Short Self-guided Oxford, Cotswolds and Bath Cycling Tour
At a Glance
- 5 days, 4 nights
- 3* or 4* Hotels
- Self-guided
- E-bikes available
- Pickup: Moreton-in-Marsh
- Carbon: 54kg CO2e
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Luggage Transfers
From
£1299
Per Person, Double Occupancy
✓ 25% Refundable Deposit
✓ Booking Protected by ABTOT
✓ 5* TripAdvisor Rated
A short, self-guided cycling tour taking riders from Oxford, through the Cotswolds to Bath
Whether you’re cycling alongside peaceful canals, passing through a Downton Abbey filming location, or arriving triumphantly in Bath along a Roman road, this tour is a celebration of history, heritage, and the sheer joy of exploring by bike.
Ride at your own pace through honey-stone villages, lush river valleys, and rolling hills dotted with ancient market towns. Along the way, enjoy traditional pubs, hidden tea rooms, and iconic landmarks, all while staying in handpicked boutique inns that offer the perfect place to unwind after a day in the saddle.
Enjoy the freedom of a short self-guided tour with full route support and daily luggage transfers. Within easy reach of the capital, this biking tour can be easily accomplished from London.
For a longer trip, consider our 6-day Cotswold biking tour which takes riders through the Northern Cotswolds to Stratford-Upon-Avon.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Oxford, one of the world’s most iconic university cities
- Pedal through the Windrush Valley and the “Venice of the Cotswolds” – Bourton-on-the-Water
- Visit Bibury’s picturesque Arlington Row
- Ride along ancient Roman roads and the scenic Kennet & Avon Canal
- Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath – with time to experience the famous Roman Baths
Your Itinerary
Settle into life in England with our pre-trip extension in Oxford, the “city of dreaming spires.” Saunter around the university colleges, explore the botanical gardens or take a sip of Old Rosie at the Turf Tavern, one of Oxford’s oldest pubs. If you have time after all this, take to the water on a punt (a flat-bottomed wooden boat) and travel the short distance from Magdalen Bridge along Christ Church Meadows.
Accommodation for pre-night – Voco Spires
Your journey begins at Oxford Railway Station at 10:00 am, where you will meet with one of our Active England guides who will set you up with your bike and route details. Take time to wander the historic streets of Oxford, home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, before setting off into the countryside. Cycle through Bampton, a quaint village made famous as a filming location for Downton Abbey, where the scenery transforms into idyllic rolling hills and dry-stone walls. Arriving in Burford, known as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” you’ll check into The Lamb Inn, a charming 15th-century coaching inn with cozy fireplaces or a beautifully restored country pub. Enjoy a delicious locally sourced dinner and relax in this historic setting.
30 miles
Today’s loop ride takes you through the scenic Windrush Valley, passing through the market town of Northleach, known for its grand wool church and medieval streets. Continue to Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, where charming stone bridges cross the tranquil River Windrush. Take time to explore the independent shops and riverside cafés before cycling to Lower and Upper Slaughter, two of the most picturesque villages in the region. Both villages feature beautiful honey-coloured stone cottages, a gently flowing stream, and an old watermill, creating a timeless countryside setting. After a leisurely afternoon ride back, enjoy a second evening in Burford, soaking in the town’s historic charm.
33 miles
Leaving Burford, your first stop is Bibury, home to the famous Arlington Row, a collection of 14th-century weaver’s cottages that are among the most photographed in England. This picture-perfect village was also a filming location for the movie Stardust. Stop for a coffee and sweet treat at Bibury Trout Farm, one of England’s oldest working trout farms, before continuing through Cirencester, the historic “Capital of the Cotswolds.” As the countryside opens up, cycle towards Minchinhampton, a charming market town known for its wide-open common land, wild-roaming cows, and breathtaking views. Settle in for the night at The Bear of Rodborough, a historic inn perched on the Rodborough Common, offering warm hospitality and beautiful sunset views over the Cotswold Hills.
30 miles
Your final full day of cycling takes you along an ancient Roman road to Tetbury and Bath – it’s our number one cycling route in the Cotswolds. Tetbury is a historic market town known for its antique shops, royal connections, and the beautiful Chipping Steps. From here, follow peaceful countryside trails and woodland paths before joining the Kennet & Avon Canal, a scenic waterway leading directly into Bath. As you cycle alongside the canal, the golden stone of Bath’s Georgian architecture slowly comes into view, making for an unforgettable entrance into the city. Spend the afternoon exploring Bath’s world-famous sights, including the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge. With its natural hot springs, grand townhouses, and literary connections to Jane Austen, Bath is the perfect place to celebrate the end of your cycling adventure. Enjoy your final evening dining at one of Bath’s many fantastic restaurants, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
32 miles
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll collect your bikes from the hotel, leaving you free to explore Bath further or begin your onward journey.
Known for its hot springs, Roman baths, splendid Georgian architecture, and as the home of Jane Austen, Bath delights visitors with its quintessentially English charm. Your post trip extension includes transfer to the city, one night’s hotel stay and entry to the famous baths.
Accommodation for post-night – Hampton By Hilton Bath City
Due to local scheduling, activity time is subject to change. Accommodations vary depending on departure date.
Map
Self-guided Plus+
Available on this tour
Our Self-guided Plus+ tours combine the freedom of a regular self-guided cycling trip with the added support and reassurance of our Active England guide team.
During your tour, we’ll offer daily morning support, route guidance for each day of your trip and attend to any nagging bike issues as they happen.
Choose this optional service when you book your tour.
£250 per person
Gallery
Handpicked Accommodation
Burford
The Prince Of Burford is a newly refurbished pub and hotel converted from an 18th-century coaching inn, located in beautiful Burford on the north-eastern edge of the Cotswolds.
Stroud
Escape to The Bear on Rodborough Common, situated amidst the winding hills of stunning National Trust property, where you may spot the occasional wandering cow. Immerse yourself in the perfect getaway that feels just like home.
Bath
Stay in the heart of Bath known for its hot springs, Roman baths, splendid Georgian architecture, and as the home of Jane Austen, Bath delights visitors with its quintessentially English charm. This hotel is less than 10 minutes from many famous attractions and is a comfortable place to rest your head.
What our guides say...
Some of my favourite Cotswold country lanes, rewarding climbs and comfortable accommodation. Please can I tag along?
Trip Extensions
Pre-Trip: Oxford
- Voco Spires
- 1 night
Post-Trip: Bath
- Hampton by Hilton
- 1 night
What’s Included
- All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary
- All breakfasts
- Mechanical support for major breakdowns
- We expect all guests to be able to undertake basic maintenence, including changing a tyre
- GPS routes, provided via RideWithGPS (app available for Apple or Android)
- All baggage transportation
- All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service
- 24/7 emergency telephone support
Accommodation Types
Handpicked hotels. Upgrade from 3* to 4* accommodation for an additional cost.
Difficulty Level
This tour is rated moderate, meaning it’s appropriate for guests who enjoy a good ride and can handle an incline or two. We cover varied terrain, enjoying some rolling hills and a few steeper climbs which are slightly more demanding. Daily distances range from 25-40 miles. Rewarding riding is guaranteed.
Equipment Provided
- Bikes (road / hybrid / e-bike (with supplement)
- Helmets
- Phone mounts
- Bike accessories
- Guests are free to bring their own pedals and or saddles, which we will fit to the bikes
Pre & Post Tour Travel
For pre and post tour options, please see our London packages.
Pick-up location: Oxford railway station. Our cycling holidays are designed to be completely stress-free, with the start of our tours sitting within easy reach of London, Bristol or the Midlands. This tour begins from Oxford, a direct 1-hour train journey out of London, although it can also be reached directly from London Heathrow via the Heathrow Express.
End-of-tour location: Bath. Bath Spa Railway Station has frequent trains to London Paddington, with the journey taking around 1hr 30minutes.
FAQ's
What is the best way to get out of London into the Countryside?
The best way out of London and into the Cotswolds is by train, out of Paddington, and directly into Oxford station, Moreton-in-Marsh or Bath. All of our cycling trips begin from these locations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour. If you prefer to drive there is station parking available.
Can I do a cycling tour as a solo traveller?
All our trips are open for single travellers to join. You will have a great time on our cycling tours whether travelling on your own, as a couple, family or group, meeting like-minded people on our guided trips, or choosing your own adventure on our self-guided tours. “As a single female, I would not hesitate to go on another Active England trip as a solo traveller”. S.G.
Are the roads safe to cycle on in England and the Cotswolds?
Our cycling routes are carefully chosen to ensure we bike on the quietest country lanes, with the best views of the Cotswolds! Drivers in the Cotswolds are very polite and guests have always felt safe and secure when riding our routes, check out our Trip Advisor Reviews from guests who have cycled with us: “I was concerned about riding in traffic, but for the most part there were not that many cars. The people are very watchful and careful, they wait and allow cyclist to go ahead. The Cotswolds and very beautiful, rural and unspoiled. I loved the small towns and the beautiful countryside. I would absolutely do it again with Active England. Loved it all.” E.C.
How hilly are the Cotswolds?
The Cotswolds are a range of hills, with its name stemming from ‘Cote’ meaning sheep enclosure and ‘wold’ meaning hills. There are therefore lots of hills and incredible views from the top! However, you will able to miss out some of the steeper inclines – or add in some trickier climbs for those looking to stretch their legs. There are routes for everyone and with our routes we can tailor your tour to your preferences. We also have e-bikes available on request to make your holiday care-free!
Do you have E-Bikes available?
Absolutely! Our e-bikes allow our guests to go the distance without the slog, to enjoy the countryside at their own pace and to provide assistance that will get you up any hill. They are as good on rural country roads as on canal tow-paths and rail to trail tracks. Safe and easy to use, these e-bikes are perfect for all abilities.
What to pack for a cycling holiday?
We provide bikes, helmets, cycle bags and all the cycling essentials you will need. All you need to bring are clothes suitable for cycling in, and your enthusiasm! You can of course use your own saddle and pedals if you prefer. We will transfer your luggage to each hotel, so you don’t need to worry about carrying everything you want for evenings out of the saddle!
Which cycling holiday should I choose?
In the Cotswolds we offer a range of guided or self-guided tours to suit everyone!
Why choose a self-guided holiday?
With exceptionally well-planned routes, our self-guided tours are designed to suit the experienced, independent traveller or groups of travellers; those who wish to walk at their own pace and speed. With Ride With GPS and maps, we detail all of the points of interests, lunch stops, cafes – and of course pubs! Walk at your leisure, safe in the knowledge that a support team and emergency support vehicle is always on standby. Our guide highlights the key differences between self-guided and guided travel.
Make this trip private
Our private tours are based on our tried and tested group departures with two key differences. They offer you the freedom to travel when you wish and with whoever you’d like to holiday with.
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Carbon Footprint
What’s the Number?
Nearly everything has a carbon footprint. Together with ecollective, we’ve measured the carbon impact of not only every tour we operate but our entire business. We’ve taken into account greenhouse gas emissions across the business including office, travel, website, vehicles, accommodation, activities, food, suppliers…
What does the number mean?
We’re going to improve this by measuring and reducing our footprint each year. That means working with our suppliers to make changes that have a more positive impact on us and the planet. What does this look like in reality?
- Redesign trips to reduce our carbon impact
- Working closely with all our suppliers across England to join us on our decarbonisation journey
- Switching up our vehicle fleet to electric
- Investing in projects that permanently remove carbon from the atmosphere for any emissions that remain.
We’ve got a long way to go but we’re on our way to net-zero
We’re committed to reducing our impact on the planet and working towards a sustainable future. We’ve taken ownership of our carbon footprint and are on a mission to reduce our emissions year on year.
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