What to do on a Day Trip from London to the Cotswolds

Chances are, you’ve heard of the Cotswolds, whether as a weekend break destination or for its being one of the most picture-perfect stops for a day trip from London. Located in the south of England, stretching into Wales, with parts of this approx. 800 mile square Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty being found in 5 different counties! The area is made up of a number of beautiful medieval stone-built villages and towns, and, as the area isn’t exactly small, you might be wondering, where is the best place to visit?

Well, we’ve rustled up a few ideas of our own for a Cotswolds day trip from London::

Bourton on the Water

Travel time from London (by car): 2hr 36min

Often referred to as the Venice of England, Bourton-on-the-Water is a stunning little village, situated on the River Windrush. Take in the tranquillity and natural beauty of the place, where you’ll stumble upon some great independent shops, quaint cafés and the delightful, Cotswold Perfumery.

If you’re day-tripping with family, including young children, there’s something for everyone in Bourton-on-the-Water. Head to the Dragonfly Maze for an exciting time navigating this fantastic hedge maze, or check out the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection, for a trip back in time to see amazing antique automobiles and vintage toys.

Bibury

Travel time from London (by car): 2hr 28min

The Gloucestershire village of Bibury is home to the River Coln and features some wonderful chocolate box houses, with row upon row of quaint little cottages; each one different in some way to the last - very unlike our new 21st Century housing developments.

Once described as the ‘most beautiful village in England’ by British poet William Morris, the town of Bibury is swimming in character. A day trip to Bibury is the perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Smoke.

Bath

Travel time from London (by car): 2hr 49min

The bustling city of Bath is a popular place to visit out of Cotswolds’ offerings. This historic spa town is a 2hr 49min drive from London and well worth it. Though a great place for a day trip, Bath has such a wealth of cultural offerings that it’s also a great place for a weekend break or staycation.

There’s something for everyone; for those looking to relax, make sure to check out the Thermae Baths, for fashion lovers head to the Fashion Museum, and for those with a head for heights, make your way up Bath Abbey Tower for some incredible views of the city.

Bath also boasts a variety of great museums and art galleries, so come rain or shine, this city makes for a great day out. Jane Austen lovers, head to the dedicated museum, the Jane Austen Centre, to learn all about the time the beloved novelist spent in Bath. For art lovers, head to the Holburne Museum and Victoria Art Gallery.

Moreton in Marsh

Travel time from London (by car): 2hr 37min

This day trip is great for Lord of the Rings fans… Moreton in Marsh’s very own The Bell Inn pub was said to be the very inspiration for the Prancing Pony in J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous book series. This old-fashioned market town has bags of character and is not to be missed.

Shop, have afternoon tea or… follow Hiyacar’s top tip and visit on a Tuesday when the famous weekly market takes place; you’ll witness more than 200 stalls offering everything from clothing to food, gifts and many other off-the-wall offerings, making Moreton in Marsh one of our favourite day trips from London by car.

After more day trip ideas? How about a trip to Stonehenge… or the fabulous city of Canterbury!

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