At the very edge of the Cotswolds is the stunning village of Lacock which appears today much as it did throughout the centuries. You will be spellbound by its architecture with houses dating back to the thirteenth century and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of a living village which is wholly owned and maintained by the National Trust. Between the River Avon and the village is Lacock Abbey founded in the reign of King John in 1086 where the Fox-Talbot Museum is located and the first photographic negative ever produced by Henry Fox-Talbot is to be found. Lacock Abbey also features extensively in Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone among many other films. After lunch we will head deep into the heart of the Cotswolds and drive through Castle Combe which is renowned to be the most beautiful village in England. THEN…as if that wasn't enough, we take you to Chavenage. This historic Cotswold house dates back to the ninth century and yet is still a family home. In 1536 it was gifted to Sir Thomas Seymour by King Henry Vlll upon Henry's marriage to Thomas's sister Jane. When Thomas became a Lord in 1547 he was given Sudeley Castle by King Edward lV and you will get a chance to visit this on the second day of your tour. We are happy to recommend a choice of hotel for your overnight stay.
The following day will start at Sudeley Castle. With royal connections spanning a thousand years, Sudeley has played an important role in the turbulent and changing times of England's past. Then be amazed as we drive you through an area in which nestle some of England's prettiest villages of soft yellow stone and thatched roofs surrounded by a landscape of woodland and high open plateaux known as 'wolds'. Rural England at its very best. Be driven through Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Upper and Lower Slaughter to name but a few and treat yourself to afternoon tea at Huffkins in Burford. There is accommodation to suit all tastes and again we are happy to advise.
Then you could go to Shakepeare's home town of Stratford-upon-Avon where you can visit Anne Hathaway's cottage and Shakespeare's birthplace. No visit to the Cotswolds would be complete without seeing the most spectacular gardens of Hidcote Manor after which your journey back to London passes through Bampton, the village used for majority of the outdoor locations for Downton Abbey. We believe our tour will leave you fulfilled, enlightened and relaxed.
As your journey is as important as your destination then sit back and relax in one of our luxurious vehicles. Our prices are per vehicle NOT per person and include collection and return to your London hotel but do not include overnight accommodation for your chauffeur guide, entrance fees, parking, meals or hotels.
