Beyond the Cobbled Streets: Untold Cotswolds & Oxford
1 day tour
Don't just look. Listen. Centuries of stories are seeped into the very stones beneath your feet, above your head, before your eyes.
Tour map
Tour Highlights
Oxford University - Take in the stunning spire-studded skyline of the English-speaking world’s oldest University.
Great Hall of Christ Church College - It’s the only college in the world that’s also a cathedral. What’s more, it’s absolutely gorgeous.
Traditional Cotswold Villages - Like a box of chocolate, these time-worn villages will have you struggling to choose your favourite.
Bibury - This fairy-tale nook makes a bold claim as the most charming village in all of England... do you agree?
Burford - Forget Narnia. Step through the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds' and experience real beauty.
Your journey
Go on, then. Make people jealous. Tell them you're heading to England to wander the cobbled streets of the Cotswolds. It’s finally time for you to see it for yourself.
The Cotswolds are like stepping into a landscape painting. Vivid green colours, lush waterways, and the most delightful cottages framed by flowers.
And Oxford needs no introduction. The city of students, spires, and college halls straight from Hogwarts is as inspirational as it is fascinating. Spend a day exploring these cobbled streets and discover the untold stories hiding around every bend.
Tour Details
Check-in closes at 09:00 (tour departs at 09:15) - Bath Pick Up, Terrace Walk, Bath, BA11LN
18:00 - Bath Drop Off, Terrace Walk, Bath, BA11LN
You're restricted to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) and a small bag for onboard personal items.
Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old).
- Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
- Attraction tickets may need to be purchased in advance. More information is provided in your booking confirmation e-mail
- Transportation by a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
- Air conditioning as standard
- The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Attraction entry tickets
Itinerary
We all know Bath is beautiful, but you don't need to fret that you're leaving it behind this morning. Why? Because where you're headed is just as stunning, with rich history and incredible architecture. After passing through North Wessex Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you arrive in Oxford.
She's an old lass, founded in the 9th century. But its her age that makes her beautiful. She's got a lot of memories worn into her roads and buildings. Did you know that she was largely protected during World War II? Hitler wanted to make Oxford the capital of England after defeating it. If that doesn't tell you how striking this city is, we don't know what will.
Here you have time to explore the precincts of the many colleges, climb to the vantage points to admire the skyline, or see the art and antiquities collections in the Ashmolean Museum.
Next you stop in Burford, the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’. This is a proud little market town. The main street is lined with all those quaint properties that you’ve dreamt of owning. You have time here to take in the local charm and hospitality; and if you’re hungry, you can try a traditional English ‘Afternoon Tea’.
Then, you make the short journey to Bibury. This place was described by William Morris as the prettiest village in England, and Henry Ford wanted to dismantle it and ship it back to the USA. You have time here to stroll to the famous and fairytale-like Arlington Row.
After a full day exploring the city of Oxford and the villages of the Cotswolds, you embark on the comfortable return journey to Bath.
This route may be reversed on some occasions.
FAQs
Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?
The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.
Is there parking close to the departure point?
We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.
When should I get to the departure point?
Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.
What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?
If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.
What are your cancellation policies?
Your cancellation terms depend on which tour you've booked.
For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure
For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure
For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure
For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.
If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.
To cancel your booking, email tours@rabbies.com as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.
Click here to view terms and conditions
Can Itineraries change?
Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.
Can I pre-book a specific seat?
Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.
Are there toilets on the bus?
Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.
How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?
We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.
Do you take children on your tours?
We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.
You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.
How much time do I get off the bus?
We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.
Why do you exclude visitor attractions?
We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.
Do we need to bring our own lunch?
You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.
Should I tip the driver-guide?
Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.
What about travel insurance?
We advise you take out travel insurance.
What is ABTOT?
You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.
I have more questions, who can help me?
If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs .