Feefo service rating
close

Call us on 01707 537200

  • Monday - Friday9am - 5pm
  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed
close

Call us on 01707 537200

  • Monday - Friday9am - 5pm
  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed

The new name for Ramblers Walking Holidays & Adagio. A new name, a new world of possibilities! Learn more about us

X Close

The Jewel of the Cotswolds

Unwind and explore in the classic English countryside.

  • Cotswolds

  • 5 nights
  • Half Board
  • Culture

  • Jun

    Sep

Leisurely

What does this mean?

What does this mean?

Was £975

Book now from £925

Save up to £50

View Dates & Book Now

What does this mean?

Close

View Destinations

Close

Walking grade

Grade 2

Close

Adagio Collection

The perfect blend of guided shorter walks, sightseeing trips, and quality accommodation for a more leisurely way to discover the world.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Visit charming honey coloured stone Cotswold villages such as Stow on the Wold, Bourton on the Water and Broadway.
  • A guided tour of Stanway House and its picturesque grounds.
  • Follow sections of local walking trails such as the Gloucestershire Way, the Diamond Way and the Cotswold Way.
  • Visit a Silversmiths in Chipping Campden and learn about the artisans processes.
  • Try a delightful afternoon tea in Broadway.
  • Explore the romantic Sudeley Castle.

Typified by the mellow coloured limestone mined from local hills and used to build chocolate box cottages and towns, the Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty, covering almost 800 square miles through the five counties of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. 

The 3000-mile network of footpaths takes you through this region of classic English countryside, rolling flower-filled meadows, green luscious valleys, wild woodland and picturesque honey coloured villages, making the Cotswolds an ideal centre to quietly explore. Make use of the footpaths winding between villages and often heading for the church spire in front of us. 

During the holiday you will explore charming Cotswold villages such as Stow on the Wold, Bourton on the Water, Broadway and many more! There are many named walking trails such as the Gloucestershire Way, the Diamond Way and the Cotswold Way. The Cotswolds really are an enchanting place to explore.

  • En suite four-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis.
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach/public bus.
  • All entrances as noted in the itinerary.
  • Services of a local guide at Stanway House and Gardens and at a local Silversmiths.
  • A delicate afternoon tea in Broadway.
  • All local tips.
  • Services of an Adagio Tour Leader.
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Lunches
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

50040

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Travel independently to the Doubletree by Hilton in Stratford upon-Avon where you will be greeted by your leader and enjoy dinner. Check in is from 3.00pm. 

Day 2

Stow on the Wold and Bourton on the Water

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    2 hours

  • Distance

    4.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    20/120m

A coach transfers you to the charming village of Stow on the Wold, the highest of the Cotswolds village at 233m on Stow Hill. Here you can enjoy some free time for exploration before taking a scenic walk through the countryside. The gentle walk take you through rolling meadows and along tranquil rivers. Pass through the scenic honey coloured stone village of Lower Slaughter. The trail takes you to beautiful Bourton on the Water, famed as ‘The Venice of the Cotswolds’ with its iconic Cotswold little stone bridges crossing the River Windrush.

Day 3

Batsford Arboretum and Daylesford House

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    2 hours

  • Distance

    4.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    64/117m

Spend the morning visiting the Batsford Arboretum and Garden centre and its impressive collection of flora displayed throughout the four seasons! There is time to wander the grounds to explore over 1,300 different tree, shrub and bamboo species. The centre emphasises the importance of conservation, promoting its wildflower areas which are home to an abundance of wildlife, and its large variety of tree collections originating from Japan and China, some which are on the verge of extinction. 

Follow a section of the Diamond Way, a long-distance path in the Cotswolds from Chastleton, possibly having a moment to pass through to the idyllic village of Adelstrop, frequently visited by Jane Austin. It may be possible to fit in a quick visit to Chastleton House if it is open and you would like to visit. If you are a National Trust member, please bring your membership card with you to gain free of charge entry. Finish the day with a visit to Daylesford House, famed for its organic farm produce. 

Day 4

Chipping Campden and Broadway

Meals

Breakfast, Afternoon tea & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    2.5 hours

  • Distance

    4.7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    130/260m

Your morning starts in the pretty medieval town of Chipping Campden, a small market town in the centre of the Cotswold's decorated with golden stone and colourful flower boxes. Explore the craftsmanship of a local silversmith as one of the artisans guides you through their work processes, discusses commissions, and showcases works in progress and finished products. If time permits before the coach arrives, the town is perfect for a leisurely stroll, perhaps visiting a coffee shop or museum. 

In the afternoon, walk along the picturesque Cotswold Way and The Mile Drive to Broadway, renowned for being the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds. This picture-postcard village is a delight to spend some free time in before you are treated to a delicious afternoon tea in a local tea room.

Day 5

Stanway and Sudeley Castle

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Transfer to Stanway, a serene village where you visit Stanway House and its picturesque grounds, waterwheel and 300-foot fountain before. A coach takes you along a scenic route to the romantic Sudeley Castle, known as the Queens Castle. Explore the beautifully laid-out grounds on foot and discover the castle's rich history and charm.  

Day 6

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Today say farewell to the jewel that is the Cotswolds. Check out is by 12:00pm. 


Departure dates for your selected tour

17th Jun 2024 - 22nd Jun 2024 (5 Nights)

9th Sep 2024 - 14th Sep 2024 (5 Nights)

Travel Details

Check-in at the hotel is from 2:30pm. Your leader will meet with you prior to your evening dinner for a group welcome meeting.  

To reach the hotel by car: 

Exit M40 at Junction 11, take 4th exit on roundabout onto A422 (signposted Banbury). At the next three roundabouts go straight across, 2nd exit. At the next two mini roundabouts continue straight ahead. At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit towards Drayton/Wroxton. At the traffic signals, turn left towards Drayton. Go through Drayton until you reach Wroxton. The entrance to the hotel is first right after the sharp bend, on the outskirts of the village. 

To reach the hotel by rail: 

The nearest railway station is at Banbury, approximately 3 miles from the hotel, provided by Chiltern Railways with direct links to Oxford, Reading, Worcester and London Paddington. There is also a railway station at Stratford Upon Avon, 18 miles north of the hotel. 

We suggest you pre-book a taxi. There are many taxi companies in Banbury, such as Banbury Station Taxi's on 01295 272722 and Royal Cars Banbury on 01295 255555.

To reach the hotel by air: 

The closest airport is Birmingham International, a 45 minute drive from Banbury. Other airports within a 2 hours drive includes Bristol, Manchester, East Midlands and Cardiff.

Route planning to and from Wroxton, Banbury: 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find the hotel. 

An excellent website to assist in your travel plans is Rome2Rio.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

DoubleTree by Hilton Stratford upon Avon

Evesham is a traditional riverside market town located just north of the Cotswolds. Instantly unwind this charming town filled with an abundance of medieval history, antique buildings and traditional farmers market. The area is famous for its delicious fruit and vegetables, served in many places that you will visit during your holiday as well as all over the country! It's blossom trails in spring are the English equivalent of Japan's cherry blossom season!

Located on the banks of the River Avon, Stratford upon-Avon, known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a picturesque market town in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside, not far from Oxfordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. This old worldy town is home to hundreds of years of history, pretty buildings, beautiful parks and gardens. The streets are lined with locally run shops, quaint coffee shops and highly rated restaurants. There is plenty to see and do here!

You'll stay in the four star Double Tree by Hilton, selected for its brilliant location in the heart of Stratford upon-Avon and a short walk from the train station. The hotel has a highly rated restaurant and a lounge bar area. There is a gym and a large garden area to enjoy. Afternoon tea is available at an additional cost. 

You'll stay in standard twin and double bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually double for sole use rooms. Rooms are modern and facilities include:

  • Ensuite facilities
  • WIFI
  • TV
  • Air conditioning
  • Mini fridge
  • Coffee/tea making facilities
  • Iron
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer 

Car parking is available on site for a charge of £8.00 per car per day.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

All Adagio holidays are expertly designed to allow you to immerse yourself in the destination. Leisurely exploration of the must-see, as well as lesser known, highlights together with relaxed enjoyment of local food and wines is what we have in mind. 

There may be days of sightseeing on foot around a spectacular city or unchallenging strolls on easy terrain in open countryside interspersed with winery visits, guided tours, boat trips, cafe stops and traditional restaurants. 

This Grade 2 holiday includes a busy sightseeing programme with longer days than some Adagio holidays. Some of the walks on this holiday include steep paths, ascents and descents on steps and cobbled paths. Although some of these ascents and descents are steep, they are also short. Walks are between 2-5 miles, with between 50-260m ascent and descent. The maximum altitude on this holiday is 233m.

Local Costs

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Local Transport Costs

We include the local travel costs using private hire coaches when necessary. 

Our Adagio Leader will arrange everything. You just need to be at the right place at the right time.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Your Group

Your Leader

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organized they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leaders Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Group Size

We believe that the best things come in small packages, and our Adagio holidays prove just that. We limit our groups to a maximum of 18 persons, plus the Adagio Leader, so that everyone has the opportunity to mix, share their love of travel and return home with new friendships. Small groups also have less detrimental local impact, allows us to use public transport on some days, eat at small local restaurants and, we believe, offers a better experience.

Travel Plans

Getting to your Holiday

Check-in at the hotel is from 3:00pm. Our Adagio Leader will meet with you prior to your evening dinner for a group welcome meeting.  

To reach the hotel by car: 

Exit M40 at Junction 15, and follow the A46 all the way to the A439 along Warwick Road to Stratford upon-Avon. Follow the signs for Stratford upon-Avon train station and Stratford Hospital to Arden Street, you will see the hotel here. 

To reach the hotel by rail: 

The nearest railway station is Stratford Upon Avon station, approximately a 5 minute walk from the hotel, provided by Chiltern Railways with direct links to Oxford, Reading, Worcester and London Paddington. 

To reach the hotel by air: 

The closest airport is Birmingham International, a 50 minute drive to Stratford upon-Avon. Other airports within a 2 hours drive includes Bristol, Manchester, East Midlands and Cardiff.

Route planning to and from Stratford upon-Avon: 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find the hotel. 

An excellent website to assist in your travel plans is Rome2Rio.

There are many taxi companies in Stratford upon-Avon, such as Avon Taxis Stratford 01789 588588 and 007 Stratford Taxi's 01789 414007 or 01789 415007.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners are included in the cost of the holiday and are enjoyed in the hotel’s restaurant. Dishes are cooked freshly and use locally sourced produce. 

Indulge in an afternoon tea in a local tea room in Broadway.

Remaining lunches are not included.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Comfortable, broken in, walking boots or shoes with a good sole are recommended for this holiday. Walking shoes or other comfortable footwear will be suitable for sightseeing days.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun screen
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the days activity)
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Reusable Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)

This list is not exhaustive and every traveller is different and may have their own preference.

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Travel Document Checklist

To ensure your holiday gets off to a good start, please make sure that you bring the following documents and information with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday currency
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Maps & Guidebooks

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Staying Healthy on Holiday

Further Health Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

Our Ethos

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. 

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Reviews

What customers are saying

View Dates & Book

Choose your preferred departure date

Can't find what you're looking for?

Call for help or regional flights on 01707 537200

View Dates And Book
Feefo service rating
Close