Guided or not

I've taken several small group, guided tours out of Bath. They were all excellent and made the day fun and easy. Hotels or tourist information places can set you up.

Thanks to both MrsEB and Swan!

I can tell you are both well traveled. As for me, I haven't needed my passport since 1989. I agree the travel guides are a wonderful starting off point and have browsed websites "via tour" and "Guidebylocals" ?. I love to experience the journey through the eyes of those who live and work in the destinations I visit. For me, it makes the world a wonderfully intimate place. I hadn't considered Bath as I will be traveling with my 25 year old daughter, but will investigate the possibilities there.

TK

My husband and I frequently use private or semi-private guides for daytrips and have never been disappointed. I have found TripAdvisor reviews to be extremely reliable.

A shout out to "traylaparks".

Thank you, we may be kindred spirits. Have you had success with any particular guide businesses in England/Wales?
I am interested in seeing as much behind the scenes as possible. Any balloonists out there? Would love to have suggestions as to where the favored locals are for breathtaking views.
TK

I am also fond of using local guides, while in Prauge this last July we hired a young lady to show us the Prague Castle and the sites of interest in the Old Town, she added so much history and experiences even within her family about the culture, needless to say it made for a great day.

Sorry, but no personal knowledge of England or Wales guides. I would use TripAdvisor. Hope there's another kindred spirit out there!

Hi Donald,

Nice to hear. Thanks. May I inquire how you located your guide and if you corresponded with her prior to your arrival to set your itinerary?

Thank you,

TK

I didn't use any guide this past trip but at times I really would have enjoyed one. I watched videos and read a bit about some of the more famouse landmarks. However, when my sister would ask me questions about what we were seeing I couldn't recall all that much. It got to be a fun joke. She would ask me "What kind of tour is this. I would respond, "It's Cheap a_s Tours! You get what you pay for for."

Hello to Jehb2!

My point exactly. Twelve days on our own (one senior and one adult child), might lead to confusion or at least a good chuckle.
Can you address whether booking a centralized hotel or b and b and then using Britrail for return trips would be better than actually staying in the various regions to experience the local flavor? We will divide our time equally between England and Wales.

TK

I've traveled solo for years and other than two RS Tours haven't used a guide. However, I'm now seeing the advantage and in researching for my next trip saw this website and this private guide. Can't vouch for the website or this individual BUT might be worth your time and effort to email guides in the areas you hope to see. Then assess the advantages of the cost, convenience, etc. I'd research on Trip Advisor as well. Good luck. https://www.toursbylocals.com/WalesTourGuide

Claudia,

Thanks so much for your insight. I have perused that website as well. Might be as close as I will be able to get to having an old fashioned pen pal across the pond! Happy travels.

TK

I suggest you look into day trips offered by Evan Evans tours. We have used them for many, many tours and been very pleased.