3 Day West Country Private Tour

Experience Review: 3 Day West Country Private Tour

Exploring England’s West Country on a three-day private tour offers a delightful mix of iconic sights, charming villages, and local flavors—all tailored by a knowledgeable guide. From the awe-inspiring stones of Stonehenge to the historic streets of Bath and the scenic beauty of Cheddar Gorge, this tour is designed for travelers who crave authentic, in-depth experiences without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on local insights—the guide, Daniel, was born and raised in Bath, sharing personal stories and favorite viewpoints, which makes the experience feel both genuine and intimate. The inclusion of all admission fees means no surprise costs, and the flexible drop-off options give you freedom to head to your next destination when ready.

However, a consideration for some might be the amount of walking involved—the tour includes several walking tours and some uneven paths, especially at Cheddar Gorge. This might not suit travelers with mobility challenges. Still, the pace can be tailored, and the overall value makes it an excellent choice for those who love to absorb local culture and history.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized look at some of England’s most treasured sites, with the comfort of private transportation and a local guide making all the difference. If you prefer structured sightseeing with authentic insights and local flavor, this is an experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Led by a local guide, ensuring personalized attention and insider stories.
• All-Inclusive Prices: Admission to major sites like Stonehenge, Roman Baths, and Wells Cathedral are included.
• Authentic Local Insights: Guide’s personal knowledge and hometown perspective add depth.
• Flexible Drop-off: You can finish the tour at various destinations within 3 hours’ drive of Bath.
• Ideal for Culture & History Lovers: Focused on iconic landmarks with a touch of village life.
• Moderate Walking & Accessibility: Some walking and uneven terrain, so be prepared.

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day West Country Private Tour

Day 1: From Southampton to Bath via Stonehenge

The adventure begins in Southampton, where your guide meets you at your hotel or cruise ship, setting the tone for an intimate, relaxed experience. The journey to Stonehenge takes around an hour, giving plenty of time to settle into the trip and chat with your guide, Daniel, who’s known for his promptness and deep local knowledge.

Once at Stonehenge, you’ll explore the visitor center and then walk around the ancient stone circle. Daniel’s background attending talks by archaeologists means you’ll hear the latest discoveries and stories that bring the stones to life. This insider perspective makes all the difference compared to visiting alone or with a large group.

After Stonehenge, a stop at a historic English pub en route to Bath offers a chance to enjoy traditional fare and soak in some local ambiance. This thoughtful inclusion ensures you get a taste of regional hospitality amidst your sightseeing.

Bath itself is a city Daniel knows inside and out, having grown up there. You’ll start with a viewpoint over the city, giving a sense of its layout and architecture. The private walking tour then takes you through the streets, highlighting iconic buildings and sharing fascinating stories. The highlight here is the Roman Baths, where you’re free to explore with audio guides—an efficient way to learn about this well-preserved ancient spa.

In the evening, you’ll stay overnight in Bath, with the freedom to explore or relax as you wish.

Day 2: Historic Wells, Cheddar’s Cheese & Gorge

Day two kicks off with a drive through the picturesque countryside to Wells, England’s smallest city. The private walking tour of Wells’ historic center showcases its medieval charm, with highlights like the Wells Cathedral. The cathedral’s 13th-century architecture and the world’s second-oldest working clock stand out, offering both visual splendor and a glimpse into medieval engineering.

The visit to Vicar’s Close—the oldest residential street in Europe—is a quiet, atmospheric stop, perfect for those who love seeing well-preserved historical sites.

Lunch is at a cozy local pub, setting the scene for an afternoon in Cheddar, the birthplace of the famous cheese. Here, you’ll visit the Cheddar Cheese Factory, where traditional cheese-making methods are still in use. Seeing the process firsthand and tasting different varieties, including cave-matured cheese, is a real highlight. The guide’s insight here makes the cheese tasting feel like a behind-the-scenes experience rather than just a quick sample.

Later, the dramatic Cheddar Gorge offers sweeping views over the cliffs. Though the walk up to the viewpoint involves a steep, uneven path, the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort. The optional walk allows for some scenic exercise, but if mobility is a concern, there’s no pressure to climb.

By late afternoon, the group heads back to Bath for another relaxing evening, perhaps to explore the city’s night-time charm.

Day 3: Charming Village and Optional Falconry Experience

On the final day, you get a dose of local village life, away from the tourist crowds. The guide takes you on a leisurely walk through a lesser-known village just outside Bath, revealing historic features and beautiful countryside views. This quiet, authentic experience is a chance to see real English village life, with its traditional pubs, cottages, and rural charm.

Alternatively, if you’re eager for a more hands-on wildlife experience, you can opt to visit a local falconry. This unique activity involves flying a hawk in the countryside—an unforgettable experience especially for bird enthusiasts. Note that this activity is weather-dependent and limited to those aged 8 and above.

After lunch at a village pub, your private transfer departs, taking you to your next destination within three hours’ drive. The flexibility to end the tour at various locations makes this a convenient and tailored experience.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The all-inclusive pricing covers site admissions to major attractions, so you won’t face surprise charges. The private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride, especially when traveling between spread-out sites.

The tour’s local guide’s expertise is clearly a standout, with reviews praising Daniel’s punctuality, knowledge, and personal touch. His background from Bath lends an authentic voice to the storytelling, elevating the experience beyond a typical sightseeing trip.

However, the tour involves a fair amount of walking—especially in historic sites and uneven terrains like Cheddar Gorge. If mobility is a concern, you might find some stops challenging, but the tour can be tailored to avoid strenuous walks.

The price of $1,539.58 per person reflects a premium experience, but the value is high considering the private guides, all admissions, and personalized itinerary. For travelers wanting an in-depth, hassle-free exploration of the West Country with local insights, this tour offers significant bang for your buck.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, culture lovers, and those craving authentic local stories. It’s ideal if you prefer a more personalized, relaxed pace and want to avoid crowded group tours. The private guide makes it especially good for couples, small groups, or families who value tailored experiences and insider knowledge.

If you’re not keen on lots of walking or uneven terrain, some parts might be less suitable, but options can often be adjusted with advance notice. The inclusion of flexible drop-off points means you can plan your onward travel conveniently.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day private tour of the West Country offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of England’s charming countryside and historic gems. From the legendary stones of Stonehenge to the ancient streets of Wells, the stunning cliffs of Cheddar Gorge, and the elegant architecture of Bath, you’ll see some of the best the region has to offer—guided by someone who truly knows the area.

The value lies in the personalized approach, the seamless transportation, and the insider stories that bring each site to life. It’s perfect for travelers who want to soak up history and scenery without the hassle of planning each detail, and who appreciate a guide with genuine local knowledge.

If you’re ready for a memorable, in-depth adventure that combines iconic sites with authentic local flavor, this tour delivers just that—making your trip to England’s West Country truly special.

FAQ

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $1,539.58 per person, which covers all admissions, private transportation, and a local guide.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private air-conditioned transportation is included for the entire 3 days, with pick-up from Southampton and drop-off options within 3 hours of Bath.

Are all entrance fees covered?
All admission prices are included, covering sites like Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Wells Cathedral, and Cheddar Cheese Factory.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility, including drop-off locations and optional activities like flying a hawk. You should coordinate these preferences when booking.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but meals at local pubs are part of the itinerary, and the guide will recommend good options.

What about walking and accessibility?
The tour involves walking through historic sites and uneven terrains, especially at Cheddar Gorge. It may not suit those with mobility issues.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 199 days in advance, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred dates.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the hawk-flying activity is suitable for children aged 8 and above. Other aspects depend on individual mobility and interest.

What is the guide’s background?
Your guide, Daniel, is a local born and raised in Bath, with extensive knowledge and personal stories about the area.

How do I end the tour?
Drop-off locations are flexible within 3 hours’ drive of Bath, making it easy to reach your next destination or accommodation.

This comprehensive view of the 3 Day West Country Private Tour highlights the rich experiences, expert guidance, and seamless logistics that make it a standout choice for travelers eager to see the best of southern England with a local touch.