Authentic England by Bike: The Cotswolds & Oxford
Cycling through the fabulous English countryside, passing through traditional villages, rolling green hills, and rich historical heritage.
© Cotswolds Tourism
Duration
7 days and 6 nights
Level
Leisure
ou Fit
Departure date
From April 1st to October 31st
Trip type
Self-guided trip
Trip type
Travelling loop
Destination
Key features
- Charming stone villages
- Oxford's architectural heritage and famous colleges
- The rolling hills of the Cotswolds, “Authentic England”
- Quiet, peaceful roads perfect for cycling
Oxford and the Cotswolds by bike, an exceptional historical heritage
Starting from one of the oldest and most famous university towns in the world, you cycle through the lush British countryside. The charm lies in the stone villages and hills topped with rainbows. There is a golden light here all year round, offering comforting sunsets. Just as comforting as the warmth of the lively pubs with their incomparable human warmth.
The Cotswolds are a slice of authentic England: lush green countryside, ancient stone villages, and places steeped in history. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions on the British Isles. This itinerary, based in Oxford and just an hour from London, immerses you in the heart of rural, elegant England, famous for its rolling hills, peaceful villages, and lively pubs.
Cycling is undoubtedly the best way to explore the Cotswolds. The daily distances are very manageable and the routes favor small country roads and quiet paths, far from traffic. The rolling hills give the route a pleasant rhythm: each climb opens up to vast panoramic views, while the descents provide a feeling of total freedom. On a bike, you can take the time to observe the scenery, ride through villages at your own pace, and stop whenever a viewpoint or café invites you to take a break.
The trip begins in Oxford, a legendary university town and the ideal starting point for cycling in the Cotswolds. Before hitting the road, you have the opportunity to explore its prestigious colleges, famous Bodleian Library, and historic streets. The city’s intellectual and elegant atmosphere provides the perfect cultural introduction to the trip.
You hop on your bike and leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind, heading for the peaceful paths that wind between rivers and canals and take you into the Cotswolds countryside. Your two wheels lead you to Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the region’s most iconic villages. Crossed by the River Windrush and its elegant stone bridges, Bourton embodies the charm of the Cotswolds. Arriving by bike allows you to fully appreciate the harmony of the place, taking the time to stroll among the cottages, flower-filled gardens, and peaceful riverbanks. Despite its popularity, the village retains a unique atmosphere. The journey continues through open, rolling landscapes, where sheep graze peacefully behind dry stone walls. These stages highlight the contemplative aspect of traveling by bike: the silence, punctuated only by the sound of the wind and wheels on asphalt, invites you to disconnect. Breaks in village pubs or tea rooms are moments of pure pleasure, as well as opportunities for socializing and cultural exchange.
Towns and villages such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham are ideal for soaking up local life and enjoying convivial evenings after a day of cycling. Renowned for their markets, these lively historic towns offer a fine selection of traditional pubs, independent shops, and fine dining restaurants.
Continuing southeast, you reach Woodstock, a charming little town with a historic atmosphere. Located at the gates of the famous Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Woodstock is a major cultural stop on your trip. A visit to the palace and its vast landscaped grounds is highly recommended: strolling along the paths allows you to appreciate the scale and beauty of this exceptional site. The town itself, with its elegant facades and welcoming cafés, is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The return to Oxford marks the final part of this cycling loop. The routes take you along peaceful paths, often beside the water, offering a gentle and relaxing conclusion to the trip. Your body, accustomed to daily exercise, finds a natural rhythm, while your mind savors the last moments of this immersion in the heart of rural England.
Arriving in Oxford is an opportunity to extend your stay with one last exploration of the city. Whether it’s a walk along the Thames, a visit to a museum, or dinner in a historic pub, Oxford offers the perfect conclusion to this cycling adventure. You leave with the feeling of having had a complete experience, combining sport, culture, and lifestyle.
This cycling trip in the Cotswolds is suitable for both occasional cyclists and active travel enthusiasts. The careful organization, diverse landscapes, and rich itinerary make it an accessible, immersive, and deeply exotic experience. More than just a tour, it’s an invitation to travel differently, to take your time and discover England from the saddle in one of its most iconic regions.
Itinerary
Leisure or Fit From OXFORD to BOURTON-ON-THE-WATER 68km 582m 
Departing from Oxford, this day’s cycling tour begins with an exploration of its prestigious university center, between the historic facades of the colleges and the famous Bodleian Library. Leaving the city, the route passes through peaceful countryside to Minster Lovell, a charming village of thatched cottages and the ruins of a 15th-century manor house. After a break for lunch in a traditional pub, the road winds through the Cotswolds, a region of gentle hills and villages of honey-colored stone houses. The route follows ancient trade routes, dotted with churches and mills, offering an immersion in an unspoilt heritage. The arrival at Bourton-on-the-Water, nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds”, reveals a village crossed by the River Windrush, lined with small bridges and flower gardens, an ideal setting to end this stage.
Meeting with our local guide
Before your first ride, we invite you to meet one of our guides, at your place of departure. A time of exchange, a privileged moment to give you our last practical tips, must-see places and experiences, to answer all your questions, take care of your bike fitting to begin your trip.
From BOURTON-ON-THE-WATER to MORETON-IN-MARSH 43km 575m
You pass through Chipping Campden, a village famous for one of England’s most beautiful high streets, with its stone houses and 16th-century buildings. After lunch at the authentic Hollow Bottom Inn, a popular local inn, you continue your journey through this unspoilt countryside before reaching your final destination, Moreton-in-Marsh and its Georgian buildings.
From MORETON-IN-MARSH to KINGHAM 40km 490m
Starting from Moreton-in-Marsh, this route passes through typical Cotswold villages before climbing to one of the highest points in the region. A stop along the way reveals an ancient stone circle, a mysterious vestige of Neolithic times. The route then descends to Hook Norton, a village famous for its historic brewery, where beer is still brewed using traditional methods. After this break, the route winds through the English countryside, alternating between meadows and hedgerows, before reaching Kingham. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, with its golden stone houses and manicured gardens, it offers a relaxing setting in which to end the day.
From KINGHAM to WOODSTOCK 44km 608m
As you leave the Cotswolds, you pass through magnificent countryside on your way to Oxfordshire. On the way, we recommend a stop in a typical village, where you find a 16th-century pub renowned for its meals prepared using local produce. After this stop, take an off-road trail that takes you directly to Woodstock, an 11th-century medieval town renowned for its cobbled streets and charming atmosphere. The town is also home to the famous Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic residence with 2,000 acres of gardens and grand architecture.
From WOODSTOCK to OXFORD 29km 59m
The final day offers the opportunity to discover the Oxford City Canal and explore another side of this historic city. After leaving Woodstock, make your way back to Oxford, taking exclusively off-road paths along the canal. You pass a number of locks, longships on the water and some typical pubs. On arrival in Oxford, stop off at a waterside pub for a relaxing lunch, before venturing into another part of the city. You start at Oxford Castle, one of the city’s oldest buildings, where a guided tour takes you through the medieval walls and offers panoramic views of the city. You then explore its cellars, delving into Oxford’s dark history. You then climb the 13th-century Carfax Tower to admire the Dreaming Spires. Finally, discover Oxford’s largest college and the Cathedral before ending your day in the city’s oldest pub, while passing through the historic buildings of Oxford University.
OXFORD
End of your stay after breakfast.
They travelled with us
Practical information
Essential Range
You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.
Starting from 1665€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices
Comfort Range
Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request
Contact us
Privilege Range
Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request
Contact us
Price includes
- Accommodation: 6 nights in a Double room
- 6 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 24/7
- Application fee
- The routes described on the following media:
- An app to follow the routes step by step
- A practical, descriptive route book with all our recommended addresses.
- Day 2 : A personalized greeting with our team at the beginning of the trip to receive your travel documents
Price does not include
- Bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Drinks with dinner (unless otherwise stated),
- Visits not mentioned in “Price includes” and other personal expenses
- ETA travel authorization
A “homemade” trip designed by a local partner, specialist in England:
- Routes carefully selected with the Abicyclette Voyages team for their tourist and cycling appeal, fully scouted and away from traffic.
- Accommodations chosen for the quality of their welcome, ambiance, services, and gastronomy.
- Great organizational flexibility tailored to your needs and desires: depart on the date of your choice! We check accommodation availability to ensure your trip.
Local assistance:
- 7-day-a-week phone support from the Abicyclette Voyages team, available from 9 AM to 8 PM.
- 7-day-a-week local phone support, available from 9 AM to 7 PM Monday to Friday, and from 1 PM to 7 PM on weekends and public holidays.
- A luggage transfer service for a worry-free ride.
Simple and seamless navigation:
- Access to a navigation app to follow the route effortlessly (bike mount provided).
- A detailed roadbook with useful addresses, recommended restaurants, and tourist information.
And also:
- Comfortable bike rentals, ideal for this itinerary.
- The option to subscribe to a cancellation & multi-risk insurance, covering unexpected events and emergencies.
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.
Touring BikeAluminum frame Telescopic fork Straight handlebars Hydraulic disc brakes Shimano 9-speed transmission with triple chainring Supplied equipment per bike
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EbikeRigid aluminium frame Integrated Bosch motor Telescopic fork and adjustable handlebars Hydraulic disc brakes Shimano Deore 10-speed transmission Supplied equipment per bike
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Gravel bikeA versatile gravel bike, ideal for both road and trail riding. Lightweight, sturdy aluminum frame with vibration-reducing carbon fork. Flared gravel handlebars for greater control. Hydraulic disc brakes for reliable braking in all conditions. Shimano GRX 10-speed transmission for smooth shifting on varied terrain. Supplied equipment per bike
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Tandem BikeLightweight, sturdy aluminum frame Straight handlebars V-brake brakes Shimano 21-speed transmission with triple chainring Supplied equipment per bike
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Child TrailerFor transporting one or two children Sturdy aluminum frame with adjustable safety harnesses. Large wheels Spacious rear storage compartment Foldable design for easy transport and storage. |  |
Dog TrailerA spacious trailer for large dogs Sturdy aluminum construction with lowered base for easy access Equipped with large wheels and suspension Generous interior space with efficient ventilation |  |
Getting here
Departure city : OXFORD
Coming by car
- at 6h from BRUXELLES
- at 7h from PARIS
- at 11h from GENEVE
Coming by train
- Oxford station - 4h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Aéroport d’Oxford
Arrival city : OXFORD
Coming by car
- at 6h from BRUXELLES
- at 7h from PARIS
- at 11h from GENEVE
Coming by train
- Oxford station - 4h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Aéroport d’Oxford
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags (1 carrier bag supplied with bike rental)
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
Terms of payment and cancellation
The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/conditions-generales-de-vente/
Booking and payment
- Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
- Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.
Cancellation of the Contract
You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:
| Cancellation period | Fees |
| From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme | 5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer
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| Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of 150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Entre 9 à 7 jours avant le départ ou le 1er jour du programme | 45% du montant total du Voyage (options incluses) |
| Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 75% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme | 100% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme |
Custom made trips
You want a custom made cycling tour, or you’ve spotted one of our trips and would like to adapt it ? Tell us a bit about your project and we’ll help you prepare a trip that suits you best.
Starting from 1665€
Book your trip
OXFORD
Oxford, famous for its historic university, is a fascinating city to explore. Its iconic buildings, such as the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library, illustrate its rich academic heritage. Take a stroll through the University Botanic Garden, the oldest in the country, or explore Christ Church College, a film location for the Harry Potter films. The Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest public museums in the world, houses an impressive collection of art and antiques. The city is full of charming lanes and traditional pubs, such as the Eagle and Child, frequented by famous writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien. You can also stroll along the River Thames or take a boat trip.