This weeklong itinerary includes two places dear to Andrew Harper’s heart: the Cotswolds and Bath. It’s possible, but unnecessary, to start with a couple of days in London before heading into the Cotswolds. And after Bath, those with more time can easily continue into the timeless West Country and Cornwall, Wales or southern England. Note that though the main towns of the Cotswolds can be crowded during summer, the back roads and lesser-known villages remain delightful even in high season.
Our itineraries are for your inspiration. Please contact a travel advisor to customize this itinerary to fit your needs.
You will be met at the airport by your private driver and transferred to Barnsley House in the heart of the Cotswolds. Your local guide will meet you at the hotel reception and assist you with checking in before running through your itinerary to answer any questions you may have.
An early-morning start is required to enjoy the calm tranquility of the English countryside from your hot air balloon. You will have spectacular panoramic views of the quaint villages and acres of green land. Afterward explore some of the loveliest gardens in the region. Visit Buscot Park, the enchanting gardens of Malmesbury and, if requested/booked far in advance, perhaps an opportunity to visit Highgrove, the private gardens of the Prince of Wales.
Visit the charming villages of Bibury and Burford. Spend time wandering the gardens of Hidcote Manor, with its outdoor “rooms” separated by walls and hedges of many different species. Kiftsgate Court is home to the largest rose in England.
This morning your driver-guide takes you to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, thought by many to be one of the loveliest cities in all of England. Some of the best-preserved Georgian architecture is located here, along with fascinating relics of earlier eras. Visit the Roman Baths and see the magnificent Palladian architecture for which the city is renowned.
If you want to enjoy the famed waters of Bath, you can do so as a guest at The Gainsborough hotel or in the Thermae Bath Spa, a splendid public facility that opened in 2006. The complex comprises two natural thermal baths — a spectacular open-air rooftop pool and an indoor pool — plus a large steam room with four glass pods and 20 spa treatment rooms, including the 18th-century Hot Bath. Children under 16 are not permitted, but they may bathe with adult supervision in the Cross Bath nearby, an open-air thermal bath under the same management, housed within an exquisite Georgian building constructed in 1789 in the style of the great neoclassical architect Robert Adam.
Transfer to London this morning for your departure flight, or extend your visit to London or other areas of England.
Contact a travel advisor to book your custom itinerary. Fill out the form or call (630) 734-4610.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
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