This day in the Cotswolds far exceeded my expectations! Our guide, Scotty, was readily identified at the train station in Moreton-in-Marsh (a direct trip from London Paddington), and we started our tour at Becky's cottage with pastries and coffee or tea, a look around part of the cottage that included her welcoming kitchen with its fantastic AGA, and then off to villages and cottages that one wouldn't have a hope of locating on one's own. Scotty was full of information -- and interesting, not like a snoozy university lecture; you'll be very lucky indeed if he is your guide for the day. We had some rain, but it didn't dilute our experience in the least -- although I would recommend wearing shoes that allow for some uneven terrain and will wipe clean easily. (Scotty had umbrellas available if anyone needed.) Our lunch back at the cottage was beyond plentiful and so delicious, with Becky and her daughter urging us to replenish our plates -- an experience that was duplicated when we returned for cream tea at the end of the day. (3 notes: Keep some pounds in your pocket if you leave your bag on the bus; there is an opportunity to buy post cards at one of the stops. Also, the mini-van is spacious enough that tall people will not be cramped for space. Finally, do not mistake any other tours in the area for this one!)
I've been taking days out of London for 27 years. This was definitely one of my very best experiences. You won't be disappointed!