We're planning our trip through Wales, the Cotswolds and the West of England for September 2011. Any suggestions on the best route? We were thinking of flying into Manchester, renting a car, touring and then ending in London for a couple of days after leaving the car at Heathrow. We will have 2 to 3 weeks for the trip. Also, my husband and I are both very tall and wondered if anyone has experience with booking a 3rd seat on the flight to get a little more room. Thanks.
Posted by
NC, United States
970 posts
That's beautiful territory and you are going at a great time of year. Won't give you any specific advice on a route, but will recommend using Motorways and the "A" roads to make time when you need to, but to otherwise spend as much time on the "B" roads -- rural, narrow, slow -- as possible. Best way I know to get a feel for the place. Rent a car with a good GPS and stock up on some good maps. (Ordnance Survey maps are the best I've found. Their maps that are intended for bikers/hikers show topography and roads with much detail at a very broad scale.
Also can't say much about buying a third airline seat. The trick, of course, would be to get seat assignments three abreast. I have seen flight attendants move passengers around to provide better seating for basketball-size passengers stuck in the back of coach. Of course, if you want to spend the money, business class is much better.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1518 posts
We did a very similar trip. Get a Castle Pass for Wales; unless you are planning to get a British Heritage Pass. This saves tons of money. Check the National Trust UK site for itinerary ideas. Most of the places they list are covered by the BHP or you can buy their own pass if you want to more directly support them. We have stayed in Chester a couple of times. It is a good first stop after Manchester Airport. A great take off point for Wales or Liverpool. We really enjoyed the Potteries District; especially the factory and museum tour for Wedgwood. This area is old time industrial age; not as picturesque as the Cotswolds, but very interesting. The "Treasure Houses of England" are your best bet if you like history, art and antiques. Watch the English "Antiques Road Show" before you go. Bon Voyage