Leaving London we head out into the Oxfordshire countryside to arrive at Oxford, the “City of Dreaming Spires,” midmorning. This ancient city boasts over one thousand listed buildings from every major period of British history from the 11th century onwards. As we explore the city you will find that it is an enchanted fairy tale area, full of mystery and wonder. No wonder Oxford has inspired famous writers and film makers over the years.
Your guide will show you the city and you will see the major attractions, such as the University of Oxford (which has 38 colleges) Bodleian Library. If you wish we will visit Carfax Tower which is located at the north-west corner of Carfax. The Tower is all that remains of the 13th century St. Martin’s Church and is now considered to be the centre of the city. The name “Carfax” derives from the French “carrefour”, or “crossroads”. You Guide will explain that and more to you as you pass each landmark and of course take lots of photographs.
Why not climb to the top of the spire at St Mary the Virgin Church. This is the largest of Oxford’s parish churches. St Mary’s has one of the most beautiful spires in England and a very eccentric baroque porch. If you do climb to the top you will see fantastic views across this historic university city. Your guide will also show you such places as Radcliffe Square, the Radcliffe Camera, Brasenose College and All Souls College.
There is so much to see in the city, but don’t take our word for it come and take the tour and see for yourself. Once we have completed our few hours in Oxford it is off into the Cotswolds to have lunch lunch in a 300 year old British Pub After lunch we then drive on to the churchyard at Bladon where Winston Churchill is buried. Just a short drive here sees us arriving at Blenheim Palace. This is the home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Winston Churchill. Blenheim Palace was built between 1705-1722 to celebrate victory over the French in the War of the Spanish Succession.
It was built as a gift to the 1st Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill, the military commander who led the Allied forces in the Battle of Blenheim on 13th August 1704. Blenheim boasts over 2,100 acres of parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. Besides the gardens we will visit the state rooms and the 183 foot long library which contains 10,000 volumes and a manual Willis organ.
During the tour you will see where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to Clementine Hozier in the Temple of Diana. Your guide will explain how Blenheim Palace was used as a convalescence hospital for wounded soldiers during WWI. Plus how James Bond has used the building as a backdrop, plus a lot more.
Pricing
£699.00 per taxi not per person up to 5 people
OPTIONS
This tour allows you to have different options so you can select one of the following :
Oxford & Waddesdon Manor £699.00
Waddeden Manor was built in the style of a 16th century French Renaissance-style château of the Loire, for the Rothchild ( famous bankers) family. Magnificent rooms together with art and furniture collections. So beautiful it has been used as a location in over 30 films.
Oxford & the Cotswolds Villages £699.00
The Cotswold Villages are a must to see. Thatched cottages, winding country roads and picture postcard scenes to see, a great add on.
Oxford & Bowood House £799.00
In our opinion, the best stately home in Wiltshire, Bowood House sits within 100 acres of beautifully landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown Parkland and has been home to the Lansdowne family since 1754.
Oxford & Sulgrave Manor £799..00
“ENGLAND AND AMERICA ARE TWO COUNTRIES SEPERATED BY A COMMON LANGUAGE”
Sulgrave Manor was built by Lawrence Washington, George Washingto
Oxford & Bicester Outlet Shopping Centre £699.00
Oxford, the “City of Dreaming Spires” with its University buildings and unique history. Your guide will explore the city with you explaining all, just as the information above. Lunch will be in the Cotswolds, before driving to Bicester Village for shopping therapy.
Discover a relaxed shopping complex in the middle of the Oxfordshire countryside. Famous designer names offering fabulously discounted prices. Shopping is a pleasure at Bicester Village, a truly unique retail experience. Over 90 outlets, so you will be spoilt for choice.