A Cotswolds Adventure - Final Information

Laurie Sommer and Laura Helmig

Sunday 1st June – Saturday 7th June 2025

Number of Travellers:  4
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 1st June - London to the Cotswolds

This morning, meet your private transfer to leave the bustling metropolis of London behind and head west into the Cotswolds – a region cherished for its pastoral charm, pretty villages, flower-rich limestone grassland and deep incised valleys.

Meet an expert local guide at Stonehenge with deep-rooted knowledge of the Neolithic landscape. As you walk the lush, grass-covered paths winding between towering sarsens, the guide brings to life the henge’s purpose as a ceremonial gathering space, sharing details about ancient rituals and burial practices. Their expertise enriches each sight, from the avenues leading out to other prehistoric sites to the impressive earthworks, allowing you to see Stonehenge through the eyes of the ancients while capturing the fascinating layers of human history that have shaped it across thousands of years. Continue onto Avebury Stones, offering you a serene yet awe-inspiring experience, as you wander freely among one of the largest and oldest Neolithic stone circles in the world, surrounded by rolling English countryside. Unlike Stonehenge, you can get up close to the massive standing stones, feeling the ancient energy that has drawn people to this sacred site for millennia.

Journey with your guide on to your 17th Century house hotel and settle into your luxury retreat for the evening.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time this evening for your adventures tomorrow morning – Estimated start time: 10:00am

Overnight: Cirencester | The Pig in the Cotswolds
Room Type: 2 x Big Comfy Luxe Rooms
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2720786
Pick Up Location: Stafford Hotel | Pick Up Time: 08:30 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will meet you outside your hotel entrance and take you to Stonehenge and onwards

Day 1 - Stonehenge & Avebury Tour Read More +

Activity: Stonehenge & Avebury Tour
Local Expert Guide: Erica Wheeler
Start Location: Stonehenge Car Park | Start Time: 11:00
Phone: +44 (0)7714 205990

Erica will meet you at Stonehenge alongside your guide, Dan, who will take your luggage to your hotel whilst you tour Stonehenge & Avebury

Dan will come and collect you after your tour and take you to your hotel for check-in

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Pig in the Cotswolds | Location: The Cotswolds
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: 34KMXZVL9H5E

Table reservation booked under Laurie Sommer

Clients to pay directly

Day 2 - Monday 2nd June - Cotswolds Water Park and Farmshops

The day begins with a refreshing morning walk at Cotswold Water Park, where the stillness of the lakes and soft rustling of reeds create a peaceful escape. As you stroll along the trails, you might spot swans gliding across the water or catch glimpses of wildflowers along the shore, with each lake offering a unique, tranquil view. After the walk, you stop by a local farm shop, rich with the region’s fresh produce—think baskets of just-picked apples, artisanal cheeses, homemade preserves, and perhaps even freshly baked breads. Browsing the shelves, you’re drawn in by the local flavours and maybe pick up a few treats for later. If the afternoon allows, you set off to explore a nearby Cotswold town, like the historic Tetbury, with its quaint shops, old stone buildings, and antiques stores, or choose a scenic countryside hike, rounding off the day with a perfect blend of nature, local tastes, and classic Cotswold charm.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time this evening for your adventures tomorrow morning – Estimated start time: 09:30am

Overnight: Cirencester | The Pig in the Cotswolds
Room Type: 2 x Big Comfy Luxe Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Double Red Duke | Location: Bampton
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: XYN5W4ATFY3
Phone: + 44 (0)1367 810 222

Table reservation booked under Laurie Sommer

Clients to pay directly

Day 3 - Tuesday 3rd June - Castle Combe and Lacock

Spending a day in Castle Combe is like stepping back in time. Begin your morning exploring this charming village, marvelling at its historic stone cottages and the medieval Market Cross. Take the opportunity to visit St. Andrew’s Church, where you can see one of the oldest working clocks in Britain, dating back to the 14th century. Afterward, discover the Cotswold Way on a picturesque circular hike.

Later in the afternoon, make your way to Lacock, a nearby village steeped in history and charm. Visit Lacock Abbey, a stunning 13th-century building with beautiful cloisters and gardens. Wander through its atmospheric rooms, once home to William Henry Fox Talbot, a pioneer of photography. Finish your day with a relaxing stroll around the village, perhaps stopping for tea at one of the quaint local cafes.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time this evening for your adventures tomorrow morning – Estimated start time: 09:30am

Overnight: Cirencester | The Pig in the Cotswolds
Room Type: 2 x Big Comfy Luxe Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Old Bell | Location: Abbey Row
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: B2KFLJ7K
Phone: +44 (0)1666 822344

Table reservation booked under Laurie Sommer

Clients to pay directly

Day 4 - Wednesday 4th June - Cotswold Villages

Today, you’ll be heading out with your guide to explore the enchanting Cotswold villages and landscapes. Start with a scenic walk from the picturesque villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter, following tranquil paths alongside the River Eye and taking in the beautiful countryside. Then, visit Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” where you can admire its iconic stone bridges and explore the famous Model Village.

Continue to Stow-on-the-Wold, where you can wander the charming market square, browse antique shops, and visit historic sites, soaking up the village’s timeless character. As a hidden gem, you’ll stop at St. Edward’s Church, where ancient yew trees framing the church door create a magical, fairytale-like scene. End the day in Moreton-in-Marsh, where the historic High Street invites exploration before arriving at your next countryside retreat near the village of Broadway.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time this evening for your adventures tomorrow morning – Estimated start time: 10:00am

Overnight: Broadway | Dormy House Hotel & Spa
Room Type: 2x Courtyard Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Back Garden | Location: Dormy House Hotel
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: n/a
Phone: +44 (0)1386 852711

Table reservation booked under Laurie Sommer

Clients to pay directly

Day 5 - Thursday 5th June - Broadway and Chipping Campden

Starting your the day at Broadway Tower, you’re greeted by sweeping views of the Cotswolds from this iconic hilltop folly, its rugged stone walls standing proudly against the countryside. After climbing the tower for an even grander panorama, you set off on the scenic walk to Chipping Campden, following winding trails through wildflower meadows and ancient woodlands. The landscape shifts from rolling hills to charming thatched cottages as you near the town, each step infused with the crisp, earthy scent of the English countryside. Arriving in Chipping Campden, with its honey-hued limestone buildings and inviting atmosphere, you settle in at a cozy pub or tearoom. Over a well-earned lunch—perhaps a hearty ploughman’s or a fresh, local pie—you relax, recounting the beauty of the hike and soaking up the lively charm of this quintessential Cotswold village.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time this evening for your adventures tomorrow morning – Estimated start time: 09:30am

Overnight: Broadway | Dormy House Hotel & Spa
Room Type: 2x Courtyard Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Wild Rabbit | Location: Kingham
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: n/a
Phone: +44 (0)1608 692866

Table reservation booked under Laurie Sommer

Clients to pay directly

Day 6 - Friday 6th June - Sudeley Castle and Daylesford Farm Delights

This morning, visit Sudeley Castle and take a serene stroll through its lush gardens, bursting with vibrant flowers and ancient yew hedges, as the sun casts a golden glow over the historic stone walls. Inside, the castle’s rich tapestry of history unfolds through beautifully preserved rooms and exhibits, offering glimpses into the lives of past monarchs and nobility.

This afternoon, visit Daylesford Organic Farm Shop and start with a leisurely browse through the farm shop, filled with fresh, local produce and artisanal delights. Then, immerse yourself in a private bespoke cookery course where you’ll learn to craft a delicious dinner using handpicked ingredients. End the day savouring your culinary creations in a warm, welcoming setting.

 

Overnight: Broadway | Dormy House Hotel & Spa
Room Type: 2x Courtyard Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Daylesford Organic Farm | Location: Daylesford
Reservation Time: 18:00 | Booking Reference: n/a
Phone: +44 (0)1608 692871

Pre-paid private cookery class – 18:00pm – 20:30pm

Reservation under Laurie Sommer

Day 7 - Saturday 7th June - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2720787
Pick Up Location: Dormy House Hotel | Pick Up Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 2 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer will collect you from your hotel entrance and take you to Heathrow Airport for your return flights home

Day 7 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 7, 2025 | Airline: United Airlines | Flight Number: UA15
Departure Airport: LHR | Departure Time: 15:20

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 6 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to Day 6 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry to Avebury Henge with private expert guide
    • Entry to Cotswolds Water Park
    • Entry to Lacock Abbey
    • Privately guided exploration of Cotswold villages including entry to the Model Village
    • Entry to the Broadway Tower
    • Entry to Sudeley Castle
    • Private cookery school class with Farm-to-Table dinner
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More

Activities are only private if specifically stated in the inclusions.

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – June in England can be a very wide range of weather, and very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in Scotland) – please note, sturdy shoes are also required for the Farm Tour on Day 3
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

Tipping Guidelines

We don’t generally recommend a set amount. We would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations. Choose what you think reflects this and you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness England Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1768 721 210
US: 888 351 5706


Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7482 170 401


Emergency Services

999

Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Meet Your Guide

Dan Morgan

Contact Number: +44 (0)7799 860312

Retired academic, rejuvenated climber/mountaineer/paddler/biker. Spent over 40 years caressing rock faces all over the world, never tire of it. Loves sharing moments in the outdoors with others, learning about different people’s lives and admiring human nature (most) alongside nature itself. Now lives in the Lake District close to his roots.

Place to play

West coast of Scotland for rock and sea (when the weather is good).

Not a lot of people know this

I used to climb telegraph poles for a living.