What is easier to do in a day out of London, Bath and Cotswolds , or Oxford and Cotswold. Take train first to Bath or Oxford, then rent a car or take a tour?
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
I would choose only one. these are jammed packed places to go with lots to do and see. All are very diff from one another. Bath and Oxford are compact and easily walkable. Cotswolds are lots of small villages, best seen by car or tour or hiking the footpath (takes days).
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
Having a car to visit Oxford is probably less convenient than taking the train and exploring on foot. And as the other poster noted, a trip to Oxford easily fills an entire day.
Posted by
Troy, Oh, USA
2776 posts
I would take the train to Moreton-in-Marsh, pick up a car and see the Cotswolds. There are so many small beautiful villages you would really enjoy. I know there is a place in Bourton-on-the-Water where you could rent a car.
Posted by
Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
98 posts
Hi Richard,
If this is your first visit and you only have one day I would recommend a tour. You can either get a tour from London or you can take the train to Bath Spa station and pick up a tour in Bath.
Mad Max offers a great full day tour of the Cotswolds but it won't leave you anytime to explore Bath. They also have a half day tour of Stonehenge and the village of Lacock which picks up in the afternoon and that would give you the morning to visit the Bath Abbey and Roman Baths.
I don't think you need (or want) a car for a visit to Oxford. You can take the First Great Western train from Paddington station (make your reservations in advance for the best price) and spend the day exploring the city.
My personal preference, when my time is short, is not to rent a car and hassle with parking and traffic. I much prefer to move around by foot and public transportation and take advantage of local tours.
Have a great trip!