Downton Abbey Day In The Cotswolds Tour

Discover England’s Cotswolds and Downton Abbey Filming Locations in One Day

If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey or simply love exploring picture-perfect countryside, this Downton Abbey Day in the Cotswolds Tour promises a full day of beauty, history, and TV magic. From charming villages to authentic filming sites, it’s a great way to experience a snapshot of rural England without the hassle of planning multiple trips or renting a car.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its personalized touch—it’s a private experience, meaning you won’t be squeezed into a large group, and your guide can tailor the day a bit to your interests. Plus, with direct pickup from London hotels, it simplifies logistics and lets you get straight into sightseeing.

However, a potential consideration is the price point, which at over $690 per person, might seem steep for some. While the cost includes entry to Cogges Farm and a well-organized itinerary, it’s worth weighing whether the experience matches your expectations for comfort and value. This tour is best suited for fans of the series, lovers of quaint villages, or travelers eager to see a stretch of the English countryside in a single day.

Key Points

• Tailored, private experience offers flexibility and a more personal touch.
• Includes entry to Cogges Farm, famous as Yew Tree Farm in Downton Abbey.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers scenic villages, filming locations, and historic sites.
• Round-trip transportation from London makes logistics effortless.
• Ideal for Downton fans and countryside lovers looking for a full day tour.
• Price reflects the personalized service and entries included, but might be steep for some.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Cotswolds and Downton Abbey Magic

When considering a day trip from London into the heart of the Cotswolds, this tour hits many of the highlights, especially if you’re a Downton Abbey devotee. It’s designed to give you a taste of the region’s scenic charm and the real-life locations behind the beloved series, all within about nine hours.

The Comfort and Convenience of Private Transportation

First, let’s talk about the logistics. The tour’s round-trip transfer from your London hotel means no fuss about train schedules or bus routes—the driver and guide handle all that. Departing at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up in a comfortable vehicle designed to accommodate your group. One review mentioned disappointment in the transport, noting they expected something more comfortable than a black taxi, which might be a consideration if you’re particular about comfort during long days. For most, though, the smooth ride and direct route outweigh that single issue, especially given the scenic views.

Visiting Cogges Manor Farm – Yew Tree Farm of Downton Fame

Your first stop is Cogges Manor Farm, which doubles as Yew Tree Farm, the home of Mr. Drew in the series. The admission is included in your tour, so you can wander freely around this charming farmstead, which still feels like a step back in time. You’ll get a guided tour that brings the filming scenes to life—many visitors find this absolutely worth it.

Along With the scenic farm buildings, you’ll get to meet some farm animals, including yellow and black pigs, adding a touch of rural charm. As one reviewer said, “We were surprised to have a black taxi for this trip,” which was less comfortable for some, but the experience itself was highly praised for its authenticity and guide’s knowledge.

Exploring Asthall and the Milford Sisters’ Childhood Home

Next, a quick stop in the village of Asthall offers a glimpse into local history. The Milford sisters, famous in 20th-century Britain, grew up here, and your guide will share stories connecting them to wider historical figures like Hitler and the Dukes of Devonshire. This short visit (about 15 minutes) is free and adds some depth to your understanding of the region’s cultural fabric.

Lunch at The Swan Inn

A highlight of many UK countryside tours is the chance to enjoy traditional pub fare. The Swan Inn serves as a convenient stop for a quick, hearty pub lunch, renowned enough that even a former Prime Minister was known to dine there. Keep in mind, the tour price doesn’t include this meal, so budget for that separately. The roughly one-hour break allows you to relax and soak in the local vibe before continuing.

Visiting Swinbrook and the Filming Locations

Driving through Swinbrook, you’ll admire one of the most picturesque villages, home to the Mitford family. Here, your guide will point out landmarks used in the film Bridget Jones, giving an extra layer of interest.

The Charm of Burford

No visit to the Cotswolds is complete without a stroll down Burford’s High Street. This “chocolate box” village offers stunning architecture, boutique shops, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a great place to browse for souvenirs or just take a moment to appreciate the classic Cotswold scenery.

The Iconic Bampton Village: Downton Abbey’s Filming Star

The final highlight is Bampton, the series’ stand-in for Downton village. This is where the series was filmed throughout all six seasons and the movie. Walking around Bampton, you’ll get a real sense of the series’ charm, and your guide may even introduce you to some friendly locals who love sharing their stories.

One review shared, “Our guide Dewi was very knowledgeable and helpful,” which truly made the experience memorable. You’ll get to take photos outside the iconic buildings and walk along streets that have become famous worldwide.

Final Return to London

Leaving Bampton around 4 pm, the tour aims to have you back at your London hotel by 6 pm, giving you a full, fulfilling day with just enough time to rest or reflect on the trip.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The highlights of this tour are its well-organized, intimate experience that takes you straight to the heart of the Cotswolds and Downton Abbey filming spots. The guide’s knowledge adds depth, and the scenery is genuinely stunning—think rolling hills, charming cottages, and historic villages.

On the downside, some reviews mention the transport was less than ideal, with one describing it as a black taxi. While most found the ride comfortable enough, if you’re used to luxury transfers, this might be a minor disappointment. Also, the hefty price tag may be a barrier, but considering the entries included and personalized service, many feel it’s justified.

This tour is especially appealing if you’re a dedicated Downton Abbey fan, a lover of rural England, or someone eager to see a collection of iconic villages in a single day. It balances history, scenery, and TV magic—making it a well-rounded experience.

The Sum Up

The Downton Abbey Day in the Cotswolds Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines the magic of the series with the simple beauty of the English countryside. If you’re looking for an efficient way to see several film locations and picturesque villages in one go, and don’t mind the price, this tour is a solid choice. The private aspect and knowledgeable guides make it stand out from generic bus tours.

It works best for fans wanting to see the series’ filming locations up close, those who appreciate scenic drives, or travelers who prefer a hassle-free, all-in-one day outing. While the cost might be high for some, many reviews highlight the value of the personalized experience and the stunning scenery.

For anyone wanting to step into the world of Downton Abbey and enjoy a taste of the Cotswolds’ charm without navigating on their own, this tour offers a well-balanced, memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transit from your London hotel is included, making logistics straightforward.
What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup at 9 am to return around 6 pm.
Is the tour private or group? It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.
Are meals included? No, lunch at The Swan Inn is not included, but you’ll have about an hour to enjoy a meal and relax.
What are the main highlights? Visiting Cogges Farm, the villages of Asthall, Swinbrook, Burford, and Bampton, and seeing key Downton Abbey filming locations.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is it suitable for children? The tour is most suited for adults or older teens interested in scenery and film locations.
How far in advance should I book? On average, bookings are made about 115 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.
Will I get time to take photos? Absolutely, especially at Burford and Bampton—it’s part of the fun.
Are there any hidden costs? Entry to Cogges Farm is included, but other stops like lunch are paid separately.

This tour is perfect for those who want a hassle-free, scenic, and TV-inspired day out, blending the allure of the Cotswolds with Downton Abbey‘s charm. Whether you’re visiting from abroad or a local looking for a special day, it delivers a lot of what makes the English countryside special—with some TV magic thrown in.