Hidden Cotswold Tour 25th June 2023
I was at the Indigo Hotel in Bath at 9.30 to meet today’s guests, Joel from Los Angeles and Miriam from San Francisco.
The sun was shining and it promised to be a hot sunny day.
After our introductions, we set off through Bath in the direction of Lacock Village and Abbey.

Lacock Village and Abbey

Castle Combe has been described as the prettiest village in the Cotswolds. This magical and ancient village, mentioned to the Domesday Book of 1086, was once a weaving town at the heart of the Cotswolds wool trade. Now a popular tourist destination with good reason.
Castle Combe
Being a Sunny Sunday, there was no chance of a parking space close to the centre of the village. So I dropped them off at the bottom of the high street with ideas of what to look at and especially St James’ Church.
We eventually re grouped and set of towards Malmesbury.

Cirencester, often referred to as the Capital of the Cotswolds was the second largest town in Britain during Roman times. The market square is dominated by the cathedral-like Parish Church of St. John Baptist which is one of the largest in England.
Malmesbury
By the time we reached Malmesbury thoughts turned to having a bite to eat.
So, we found a table in the Summer Cafe and had a very good light lunch and some time to chat. And, thank you for treating me to a delicious ‘Californian’ lunch.
This was followed by a stroll in and around the Abbey. It is very serene in the Abbey and it was touching to see Miriam light some candles for her siblings.

The village of Coln St Aldwyns is in the heart of the Cotswolds. Situated in unspoilt countryside and nestling in the beautiful Coln River valley. A tranquil spot away from the main tourist route. A perfect spot for reflection.
Coln St Aldwyns
I do like to stop at Coln St Aldwyns.
It is a haven of peace before moving onto the hustle and bustle of Bibury.
Sheep resting under the shade of an old willow tree.
The river flowing gently beneath the bridge. All very pastoral and bucolic.

The village of Coln St Aldwyns is in the heart of the Cotswolds. Situated in unspoilt countryside and nestling in the beautiful Coln River valley. A tranquil spot away from the main tourist route. A perfect spot for reflection.
Bibury
On to Bibury, stopping on the way to look down on the impressive Bibury Court.
The parking-Gods were looking down on us as we crawled along in the traffic and a space appeared from nowhere.
We had a leisurley walk along Arlington Row and naturally took the opportunity for a few photos.

Tetbury
From Bibury it was now time to start our journey southwards and back to Bath.
Tetbury was the final destination. We stopped first to see the Chipping Steps, the place of an annual labour market.
We had time for a cup of tea which turned into a full cream tea in the Snooty Fox whilst we chatted more and I learnt more about life and work in California.

Asthall is a small village a couple of miles down the Windrush Valley from Burford.
However for a small village, Asthall has a rich history: a former Roman settlement on Akeman Street, which linked Cirencester with St Albans; the village church, dates back to the 12th century, possibly earlier; and the Elizabethan manor house, Asthall Manor, was home to the Mitford sisters – it was here that Nancy Mitford penned much of ‘Love in a Cold Climate’.
Route
It was a lovely day (about 125 miles) with the two of you. You make great travelling partners and it was a great pleasure to be your guide to the Cotswolds.
I loved your openness and your enthusiasm for seeing and learning. I wish you both lots more travels in the future.
Do look me up if you ever want a tour of the North Cotswolds!
