Day trip to Stratford and Oxford

We've driven from London to Oxford, and it was easy peasy. It was my husband's first time on UK roads, and he was easily able to make the adjustment to driving on the "opposite" side, as well as navigating roundabouts. We loved the freedom of having our own wheels. Stratford-Upon-Avon is just further north-west, and both are basically off the M40. I personally wouldn't hesitate to give it a go in a car. Then again, I have never taken an organized tour. And seeing as there are som adorable places in between your starting and ending points, being in your own (rental) car would give you the freedom to pull over, stop, and explore places of your choosing. Interesting blog by someone who took a tour... some good info, and maybe you could email the blogger to find out what company she used. Sounds like she had a good experience: http://www.aladyinlondon.com/2011/10/day-trip-cotswolds-warwick-castle-stratford-upon-avon-oxford.html

Thanks for your response. We also have not taken tours before but due to our lack of time it might be a good solution. We have only 4.5 days in London. The hassle of getting a car large enough for 6 people might be too much and arranging to pick it up might be too much. I had read that blog and agree it seems she had a good time. I've taken your suggestion of asking which company she used. Thanks!

Parking in Oxford is very hard. If you must drive I suggest parking at the Park and Ride facility off the A40 and taking the bus in. Parking in Stratford upon Avon can be very difficult. I suggest parking at the Park and Ride on the outskirts and taking the bus in. Taking a train is easy. Paddington to Oxford is easy, fast and convenient. Get Advance fares and it can be cheap. Or use Groupsave and all 4 adults can go for the price of 2, and the kids are half fare. Oxford to Stratford by train is also easy, changing at Banbury or Royal Leamington Spa. Stratford to London Marylebone also a snip, straight through.

Right, taking the train is the way to go. You need to have a separate day for each destination. If all you really want to see in Oxford is Christ Church, then you will have time to take a local bus out to Woodstock and tour Blenheim Palace; definitely worth the trip.

We had no trouble at all parking in Oxford! The trick was that my husband acidentally took the wrong exit, which took us into town "the back way" - i.e., not the way that tourists in cars and coaches are normally routed - so we ended up just cruising into a pay space directly in front of the Eagle and Child pub. Evidently this is NOT the norm, and we totally dodged a bullet. So maybe the train is a good idea. But having a car gives you the freedom to explore more, is all I am sayin'.

We used the Park & Ride that Nigel suggested and went right into Oxford. It was a really good way to handle it - very easy. My husband drives very well in England, but it sounded as if it was best to avoid Oxford driving.

Thanks for all your responses. Even though we have never taken a tour and don't think we like them, due to the short amount of time we have for the two locations, it seems that that might be the best and most hassle free way to go. Does anyone have any recommendations as to tour companies?