Leave the medieval city of Oxford and head first to the pretty village of Minster Lovell. Walk through the village and see the pretty thatched cottages and River Windrush. Relax on a scenic drive that takes you through the idyllic hamlets of Asthall and Swinbrook to the old market town of Burford, the 'gateway to the Cotswolds'.  Enjoy time to browse in the sloping High Street of Burford, with its quirky shops and cafes. Continue through the old quarrying villages of Taynton and the Barringtons, where a panoramic drive takes you to Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'.  Wander along the banks of the quaint River Windrush with its old stone bridges or stop for a refreshment in one of the many cafes. Leaving Bourton-on-the-Water, you climb up to Stow Hill to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds and a market town since the 12th century. Stow is known for its many antique shops and art galleries, as well as many other shops and cafes.  Don't forget to visit St Edward's Church with its old door which inspired the writer Tolkien. On your way back to Oxford pass by the market town of Chipping Norton and Woodstock, the site of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Stop for a brief photo stop of the palace before your return to Oxford.

Did you know that Oxford's local population is one of the most cosmopolitan and international in the UK? Oxford is an outward looking European city which embraces the cultures and the cuisine of its local residents. One of the best aspects of traveling abroad is trying the local food but eating out in major tourist destinations can be a hit or miss experience, so it pays to find out where the locals like to eat and that's partly the mission behind this new tour. You will be introduced to the best sightseeing spots learning all about Oxford city and its university history but you will also sample savory and sweet foods from some of Oxford's best food stalls and of course, local food speciality shops.  This tour can cater to special dietary needs. The average number of clients on tour is 2-4 persons. Local establishments sampled might include a visit to Oxford cheese company or Italian style gelato plus a choice from a wide range of local, international food stalls at Oxford's international food market.