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A Pretty Pocket of England – The Classic Cotswolds

9 days from £3,995 / $5,420 per person

Not far from the Urban Jungle of London lies a pretty pocket of rural bliss. The honey coloured hues of the Cotswolds villages immediately hark of a simpler time, and provide a wonderful destination for a leisurely, but insightful, ramble of the English countryside.

Take time visiting the numerous picturesque historical properties, such as Kelmscott Manor and Kiftsgate Court Gardens, whilst also exploring some of the local farm shops, markets and village boutiques. The Cotswolds is a quaint and historically rich part of England, and the rolling hills and picturesque sandstone cottages create an old-world charm. The image of a Cotswold village is often what is conjured when one thinks of the romance of the English countryside.

Thyme will give you the chance to experience a more modern and boutique approach to the countryside. Stylish yet cosy, the charming accommodation combines rustic interiors with contemporary touches. Soak in a roll-top bath or snuggle before the wood-burning stove, and immerse yourself in the hotel’s home-farmed ethos with a cookery class sourcing ingredients from their abundant kitchen garden. Buckland Manor, in perfect contrast to Thyme, is an elegant and charming country house hotel, you’ll instantly feel at home away from home. Furnished with antiques and surrounded by beautiful gardens that boast rose beds, a croquet lawn and a tennis court, Buckland exudes more of a quintessential and characteristic air.

The Cotswolds has something to offer everyone. Whether you are looking for a romantic break, a family holiday or a historic foray there are experiences abound in this chocolate-box part of the world to suit even the pickiest of travellers. With each season showcasing its own beauty, this is a year-round destination ripe for the picking!


Itinerary details

9 days from £3,995 / $5,420 per person

  • Day 1 - Ham Yard - London
    Private transfer to your hotel. Afternoon visit to Kew Gardens. Evening performance at Regents Park Open Air Theatre.
  • Day 2 - Ham Yard - London
    Morning privately guided tour of the 'Countryside in London' (around London's famous parks). Afternoon Botanical Themed Tea at The Mondrian Hotel.
  • Day 3 - Thyme Hotel - The Cotswolds
    Drive into the Cotswolds via the Royal Residence of Windsor Castle and the charming village of Henley on Thames.
  • Day 4 - Thyme Hotel - The Cotswolds
    Morning visit to the 'capital' of the Cotswolds, Cirencester, via Kelmscott Manor. Afternoon Seasonal Cookery Class at Thyme. Dinner at The Swan Inn.
  • Day 5 - Buckland Manor - The Cotswolds
    Day trip to the Royal Gardens at Highgrove and the Westonbirt National Arboretum.
  • Day 6 - Buckland Manor - The Cotswolds
    Explore the quaint Cotswold countryside visiting the villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, the Slaughters and Chipping Norton. Lunch at Daylesford Organic Farm and drive to Buckland Manor.
  • Day 7 - Buckland Manor - The Cotswolds
    Morning visit to Hidcote Manor and Kiftsgate Court. Afternoon visit to Snowshill Manor and Broadway Tower. Dinner at The Chefs Dozen Restaurant.
  • Day 8 - Cliveden House - Berkshire
    Morning at leisure. Afternoon visit to the iconic Blenheim Palace. Drive to Cliveden House.
  • Day 9 - In transit.
    Drive to the airport for your flight home.
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Travelling is like flirting with life. It's like saying, 'I would stay and love you, but I have to go; this is my station.
Lisa St. Aubin de Teran

Client Testimonials

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

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