The Cotswolds and Thames Valley

May 31^st - June 4^th , 5 days

A vintage coach tour which features a variety of interests, including a Thames river cruise by superbly restored Victorian steamer.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Monday) We leave the island via the Fishbourne, and following our additional pick up point in Portsmouth amble northwards to Oxfordshire.We will visit the Steam Centre at Didcot, formerly a Great Western steam depot, which houses an impressive collection of locomotives and rolling stock, some of which will be in steam, before continuing to Abingdon, arriving late afternoon.

Tuesday) Our first stop today is the Hook Norton Brewery which still relies on steam power in the brewing process, and we hope we will arrive in time to see the Shire horse drawn dray setting out for the daily delivery. We then continue our drive through the Cotswolds, with a visit to Bourton on the Water, and a chance for those who wish, to visit the Motor Museum.

Wednesday) Perhaps the highlight of the week - we enjoy a Thames cruise aboard the specially chartered Victorian coal fired river steamer Alaska. This delightful vessel dates from 1883 and has been exquisitely restored.

Thursday) We then continue our tour through villages of mellow Cotswold stone, including a visit to Keith Harding's excellent World of Mechanical Music at Northleach.

Friday) Time to stroll around Abingdon before we commence our homeward journey to Portsmouth and the island.

OUR HOTEL

We will be based at the Abingdon Four Pillars Hotel, a comfortable modern hotel which we have used on previous occasions.

Tour price is £569 per person sharing twin / double room, with £60 single supplement if required, but please note that we only have a very limited number of single rooms available. This includes coach travel, admissions, cruise and four nights dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation at the Abingdon Lodge Hotel.

If you wish to book my I request a deposit of £50 per person please. The tour is limited to 20 group members.