Heritage Railways of the Cotswolds & Avon Valley

May - September 2023

5 days from £549pp

Experience the very best of Britain’s West Country on a journey through the most scenic landscapes of the Cotswolds and the Avon Valley. Travel along heritage railways, explore local market towns and enjoy a ride on the Bristol Packet Boat.

Take an unforgettable ride on the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway
Enjoy a ride on the Avon Valley Railway including a traditional cream tea
Visit Didcot Railway Centre to discover the unique collection of steam engines
Enjoy free time exploring the market town of Swindon
Indulge in the history of the Great Western Railway
Visit the gloriously green landscapes of Broadway
A memorable boat ride on the Bristol Packet Boat around Bristol Docks

Hidden deep within the beautifully British West-Country is a marvel of magical rail travel. From your base in a charming hotel in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, join us on a journey of discovery as we explore some of England’s most idyllic landscapes. Experience a perfect blend of history and travel along heritage railways through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Cotswolds and the Avon Valley. With included railway journeys, along with time to explore each destination as well as a ride on the Bristol Packet Boat and more - this break is sure to leave you with many memorable experiences.

Day 1: Wiltshire
Make your own way to our hotel, where you meet our Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 2: Didcot Railway Museum – Museum of the Great Western Railway
After a leisurely breakfast, we head to Bristol for a visit to Brunel's SS Great Britain. This magnificent steamship was the biggest passenger ship in the world when she came into service. We have time to visit the painstakingly restored ship and fascinating dry dock before we continue to Swindon. You'll have time to explore the original settlement, known as the Old Town. Wander through the quiet courtyards and enjoy the vibrant mix of traditional shops and pubs alongside modern outlets and stylish cafes. We later continue to the Museum of the Great Western Railway in Swindon. The museum is located in a beautifully restored Grade II Listed railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works and tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway. See famous locomotives, 'drive' the train simulator and even work the signals in the interactive signal box. We return to our hotel for dinner this evening.
Day 3: Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway – Broadway
The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway is a volunteer operated heritage railway which runs along the Gloucestershire and Worcestershire border. It uses part of the route of the former Great Western Railway's main line from Birmingham to Cheltenham and now operates steam and heritage diesel trains between Cheltenham Racecourse and Broadway through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Cotswolds. We board the train in Cheltenham and follow the line which commands wonderful views of the nearby sleepy hamlets and villages, with outstanding views over to the Malvern Hills and beyond. On arrival in Broadway, you’ll have some free time to wander around this quaint picture postcard village. It is a beautiful and historic village rich in cultural heritage. Broadway has a wide high street lined with chestnut trees and a mixture of period houses and honey-coloured cottages.
Day 4: Bristol Packet Boat Trip – Avon Valley Railway
Our coach transfers us to Bristol where we board the Bristol Packet Boat ride through the Docks. Later, we travel by coach to Bitton Station where we join the Avon Valley railway for a memorable journey. Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery along the re-laid Bitton track on restored carriages and locomotives. We also include a traditional English cream tea which is served at your seat.
Day 5: Home
After breakfast, you are free to check out of our hotel and depart at leisure.

Please note: We cannot guarantee that all our rail journeys will be steam hauled and the running order of the itinerary may change depending on availability. The final itinerary will be confirmed in your final Travel Documents.

Overview

Set in 30 acres of beautiful countryside the 4 star Blunsdon House hotel is situated in the village of Broad Blunsdon. There are two restaurants and three bars to relax and enjoy a drink after a day of exploring or alternatively take a swim in the hotels indoor heated swimming pool or take a walk around the beautiful grounds of the hotel.