Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & The Cotswolds

The first part of our journey sees us head out of the hustle and bustle of London and into the serene expanses of the Cotswolds, England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Nestled within the heart of the Cotswolds, the charming village of Bampton invites you to step into the real-life backdrop of the world-famous “Downton Abbey” TV series. This picturesque gem, with its honey-hued stone cottages and winding streets, seamlessly captures the quintessential English charm.

Bampton invites you to savour the authentic Cotswold experience – see the home of Isobel Crawley, the Downton Cottage Hospital, the village church, and the location for two fictional local pubs, The Grantham Arms and The Dog & Duck.

After a brief journey through some of the most beautiful countryside in England, we will arrive at our next destination: the lovely village of Bourton-on-the-Water. Also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, this quintessentially English village is a must-see for all visitors to the Cotswolds.

Bourton-on-the-Water isn’t just a destination; it’s an immersive experience, inviting you to embrace the unhurried pace of village life. As you step into this postcard-perfect village, you’ll be greeted by the harmonious blend of golden stone architecture and the gentle river flow, creating a scene straight from a fairytale.

Indulge in an authentic afternoon tea experience at a riverside café, or take a stroll down the river banks and peruse the eclectic mix of local stores offering everything from homemade ice cream to charming gifts for friends and family back home.

Explore the opulent legacy of Blenheim Palace, a majestic stately home and the private residence of the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. This historical marvel, best known as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, invites you to immerse in the sumptuous ambience of the lavishly decorated State Rooms.

Admire the stunning details behind the portraits, tapestry and furniture in the lavishly decorated State Rooms, which includes ornate furniture by Boulle, Savonniere carpet and the iconic ‘Victories’ series of tapestries celebrating the Duke’s victory over the French armies of ‘The Sun King’, Louis XIV, at the Battle of Blenheim.

Step into a realm of horticultural mastery as you wander through the meticulously designed formal gardens, a verdant canvas brought to life by the legendary Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. With over 2,000 acres of parkland, the grounds of Blenheim Palace beckon you to explore the essence of natural beauty.

Follow in Sir Winston Churchill’s footsteps and discover the outdoor spaces he cherished the most, such as the spot where he proposed to Clementine Hozier.

Your Tour will finish outside London Victoria Train Station, centrally located and easily accessible by national rail and underground; it is serviced by the Victoria, District and Circle Lines and is in Travel Zone 1.