Cotswolds + Bicester Village Day Trip
The Cotswolds, located in south-central England, is a picturesque area of rolling hills 🏞️ known for its idyllic countryside, honey-colored stone villages, and rich history. Designated as an "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty" (AONB), it’s considered one of the most beautiful and unspoiled rural regions in the UK. Since the villages are quite spread out and public transport is limited, it’s best to explore by car. 🚗 ✨ Highlights: Scenic Villages: The Cotswolds is famous for its charming ancient villages like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, with golden stone cottages and winding lanes straight out of a storybook 🏡. Its stunning landscapes have been featured in films and TV shows like Downton Abbey and Pride & Prejudice. 🎬 Rich History: The area flourished during the medieval wool trade, and many villages still retain historic buildings, churches, and market squares from that era. You can also visit landmarks like Blenheim Palace and Sudeley Castle 🏰. Don’t miss traditional English tea rooms, old pubs, and local markets! ☕🍂 🗺️ Driving Route & Attractions: Start from London King’s Cross and drive to Bibury (Navigate to Car Park GL7 5NP). ⏱️ Approx. 2 hours (traffic permitting). 📍 Limited roadside parking. Must-see: Arlington Row 🏘️, Swan Hotel, and the gift shop. ⏳ Time spent: 1-1.5 hours. Next, head to Bourton-on-the-Water (Rissington Road Car Park GL54 2DT). ⏱️ 25-min drive; 5-min walk to town center. 🏞️ Highlights: River Windrush — often called the "Venice of the Cotswolds" 🚤. Plenty of restaurants, gift shops, and hotels here. ⏳ We had lunch here and stayed for 2.5 hours. Then drive to Broadway Tower (Car Park WR12 7LA). ⏱️ 20-min drive. 🎫 Tickets required to enter the tower or bunker (check official website). We only took photos outside 🏰📸. ⏳ Time spent: 30 mins. Final stop: Chipping Campden (Market Square Car Park GL55 6AW). ⏱️ 10-min drive. 🌸 Enjoyed a stroll among the thatched cottages 🍃. ⏳ Time spent: 30 mins. ⏱️ Total Cotswolds tour time: ~8.5 hours (10.5 hours including return trip). We then headed to Bicester Village for shopping 🛍️. For a more relaxed experience, consider starting early (we left at 7 AM) or adding 1-2 more spots. #UK #LifeInUK #UKTravel #Cotswolds #CotswoldsTravel 🏴✨