Family-Friendly 3-Day Road Trip Itinerary from London to the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon

Day 1: Travel and Explore Cotswolds

London to Cotswolds, England on May 11, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Gail's Bakery, Marylebone

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and coffee at Gail's Bakery in London to fuel the family for the journey ahead.
GBP15, 1h0m

10:00am

Drive to Cotswolds

Embark on a scenic 2-hour drive from London to the picturesque Cotswolds region, known for charming villages and rolling hills.
GBP0 (fuel cost not included), 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Bourton-on-the-Water

Explore the 'Venice of the Cotswolds', famous for its low bridges and lovely riverside walks. Perfect for children to roam safely.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Rose Tree Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch by the river with British classics and kid options in a cosy setting.
GBP60 approx, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Cotswold Motoring Museum

Discover vintage cars and memorabilia, a fun interactive museum for both adults and kids. Open till 5pm on Sundays.
GBP25 (family ticket), 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive to Chipping Campden

Short drive to the charming town of Chipping Campden to check-in to your accommodation and relax.
GBP0, 30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Eight Bells

Dine on traditional pub fare in a family-friendly atmosphere with options for all ages.
GBP70 approx, 1h30m
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Day 2: Cotswolds Villages Tour

Cotswolds, England on May 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast locally to prepare for a day of exploring Cotswold villages.
Included in accommodation or GBP20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Bibury

Walk through the famous picturesque village with iconic stone cottages along the River Coln.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Drive to Broadway and visit Broadway Tower

Explore Broadway Tower, an iconic landmark with stunning views across the Cotswolds. Kids will love spotting the tower from far away.
GBP25 (family ticket), 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Feathered Nest Inn

Try out this charming countryside inn with delicious locally-sourced dishes and outdoor seating.
GBP65 approx, 1h0m

1:00pm

Visit Stow-on-the-Wold

Discover another quintessential Cotswold town with quaint shops, galleries and a historic market square.
Free, 1h30m

2:30pm

Afternoon walk or cycle along Cotswold Way footpath

Experience the natural beauty on a family-friendly walk or cycle along parts of the renowned Cotswold Way trail.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Chipping Campden for dinner

Relax with a dinner at Bakers Arms, a cosy inn with great local dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for families.
GBP70 approx, 1h30m
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Day 3: Stratford Upon Avon Visit

Stratford-upon-Avon, England on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel to start the day bright and early.
Included in accommodation, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Stratford-upon-Avon

Drive approximately 45 minutes to Shakespeare’s birthplace town, full of cultural attractions.
GBP0, 45m

9:45am

Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace

Tour the house where William Shakespeare was born and learn about his life and works. Opens at 9am.
GBP35 (family ticket), 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Stratford Town Centre

Enjoy a stroll around the historic town centre with shops, street performers, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Hathaway Tea Rooms

Try traditional English afternoon tea or light lunch options in a charming period setting.
GBP50 approx, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage

Explore the beautiful thatched cottage where Shakespeare’s wife grew up, featuring lovely gardens. Opens at 10am.
GBP28 (family ticket), 1h30m

3:00pm

Drive back to London

Begin your journey back to London (about 2 hours) with plenty of good memories from your trip.
GBP0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner en route or on arrival in London

Consider stopping at a family-friendly restaurant such as Frankie & Benny’s for a casual dinner before heading home.
GBP50 approx, 1h0m
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