Cotswolds One Day Tour with Local Guide
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
NOTICE: the pricing offered is ONLY my rate to hire me as your guide for the day. The price does NOT INCLUDE any additional costs to hire the taxi driver and his vehicle which currently in 2025, costs £500-550 for the day, or for you alternatively to hire a hire car yourself for you to drive. Note that I do NOT own a car!
The Cotswolds has inspired not just chocolate box tins & tourist photo books but also some of England's most famous artists, like the pre Rapahelites who lived here in the 1800s. See traditional architecture, picturesque landscape & wander around beautiful villages. You have the choice of joining us for either an active but not too active cycle trip through the Cotswolds or you can sit back & enjoy the sights from our car or minibus hire.
Please note that tours are priced here as tour options for either a full day tour typically from 10am to 5pm or a half day tour from 1pm to 6pm.
Available options
FULL DAY up to 8 hours
Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Actual route itinerary and destinations visited is flexible and options will be introduced before your tour and or at start of the tour. We can for example include visits to historic homes or scenic spots.
2
Actual route itinerary and destinations visited is flexible and options will be introduced before your tour and or at start of the tour. We can for example include visits to historic homes or scenic spots.
3
Actual route itinerary and destinations visited is flexible and options will be introduced before your tour and or at start of the tour. We can for example include visits to historic homes or scenic spots.
4
Stop 4
Actual route itinerary and destinations visited is flexible and options will be introduced before your tour and or at start of the tour. We can for example include visits to historic homes or scenic spots.
5
Don't tell everyone but in my view, easily the most attractive medieval market town in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds.
6
Actual route itinerary and destinations visited is flexible and options will be introduced before your tour and or at start of the tour. We can for example include visits to historic homes or scenic spots.
7
Actual route itinerary and destinations visited is flexible and options will be introduced before your tour and or at start of the tour. We can for example include visits to historic homes or scenic spots.
8
The tour lasts average 7-8 hours with various destinations visited.
What's not included
NOTICE: this tour does NOT include the cost to hire taxi driver or car hire!
Meals & drinks are not included but we will stop at a pub or cafe for lunch + drinks
Entry fees to historic homes, if you choose to include such an optional visit
Any young children requiring child seat, you must give us adequate advance notice!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child seats for infants cannot be guaranteed on driving tours, unless you give us adequate advance notice to bring infants seats. We don't carry them by default.
Meeting point
Important notes
Concerning all bookings here:
Please ensure that you have provided a working mobile phone number with the international country prefix code, so that we can contact you! Our mobile number is a whatsapp number, so you can text or call us free using whatsapp.
What to wear and pack for a day out in the Cotswolds:
Please note the phrase that, 'Britain has four seasons in a day' ie. please pack clothes for all weather as weather is unpredictable at any time of year. Please note lunch is not provided during your lunch break but we will stop at some of the best places to eat.
If you are booking the cycle tour, please note the following advice:
It's essential that you dress sensibly ie no jeans! We recommend wearing shorts for either dry or wet weather. The Cotswolds roads are not especially wide and the reason we use electric bikes, is because the Cotswolds is up and down, so if you are booking with teenage children, please take into account that everyone needs to have their wits for cycling on these country lanes! The guide will issue health & safety advice at start of the tour. It's also recommend for safety reasons that if you have any bright clothes eg yellow bike jacket, to wear those. Please bring waterproofs. If for any reason, you don't have waterproofs, please make this known when booking & the guide will try to arrange waterproofs for you, where & when possible. Helmets will be provided.
Finally, please advise what each participant's heights are, so we can try to pre-set bike seat heights before your arrival.
NB Special Notice for Clients on Cycle Tours, relating to cancellation of tour, due to very wet weather:
We don't cancel cycle tours, unless weather forecast is very wet indeed. In such cases, we will notify you on the day before your tour, first by email and then by phone that we intend to cancel the tour. We will instruct viator to refund you in full. However, for anyone wishing to instead accept a substitute activity, according to your and our circumstances, we will offer you the opportunity instead of cancelling, to instead be scheduled onto an appropriate rainy day activity such as either taking the tour in the car or instead being booked onto a guided tour of Blenheim palace or being booked onto a private walking tour of Oxford university. You will then be invited to accept the substitute activity or to reschedule your Cotswolds cycle tour to an alternate date or to receive a 100% refund.
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.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
