Stratford-upon-Avon

Viewing Points

Explore the region beyond London with a full-day excursion to some of England's most fascinating and essential sights. Head straight to Stonehenge, the most popular prehistoric monument in the world. Marvel at the huge 40-ton Sarsens and the volcanic blue stones that were brought from the Preseli Mountains, located more than 280 miles away. Move on next to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. You'll have plenty of time to shop and explore the charming streets. Drive through the picturesque Cotswold region. Take in scenic views of open countryside, crisscrossed by dry stone walls and bustling market towns. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare at Stratford-upon-Avon. See the home of the greatest writer in the English language and the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. Admire Stratford with its delightful river that winds its way past the Holy Trinity church, where Shakespeare was laid to rest. Receive a private tour of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall, take part in a Tudor lesson, and write with a quill and ink.

Journey back more than 1,000 years and learn about the bloody battles and extravagant banquets of Warwick Castle. Admire the magnificent Great Hall and State Rooms, and climb the towers and ramparts for an archer’s view of the historic town. Join Richard Neville as he prepares for battle at the multi-sensory Kingmaker attraction, or stroll through the landscaped gardens. Then, visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon and get a fascinating insight into the life of the legendary playwright. See the scenic villages of the Cotswolds on the drive to Oxford, where you will embark on a walking tour of the university city on arrival. Admire the famous colleges that date back to the 13th century, and hear about former students such as Bill Clinton, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Lewis Carroll. Discover where Harry Potter was filmed at Christ Church college before the drive back to London.

Starting with hotel pick up in Stratford-upon-Avon, or meeting your guide at the train station in Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh, set off into the rolling countryside of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Begin with a short, countryside walk to the iconic Broadway Tower (1 mile/1.6km). Soak up the panoramic views and see if you can spot the resident herd of red deer. Walk back to the minibus (1 mile/1.6km) and drive to Broadway village, or descend into the village on foot by walking a short section of the famous Cotswold Way (1.5 miles/2.5km). Enjoy free time in the stunning village of Broadway to explore at your own leisure and grab some lunch. Travel through the scenic countryside before embarking on a beautiful circular walk (2.75 miles/4.5 km) to discover quiet, quaint villages along the Windrush Valley. Here, you'll truly be off the beaten track, discovering hidden churches, surprising history, and gorgeous Cotswold villages without the crowds of tourist hot spots. Unwind after in the historic market town of Burford, where you can admire the historic buildings, shop for gifts or relax in a local pub or cafe. Listen to your guide’s fascinating commentary throughout the day about local life and history.

Follow in the footsteps of Oxford’s famous students, from C.S. Lewis to Bill Clinton, as you stroll through the captivating college courtyards and cobbled lanes of this historic university town. Take in the famous city of dreaming spires and see the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe. Continue to Stratford-upon-Avon, the home town of legendary playwright William Shakespeare. Pay a visit to the place where the famous Bard was born, a quaint and unassuming half-timbered house. Enter the fascinating Shakespeare’s Birthplace and follow in the footsteps of the Bard to discover his childhood home.  Then, head to the Cotswolds. Drive through this charming blend of breathtaking natural beauty, bustling market towns, and sleepy villages.

Meet your guide at the train station in Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh then head out into the rolling countryside towards the world-famous Cotswolds. Start off with a 1.5 hour visit to the rural craft brewery, the Purity Brewing Company, and learn about and sample the local beer made here. Next, enjoy a traditional one-course pub lunch and drink at the Fleece Inn, a historic country pub dating back to the 15th century. Afterwards, explore the charming town of Chipping Campden and shop for souvenirs. Finally, stop in an idyllic off-the-beaten-track Cotswold village, where there will be one more village pub to enjoy. Throughout the tour, soak up scenic views of the Cotswolds countryside, and listen to your guide’s fascinating information about local life and history.