Megdorset

Another castle - only 10 miles approx from Stourhead is Old Wardour Castle.

See www.english-heritage.org.uk.

jamikins

Is there anyway to just change your accomodation dates in London? I've never really had a problem with that. I think it will save you time in the end.

gali

Can't do that, have a cheap but non-refundable reservation. But, I think regardless of where we come from in the end we'll plan to stay around Heathrow so should be just fine. I think just cutting the east area did the trick, so thanks for that!

So I think the only thins are (1) what to do on the weekend (Bath area or the Cotswolds) and (2) B&B...

Looking pretty good!

jsmith

gali, Earls Court is relatively close to Science Museum, Natural History Museum and V&A. They are adjacent and free except for special exhibitions. There is something for every taste and interest and since it is free you and your entourage can pop in for a few minutes.

Closest tube is South Kensington or use a bus on Crompton Road.

RosemaryM

Hi
I can't top any of the above comments, some great advice. However, while we were in Bath last year we hired a dayboat (very small narrowboat) from Bath Narrowboats for 90GBP and had a lovely day on the Kennnet and Avon Canal. There are no locks to worry about, a couple of swing bridges (no problem) and two great aquaducts. The boat was very basic, tiny toilet and washbasin, two burner stove, tiny fridge, but you are not going to live aboard. We took lunch with us and picnicked by the canal, which is lovely. Of course, we had a fine day!
Whatever you do, enjoy.
Rosemary

gali

janisj - Thank you for the list. castles look lovely, will definitely add to the list
RosemaryM - this sounds just like what I'm looking for! I already had Bath Narrowboats on my list as an option, so good to hear that.

Any B&B recommendations in the Bath area/Salisbury/Cotswolds?

And - we're trying to avoid the Cotswolds during the weekend as we heard the area gets to be crowded on Summer weekends. Any thoughts on that? The specific weekend in question is July 2-3, options are the Cotswolds are or Bath area (possibly including narrowboat/Stourhear).

Thanks!

janisj

just one quick comment right now: The Cotswolds don't really get crazy crowded on weekends. <i>SOME</i> specific places do get <u>very</u> crowded -- Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, maybe Hidcote Manor Garden, or some village having a festival/fete. But the region as a whole won't be slammed w/ traffic/visitors.

gali

That's good to hear, janisj. Still, I assume it is more crowded on weekends? Will those popular spots be as crowded during the week?
We have enough flexibility to not be there during the weekend, so just wondering...