Setting Off on a Quintessentially British Adventure
Right, let’s face it, if you’re nipping over from London with Coco Moola, you’ll want to pack in as much as possible. And what could be more British than a bit of history, a touch of telly glamour, and some seriously stunning countryside? So, grab your walking boots and your best “Queen’s English” accent, because we’re off on an adventure!
Blenheim Palace: A Gift from a Grateful Nation (and a Battlefield Triumph)
First up, it’s Blenheim Palace, a proper stately home that’s grander than your nan’s prize-winning Victoria sponge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site wasn’t just built for show; it was a thank-you from a grateful nation to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, for his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704.
- A Palace Fit for a Duke (and a Prime Minister): Blenheim Palace boasts over 300 years of history, with architecture so fancy it’ll make your eyes water. Designed in the English Baroque style, it’s a testament to the power and prestige of the Marlborough family. For a more in-depth look at its fascinating past, you can explore the Blenheim Palace History page. The palace also has a long line of royal visits, and holds many artifacts of historic importance.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Blenheim Palace has its own miniature railway? Perfect for little dukes and duchesses (and big kids too!).
- Capability Brown’s Masterpiece: The palace is surrounded by more than 2000 acres of parkland, landscaped by the legendary “Capability” Brown. Before Brown, the landscape was more formal, in the French style. Brown transformed it into the naturalistic masterpiece we see today, complete with a magnificent lake created by damming the River Glyme.
Fun Fact: Capability Brown was so influential, that his work is said to have shaped the classic look of the English garden, and he was so popular he was nicknamed “Capability” because he would tell his clients that their properties had great “capabilities”.
- Events and Exhibitions: Blenheim Palace isn’t just a stuffy old building; it’s a living, breathing place with events, tours, and exhibitions throughout the year. From the World War II era use of the palace as a hospital, to modern art installations, there is always something going on, from jousting knights to jazz concerts.
How to Visit Downton Abbey Filming Locations and The Cotswolds in One Day: Bampton, a Village Rooted in Saxon England
Next, we’re off to Bampton, or as it’s better known to millions of Downton Abbey fans, the village where all the outdoor scenes were filmed. This charming little place is so quintessentially English, you’ll be half-expecting Mr. Carson to pop out and tell you off for not wearing a hat. Bampton’s history stretches back to the Anglo-Saxon period, and it was once an important market town.
- Downton Abbey Pilgrimage: Wander through the village and spot familiar locations like St. Mary’s Church (where all those weddings and funerals happened) and the old Grammar School Building (which served as the “Downton” village). St. Mary’s church itself has architecture that spans several centuries.
Fun Fact: While filming Downton Abbey, the residents of Bampton became quite accustomed to seeing actors in period costume wandering around their village.
- Bampton’s Own History: Bampton isn’t just a pretty face; it has a rich history dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. It was once a major wool trading centre, and the remnants of its prosperity can still be seen in its historic buildings. The village also has a history of resisting change, which is part of its charm.
Fun Fact: Bampton was once known for its “Bampton Fair,” a huge annual event that attracted traders and visitors from all over the region.
- Morris Dancing Madness: If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on the late May Bank Holiday, you might catch the Bampton Day of Dance, a Morris dancing tradition that’s been going on for generations. This tradition is a link to the villages ancient past, and a great example of the continuation of English folk culture. It’s bonkers, it’s brilliant, and it’s very, very British.
The Cotswolds: A Landscape Shaped by Wool and Time
And finally, we have the Cotswolds themselves, a vast expanse of rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and scenery so stunning it’ll make you want to burst into song (preferably something by Elgar). This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of London and reconnect with nature (and maybe a few sheep). The Cotswolds’ unique character is deeply rooted in its geological makeup and its history as a major wool-producing region.
- Picture-Perfect Villages: From Bourton-on-the-Water (the “Venice of the Cotswolds”) to Lower Slaughter (which is anything but), the Cotswolds are dotted with charming villages that look like they’ve been plucked straight out of a postcard. The honey-colored limestone that characterizes the region’s buildings comes from local quarries, and gives the villages their unique look.
Fun Fact: The Cotswolds are home to some of the oldest dry stone walls in England, a testament to the region’s long history of sheep farming.
- Walking in a Winter Wonderland (or any other season): The Cotswold Way National Trail is a walker’s paradise, offering breathtaking views and a chance to stretch your legs. The Cotswold hills themselves were formed during the Jurassic period, and the area is rich in fossils. Just remember to pack your waterproofs; this is England, after all.
Fun Fact: The Cotswold sheep, known for their long, curly fleece, were once a major source of wealth for the region.
- Wildlife and Waterparks: For a bit of family fun, head to the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding at Cotswold Water Park. The area’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife, and the water park is a reminder of the areas more recent history of gravel extraction.
Fun Fact: The Cotswold Water Park is larger than some of the Lake Districts famous lakes.
So there you have it, a whirlwind tour of Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village, and the Cotswolds, guaranteed to leave you feeling more British than a plate of fish and chips. And if you fancy letting someone else do the driving, why not book a day trip from London with Coco Moola? You can find more information and book your adventure here: Cotswolds Day Trips from London
Happy travels, and don’t forget to say “tally-ho!” at least once.