DETAILS
With sleepy villages dotted throughout rolling hills, honey-hued buildings embellished with fairy lights, roaring fires in cozy pubs and sparkling trees adorning picture-perfect towns, the Cotswolds is a magical place to spend the run-up to the holidays. Our memorable tour meanders through a stunning cluster of Cotswolds favorites to the southern tip of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, where the delightful Christmas Market and twinkling Georgian streets await. We also weave our way across the lovely landscapes of another AONB, the Chilterns, to explore the stunning Tudor mansion of Grey’s Court and château inspired Waddesdon Manor, both sumptuously dressed for a classic country house Christmas. We enjoy plenty more seasonal delights, from the enchanting illuminations trail at Kew Gardens to a Victorian-style carol singing performance in celebration of enduring yuletide traditions.
- Pricing from
- $5,000
No Single Supplement, Limited Availability!
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Land & Rail Tours
- Departure Dates
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Dec 6, 2025 - Dec 13, 2025
Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor
The Macdonald Windsor Hotel is situated in the heart of the historic town of Windsor, opposite the famous Windsor Castle. The classic interiors, with a contemporary edge, fit perfectly with the Georgian elegance of this townhouse hotel. The luxury bedrooms are individually-designed and the hotel also offers a stylish bar and restaurant.
Accessibility Information
– Step-free access to the main entrance and reception area
– Accessible public restrooms on the ground floor
– Lifts to all floors
– Accessible rooms available
Please note that due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may have limited accessibility.
Queens Hotel Cheltenham
The Queens Hotel is steeped in history and boasts a lavish Palladian-style exterior, coupled with Greek and Roman influences. Sitting pretty on one of the most picturesque Regency streets in Cheltenham and overlooking a nearby manicured square, the hotel boasts a bar, restaurant and secret garden. The classically elegant bedrooms provide a relaxing oasis at this Cotswold retreat and feature a flat-screen TV, complimentary organic toiletries, hairdryer, minifridge, tea and coffee-making facilities, bathrobes and free Wi-Fi.
Accessibility Information
Accessible entrance. Lift to all floors. Accessible rooms available.
Please note that while the hotel strives to accommodate all guests, some areas of our historic hotel may not be fully accessible due to architectural constraints. We encourage guests to contact us in advance of their stay to discuss any specific requirements or concerns they may have.
Hartwell House & Spa, near Aylesbury
This Grade I listed, National Trust owned property is one of England’s finest stately homes and makes for a wonderful hotel and spa. Sitting within an Area of Natural Beauty; just on the edge of the Chilterns, it boasts almost 100 acres of gardens and parkland, landscaped by the famous ‘Capability’ Brown. Inside, the hotel offers individually designed bedrooms, complete with fine paintings, antiques and a superb ‘country house’ style of interiors. There is also a wonderful restaurant and relaxing spa.
Our Accessibility Information includes:
– Designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities located near the entrance
– Ramp access to the main entrance and reception area
– Lifts to all floors, suitable for wheelchairs and other mobility aids
– Accessible restrooms available on the ground floor
– Several ground floor rooms adapted for guests with reduced mobility, featuring grab rails and walk-in showers
– Induction loop systems at the reception desk and in the main conference room for guests with hearing impairments
– Service animals are welcome throughout the hotel
– Staff trained to assist guests with accessibility requirements
Please note that due to the historic nature of Hartwell House, some areas may have limited accessibility. We encourage guests to contact us prior to their visit to discuss specific needs and to ensure the best possible experience during their stay.
Airport transfers from London Heathrow
PLEASE NOTE!
Important UK Entry requirements
It is your responsibility to ensure you have a full passport and we recommend that it is valid for 6 months after the return date of your trip. Tourist visas are not required for US citizens visiting the UK however a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will now be required.
Apply for an ETA
Applications can done via a smartphone app – UK ETA app or online at Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
This is a simple process, and decisions are usually communicated within 3 days. It remains your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel documentation for your trip.
VACATION CANCELLATION BY YOU: If you want to cancel your booking after we have confirmed it with you either verbally, over the telephone or by email, you can do so over the phone or in writing. The following cancellation charges will apply:
More than 91 days prior to departure $1000
90 days or less before departure 100% of the program cost is non-refundable
If any member of your party is prevented from travelling, that person may transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you) providing we are notified no less than two weeks before departure.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
Depart from you home airport to London Heathrow Airport
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day 2
Arrival
On arrival at Heathrow Airport, a private transfer will take you to the Macdonald Windsor Hotel, where we stay for the next two nights. In the evening, join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner.
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day 3
Windsor Castle & Kew Gardens
We start our day with a visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and the final resting place of Elizabeth II. Established in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has been remodeled by successive kings and queens and is regularly used for ceremonial and state occasions. The magnificent State Apartments are furnished with some of the finest works of art for you to admire, beautifully decorated at this time of year. We find out more of the castle’s history on our audio-guided tour.
Later, a festive treat awaits us at the world-famous Kew Gardens, where the iconic architecture and tree canopies are brought to life, enriched with Christmas color and sparkling with seasonal decorations. Discover an enchanting festive trail of lights that winds its way through the botanic gardens, before enjoying some tasty treats from one of the many enticing stalls.
This evening we enjoy dinner at Annie’s Restaurant in Richmond, a charming eatery known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Nestled along the banks of the River Thames, the interior is elegantly decorated with vintage touches and soft lighting, creating a homely ambiance. The menu features a delightful selection of British classics and seasonal dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
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day 4
Bath Assembly Rooms and Bath Christmas Market
After checking out of the hotel we head to Bath, an elegant Regency city graced with wonderfully well-preserved Georgian architecture. The Roman Baths are a must-see attraction in Bath, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient past. This historic site consists of the remains of one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world, where natural hot springs still flow with steaming water. We enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Great Bath, the Sacred Spring, and the Roman Temple, all while learning about the daily life and rituals of the Romans through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
We then explore the enchanting Bath Christmas Market, bursting with traditional chalet-style stalls selling a variety of handmade items. Whether you’d like to start your Christmas shopping early, treat yourself to a tempting seasonal offering or simply browse the high-quality Christmas gifts, homewares, jewelry and more, there’s plenty to get you into the festive spirit.
Later we check into the Queens Hotel Cheltenham – MGallery, where we stay overnight.
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day 5
Cotswolds Villages
Leaving Regency Cheltenham, we take a scenic drive through the Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where quintessentially English villages are peppered throughout rolling hills. We first stop in picturesque Lechlade to visit the unique Cotswold Christmas Shop, established in 1985 but open all year round for lovers of charming ornaments and decorations.
Our other stops include famous Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, where you can expect a lovely mix of honey-hued buildings, cozy traditional pubs, independent boutiques, tempting cafés and some of the area’s most iconic landscapes.
Next, we visit Stow-on-the-Wold, a quintessential Cotswold market town known for its vibrant history and charming atmosphere. The town square, a bustling hub of activity, is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, each with its unique character. Don’t miss the chance to visit St. Edward’s Church, famous for its enchanting north door flanked by ancient yew trees, often said to be the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Doors of Durin in The Lord of the Rings.
We end the day with a festive afternoon tea at Hartwell House, one of the National Trust’s Historic House Hotels, where we also stay for the next three nights.
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day 6
Henley-on-Thames, Greys Court and Blenheim Palace
This morning we make a brief stop in Henley-on-Thames, one of the most picturesque towns in the country and set on the River Thames against the idyllic backdrop of the Chiltern Hills. It’s a lovely spot for a riverside stroll, and there are also plenty of historic buildings to admire.
We continue to Greys Court, a filming location of the hugely popular Downton Abbey TV series and movies. Set in the rolling hills of the Chilterns, this picturesque Tudor mansion has a rich patchwork of styles, including 18th-century additions and 20th-century interiors. The house is still furnished as an intimate family home, having been occupied until 2003, and is beautifully decorated during the countdown to Christmas.
Our last visit today is Blenheim Palace, set in over 2,000 acres of beautiful parkland landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown. As the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, the palace is synonymous with the Churchill family and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. A permanent exhibition commemorates the life of this famous wartime Prime Minister, whilst the magnificent State Rooms are sumptuously dressed for Christmas and reveal a superb collection of tapestries, paintings, porcelain and furniture. In the courtyard outside, there are plenty of tempting goodies on offer at the enchanting Christmas Market.
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day 7
Waddesdon Manor
We travel to Waddesdon to enjoy a festive lunch at the Five Arrows.
The Five Arrows Hotel, a Grade II listed building, offers an elegant and intimate setting for a festive lunch. This charming Victorian hotel boasts a rich history and is renowned for its exceptional hospitality and gourmet cuisine. The dining room, adorned with beautiful period features and festive decorations, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. We enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring seasonal dishes prepared with the finest local ingredients, complemented by a selection of fine wines.
Afterward, we visit Waddesdon Manor. Built in the Neo-Renaissance style of a French château between 1874 and 1889 for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, Waddesdon Manor is an architectural masterpiece. Inside, the manor houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Gainsborough and Reynolds, as well as exquisite 18th-century French furniture and decorative arts. During the festive season, Waddesdon Manor is beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors. Special exhibitions and events are often held, adding to the enchanting experience.
In the evening we enjoy a festive farewell dinner with a drink to the backdrop of Christmas carol singers. This Victorian-style carol singing performance highlights some of the traditions and customs during this special time of year.
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day 9
Departure
A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow Airport for your return flight home.
Everything you need to know about the tour
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