From our base in Swindon, we travel north to the delightful Cotswold town of Moreton-in-Marsh for a morning of independent exploring before setting our sights on Chastleton House and Blenheim Palace, for two striking examples of contrasting architecture.
Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace Second State Room ©Blenheim Palace
Chastleton © National Trust Images Hugh Mothersole www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Moreton-in-Marsh
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Moreton-in-Marsh & Chastleton House
This morning, we head into the Cotswolds for Moreton-in-Marsh, a vibrant market town. The wide High Street features beautiful 17th and 18th Century architecture, including the historic White Hart Royal, a former manor where King Charles I took refuge during the Civil War, and the unique Curfew Tower, complete with its original clock and bell. The High Street is adorned with charming Cotswolds stone buildings that are home to a variety of speciality shops, antique stores, tea rooms, and delicatessens. Next, we visit the nearby National Trust property of Chastleton House, a unique treasure of a Jacobean house that has remained largely untouched for more than 400 years. Its Cotswold stone façade hides an enchanting time capsule filled with history, such as textiles of national importance, exquisite Jacobite glass, and cherished family portraits. Please note: Tours in October will include only garden entrance to Chastleton House.
Day 3 Blenheim Palace
Today we head to the fabulous Blenheim Palace, the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, with time to explore at leisure. One of England’s largest houses, it was built in the early 1700s and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The palace is a family home, a mausoleum and national monument, and is notable as being the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill. Here, we can explore the gilded State Rooms, visit the Churchill Exhibition and wander the Formal Gardens. Note: Blenheim Palace’s roof restoration project is scheduled to be completed, with scaffolding removed, by the end of 2026. This will ensure the Palace is returned to its former glory and fully unveiled for 2027.
Day 4 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
Doubletree by Hilton Swindon
Swindon, Wiltshire
Located on the outskirts of Swindon, this 4-star hotel is decorated to a high standard and is ideally placed for visits to the beautiful regions of both the Cotswolds and Wiltshire. Each of the 171 bedrooms is decorated in a modern style and there is a modern open kitchen and a spacious split level bar/lounge.
BarGround Floor RoomsLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Inclusions
- Entrance to Chastleton House
- Entrance to Blenheim Palace, Park & Garden
See quote for hotel inclusions
3 Nights Half Board
Twin from £297pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £112
Based on Friday arrivals
