Luxury Oxford Reflections: Itinerary

1 night / 2 days or 2 nights / 3 days self- guided cycling tour

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Day One - The River Thames to Abingdon

10 miles (16km) Optional additional miles

At a time to suit you, make your way to our base in the centre of Oxford, to pick up your cycling equipment. Your host will meet you there, organise your bicycle and run through your itinerary. Then you are off on your bike to explore the Thames and its sleepy hamlets and backwaters on bridleways and quiet country lanes. Discover historic Abingdon, rustic pubs, tiny museums, magical views, and the wildlife of this ancient waterway. It's a gentle day's cycling with a relaxed boat trip back to Oxford before heading on to your hotel. Those wanting to cycle further can explore the riverside villages beyond Abingdon.

Day Two - Blenheim and Cotswolds

28 miles (45 km) Optional additional miles

A different but equally delightful scene beckons today as you wind your way out of Oxford along the canal. Houseboats and wildlife abound, tiny bridges and dragon flies surprise. Not far from the navigation, sits the Cotswold stone village of Woodstock and grandiose Blenheim Palace. Set in 2000 acres of Capability Brown landscape, the palace was built in the 18th Century and became the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The 11th Duke of Marlborough lives here today. After a leisurely stop, its time to amble through pretty Cotswold villages nestling in folds of the gentle hills. Discover the delights of Charlbury and take a short train hop back to Oxford and then on to your hotel. Those taking the 1 night tour can choose the Blenheim ride or the less demanding Thames meadows ride..

Day Three - The Thames meadows and canal

14 miles (22km)

We recommend a third day on this tour as there is a fascinating ride through the very rural river meadows to the north of Oxford. Formerly these meadows were part of extensive hunting grounds where you will now find Alice in Wonderland’s well, pretty villages, weir side pubs and endless backwaters. Enjoy a lazy lunch before ambling back along the canal. This is a gentle hugely attractive ride and virtually traffic free.