Cycle tour through the Cotswolds

Welcome to Stratford-upon-Avon – the home of William Shakespeare. The charming town on the River Avon welcomes you with half-timbered houses, pretty cafés and a touch of history in every alleyway. Explore the poet's birthplace, stroll through the well-kept parks or treat yourself to a cup of tea with a view of the river. In the evening, you can stop off at one of the traditional pubs or – depending on the schedule – get in the mood for a visit to the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Your cycle tour through the Cotswolds begins with cultural enjoyment and a relaxed arrival.

To start your journey, head north-east towards Warwick. The route takes you along quiet roads and through classic British farmland to the famous Warwick Castle. The Norman fortress towers majestically over the idyllic Avon and provides a spectacular backdrop with its towers, battlements and manicured gardens. After an extensive visit, cycle back to Stratford-upon-Avon – a stroll through the charming streets or a visit to the picturesque Bancroft Garden is a great way to end the day. A stylish evening in one of the town's cozy cafés rounds off the day.

On today's stage, you will cycle through a typical English postcard landscape: rolling hills, flowering hedgerows and small farmsteads line your route. A highlight on the route is Chipping Campden, a picturesque market town with a medieval tradition and a magnificent High Street. Once you arrive in Broadway, one of the most beautiful places in the Cotswolds awaits you: the wide high street with its elegant Georgian houses, stylish tea rooms and small galleries invites you to take a stroll. If you wish, you can take a short climb up to Broadway Tower, from where you can see as far as Wales in good weather.

On this circular tour, you will experience the region from its particularly charming side – a real highlight of your cycle tour through the Cotswolds. You cycle leisurely along winding paths through hilly landscapes, lush hedgerows and fragrant meadows. In Ashton under Hill and Beckford, small stores and handicrafts invite you to browse. A real insider tip is the quiet village of Stanton, which seems to have fallen out of time with its Tudor architecture. Treat yourself to a classic cream tea on the way – this sweet treat makes the day perfect.

Your stage today takes you through the heart of the Cotswolds – over picturesque hills, through idyllic villages and green pastures. A detour to the Cotswold Farm Park is worthwhile, as is a stopover in Bourton-on-the-Water, whose small bridges and babbling river have earned the town the nickname "Venice of the Cotswolds". Finally, you reach Burford, a charming market town with a medieval flair. The crooked main street with its stores, cafés and pubs invites you to linger.

A varied section of your cycle tour through the Cotswolds awaits you today. The shorter route takes you through lovely hilly landscapes and quiet villages directly to Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town with quaint pubs and antique stores. The longer option rewards you with a detour to the impressive Blenheim Palace, the baroque birthplace of Winston Churchill – a cultural highlight in the midst of stately parkland. No matter which route you choose: Enjoy a day full of English country charm that takes you through tranquil villages and impressive parkland.

The return journey to Stratford takes you through classic English countryside, with sweeping views across fields, through small hamlets and past old manor houses. Experience the tranquil beauty of the Cotswolds once again before returning to the famous birthplace of Shakespeare. Perhaps end your trip with a walk along the River Avon or a last visit to the pub – with a pint or a cider to a successful week of cycling.

After a last leisurely breakfast, your cycle tour through the Cotswolds comes to an end. If you like, you can stroll through the streets of Stratford-upon-Avon one last time, treat yourself to a souvenir or visit the picturesque Bancroft Garden on the River Avon. With many wonderful memories in your luggage, you start your journey home – inspired by the English way of life, the tranquillity of the countryside and the variety of your experiences. Or you can extend your stay in a relaxed manner – there is still so much to discover!