Heritage Railways of the Cotswolds & Avon Valley
Holiday Highlights
- Visit Didcot Railway Centre to discover the unique collection of steam engines
- Enjoy free time exploring the market town of Swindon
- Indulge in the history of the Great Western Railway
- Take an unforgettable ride on the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway
- Visit the gloriously green landscapes of Broadway
- A memorable boat ride on the Bristol Packet Boat around Bristol Docks
- Enjoy a ride on the Avon Valley Railway including a traditional cream tea
What's Included
- Four nights’ half board accommodation in Wiltshire
- Coach transfers for our excursions
- Services of our experienced Tour Manager
Please note:
- Deposit: £150
- We cannot guarantee all rail journeys will be steam hauled
Itinerary
Day 1: Wiltshire
Make your own way to our hotel, where you meet our Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 2: Didcot Railway Museum – Museum of the Great Western Railway
After a leisurely breakfast, we travel by coach to the Didcot Railway Museum. Here, you’ll have time to browse the unique collection of Great Western Railway steam engines, coaches, wagons and a recreation of Brunel’s broad gauge railway. The rural setting is based around the original 1930’s engine shed. Later, we travel to the market town of Swindon where you’ll have time to explore the original settlement, known as the Old Town. Wander through the quiet courtyards and enjoy the vibrant mix of traditional shops and pubs alongside modern outlets and stylish cafes. We later continue to the Museum of the Great Western Railway in Swindon. The museum is located in a beautifully restored Grade II Listed railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works. The Museum tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway. See famous locomotives, ‘drive’ the train simulator and even work the signals in the interactive signal box. We return to our hotel for dinner this evening.
Best Western Premier Collection Blunsdon House Hotel
Set in 30 acres of beautiful countryside the 4 star Blunsdon House hotel is situated in the village of Broad Blunsdon. All the individually decorated bedrooms have flat screen televisions, a safety deposit box, telephone, hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities. There are two restaurants and three bars to relax and enjoy a drink after a day of exploring or alternatively take a swim in the hotels indoor heated swimming pool or take a walk around the beautiful grounds of the hotel.