Other Information/FAQ's

Qu. How can you get to the Cotswolds from London?

Ans. There are various tour companies that run day visits from London - check with your hotel before you arrive. However, we know that these tours can be a frustrating experience. Most visitors want more time in the area than package tours allow. Our advice is to use public transport. There are fast and frequent services from London Paddington to Cheltenham, Kemble (for Cirencester), Moreton-in-Marsh (which is also a short bus/taxi ride to Stow-on-the-Wold and the villages of the North Cotswolds). Above all, consider including a one or two night stay in the area - it's the best way to get to know the locals! The travel information section of this site has public transport and car hire contacts.

Qu. What is there for children to do?

Ans. Rural peace is great for a few days, but parents need to be sure that the children can be entertained. Gloucestershire lacks large theme parks and it may be difficult to find a McDonalds nearby...but for many of our visitors these are plus points and we're not complaining! In Gloucestershire, a rural county, there are excellent farm or wildlife attractions such as the Cotswold Farm Park and Slimbridge Wildfowl Trust. Museums are a real strong point (Tewkesbury alone has three!). Gloucester Docks is a highlight for families (with the Tailor of Gloucester's House nearby) and the county has a particularly strong group of steam railway attractions. Then there are wonderfully quirky attractions that defy easy description, such as Puzzlewood. A little planning before your visit will enable you to match your children's interests to what we have to offer. You'll find more information under the 'attractions' section web site. You can also order the 'Leading Attractions in Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds' guide on line. Cotswold District Council produce a 'Cotswolds Attractions' guide.

Qu. When is the best time to visit?

Ans. Daffodils and bluebells in Spring? Walking and pub lunches in the Summer? Autumn colours in the Forest of Dean or Westonbirt Arboretum in Autumn? Christmas in a Country House Hotel, with a log fire and hearty breakfasts? You decide. The climate is mild. Snow may make minor roads difficult in, say January, but that is quite rare - 'England has only different kinds of good weather' as the saying goes.

Qu. How can I tour without a car?

Ans. Each summer Cheltenham Tourist Office operates Guided Cotswold Coach Tours which provide an enjoyable and relaxing way to experience the best of the Cotswolds. Using quality transport, and accompanied by a qualified tourist board guide the tours will operate two days per week, from June until September.

Every Tuesday -Travel the Romantic Road to the North Cotswolds. Based on the routes of the Romantic Road, the coach tours introduce you to this area of outstanding natural beauty. The tours visit the major towns and villages and include a walking tour each day. >

Every Thursday - A Day to Explore. Here there is the opportunity to explore further afield and visit other popular destinations for a day trip. A choice of four tours takes you to the South Cotswolds, Stratford - upon - Avon, Bath, The Royal Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.

Coach Tours cost £22 per person, £18 for concessions (£2 discount on subsequent tours booked).

Details of these tours may be obtained from Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre, telephone +44 (0)1242 522878, where tickets may also be booked. Alternately book on-line at tourism@cheltenham.gov.uk