Steaming through the Cotswolds & Cruising the River Avon - JG Explorer

5 days day day

from £439££pp

2026 Jun Aug Oct

On this relaxing getaway we explore the pastoral landscapes of the Cotswolds with their gently rolling hills scattered with honey-coloured stone towns and villages. We include a scenic journey on the heritage Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway and a visit to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon, complemented by a gentle cruise along the River Avon. If you are yet to experience the peaceful ambience and memorable charm of the Cotswolds, then now is your chance.

Highlights

Return coach travel
4 nights at the Bromsgrove Hotel & Spa (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Excursions to Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester, Tewkesbury, Stow-on-the-Wold & Broadway
Cruise on the River Avon
Heritage train journey on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway

Itinerary

Forever associated with William Shakespeare, we head to the beautiful town of Stratford-upon-Avon. We start with a sightseeing cruise along the River Avon where we sit back, relax and enjoy the glorious Warwickshire countryside as our guide keeps us entertained with interesting facts about Stratford’s history.

After our cruise, we have time at leisure to explore Stratford. Fans of Shakespeare can visit the house in which he was born, and there’s a chance to wander the riverside gardens or discover the town’s theatres including the Swan Theatre, home of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

We spend some time in the historic city of Worcester set on the banks of the River Severn. The town is known for its exquisite Royal Worcester porcelain and piquant Worcestershire sauce as well as a magnificent cathedral.

Next stop is the delightful Gloucestershire town of Tewkesbury, where there’s time to look around the abbey with its stunning medieval architecture and wander the narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses and Tudor buildings.

Lastly, we travel to Cheltenham Racecourse where we board our train on the heritage Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway. We embark on a nostalgic journey to Broadway travelling through the spectacular scenery of the Cotswolds with lovely views of sleepy hamlets and villages along the way.

A journey through the Cotswolds provides a glimpse into the quintessential English countryside. We first visit the beautiful market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, renowned for its traditional stone buildings and charming collection of artisanal boutiques. Highlights include the picturesque cobbled streets, the historic Market Square and the ancient St Edward's Church, famous for its yew trees framing the doorway. Next, we explore Broadway, often called the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds,’ which features a wide main street lined with perfect cottages, pubs and shops.

Accommodation

Bromsgrove Hotel & Spa, Bromsgrove, England

JG3

The Bromsgrove Hotel & Spa offers comfortable and modern rooms in an ideal location in the heart of England. All en-suite rooms include Wi-Fi, tea & coffee making facilities and flat-screen TVs. Hotel facilities include a heated indoor pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar with a seasonal courtyard terrace & coffee shop.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

Helpful Information

Explorer Coach – Travel in style

Turn your journey into part of the holiday with our deluxe JG Explorer coaches. Designed for comfort and relaxation, every detail has been thoughtfully considered so you can simply sit back, unwind and enjoy the ride. With no driving to worry about, your holiday begins the moment you step aboard.

A smooth ride from start to finish

Our experienced drivers know their routes inside out, ensuring you reach your destination safely and comfortably. Along the way, they’re happy to share local knowledge and helpful insights, making every mile part of the experience.

More space, more comfort

Exclusive to the JG Travel Group, JG Explorer coaches feature just 44 seats, giving you more space to stretch out and relax. Reclining seats with padded support and footrests allow you to find your perfect position, while improved legroom ensures a comfortable journey wherever you choose to sit.

For ease and accessibility, there is a convenient floor-level toilet on board — meaning no awkward steps during your journey.

The best seat in the house

Upgrade to a premium front seat and enjoy panoramic views of the road ahead, extra legroom and a handy countertop for your personal belongings – the perfect spot to take in the scenery in comfort.

Entertainment sorted

Stay entertained throughout your journey with our wireless media system, offering a range of films and fun quizzes. Simply connect using your smartphone or tablet and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the coach. Every seat is also equipped with a USB port to keep your devices charged along the way.

Refreshments on tap

JG Explorer coaches include a rear-mounted kitchen area stocked with hot and cold drinks, so refreshments are always within easy reach. There’s also a filtered water tap available, allowing you to refill your bottle whenever you like.