Self-guided Cotswolds Villages Cycling Tour

• All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary
• All breakfasts
• Bikes (Ebikes available on request with a £170 supplement)
• Mechanical support for major breakdowns
• We expect all guests to be able to undertake basic maintenance, 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

• Bikes (road / hybrid or Ebike with supplement)
• Helmets
• Phone mounts
• Bike accessories
• Guests are free to bring their own pedals / saddles, which we will fit to the bikes

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: Guests are usually transferred to Charlbury railway station, which has direct links to Oxford and London Paddington. From Paddington, the Heathrow Express can be taken straight to London Heathrow airport. Buses or direct taxi transfer to London Heathrow are also possible from Oxford.

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.