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England

Hiking the English Countryside: The Cotswolds and Cornwall

Program No. 1873060MEADV-1116-60
Hike the English countryside with experts, discovering sweeping landscapes, learning local history, sampling traditional foods and enjoying the vibrant culture of two unique regions.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
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Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Apr 14 - Apr 28, 2025
Starting at
6,399
May 5 - May 19, 2025
Starting at
6,499
May 19 - Jun 2, 2025
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6,499
Jun 9 - Jun 23, 2025
Starting at
6,499
Jun 16 - Jun 30, 2025
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6,499
Aug 25 - Sep 8, 2025
Starting at
6,699
Sep 1 - Sep 15, 2025
Starting at
6,699
Sep 15 - Sep 29, 2025
Starting at
6,699
Oct 6 - Oct 20, 2025
Starting at
6,699
Apr 13 - Apr 27, 2026
Starting at
6,999
May 4 - May 18, 2026
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6,999
May 18 - Jun 1, 2026
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6,999
Jun 8 - Jun 22, 2026
Starting at
7,099
Aug 24 - Sep 7, 2026
Starting at
7,099
Sep 7 - Sep 21, 2026
Starting at
7,099
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Apr 14 - Apr 28, 2025
Starting at
7,319
May 5 - May 19, 2025
Starting at
7,419
May 19 - Jun 2, 2025
Starting at
7,419
Jun 9 - Jun 23, 2025
Starting at
7,419
Jun 16 - Jun 30, 2025
Starting at
7,419
Aug 25 - Sep 8, 2025
Starting at
7,619
Sep 1 - Sep 15, 2025
Starting at
7,619
Sep 15 - Sep 29, 2025
Starting at
7,619
Oct 6 - Oct 20, 2025
Starting at
7,619
Filling Fast!
Apr 13 - Apr 27, 2026
Starting at
8,099
May 4 - May 18, 2026
Starting at
8,099
May 18 - Jun 1, 2026
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8,099
Jun 8 - Jun 22, 2026
Starting at
8,219
Filling Fast!
Aug 24 - Sep 7, 2026
Starting at
8,219
Filling Fast!
Sep 7 - Sep 21, 2026
Starting at
8,219
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Thanks to thousands of miles of public and ancient footpaths, walking is an integral part of the British way of life. With rolling hills, scattered stone villages and a wealth of historic monuments and buildings from prehistoric times to the present day, there is no better countryside to roam than that of the Cotswolds and the Duchy of Cornwall.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Hiking up to six miles (4 hours) a day over varied terrain. Some hikes may be strenuous, with a moderate- to fast-pace.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Discover quaint Cotswold villages, wildlife-rich sandy bays and the dramatic coastline of Cornwall on expert-led hikes.
  • Learn about the Cotswolds’ designation as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” from a countryside ranger.
  • Meet a local Cornwall expert to hear about the spectacular coastline and its wildlife.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
15 days
Program Begins
Mickleton
Program Concludes
London Heathrow Airport
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
29 | 13B | 3L | 13D |
Activity Level
Thanks to thousands of miles of public and ancient footpaths, walking is an integral part of the British way of life. With rolling hills, scattered stone villages and a wealth of historic monuments and buildings from prehistoric times to the present day, there is no better countryside to roam than that of the Cotswolds and the Duchy of Cornwall.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Discover quaint Cotswold villages, wildlife-rich sandy bays and the dramatic coastline of Cornwall on expert-led hikes.
  • Learn about the Cotswolds’ designation as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” from a countryside ranger.
  • Meet a local Cornwall expert to hear about the spectacular coastline and its wildlife.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Hiking up to six miles (4 hours) a day over varied terrain. Some hikes may be strenuous, with a moderate- to fast-pace.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (15 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
15 days
14 nights
What's Included
29 meals | 13B | 3L | 13D |
3 expert-led lectures
19 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
13 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Orientation. 5:00 p.m. The Group Leaders will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program is staffed with two Group Leaders, who will accompany us throughout the program to lecture, conduct field trips, and serve as an information resource on program-related topics, as well as dealing with logistics. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
We will enjoy a 3-course plated meal in the hotel dining room, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure to unpack, relax, and prepare for the program ahead.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 10 miles, approximately 1 hour. The walk from Chipping Campden to Broadway is approximately 5.5 miles, with two steady hill climbs totaling approximately 650 feet (200 meters) of ascent; paved streets, grass and earth paths. Extent of walking and other activities during time for independent exploration according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We'll board a motorcoach and ride into the Cotswolds to the delightful town of Chipping Campden. A local expert will lead a walk and suggestions for places to visit during time for independent exploration
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Afternoon:
We will regroup and walk from Chipping Campden to the village of Broadway, via the iconic Broadway Tower, led by our Group Leaders. We’ll navigate spectacular hills and be rewarded, weather permitting, with glorious views out across the Cotswolds. Broadway Tower itself stands like a monolith atop Dover’s Hill, the second highest point in the Cotswolds, and is an example of what the English affectionately refer to as a “folly” – an extravagant building constructed for no real practical purpose. We will then return to the hotel by motorcoach.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At the hotel, we'll enjoy a presentation by a Cotswold AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) Ranger on the history of farming in the Cotswolds and the conservation movement in rural England.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 90 miles, approximately 3 hours. The Oxford city walk is approximately 1.5 miles on flat ground; paved streets, some cobblestones. Please note that, due to examination timetables, Christ Church may not be available on every departure at short notice. If this is the case, we will enjoy an expert-led exploration of New College, founded in 1379. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will board a motorcoach and travel to Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires. We’ll enjoy an informative and educational stroll through the city to Christ Church Meadow, a flower-filled water meadow beside the River Thames, before we take in the grandeur of Henry VIII’s Christ Church. Founded in 1546 and one of the largest of Oxford’s 38 colleges, Henry’s Lord Chancellor Thomas Wolsey planned the impressive Great Quadrangle, the Tudor Kitchen, and the Great Hall. Christ Church is the cathedral seat of Oxford and occupies a 150-acre site in the center of the city.
Lunch:
Your choice of lunch with provided vouchers.
Afternoon:
Free time. This block of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leaders will be happy to offer suggestions. We will receive information packs with maps, directions, historical notes, and suggestions for things to do. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach for dinner.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 25 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. The Naunton to Bourton walk is approximately 6 miles with a moderate 1100-foot (333-meter) ascent; paved streets, grass and earth paths.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll board a motorcoach and ride to the picturesque village of Naunton, from where we’ll explore some beautiful British pastures and riversides as we walk to Bourton-on-the-Water led by our Group Leaders. On the way, we’ll pass through Upper and Lower Slaughter, an interestingly named pair of villages that have been inhabited for over 1,000 years.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Bourton-on-the-Water.
Afternoon:
A short transfer from Bourton brings us to the picturesque hill-top town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Free time to explore Stow. Stow was the scene of the final battle of the English Civil War and also boasts an unusual literary connection. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach for dinner.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 55 miles, approximately 2 hours. The Coln St Aldwyns to Bibury walk is approximately 6 miles on largely flat ground; paved streets, grass and earth paths.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We’ll board a motorcoach and ride to the picturesque village of Kelmscott. Upon arrival we’ll walk through the village to Kelmscott Manor — home to both William Morris and the hugely influential Arts & Crafts movement — where we’ll enjoy an expert-led exploration of the house and gardens.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
We will board the motorcoach and ride to Coln St Aldwyns, a charming hamlet on the banks of the River Coln, where we’ll begin this afternoon’s walk with our Group Leaders. Our route will take us through the many picturesque villages of the Coln Valley, passing peaceful and unspoiled riverside, before ending in the Cotswold village of Bibury, once described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England.”
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 75 miles, approximately 2.5 hours. The Duntisbourne Valley walk is approximately 6 miles on largely flat ground; paved streets, grass and earth paths.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We’ll board a motorcoach and ride to Winstone to begin a walk led by our Group Leaders, exploring the Duntisbourne Valley, home to numerous beautiful small villages and some wonderful views. Our final destination is Cirencester, stopping en-route at Cirencester Park, home to a beautiful 16th-century manor house.
Lunch:
A packed lunch of sandwiches, fruit and a drink or similar will be provided en route.
Afternoon:
We’ll have time to enjoy a walk of Cirencester, a quaint market town and an important early Roman fort. Here we will enjoy a visit to the Corinium Museum, where we will explore the excellent exhibits detailing Cirencester’s Roman history together following an introductory talk.. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach after our field trip.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we will enjoy a special treat tonight with a light main course followed by one of the famous “Pudding Club” evenings for which the hotel is renowned, tasting a selection of traditional British desserts and voting for our favorites.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 210 miles, approximately 5.5 hours. Extent of walking and other activities in Wells according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will transfer by motorcoach to Cornwall, in the South West of England. En route, we will pay a visit to the cathedral city of Wells. One of the smallest cities in England, Wells is packed with fascinating history and architectural splendor. Our Group Leader will orientate us to the area before we have some free time to explore at our own pace.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Wells.
Afternoon:
Our transfer to Cornwall continues, with a lecture aboard the motorcoach on the history and cultural significance of the landscape through which we’ll be riding, and a late afternoon arrival and check-in to our next hotel. We will relax over a pre-dinner drink as a local expert gives us an introduction to the local area at the hotel
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At Leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 2 hours. The walk from Pentire Farm to St Enodoc Church is approximately 6.5 miles. There are several short, but sharp ascents and descents; gravel, grass and earth paths, sandy beach.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We'll board a motorcoach and ride to Pentire Farm to begin a walk through stunning Cornish landscapes, led by our Group Leaders. We’ll make our way along the coast to St Enodoc Church, marveling at the breathtaking views across the Camel estuary, followed by sandy beaches and wildlife-rich dunes. We’ll stop in Polzeath in the late morning for some free time to explore the town.
Lunch:
In Polzeath, We’ll enjoy a packed lunch.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue from Polzeath to complete our journey to St Enodoc Church. Laurence Binyon wrote “For The Fallen” whilst sat along this route, and Sir John Betjeman is buried in the churchyard at St Enodoc. We then travel onwards by motorcoach to Port Isaac for an afternoon of independent exploration. Port Isaac is a busy coastal port first established in the Middle Ages, where narrow, winding streets bordered by picturesque cottages give way to a delightful marina stretching out into the sea. Eagle-eyed fans of British television will also be able to spot the home of popular character Doc Martin, perfectly positioned above the village looking out over the bay. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach for dinner. Prior to dinner we'll be entertained with stories from a local story-telling company
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At Leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 115 miles, approximately 3.5 hours. The walk from St. Ives is approximately 3 miles, with a gradual ascent of 330 feet (100 meters); gravel, grass and earth paths, paved streets with many cobblestones.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will depart by motorcoach for the seaside town of St Ives, You may explore St Ives independently. Its cobbled streets are full of history, legend, and tradition. The town is also home to the Tate Gallery, the Cornish arm of the world-famous London gallery.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
After our time in St Ives, we’ll board the motorcoach for a field trip to KIng Edward Mine, which finally closed it's operation in 1875. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach for dinner.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 40 miles, approximately 2 hours. The walk from Harlyn to Padstow is approximately 7 miles, with an ascent of 460 feet (140 meters) and several short, sharp descents; gravel, grass and earth paths, paved streets with some cobblestones.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will drive by motorcoach to Padstow, where we will have two choices. Our Group Leader will lead a walk from Harlyn Bay to Padstow, via Trevone Head and Hawker’s Cove – a magnificent stretch of rugged coastline and a stunning tidal estuary. Those of us who would prefer a quieter morning may explore Padstow independently for fuller exploration of its charms.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
We'll take the Blacktor Ferry from Padstow to Rock, then travel onwards to a local family-run microbrewery close to the village of Delabole, where we’ll meet the master brewer to learn about the process of brewing with some tasters of their beers. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach for dinner.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 65 miles, approximately 3 hours. The walk from Dodman Point to Mevagissey is approximately 6.5 miles, with ascents totalling 100 feet (300 meters) over three main climbs; gravel and grass paths, paved streets.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will set out by motorcoach to explore the Cornish Riviera, with two choices for us to enjoy this picturesque part of the county. Those who prefer a slower pace may pay a visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a world-renowned botanical garden, for an expert-led visit to the North Garden and time for independent exploration. Those of us who want an active morning can join our Group Leader for a walk from Dodman Point to Mevagissey – a superb promontory with sweeping views along the coast in both directions, picturesque fishing villages, and sandy coves.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
We’ll all meet in Mevagissey this afternoon, where our Group Leaders will lead us on an exploration of this bustling fishing village, packed full of history, crafts and – of course – fresh fish! We will return to the hotel by motorcoach for dinner.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 15 miles, approximately 3/4 hour. The walk from Boscastle to Tintagel is approximately 4.5 miles, with an elevation gain of 1100 feet (335 meters) split across three climbs; paved streets, gravel and grass paths. The extension to Trebarwith Strand is a further 2.5 miles.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will board a motorcoach and ride to Boscastle, a beautiful village at the head of a fjord-like natural harbor. It was scene of a terrible flood in 2004, and is a good illustration of how topography contributes to natural disasters, how communities recover, and the effects of climate change. We’ll negotiate the spectacular Rocky Valley as we walk from Boscastle to Tintagel with our Group Leaders, following a wild coastline with imposing cliffs and ancient rock formations, before taking in a dose of English mythology at Tintagel. Set high on the rugged North Cornwall coast, Tintagel Castle is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
The day continues, with an opportunity to explore Tintagel or continue our walk onwards to Trebarwith Strand. We will then return to the hotel and take some time to reminisce on our walking adventures in Cornwall.
Dinner:
Plated hotel meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 265 miles, approximately 5.5 hours. Extent of walking and other activities in Salisbury according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll board the motorcoach for our transfer to the London airport hotel, with a visit to the city of Salisbury en route. We’ll have time to independently explore this ancient city that has been welcoming visitors since 1227.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Salisbury.
Afternoon:
After rejoining the motorcoach, our transfer continues, with a late afternoon arrival and check-in to our last hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase. We’ll share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
29 Meals
13 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
13 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Vegetarian, Low Salt, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
  • Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
  • Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • May 05, 2025 - May 19, 2025 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • May 19, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 23, 2025 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Jun 16, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
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  • May 18, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Jun 08, 2026 - Jun 22, 2026 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Sep 07, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Sep 21, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
  • Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026 (Mickleton to London Heathrow Airport)
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
6 nights
Location: Chipping Campden
Traditional Cotswolds hotel with honey coloured stone built in 1870. Home to the "Pudding Club".
6 nights
Location: Cornwall
Set in the heart of North Cornwall in 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, designated in an Area of Special Landscape Value, the Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club once formed part of a 13th-century deer park owned by the Black Prince.
1 night
Location: Hayes
Comfortable modern hotel close to London Heathrow Airport.
Participant Reviews
4.87
Based on 33 Reviews
Sort By:
Eileen – Class of 2003 | Foster City, CA
While I did fill out a review raving about this trip, I neglected to say one thing. The hotel dining room in Bowood Park Hotel and Golf Club was very noisy at many dinners. And it was very difficult to have any programs or lectures without a dedicated space. The staff was efficient but the noise made it quite unpleasant
— Review left October 1, 2024
Dotty – Class of 2013 | Ashland, OR
The hiking experience in the Cotswolds and Cornwall was a wonderful fulfillment of a bucket list experience for me. Our guides, Ian and Simon were congenial and informative. I found the hiking exhilarating and the commentary on history, geology, and literary figures contributed to the richness of the overall experience. An occasional glass of beer at the end of a long day added to the general good cheer!
— Review left September 26, 2024
Laurel – Class of 2018 | Saint Paul, MN
This was a marvelous trip in so many ways. Starting in the pastoral Cotswolds, we hiked in fields and by streams, sheep and cows watching our progress. We visited a number of historical sites, including the amazing Broadway Tower and Kelmscott Manor. My eyes were opened to the Arts and Crafts movement, which I found both philosophically and artistically fascinating. The pudding club in Mickleton was unforgettable as we indulged in seven kinds of puddings with an enthusiastic MC and other participants, electing the "Sticky Toffee Pudding" as king again (spoiler alert!) In Cornwall, we hiked on gorgeous cliffs and pastures with breathtaking views. We spent time in the small towns of St. Ives, St. Isaac, and more. These small town free time adventures gave us a chance to explore on our own. There's so much more, but I'd encourage anyone who is a hiker (the hikes are strenuous at times) and wants to experience the culture and scenery of this area to sign up for this trip!
— Review left September 21, 2024
Ariel – Class of 2015 | Cincinnati, OH
A fascinating immersion on how people and land have shaped each other in southwest England: technology. This will engage all your senses, your imagination, your body and your heart.
— Review left July 8, 2024
Diana – Class of 2018 | Blacksburg, VA
This is an absolutely wonderful Road Scholar trip. Our guides were knowledgable, great to be with, and eager to make sure we all found what we had hoped for in the trip. To really see and experience a place, I do believe that a person has to do a lot more than just visit and move on. Walking for days and days through that gorgeous landscape -- wind, rain, sun, clouds -- is exactly the trick. I want to especially thank Tim and Simon for their leadership. They are a perfect pair for a journey like this. As well, the group as a whole was simply filled with kind, generous, funny, interesting, and likable people. There were 22 of us, so I think it is a great compliment to the leaders, the locals we passed in streets, on footpaths, and along coastlines, and the program itself that we got along so well. I have only good things to say about the experience.
— Review left June 5, 2024
Maxine – Class of 2019 | Cary, NC
The leaders on this trip were outstanding! The natural beauty of the area was simply breath taking. I highly recommend this trip, especially if Simon is the leader.
— Review left June 4, 2024
Cathrine – Class of 2024 | Cloquet, MN
Hiking the English Countryside: The Cotswolds and Cornwall was an amazing trip. The hikes were challenging but doable. The daily reward was the beautiful scenery and charming villages. The Cornwall hikes were more challenging but hiking the coastal paths provided amazing ocean views. We had one rainy blustery hiking day in Cornwall. Three of us ventured out with our guide, Ian. The others were able to visit an arboretum with our other guide, Jen. The weather was great for the rest of the trip. The wildflowers and spring lambs were a delight. Ian and Jen were the best guides. Knowledgeable, welcoming, inclusive, encouraging and FUN! This is the perfect England trip where you can be immersed in the culture and not feel like a tourist.
— Review left May 17, 2024
Karolyn – Class of 2023 | Tucson, AZ
If you love hiking/walking in beautiful green majestic areas, this is a MUST. We enjoyed walking among fields, cows and nature. We were very fortunate to have amazing weather and wonderful co-participants/guests. Only being in two hotels saved us from continually packing and unparking. Our guides: Heather and Philippe were fabulous in their care of us and their knowledge of the Cotswolds and Cornwall. This trip was our first and a dream come true.
— Review left October 19, 2023
Brett – Class of 2023 | Tucson, AZ
Do you want to visit the Cotswolds and Cornwall? Are you looking for energetic hiking and beautiful vistas? Does English history and old church towns with some local shopping thrown in seem like an interesting mix? Well then "Hiking the English Countryside: The Cotswolds and Cornwall" is exactly the trip to do it all, with great food and fun knowledgeable Guides to keep everything on track! Plus, in Port Isaac you get to visit the fishing village from Doc Martin, wow!
— Review left October 19, 2023
John – Class of 2019 | Watertown, MA
This is an excellent program to gain a knowledge of Britain's past and present. Heather and Phillipe looked after us carefully and imparted a great deal of interesting detail. Her family company has done this for three generation; I can't recommend her more. Phillipe added knowledge and gallic charm. A great team leading us through lovely country.
— Review left October 17, 2023
Mary Jane – Class of 2019 | West Chester, PA
Lovely scenery and excellent guides (Simon and Graham). The daily walks were lovely and balanced with time in a local town or an attraction. Simon particularly went above and beyond to accommodate special interests and needs. So much to see and great guides to make it happen. I agree with the review above about the hotel accommodations. POSITIVES: The staff at both hotels were very helpful and friendly, always trying to respond to requests. HOWEVER: The Three Way House needs updating and cleaning. My room had carpet stains and mold in the bathroom with peeling paint. The dinners were generally good but the breakfasts in both hotels were repetitious. Dinners at the Bowood were geared to meat eaters and fried food lovers. I would prefer to stay in a more central location and have options for independent dinners as many of the restaurants in town where we lunched had great selections.
— Review left October 4, 2023
Reply from Road Scholar
Dear Mary Jane, Thank you for your feedback. We are in communication with our vendors to discuss the food options and hotel conditions. Please note the Three Ways House is currently undergoing a refurbishment to the rooms and public areas. Most of which will be done in time for next season. Also, Cornwall is a long, thin peninsula and there are only certain roads that are large enough to accommodate buses. We have found the location of the Boxwood Park Hotel helps minimize time in traffic leaving more time to explore. We look forward to seeing where your next adventure takes you. Sincerely, Road Scholar
Brenda – Class of 2023 | Fairhope, AL
Our walking tour of the Cotswolds and Cornwall was a dream come true! Our guide Simon was amazing and every day revealed delightful discoveries. Highly recommend!!
— Review left October 3, 2023
This participant did not give a star rating.
Judith – Class of 2022 | Lakewood, CO
This was our first trip with RS and definitely won’t be our last! From picking us up at the airport to our final goodbye at the end of the tour, every detail was taken care of. Our two guides, Nigel and Graham, were wonderful, knowledgeable, and entertaining. The countryside was gorgeous and we lucked out with the weather being mostly dry and warm. The daily itinerary was spot on with the trip descriptions. There were 22 guests, with average age probably about 70-75, and about 3/4 of the group were women. Accommodations were comfortable and clean, though required using stairs regularly ( not a problem for us). Food was good with plenty of variety. We did not have any special dietary restrictions but a couple of the guests did. There were vegan and gluten free options. We enjoyed the walking tour very much and would like to do another with similar distances (5-7 miles/day) in other parts of the U.K. and Europe.
— Review left September 29, 2023
Joyce – Class of 2017 | Lafayette, CA
Great trip. Fantastic hikes but BE SURE to read the activity level. Many trails were rocky, steep w/steps up and down, many cow/sheep gates to go through one at a time, and walking alongside ragweed and mustard on the trails. Saw lots of cows, sheep, horses, swans on the river, and wildflowers in the fields. Beautiful Cotswold homes and amazing Cornwall vistas. We even had perfect weather. Traveled mid-June, 2023.
— Review left July 7, 2023
Sally – Class of 2018 | Phoenix, AZ
A fabulous trip. I so enjoyed the hikes, accommodations, and group leaders. I would highly recommend this trip!!
— Review left June 28, 2023
Jo Anne | Pittsboro, NC
The hiking part of this trip was fun! Beautiful vistas, unique villages, and amazing wildflowers. The first 2 hotels left a lot to be desired and they weren’t centrally located to the day to day activities. The Three Way House had tiny rooms with stained carpets, moldy dangerous bathrooms and 2 of the 3 windows didn't open. "The Pudding Club" consisted of serving 3 desserts one night - no explanation or anything special. The Bowood Golf Club had dated rooms, also with mold in the bathroom. It certainly seemed that the best rooms were given to our guides. We spent too much time on the bus due to poor planning. Our guides varied greatly, with good and not so good. I heard from others how responsive Road Scholar was to feedback, but it's been a month and they only called to ask if we had questions. Very disappointed in Road Scholar!
— Review left June 7, 2023
George – Class of 2022 | Henrico, VA
Excellent program. So pleased to have done it. Can't wait for more Road Scholar programs soon.
— Review left June 3, 2023
Charles – Class of 2019 | Bennington, VT
This program exceeded my expectations. The hikes were magnificent! Glorious and breathtaking vistas! Amazing history and culture! Great food and accommodations. We had a truly wonderful group of other Road Scholars to share the trip with - and this makes a huge difference. Our lead guide, Chris, was superb: knowledgeable, warm, funny, engaging, attentive, organized - and he could sing too! A grand and enjoyable experience!
— Review left May 24, 2023
Wendy – Class of 2019 | Carmel, IN
A great program to combine love of the outdoors with educational sightseeing - there was such a variety of places seen and things learned! It was a lovely time to be in the English countryside - daffodils, golden canola fields, bluebells, rhododendren (at Heligan), and darling baby lambs (and cows).
— Review left May 12, 2023
Judith – Class of 2011 | Abingdon, VA
Outstanding hiking program. I have been on many other Road Scholar trips, all of which I enjoyed, but I have to say that Heather was one of the best guides I have ever encountered. Her attention to every detail elevated our experience above what was expected; her breadth of knowledge was remarkable. She is warm, witty, and fun. Not to mention that the Cotswolds and Cornwall and just glorious.
— Review left October 27, 2022
Ann – Class of 2020 | Baltimore, MD
I APPLAUD OUR LEADERS, HEATHER AND NIGEL, FOR THEIR GOOD HUMOR, KNOWLEDGE, FLEXIBILITY. FOR ME, OUR WALKS WERE THE HIGHLIGHT. I WOULD HAVE LIKED TO SEE LESS RIDING ON THE BUS.
— Review left October 24, 2022
Diane – Class of 2016 | Colorado Spgs, CO
Hiking in the Cotswolds and Cornwall was a wonderful experience especially for people who walk regularly, the walks we took were perfect for me. Heather and Nigel worked well together, provided assistance when needed and so much knowledge of both areas. Suggestions for lunch free time were always spot on. I would recommend this tour to anyone who enjoys walking and enjoying nature while learning about each region.
— Review left October 19, 2022
Elizabeth – Class of 2019 | New Haven, CT
A wonderful blend of two beautiful sections of England. The most strenuous of my RS trips so far but it was worth the effort particularly in Cornwall. Organization was excellent and the Footpath guides were great. They made the trip better with their local knowledge and skills.
— Review left September 15, 2022
Charles – Class of 2019 | Laramie, WY
Beautiful walks in both areas. We enjoyed this hiking tour and learned a lot about the area, its people and history.
— Review left May 30, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Jagdish – Class of 2015 | Springfield, OH
This was an awesome trip! Learning about Cotswold and Cornwall culture, history and area was wonderful! Walking through the green pastures, fields, towns, villages and terrain by the ocean was a splendid experience! Walks are not super hard, every morning we checked the weather for that day and dressed accordingly. Our guide also helped in deciding the walk and terrain . She (Heather) was excellent. Simon, the other guide was great too! Food was excellent in both hotels; especially the desserts at the Three Way House Hotel in Mickleton. Just a note for R Scholar planners: The rooms that are renovated at Three Way House Hotel should be given to the Road Scholars. Our group was excellent, we were always on time.
— Review left May 28, 2022
Erica – Class of 2018 | Newport, VA
This was a bucket-list trip for me, even though my spouse would not go with me. It was really nice to stay at the same hotel for 6 days and get to know an area more thoroughly. Fabulous tour leaders. I did not miss seeing London at all !
— Review left May 24, 2022
Margaret – Class of 2022 | Somers, NY
Your website is fine. It's the ONE always busy phone number for EVERYTHING that needs improving.
— Review left May 12, 2022
Larry – Class of 2014 | Framingham, MA
This is a fantastic hiking adventure running the gamut of beautiful Cotswold villages and stunning Cornwall vistas. Be advised that some of the hikes are steep, strenuous and/or muddy (but always exhilarating) so be prepared. Our program leaders, Jen Sutton and Chris James, were wonderful!!
— Review left October 23, 2019
Patricia – Class of 2016 | Falls Church, VA
I hiked through some of The Most Beautiful country I never knew existed and learned about gardens, tin mining, history, art, wool, wine, and more. The tour leaders were all knowledgeable, skilled, friendly, and a lot of fun. The food was outstanding, accommodations charming, and fellow hikers curious and kind. The hiking is at a comfortable pace. I'm so thankful I went on this trip; oh the memories!
— Review left September 14, 2019
John – Class of 2013 | Tucson, AZ
This was a fantastic program which really gave my wife and me an in-depth understanding of these two interesting and very different parts of the U.K. The hikes were well-chosen, and there were always alternatives for those who chose not to participate on any given day. The food was much better than expected and the accommodations were fine. Jen and Russell made a great team of leaders, always upbeat, and with insightful stories, history, and even songs particular to the Cotswolds, Cornwall, and the U.K. in general. As expected, we had a wide range of weather conditions, so any participants should definitely plan for heavy rain, in terms of boots and other gear. A highly-recommended program.
— Review left June 26, 2019
Jennifer – Class of 2016 | Hertford, NC
Delightful walking tour through the beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds and Cornwall! Would highly recommend this trip as a different way of viewing two beautiful areas of England.
— Review left June 15, 2019
Paul – Class of 2009 | New York, NY
After 14 R/S hiking adventures, I'm still recommending them, and this trip is no exception. The Cotswolds has beautiful, undulating hills - a perfect contrast to the rocky, dramatic Cornwall seacoast. The land often had a rich green hue in early June, and multi-colored flowers would line the trails or frame the houses that we walked past. Just lovely. Two main hotels were used during the 2 week trip (other than the last night for the Heathrow departure), so we didn't need to waste too much time packing and unpacking. Very efficient from my perspective. They were well located and comfortable. (I never ran out of hot water.) The food was also excellent. Breakfasts were plentiful, to say the least, and several good choices were always offered for each dinner course. (I usually selected the fish for my entree since in my opinion, the Brits tend to overcook the meat.) You won't go hungry on this trip! The activity level can fairly be described as moderately challenging. Be prepare for some substantial exercise. A few hikes exceeded 6 miles with both ups and downs, sometimes steep, but they were definitely worth the effort. Some trails were narrow and required you to step quite carefully - not unusual for these types of trips. I often brought a hiking pole with me and was glad I did. However, other options were occasionally available for those who wanted a day of rest or less exertion. There were also some city days, such as at Oxford, where we had a local guide for a tour of a college and then free time to explore. Do make sure you bring sufficient layers of clothing and rain gear, preferably water proof and not merely water repellent, and a secure hat. This is England, after all, and the weather can be changeable on short notice. You need to be able to make a quick switch on the trail and add or peel layers when necessary. England is a great country to explore, and I found the Brits to be very friendly and easy to talk to. All in all, this is a great program.
— Review left June 11, 2019
Karen – Class of 2017 | Bainbridge Island, WA
I completely enjoyed this trip - the walks, the views, the food, the activities. There are many walks, mostly in Cornwall, that require significant hill climbs on rocky, uneven steps. Most walks require crossing over stiles that are challenging. Had I known this, I would have prepared a bit differently to improve the flexibility that required. But it didn't stop me!
— Review left May 29, 2019





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