Discover England: Cotswolds to the Cornwall Coast
- Enjoy England's most charming duo in one trip: the Cotswolds and coastal Cornwall
- Stroll the storybook villages of Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water
- Explore Bath, a UNESCO listed city rich in Roman history & Georgian architecture
- Follow the Pilgrim's Way to St. Michael's Mount, a legendary coastal landmark
- Indulge in sumptious sea food and Cornish pints
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Moreton-in-MarshMoreton-in-Marsh is the main gateway town to the Cotswolds, with a direct train line to London Paddington. It is one of the primary market towns in the Northern Cotswolds and has been a traveller's town for at least 1700 years! Inns, shops and galleries line the wide main street, and it hosts a weekly Tuesday market.
![whitehartroyal](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/NYBRD/hotelimagegallery/whitehartroyal-rsz-20102022165618821.jpg)
The White Hart Royal, with individually designed bedrooms, is a historic 17th century coaching inn. All bedrooms have complimentary tea and coffee making facilities, mineral water and biscuits. From the revenue the hotel receives they donate the cost of a new baby tree to the local woodland trust. In this way they not only contribute towards a great local ’green’ cause, they also provide guests with the feel good factor of knowing that having an overnight stay here a little tree will grow!
![Manorhouse-1](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/IGBEZ/hotelimagegallery/Manorhouse-1-rsz-20102022174238571.jpg)
The luxurious four-star Manor House Hotel is an enchanting 16th century Cotswold retreat where you can revel in luxury, indulge yourself with fine food and drink and relax in a homely and friendly atmosphere. Each of the rooms has a character of its own, with distinctive décor and everyone has a fine view. The rooms feature flat-screen televisions; tea making facilities and freshly ground coffee and en-suite bathrooms generously stocked with complimentary Molton Brown products. The restaurant offers a diverse choice of dishes, prepared from the freshest local Cotswold produce, with seasonal twists that remind you of your countryside location. To complement such gastronomic delights, an extensive wine list has been thoughtfully put together.
![Redesdale Arms](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HYLTX/hotelimagegallery/RedesdaleArms-rsz-30092020125726697.jpeg)
Redesdale Arms Hotel is a 17th-century coaching house which has a contemporary decor with stylish bedrooms and you can enjoy log fires in the winter and a patio garden in the summer. The rooms are spread between the original main house, dating back to 1650, and to the rear of the building in the original stable block or courtyard. Two of their rooms feature whirlpool baths and many have spacious walk-in showers. All the rooms are equipped with a TV and new king-size beds. The restaurant has an AA Rosette award and the menu boasts good quality produce including local game and vegetables, and Cornish seafood.
Starting in the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, you will head off into the countryside winding through quiet fields, over gurgling streams and through dotted woodland. The way is watched over by rabbits, birds, squirrels and hawks while the waterways are full of fish from rainbow trout to giant pike. Passing through quintessential Cotswold villages, the houses, gardens and general ambience have a calming effect, harking back to simpler times. Arrive in the town of Stow-on-the-Wold, one of the most beautiful villages in the UK, and your overnight location for the night.
Ascent: +155m (+505ft) Descent: -55m (-170ft)
![327893342-491733509698640-2166329509777991711-n](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HLUDM/hotelimagegallery/327893342-491733509698640-2166329509777991711-n-rsz-16082024145054555.jpg)
The traditional Cotswolds Inn The Bell at Stow offers en-suite rooms alongside its cosy bar and restaurant. Each guest room includes a flat-screen TV, DVD player, iPod dock and tea and coffee facilities, as well as handmade shortbread and a decanter of port. All rooms have an en-suite shower with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Their restaurant menu features British and international dishes, with coffee, sandwiches and salads available each afternoon. An impressive wine list features European and New World vintages and a selection of high-quality champagnes.
![porch](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/CHYCA/hotelimagegallery/porch-rsz-20012025131425251.jpg)
The Porch House is a listed building that ranks amongst the top 4 percent of protected buildings in the country. It is certified as the Oldest Inn in England, dating from 947 AD and authenticated in the Guinness Book of Records. Each room includes a TV and a Nespresso coffee machine. The bathrooms offer complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. In the mornings, The Porch House offers full cooked breakfast and a morning newspaper. Tea, coffee and toast can be served in the rooms upon request.
![the-old-stocks-inn](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/WNWYF/hotelimagegallery/the-old-stocks-inn-rsz-06062023161646758.jpg)
Set in the heart of beautiful countryside, The Old Stocks Inn truly is a jewel in the Crown of the Cotswolds. This unique Inn is a 17th century former coaching Inn brought to life! Feauturing modern up to date design, you will feel relaxed in luxurious surroundings. Why not try their excellent cuisine, highly reviewed in various newspapers? There is only one word to describe this hotel - unique.
Leaving Stow-on-the-Wold behind, it’s not long before you come to Lower Slaughter, which despite its name is another gem of a town. Lower Slaughter's Copse Hill Road was voted the most romantic street in Britain, and you can see why with its gentle waterways, low stone bridges and stunning architecture. Take an optional visit up to Upper Slaughter and then the day continues to Bourton-on-Water, known as the Venice of the Cotswolds and is one of the highlights of many people's visit to the area. Expect more delightful waterways and bridges, plentiful pubs and restaurants and tasteful shopping.
Ascent: +20m (+60ft) / Descent: +155m (-515ft)
After spending the afternoon exploring Bourton-on-the-Water, you can complete the loop walk back to Stow-on-the-Wold (adding approximately 4 miles to the distances noted) or take a local bus back to Stow-on-the-Wold (information given in the Macs App).
![327893342-491733509698640-2166329509777991711-n](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HLUDM/hotelimagegallery/327893342-491733509698640-2166329509777991711-n-rsz-16082024145054555.jpg)
The traditional Cotswolds Inn The Bell at Stow offers en-suite rooms alongside its cosy bar and restaurant. Each guest room includes a flat-screen TV, DVD player, iPod dock and tea and coffee facilities, as well as handmade shortbread and a decanter of port. All rooms have an en-suite shower with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Their restaurant menu features British and international dishes, with coffee, sandwiches and salads available each afternoon. An impressive wine list features European and New World vintages and a selection of high-quality champagnes.
![porch](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/CHYCA/hotelimagegallery/porch-rsz-20012025131425251.jpg)
The Porch House is a listed building that ranks amongst the top 4 percent of protected buildings in the country. It is certified as the Oldest Inn in England, dating from 947 AD and authenticated in the Guinness Book of Records. Each room includes a TV and a Nespresso coffee machine. The bathrooms offer complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. In the mornings, The Porch House offers full cooked breakfast and a morning newspaper. Tea, coffee and toast can be served in the rooms upon request.
![the-old-stocks-inn](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/WNWYF/hotelimagegallery/the-old-stocks-inn-rsz-06062023161646758.jpg)
Set in the heart of beautiful countryside, The Old Stocks Inn truly is a jewel in the Crown of the Cotswolds. This unique Inn is a 17th century former coaching Inn brought to life! Feauturing modern up to date design, you will feel relaxed in luxurious surroundings. Why not try their excellent cuisine, highly reviewed in various newspapers? There is only one word to describe this hotel - unique.
A morning transfer will transport you from your accommodation in Stow-on-the-Wold to the historic city of Bath. You have the full day to explore everything Bath has to offer! It has a plethora of attractions, including the popular Roman Baths and its regal "Pump Room" where you can have a classic afternoon tea.
![The Kennard](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HDRSQ/hotelimagegallery/Kennard-1-1-rsz-22062023162305139.jpg)
The Kennard offers comfortable accommodation in an elegant Georgian town house dating from 1794 and located just minutes from the Roman Baths and the new Thermae Spa Complex. You will find modern features including plasma-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi internet. The breakfast room is hung with Venetian chandeliers and is the place to enjoy breakfast will include a variety of fresh, locally-produced items .
![Eight Hotel](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/LVHRU/hotelimagegallery/VsourzUmbracoStandardImage-OxfordtoBath-EightBath-1-rsz-22062023141148363.jpg)
They are a small and independent townhouse hotel in the heart of Bath. They have eight bedrooms that effortlessly marry past and present. Each one has its own history and charms, yet all share the latest in up-to-the-minute creature comforts. In their restaurant they serve eight dishes that change with the seasons. All of their plates are small so you can choose two, three or four each and savour the best ingredients available right now from coast, field and forest. Pair your selections with a glass or bottle from their extensive wine list or ask for a recommendation.
The National Trust's Skyline Trail takes you up to the hills beyond the city, providing fabulous views of its magnificent Georgian architecture, bringing you back through the city centre hot spots. During this walk, you'll also have the opportunity to visit the American Museum and Gardens in Claverton. Established in 1961 by Dallas Pratt and John Judkyn—an Anglo-American couple—the museum's mission is to showcase American decorative arts and challenge misconceptions about American culture. It houses various exhibits and features an American-style deli that serves delectable, American-inspired cuisine within a charming garden terrace setting!
Alternatively, we can book a private guide to take you to the mystical site of Stonehenge (this is at a supplemented cost and based on our local partner's availability).
Ascent: +185m (+605ft) / Descent: -180m (-585ft)
![The Kennard](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HDRSQ/hotelimagegallery/Kennard-1-1-rsz-22062023162305139.jpg)
The Kennard offers comfortable accommodation in an elegant Georgian town house dating from 1794 and located just minutes from the Roman Baths and the new Thermae Spa Complex. You will find modern features including plasma-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi internet. The breakfast room is hung with Venetian chandeliers and is the place to enjoy breakfast will include a variety of fresh, locally-produced items .
![Eight Hotel](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/LVHRU/hotelimagegallery/VsourzUmbracoStandardImage-OxfordtoBath-EightBath-1-rsz-22062023141148363.jpg)
They are a small and independent townhouse hotel in the heart of Bath. They have eight bedrooms that effortlessly marry past and present. Each one has its own history and charms, yet all share the latest in up-to-the-minute creature comforts. In their restaurant they serve eight dishes that change with the seasons. All of their plates are small so you can choose two, three or four each and savour the best ingredients available right now from coast, field and forest. Pair your selections with a glass or bottle from their extensive wine list or ask for a recommendation.
Hop aboard a picturesque train for a scenic transition from the Cotswold countryside to Cornwall coastline Arriving in the artistic haven of St Ives, you’ll be greeted by the charm of its golden beaches and cobbled streets. Settle into your cosy accommodation and treat yourself to some delicious fresh seafood in one of its many bustling restaurants.
![BoskerrisHotel-40](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/GNTWB/hotelimagegallery/BoskerrisHotel-40-rsz-22042024124255347.jpg)
The Boskerris is a contemporary, boutique hotel with a relaxed Mediterranean style. The hotel has fifteen stylish bedrooms, most with outstanding panoramic ocean views. The hotel is nestled in the Cornish coastline, on the edge of St Ives. Discreetly set in one and a half acres in a unique position, with the decked terrace being the perfect vantage point to admire the views across St Ives Bay from Godrevy Lighthouse to St Ives harbour.
![Pedn Olva](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/FDWDS/hotelimagegallery/387853085-809204487880424-3913816496902448766-n-rsz-08072024104657107.jpg)
The Pedn Olva, with the sea only thirty feet below and flanked by golden sands, is founded on blue-black granite rocks on the southern shores of St. Ives Harbour and Bay. Each bedroom at the Pedn Olva has stunning views of St Ives and the Cornish coast – light, airy and contemporarily decorated – they have everything you need for a relaxing, memorable and comfortable stay.
![tregenna](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HPSCQ/hotelimagegallery/Screenshot2024-07-08104446-rsz-08072024104516258.jpg)
Within 72 acres of private grounds, this Tregenna Castle Resort overlooks St Ives and the Cornish coast. You can enjoy 2 on-site restaurants, offering fine food and drink. Meals are made from local ingredients and are cooked fresh to order. Wireless internet is free, and there is free parking on site.
St Ives is a great spot to spend a day and has something for everyone. Relax and soak up the sun at Porthmeor Beach, browse the charming boutique shops tucked along the town’s winding lanes, or enjoy fresh seafood at the bustling harbour while watching for playful seals. For those with a creative side, why not immerse yourself in contemporary works at Tate St Ives or wander through the peaceful sculpture gardens at the Barbara Hepworth Museum?
For those looking to stretch their legs, there is a wonderful section on the South West Coast Path that takes you to the small village of Zennor. This section is trickier on underfoot but is worth it for the stunning headland and coastal views. Zennor is a small village that is a 10-15-minute detour inland from the coast. Post-walk drinks are in order at the local village pub, before catching a regular bus back to St Ives.
Ascent: +290m (+945ft) / Descent: =190m (-615ft)
Alternatively, although we recommend it the following day, you could opt to spend more time exploring the Cornwall Coast further using the Land's End coaster bus.
![BoskerrisHotel-40](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/GNTWB/hotelimagegallery/BoskerrisHotel-40-rsz-22042024124255347.jpg)
The Boskerris is a contemporary, boutique hotel with a relaxed Mediterranean style. The hotel has fifteen stylish bedrooms, most with outstanding panoramic ocean views. The hotel is nestled in the Cornish coastline, on the edge of St Ives. Discreetly set in one and a half acres in a unique position, with the decked terrace being the perfect vantage point to admire the views across St Ives Bay from Godrevy Lighthouse to St Ives harbour.
![tregenna](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/HPSCQ/hotelimagegallery/Screenshot2024-07-08104446-rsz-08072024104516258.jpg)
Within 72 acres of private grounds, this Tregenna Castle Resort overlooks St Ives and the Cornish coast. You can enjoy 2 on-site restaurants, offering fine food and drink. Meals are made from local ingredients and are cooked fresh to order. Wireless internet is free, and there is free parking on site.
![Pedn Olva](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/FDWDS/hotelimagegallery/387853085-809204487880424-3913816496902448766-n-rsz-08072024104657107.jpg)
The Pedn Olva, with the sea only thirty feet below and flanked by golden sands, is founded on blue-black granite rocks on the southern shores of St. Ives Harbour and Bay. Each bedroom at the Pedn Olva has stunning views of St Ives and the Cornish coast – light, airy and contemporarily decorated – they have everything you need for a relaxing, memorable and comfortable stay.
Today, you need to make your way to the charming town of Marazion on Cornwall's picturesque south coast. You have two exciting options for getting there:
Take the Land's End Coaster: A striking teal-coloured (London-style) bus that offers a scenic ride along Cornwall’s breathtaking coastline. This route takes you past iconic attractions, including Land’s End, the dramatic southernmost point of mainland Britain, the famous as the starting or ending point of the legendary journey to John O’Groats in Scotland, Along the way, perhaps stop off at the Minack Theatre, perched on a cliffside with panoramic ocean views and known for its stunning setting (and even an appearance in Game of Thrones). Or step into the past at the Cornwall Mining Heritage Sites in St Agnes, where you’ll uncover the rich industrial history of this remarkable region.
Walk the St Michael’s Way, Micro Pilgrimage: For a more reflective and spiritual experience, how about embarking on a micro-pilgrimage? The route begins inland at the striking Knill’s Steeple, a granite monument with sweeping views. Next, you’ll encounter the curious Bowl Rock, a granite boulder steeped in local legend and said to have been placed by a giant. The trail continues around Trencom Hill, a Neolithic hill fort brimming with history, before leading you through the serene Marazion Marshes, a haven for wild birds and a tranquil spot to reflect on your journey.
Ascent: +320m (+1050ft) / Descent: -340m (-1115ft)
Whichever route you choose, your journey to Marazion promises unforgettable sights and experiences, leaving you inspired by Cornwall’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
![Godolphin Arms](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/UTAFU/hotelimagegallery/78938832-3140344645982856-3921889501613391872-n-rsz-12052023170149026.jpg)
The Godolphin Arms offers ten en suite bedrooms which are light, airy and generously proportioned with spacious en suite bathrooms. The majority of rooms have fantastic sea views and some have balconies facing the idyllic St Michael's Mount. Eating at The Godolphin Arms is a relaxed, friendly experience. With spectacular views from the first floor dining area and a stunning beachside terrace, you have a choice of eating areas with the same menu offered throughout.
![Marazion Hotel](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/AYZDG/hotelimagegallery/marazionhotel-rsz-12052023165851376.jpg)
Enjoy this relaxing hotel located in the heart of the beautiful town of Marazion. The rooms have views over St Michael's Mount and we are only one hundred yards from one of the safest and most fabulous Cornish beaches. The "Cutty Sark" is the fully licensed public bar serving local beers and wines. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner specialising in local produce. The "Coffee Lounge" overlooking the town square is somewhere to relax, watch the world go by and perhaps enjoy the freshly prepared coffee and homemade cakes.
![Upper Deck](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/WBRHA/hotelimagegallery/Britannia-2436-rsz-12052023170536555.jpg)
The Upper Deck comprises the entire top floor of Britannia House, with lovely views of the sea over Mounts Bay. Spacious room with two arm chairs, TV/DVD tea and coffee making facilities & fridge. Full Cornish Breakfast served in your room between 0830 and 0930. En-suite bathroom with shower over bath.
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims across the tidal causeway to St Michael’s Mount, a prominent British landmark and the official end of St Michael’s Way. Thousands of years ago, this island was a busy port trading tin with Europe, and an abbey was built on top of the island and granted to the Benedictine monks from Mont St Michel in France. It's an amazing must-see visitor attraction in Cornwall and highly recommended.
![Godolphin Arms](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/UTAFU/hotelimagegallery/78938832-3140344645982856-3921889501613391872-n-rsz-12052023170149026.jpg)
The Godolphin Arms offers ten en suite bedrooms which are light, airy and generously proportioned with spacious en suite bathrooms. The majority of rooms have fantastic sea views and some have balconies facing the idyllic St Michael's Mount. Eating at The Godolphin Arms is a relaxed, friendly experience. With spectacular views from the first floor dining area and a stunning beachside terrace, you have a choice of eating areas with the same menu offered throughout.
![Marazion Hotel](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/AYZDG/hotelimagegallery/marazionhotel-rsz-12052023165851376.jpg)
Enjoy this relaxing hotel located in the heart of the beautiful town of Marazion. The rooms have views over St Michael's Mount and we are only one hundred yards from one of the safest and most fabulous Cornish beaches. The "Cutty Sark" is the fully licensed public bar serving local beers and wines. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner specialising in local produce. The "Coffee Lounge" overlooking the town square is somewhere to relax, watch the world go by and perhaps enjoy the freshly prepared coffee and homemade cakes.
![Upper Deck](https://d1hirb55zrpywb.cloudfront.net/macs-adventure-tours/hotel/WBRHA/hotelimagegallery/Britannia-2436-rsz-12052023170536555.jpg)
The Upper Deck comprises the entire top floor of Britannia House, with lovely views of the sea over Mounts Bay. Spacious room with two arm chairs, TV/DVD tea and coffee making facilities & fridge. Full Cornish Breakfast served in your room between 0830 and 0930. En-suite bathroom with shower over bath.
This morning, your trip ends. After breakfast, say goodbye to the coast and proceed with your onward travel plans.
Other Information
Is it for me?Discover the charm of England’s South on this self-guided holiday with Macs Adventure, showcasing two iconic regions: the Cotswolds and Cornwall. From the honey-hued villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds to Cornwall’s dramatic cliffs and golden beaches, this journey effortlessly blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Choose from easy-to-moderate walks, lasting 3-4 hours, along well-marked national trails, or immerse yourself in the region’s traditions and history at your own pace. Hear the tales and hidden secrets of the Roman Baths, uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge, or savour a classic afternoon tea at the enchanting St Michael’s Mount. Whether you prefer walking or wandering, this trip promises timeless landscapes, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences in these quintessentially English destinations!
Discovery | Think of it as a ‘local’s guide’ to the best of the region. It includes a combination of activity and transportation to give you the freedom to explore and cover more ground at your own pace. We do all the research and organisation for you. All you have to do is turn up and enjoy!
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.
Foodie, Coastal Walking, National Parks, Accessible by Rail
The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years
The tour is graded as easy to moderate. Expect walks around 6-10 miles a day, with some noticeable hill climbs. While moderately steep at points, it should be more than manageable for any active walker.
As you go from Countryside to Coast, the paths will switch from woodland trails, and well-maintained country bridleways through farmland of the Cotswolds, to more rugged and rocky coastal paths of Cornwall, with sections on soft sandy beaches. Some paths can become very muddy and boggy when rain falls, often making progress slower than normal and there are elevation gains and losses, especially when walking on the coastal paths, as the trails follow cliffs and may go up and down to walk along beaches in between.
Accommodation
You will stay in hand-picked B&Bs and hotels of typical Cotswoldian (country inns) and Cornish character (harbour hotels). Expect warm welcomes, comfortable bedrooms and delicious breakfasts.
Alternate accommodation
During the high season, you might be booked into alternative accommodations which are not listed in the description. If those listed are unavailable the alternative accommodation will be of the same or better standard than those described.
Solo Walkers
This holiday is available for solo walkers but we would recommend that you are experienced in walking and navigating alone. Please note however that a significant solo supplement may apply for this tour. This is primarily due to the costs of included services such as taxi and luggage transfers, as well as the lack of solo traveller discounts at many hotels in the Cotswolds and Cornwall.
Single Rooms
If your party, requires single rooms, we will make every effort to accommodate your request. However, this is subject to availability and typically incurs a substantial single supplement. Hotels in the Cotswolds and Cornwall rarely offer discounts for single occupancy of their rooms.
Meals
Breakfast is included each morning and consists typically of a continental buffet with tea and coffee, fresh fruits, yoghurt, cereals, eggs and bread with jams. Often also on the menu are cooked options like freshly made porridge or a traditional cooked English breakfast (Bacon/Eggs/Sausage/Beans). This of course varies depending on what hotel you are overnighting in. We don't include lunch and dinner, so you are free to choose from the available options. As you walk along the trails you will see our recommendations on the Macs App. It shows the locations of convenient lunch, dinner, coffee, or pub stops – Expect a mixture of traditional English pubs, cosy tearooms or fine-dining restaurants. If you wish to go somewhere in particular for your evening meal, we recommend checking opening times and reserving a table well in advance before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Using the Macs Adventure Smartphone App is mandatory for this tour. In the Cotswolds, the trail paths follow a mixture of public footpaths and you walk along a section known as the "Cotswold Trail". In Cornwall, you will be walking on the famous South West Coast Path National Trail Path, which is waymarked along the way. Paths may be indistinct at times, but we provide comprehensive routes, maps and tracks through our smartphone app, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding your way.
- Overnight accommodation in Hotels and B&B
- Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers (as noted in the itinerary)
- Taxi transfers (as noted in the itinerary)
- Detailed information pack, route notes and maps
- 24/7 telephone support
- Travel to starting point/from finish
- Lunches, dinners and snacks
- Taxi transfers or public transport should you need to skip a stage
- Personal equipment
- Travel Insurance
- Additional nights before, during or after the walk
This tour can be enjoyed from March to October.
Spring is great, as the wildflowers will be in bloom, and the local towns and villages will be quieter during the day. Summer is considered the high season, and both regions will be at their busiest in July and August which coincide with the English School Holidays. In October, Cornwall and the Cotswolds are covered in lovely orange hues as the leaves start to fall in the Autumn.
By nature, the South West of England is prone to varying types of weather throughout the year. Always be prepared for changeable conditions when walking in England. Waterproofs are essential all year round. In the summer months, be prepared for hot weather also - with a lack of shade on the paths (ensure you have sunscreen) and in the shoulder seasons of March or October expect colder temperatures (it’s not a bad idea to pack some gloves or a woolly hat).
Getting to Moreton-in-Marsh
There is regular direct service from London (Paddington Station) to Moreton-in-Marsh train station, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 hours.
London is well-connected to all major UK transport hubs across the UK and has several large train stations - your arrival station depends on your departure point. If your connecting train doesn't directly go into London Paddington, you will likely need to use the super-efficient London Underground. For international travellers arriving at London Heathrow, the Heathrow Express Bus offers a quick, direct route to London Paddington in just 15 minutes. If you're arriving at London Gatwick, you can take the Gatwick Express Train to London Victoria Station (about 30 minutes), then transfer to the Victoria Line on the London Underground, which will take you to Paddington in around 20 minutes.
The London Underground (commonly referred to as "the tube") may seem intimidating at first, but it’s very straightforward to navigate once you get the hang of it, and staff are always on hand to keep you right!
Getting from Penzance
For your onward travel plans, the most convenient option is to depart Penzance via Penzance train station to London Paddington (6-8 hours journey). There are direct trains, but in some cases, you might need to connect via other major train stations, such as Reading or Bristol Temple Meads. When arriving in London, you can connect via rail, bus or airplane to most other major UK cities or transport hubs.
For those flying internationally, from London Paddington Station, you can easily connect to London Heathrow Airport via the Heathrow Express Bus, or if you're leaving from London Gatwick, you can take the London Underground eastbound to London Victoria Station (15 mins). From London Victoria Station, hop on the regular Gatwick Express Train directly to Gatwick Airport (30 mins).
Baggage Transfers
Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 18kg/40lbs per person. Please keep in mind that you’ll be carrying your overnight bags with you on public trains, so we recommend packing as light and compact as possible for your own convenience.
At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.
Travel Insurance
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
You can purchase train tickets on the day of departure directly at the station. However, if your journey involves a major city (e.g. London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Manchester), we strongly recommend booking your tickets and reserving seats in advance. This is especially important for your arrival and onward travel. Booking early ensures availability and often provides better fares.
For convenience, consider using Trainline, a user-friendly platform for purchasing train tickets. Trainline allows you to store e-tickets on your phone, eliminating the need to collect physical tickets at the station. All ticket inspectors are familiar with this system, making it hassle-free.
Top Tip:
When booking UK train travel, avoid peak travel times to ensure a less crowded journey and access to cheaper fares. Typically, we suggest:
- Avoiding departures before 10:00 am.
- Steering clear of travel between 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm, as these are peak commuting hours.
Travelling off-peak can make your experience more comfortable and cost-effective!
If you wish to visit Stonehenge during your second day in Bath, we can arrange a private guided tour to take you. Our trusted local partner will pick you up directly from your hotel, and take you to Stonehenge for a fully immersive experience, where you will learn about the stones and their history. Once complete, they will return you to your accommodation in Bath.
This optional tour is subject to availability at the time of booking with our local partner, so we cannot always guarantee your selected date. Please speak to your adventure specialist for a quote, if you'd like us to try and arrange it for you.
The reason for this is that St Michael’s Mount is closed to the public on Saturdays. Starting the tour on a Friday would mean your planned visit to St Michael’s Mount would fall on a Saturday, preventing you from experiencing this iconic UK landmark. As one of the tour's highlights, we wouldn’t want you to miss out on such a magnificent experience. If your start date is fixed, we can adjust the tour to begin on a Friday and recommend adding an extra night in Marazion to visit St Michael’s Mount on Sunday. We can also offer a loop walk in Marazion for you to enjoy on Saturday. Alternatively, you could visit St Michael’s Mount on your onward travel day—exploring in the morning and catching a late afternoon train. Please contact one of our Adventure Specialists to arrange this!
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