Cotswold Cycling Short Break (5 nights, 6 days)
Price (from)
Difficulty
Tour information
Take a self guided cycling trip in the Cotswolds with our bespoke Wheeling on the Wolds short break.
Based in the stunning Cotswold Village of Bourton-on-the-Water for the duration of your trip, this pleasant cycle routes allows you to visit honey-coloured Cotswold stone villages, as well as the picturesque towns of Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford and Northleach.
With 4 routes available to take in the stunning views, this tour is a perfect Cotswolds cycling getaway.
Included/Excluded
- Accommodation on a Bed & Breakfast basis
- Fully comprehensive tour pack with colour coded routes on local maps
- Smartphone App with GPS
- Emergency Telephone Assistance
- Meals other than breakfast
- Transport to and from the Cotswolds
- Bike Hire (optional hire)
Itinerary
By Rail or Bus –
Take the train to either Cheltenham Spa or Moreton in Marsh then a local bus (route 801) or taxi to Bourton on the Water.
National express run a service between London and Bourton on the Water or there are regular services to Cheltenham Spa and you can take a local bus (route 801) to Bourton. Below are websites that can help you plan your route.
Trainline
National Express
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en
Pulmans route 801
https://bustimes.org/services/801-moreton-in-marsh-bourton-on-the-water-andovers
By Car – Bourton on the Water can be reached via the M4, M40 and M5 Motorways and local roads. Below is the AA that can help you plan your route.
https://www.theaa.com/route-planner/route
By Air – There are a number of airports close to the Cotswolds including Bristol and Birmingham. From here take the train or coach to Cheltenham Spa or Moreton in Marsh. Below is the Skyscanner website to plan your flight, see above for rail, coach and bus websites.
For more information on getting to the Cotswolds please visit The Cotswolds website.
You will be based in Bourton on the Water for the duration of your trip, giving you the flexibility to choose from the following ride options.
Go past the charming cottages, manor houses and water mill in the villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter on the way to Stow on the Wold. Here, handsome stone buildings stand around a traditional market square that used to sell up 25,000 sheep in a day. On the way back, ride through Idbury and Church Westcote which has some wonderful views across the Oxfordshire Wolds.
Follow the meandering River Windrush east to the Wychwood. In the little town of Burford the magnificent high street rises from the river bank and bears witness to the fine building stone and skilled masons for which this area is famous. On your return cycle through other delightful Cotswold villages such as Little Barrington and Sherborne along the other bank of the River Windrush.
Cycle into the heart of the Cotswolds with sweeping views across unspoilt countryside. Take a break to visit local and exotic wildlife at The Cotswold Farm Park and enjoy stunning views Broadway Tower, a classic English folly built high on the escarpment offering views over twelve counties. Snowshill is one of the most attractive villages in the area and its manor contains a remarkable collection of historic objects. Winding lanes take you through the scenic villages of the Guitings and Naunton on the way back.
Explore the handsome old market town of Northleach followed by cycling through the beautiful villages of Coln Dennis, Coln Rogers and Bibury. Visit the Chedworth Roman Villa, the most complete villa in Britain with mosaic floors, bath houses and heating system all on display in their original settings. There is also a collection of artefacts in the museum and an interesting visitor centre.
Recuperate from your journey before your departure.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the start of my tour?
Most UK travel destinations are accessible by public transport.
However, some of the locations are quite rural and may require a car or taxi to reach the starting point.
Our tours do not include travel to the starting point as standard but if you would like specific travel to be include in your trip please let our team know.
Not quite sure where to start? Contact us at info@compass-holidays.com to discuss your travel plans.
Do I have to walk/cycle every day of my trip?
Absolutely not! You can enjoy additional stop overs at various points along the tour if you would like more time to explore the local area.
We can also add additional days to the start and end of your trip to allow you to explore and relax.
If you would like to add rest days or additional nights to your trip please contact us at info@compass-holidays.com to discuss your specific requirements. We’re happy to tailor your trip to suit you!
Can I bring my own bike on the tour?
Of course you can, providing it’s roadworthy and safe. Unfortunately our free breakdown cover may not apply in these circumstances.
If you would like more information about the type of bike our tours are suitable for please contact us at info@compass-holidays.com.
If you bring your own bike we are unable to provide any assistance in the case of issues.
How does the luggage transfer service work?
We offer a luggage transfer service across most of our tours so you don’t have to worry about your luggage during your vacation. We pick up your luggage on the morning you are moving accommodation and take it direct to your next stop.
