Private Driving Tour: Cotswolds & Oxford Countryside

Discover England’s Most Beautiful Villages – A Private Cotswolds & Oxford Day Tour

Escape the busy streets of London and enjoy a peaceful day exploring the Cotswolds’ fairytale villages and historic Oxford with I Heart London Tours’ Private Driving Countryside Experience.

Travel through rolling hills, ancient stone cottages, medieval churches, and riverside towns — all from the comfort of your private vehicle. With personalised commentary and flexible stops, this full-day tour is perfect for families, couples, and small groups looking to soak in England’s rural beauty and timeless charm.

Tour Overview:

This 8-hour private driving tour takes you to the most iconic Cotswold villages, followed by an unforgettable visit to Oxford, home to the world’s oldest English-speaking university.

You’ll explore historic market towns, scenic rivers, postcard-worthy lanes, and heritage landmarks — all carefully curated to give you a relaxing yet enriching countryside experience.

Tour Highlights:

  • Visit Bibury’s Arlington Row – one of Britain’s most photographed locations
  • Explore Bourton-on-the-Water, the “Venice of the Cotswolds”
  • See the Tolkien-inspired doorway at St Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold
  • Tour the iconic sights of Oxford University, including the Radcliffe Camera
  • Optional visit to Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Enjoy peaceful countryside drives through riverside villages & rolling hills

Full Tour Plan – Stop by Stop

1st Stop: Burford – “Gateway to the Cotswolds” – 15 minutes

Begin your countryside adventure in Burford, a charming medieval town known for its stone cottages, old coaching inns, and picturesque high street. Discover its atmospheric bridge and beautiful hilltop views.

2nd Stop: Bibury & Arlington Row – 20 minutes

Often described as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury is home to one of the country’s most iconic sights — Arlington Row, a line of 17th-century weavers’ cottages. Perfect for photos and peaceful riverside walks.

3rd Stop: The Swan Hotel & St Mary’s Church – 15 minutes

Visit Bibury’s scenic riverside coaching inn and step inside St Mary’s Church, an ancient Saxon landmark with centuries of history and quiet charm.

4th Stop: Bourton-on-the-Water & The Model Village – 20 minutes

Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water features stone footbridges, crystal-clear streams, and a relaxing village atmosphere. You can also visit The Model Village, a perfect miniature replica of the town built in the 1930s.

5th Stop: Stow-on-the-Wold & St Edward’s Church – 20 minutes

Explore this historic market town, its traditional Market Cross, and the magical yew-tree doorway at St Edward’s Church — said to have inspired Tolkien’s “Doors of Durin” in The Lord of the Rings.

6th Stop: Oxford – Historic Colleges & Covered Market – 45 minutes

Arrive in Oxford, home to world-famous colleges and breathtaking architecture. See iconic landmarks including:

  • Radcliffe Camera
  • Bodleian Library
  • University colleges
  • The 18th-century Covered Market

Enjoy free time to stroll through cobbled lanes or explore the university grounds.

Last Stop: Blenheim Palace (Optional) – 45 minutes

This UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Wander the palace grounds, explore formal gardens, and admire grand historic interiors if you choose to add entry.

Tour Details

Why You’ll Love This Tour

Places You’ll See

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