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Cotswolds, Oxford,Stratford and Stonehenge: Without a car

We're trying to figure out a workable itinerary to visit these areas (starting in London) without a car. We'd like to spend a week or so (our time is flexible) without breaking the bank and without crashing a car. I'm thinking of exploring all by train, but perhaps doing a small group tour in the Cotswolds. Any thoughts? We will be traveling in late May or Mid-June.

Before leaving London, I'd love to see a play at the Globe. We visited when it was nearly complete, many years ago. Is there a similar, accurately replicated theater in Stratford? I looked at the RSC site, but couldn't tell.

Posted by
34003 posts

No, none of the theatres in Stratford upon Avon are round.

Don't abbreviate to Stratford - that is an urban area of East London where the Olympics were held a couple of years ago; I know what you mean but it is best to be in the habit of getting it right or you may wind up where you don't want to be; many people still go out to the Olympic park and vicinity, not least to shop at the large mall.

Posted by
34003 posts

A car (and on foot) is the way to go in the Cotswold Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

A tour will just skim the surface.

Posted by
3696 posts

If at all possible I would think about a car.... probably an automatic, to make it easier. The roads in the Cotswolds are just not that busy and you can see the towns on your schedule, but, if that is not possible, then I would probably take a tour. A little easier than trying to get about on your own with bus schedules, etc.

Posted by
1526 posts

I have to support the others by saying that the best way to see the Cotswolds is to drive your own car, Trains do not serve everyplace that you would want to go. Buses seem to take forever. We drove and it was not that hard once you get used to the left side of the road and which way to look first. Check car rentals that you can book before you go. You can get deals that are reasonable. Time is worth money too and the freedom you will have driving your own car will make your trip more worthwhile.

Posted by
137 posts

Thanks for all the advice--especially being sure to call it Stratford upon Avon! I'm really nervous about driving on the left side of the road, given 50 years of right-side driving instincts. However, my husband is an excellent driver, so maybe we'll just rent a car for a few days in the Cotswolds, and do the rest by train.

Again, many thanks! This forum is so helpful!