river crossing the street). It’s a beautiful place to stop and get snap-happy with your camera!

Stop 3

Leaving Shilton, we'll take the scenic back roads (30 mins), via the pretty villages of Eastleach and Coln St Aldwyn's, to arrive at your next stop - the popular village of Bibury. Home to the famous Arlington Row of cottages, Bibury is often described as "the prettiest village in England". See for yourself!

16-seater minibuses can travel on roads unsuitable for larger coaches - and the 40-minute scenic route from Bibury to Bourton-on-the-Water is a perfect example of this! Winding our way through the gorgeous Coln Valley, we'll arrive in the must-see village of Bourton-on-the-Water (a village where larger coaches cannot park). You'll have approximately 1 hour 15 minutes of free time here to explore this pretty riverside village. Perhaps have some lunch in one of the many charming tea-rooms or cafés, stroll along the river Windrush, shop for gifts or visit a local museum.

Leaving Bourton-on-the-Water, a 25-minute drive - passing through the lovely villages of Great Barrington and Taynton - brings us to your final stop in the historic Cotswold market town of Burford. Hike up ‘The Hill’ for gorgeous cottages and far-reaching views, shop for gifts and antiques, or have a cream tea in one of the local tea-rooms. Don’t miss the impressive ‘wool church’ of St. John The Baptist with its surprising history!

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drink - please bring your own, or money for food and drink on the go

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Kindly arrive at the pick up point at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure so we can get everyone checked in and depart right on time!.

Look out for our friendly guide in Go Cotswolds uniform, driving a large white minibus with green and purple Go Cotswolds branding—you won’t miss us!

If you are arriving in Oxford by train, note that our pick-up point is a 10-15 minute walk from Oxford railway station.

Uber and similar services are not widely available in Oxford and the Cotswolds, and local taxis can be difficult to book last minute. We strongly recommend booking taxis in advance or using public transport where possible.

If you're not at your pick-up point on time (09:30) and we can't contact you, the tour will depart without you. Make sure we have your correct mobile number with international dial code before your tour.

After the tour, please plan any onward travel after 16.30.

We have plenty of secure luggage space on board our vehicles, though please note our guides may not be able to assist with very heavy luggage

Children aged 3–15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Sorry, no children under 3.

Tours run in all but dangerous weather—please dress appropriately!

Accessibility: Users of lightweight mobility equipment such as canes, walking frames and foldable manual wheelchairs are welcome on our tours, provided you can climb 3 steps to get on and off our minibus, multiple times during the tour. Lightweight, foldable manual wheelchairs can be stored in the luggage compartment of our minibus. We're sorry, we cannot accommodate wheelchair users who are unable to get in and out of their chair unassisted, nor can we accommodate any electric wheelchairs or mobility scooters.

Meeting point

This tour departs from Bus Stop C on St Giles, Oxford (outside the Ashmolean Museum). Please arrive 10 minutes before the departure time.

Important notes

You don't need to print your ticket - please just have it handy on your mobile phone and be prepared to show it to your guide if requested.

About Oxford

Oxford is a historic university city renowned for its prestigious academic institutions and stunning architecture. With a rich history dating back to the 9th century, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

University of Oxford

One of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford is a must-visit for its historic colleges, libraries, and museums.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to £15 for guided tours

Bodleian Library

One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is a stunning example of architectural grandeur and historical significance.

Historical/Cultural 1 to 2 hours Free (some exhibitions may have a fee)

Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum is the UK's oldest public museum, housing an extensive collection of art and antiquities from around the world.

Museum 1 to 3 hours Free (some special exhibitions may have a fee)

Christ Church College

One of the most famous colleges at the University of Oxford, Christ Church College is known for its stunning architecture and historic significance.

Historical/Cultural 1 to 2 hours £12 for a guided tour

Oxford Botanic Garden

The oldest botanic garden in the UK, Oxford Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Nature 1 to 2 hours £7.50

Must-Try Local Dishes

Oxfordshire Sausages

Made from locally sourced pork and seasoned with herbs, these sausages are a staple of Oxfordshire cuisine.

Main Course Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Punting Lunch

A traditional Oxford experience, a punting lunch typically includes sandwiches, pastries, and drinks enjoyed while gliding along the River Cherwell.

Lunch Various options available, including vegetarian and vegan choices.

Oxfordshire Cheese

Locally produced cheeses, such as Cotswold cheese, are a must-try for cheese lovers.

Snack/Dessert Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.

Popular Activities

Punting on the River Cherwell Cycling tours Hiking in the Cotswolds Visiting the Oxford Botanic Garden Punting with a picnic Enjoying a spa day Guided tours of Oxford's colleges and museums Attending theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with various events and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Oxford is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Getting there

By air

London Heathrow Airport • 60 miles (97 km)
London Luton Airport • 50 miles (80 km)

By train

Oxford Railway Station

By bus

Oxford Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Oxford is comprehensive and affordable, covering most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center North Oxford Jericho Cowley Road

Day trips

Blenheim Palace

8 miles (13 km) • Half day to full day

A stunning baroque palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and offers beautiful gardens and parkland.

The Cotswolds

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

A picturesque region known for its charming villages, rolling hills, and historic sites, the Cotswolds offers a quintessential English countryside experience.

Stratford-upon-Avon

60 miles (97 km) • Full day

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town with historic sites, theaters, and beautiful gardens.

Festivals

Oxford Literary Festival • March Oxfordshire Artweeks • May and June Oxford Pride • September

Pro tips

Visit the Bodleian Library and other historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Book guided tours of Oxford's colleges in advance, especially during peak season.
Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting local markets and independent restaurants.
Take a punting tour on the River Cherwell for a unique and relaxing experience.
Use the park-and-ride facilities to avoid traffic and parking challenges in the city center.