South Wales, Cotswolds & Oxford
4 day tour

  • st davids cathedral
  • tenby
  • Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Oxford

Time for an adventure. A coastal drive in the south of Wales. A medieval town with an interesting past. A photo-worthy mountain range. And a book-lovers paradise. 

Tour map

Tour Highlights

Cathedrals
Castles
Beaches
Literature
Mountains
Universities

Tenby - After a night in this beautiful medieval harbour town, you might never want to leave.

Carreg Cennen Castle - Protected by limestone cliffs to the south and rock-cut ditches to the west, this striking Welsh castle has a dramatic history.

Bannau Brycheiniog National Park - Each area of this national park is unique in its own way, so you’re sure to love this scenic drive.

Hay–on–Wye - Booklovers are going to lose it when they visit the world’s first book town. 

Stratford–upon–Avon - Spend the night in the birthplace of Shakespeare and discover more about the life of this renowned playwright.

Cotswolds - Drive through and explore the iconic region known as the Cotswolds, enjoying beautiful landscapes and villages along the way.

Oxford - Whether you’re excited for the internationally-acclaimed university, or for seeing the locations where they shot Harry Potter, we know you’ll get a kick out of Oxford.

Pembrokeshire Coast - Backed by hills, estuaries, valleys, and woodlands, a stunning coastline isn't all on offer in this beautiful region.

 

Your journey

 

From coastal roads to the scenic Bannau Brycheiniog National Park mountain range, you'll be spoilt for views on this trip.

Bookworms, in particular, will get a kick out of this tour. Hay-on-Wye is known as the First Book Town in the world, famous for its secondhand and antiquarian bookshops. Perhaps leave some space in your suitcase for a few extra purchases. 

Awe-inspiring nature isn't all you're getting on this trip. History lovers will get their fill too. If you’ve always wondered what the fuss is all about over Oxford, now is the time to dive deep into the city and learn all about its past. Not to mention you'll be staying in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare.

Get your cameras ready because you're about to find out what's so special about Wales and some of the most inspiring spots in England

 

Tour Details

Starts
Check-in closes at 08:15 (tour departs at 08:30) - Bristol Pick-Up, DoubleTree by Hilton, Redcliffe Way, Bristol, BS16NJ
Finishes (approx.)
17:45 - Bristol Drop Off, DoubleTree by Hilton, Redcliffe Way, Bristol, BS16NJ
Luggage
You're restricted to 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) and a small bag for onboard personal items.
Discounts

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old).

Important information
  • Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
  • This tour combines two of our trips. This means you swap your bus, guide, and a few of your friends during the journey.
  • Attraction tickets may need to be purchased in advance. More information is provided in your booking confirmation e-mail
Tour inclusions
  • Transportation by a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
  • Air conditioning as standard
  • The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
Tour exclusions
  • Entry fees to visitor attractions
  • Tour accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1

  • Venture to the smallest city in Britain, St Davids
  • Explore the beauty of the south of Wales and the Pembrokeshire Coast

It’s time to explore the beauty and history of south Wales.

Leaving Bristol, your first main destination is St Davids, known as the smallest city in Britain. Despite its tiny stature, St Davids has claimed city status thanks to the 12th century cathedral found in the heart of the town. The cathedral is definitely worth a visit, not just for its beauty, but you can learn all about the history of the city inside.

In the afternoon, your driver-guide will take you on a beautiful drive along the Pembrokeshire Coast in the south of Wales, choosing the best places to stop depending on what might interest the group. Hills, estuaries, valleys, and woodlands, this stunning region really has it all.

You arrive in Tenby in the early evening and this is your destination for the night. Settlement in Tenby town dates back to the 9th century, so no surprise there’s plenty to see here.

Day 2

  • Wander the medieval town walls and castle of Tenby
  • Retrace Welsh poet Dylan Thomas’ steps in Laugharne
  • Marvel at Carreg Cennen Castle

You have the morning to explore Tenby and we’d highly recommend taking advantage. This town has some fascinating history and amazing things to see, including Tenby Castle and the medieval town walls.

Poetry lovers will enjoy the stop at the lovely town of Laugharne. Welsh poet Dylan Thomas lived here from 1949 until his death in 1953 and those that are interested can visit Dylan Thomas’ Boathouse. Perhaps you’ll use your time for a quick refreshment since there are plenty of pubs to choose from.

In the afternoon you visit Castle Carreg Cennen. This incredible stronghold sits high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Cennen, so get your camera ready. There’s time here to explore the ruins and even grab a quick bite for lunch.

We then treat you to a drive through the scenic Bannau Brycheiniog National Park mountain range. A perfect way to end the day before you arrive in Abergavenny for the evening.

Day 3

  • Lose yourself in the many bookstores of Hay-on-Wye
  • Spend the night in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare

Bookworms get ready. Your first stop of the day is in Hay-on-Wye, known as the First Booktown in the World. This town has become famous for its secondhand and antiquarian bookshops, so your free time here could result in a small reading collection for your travels.

You then travel onwards to Ross-on-Wye, the UK’s best loved market town. Here you have some time to wander and grab some lunch before you meet up with your new tour.

Then it’s time to head to Broadway. No, we’re not talking about seeing a stage production, we’re talking about the picturesque village in the Cotswolds. This is a great time for a spot of shopping, or simply wander and enjoy the town before heading to Stratford-upon-Avon, your base for the night. You arrive in the birthplace of Shakespeare in the mid-afternoon so there’s still some time to explore and sort yourself out for dinner.

You’re spoilt for choice in Stratford-upon-Avon. Perhaps you’ll explore the Schoolroom and Guildhall, where Shakespeare was first inspired by literature and theatre. Or perhaps you’ll visit his childhood home and hear tales of his family life.

Day 4

  • Stroll around Chipping Campden, one of the most beautiful tourist spots in the UK
  • Enjoy your time exploring the sites and history of Oxford

You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a movie today. Your first destination is considered one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the UK. Wander around the picturesque village of Chipping Campden before heading to Bourton-on-the-Water. Quite a literal name, as this village boasts the beautiful River Windrush running through it.

You continue onto Oxford, your main stop for the day.

Famously known for its university, the city of Oxford has an interesting history and plenty of things to do and see. You can learn about some of it at the Ashmolean Museum, Britain’s oldest public museum. If museums aren’t your thing, there’s always Oxford Castle & Prison, a tour of the University and several Harry Potter locations to spot.

Enjoy a relaxing drive back through some of England’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the perfect way to end your day as you head to Bristol where your tour ends in the early evening.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight?

You stay one night in Tenby, one night in Abergavenny, and one night in Stratford-upon-Avon.

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. To book accommodation, there are two options: either Rabbie’s Tours can book it for you, or you can book your own. For information on how to do this, please see the ‘Accommodation’ tab on FAQ page HERE.

Alternatively, please email us your questions at tours@rabbies.com or call us on +44(0)131 226 3133.

Information you can find on the FAQ page, under the ‘Accommodation’ tab: types of accommodation, room types, the booking process, getting to and from your accommodation, and cancellation terms.

How much will the accommodation cost?

We book accommodation with third-party providers on your behalf and each property sets their own rates. Rates vary considerably depending on the accommodation standard, facilities, location, and local demand. We therefore can’t tell you exactly how much your accommodation will cost until your request has been allocated to a specific property.

As a guide, you can expect to pay the following prices, per person per night:

 

Approximate prices, per person per night

Overnight Location

 

Sole Occupancy

Multiple Occupancy

 

(1 person per room)

(2+ people per room)

B&B Standard

£60 - £90

£40 - £60

UK & Northern Ireland

€65 - €95

€45 - €70

Ireland

B&B En-suite

£80 - £120

£45 - £85

UK & Northern Ireland

€80 - €130

€50 - €95

Ireland

Hotel

£90 - £170

£75 - £150

UK & Northern Ireland

€100 - €215

€75 - €130

Ireland

NOTE: Prices quoted are for guidance only and may be higher on some occasions, especially for last-minute bookings and when demand is high (E.g. peak season, weekends, holidays, special events etc)

Breakfast will be included unless otherwise noted. The type of breakfast provided will vary from place to place so you may receive either a full cooked breakfast, a continental style breakfast (E.g., toast, fruit, cereal), or a packed breakfast bag or tray (E.g., porridge pot, fruit, granola bar).

FAQs

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

Your cancellation terms depend on which tour you've booked.

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email tours@rabbies.com as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs .


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