Stratford & a Shakespearean New Year

Make your own way to our hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, where you will meet an experienced Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner.

This morning, we travel by coach to Cheltenham for a return journey on the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Steam Railway. Using a section of the route from the former Great Western Railway's main line, this journey takes in some of the most stunning scenery in the Cotswolds. Boarding the train in Cheltenham, we will follow the line and enjoy rolling views of quaint hamlets and villages. During the journey, we will enjoy tea or coffee and a mince pie.

On arrival back in Cheltenham, we board our coach and head for the charming village of Bourton–on-the-Water – often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. With its historic stone houses and low bridges over the River Windrush, there will be plenty to take in during your free time.

After our visit, we will continue to Sudeley Castle. Dating back to the 15th century, the castle is the resting place of King Henry VIII’s last wife, Queen Katherine Parr, making it the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within the grounds. Each winter, the grounds become the stage for the Spectacle of Light, a dazzling light display that illuminates the castle’s stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Twinkling lights, colourful projections, and immersive soundscapes create a magical landscape, while the castle itself provides a truly grand backdrop. Why not treat yourself to a spiced mulled wine or delicious hot chocolate as you make your way along the trail?

We return by coach to our hotel for dinner this evening.

Included Highlights

Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light Bourton-on-the-Water

This morning, a Blue Badge guide joins us for a fascinating walking tour of Stratford-upon-Avon. Known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the town features the preserved homes of Shakespeare and his family, which can be viewed on Henley Street. After the tour, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace. Tonight, we ring in 2025 with a fantastic New Year’s Eve gala dinner.

Included Highlights

Stratford-upon-Avon with Walking Tour

Happy New Year! After breakfast, we board our coach for Cheltenham Racecourse to enjoy the New Year's Day Races. The Club/Tatts Enclosure is the perfect area to be in, with access to all the public areas and fantastic views from the main grandstand, including sights such as the pre-parade ring and the finishing line. Experience the thrill of the races, and who knows, you might even bet on a winning horse! With plenty of food and drink options, you’re guaranteed an afternoon to remember.

Our coach returns us to the hotel for dinner this evening.

Included Highlights

Cheltenham Racecourse

After breakfast, it is time to make your own way home.