wolverine71

Blenheim Palace is perhaps the most magnificient stately house in Britain, certainly in regards to the non-Royal ones. It's scale is hard to believe. Still, the super-size stately houses, such as Castle Howard or Blenheim, tend to blur together as far as details - huge gardens, scores of marble statues, etc. I actually prefer the smaller country houses.

hlocke1

Hello again, everyone --

Thank you for the continued input. I think we should be good to go given the few extra gems you have contributed. It is interesting to see how split everyone is on Blenheim.

Kathy: Thank you for your thoughtful response. You've offered a lot of help. For day 4, we are actually planning on getting a taxi/car service for the return trip if we make it as far as Winchcombe.

Flanner: No worries on the walking... see above. I promise that we will stop if we get tired. Thank you for offering specifics about the mileage. I have my ordnance map, but didn't have an exact number figured out.

mclaurie: We have all of our transportation specifics worked out. I am seeking specific advice/opinions on sights and food in/around the listed locations (rather than how we will get to and from each one).

Thanks again!

itsv

Last year we ate at the "fancy" restaurant at the Cotswold House Hotel (I think it is called Julianne's) and found it quiet good. I loved Hidecote Manor and agree that tea there would be great.

luvtotravel

Three nights out of four we had dinner at the Swan in Broadway. We enjoyed it each time.

hypatia

We went last August...Keep in mind if it is raining it may put a crimp in your day 1 ..plans..Bibury was one of my favorites, don't miss it..Blenheim was ok but don't miss the garden and the "pleasure garden" not just for kids ..so British..We loved the maze...

Lastly the best place we ate was the Plough Inn and Pub...RESERVE ahead!!!or you will not get a meal!!!It was a fun drive.It is the best in the area...
Also good the Fox.
.Do a drive though of Oxford on the way back ..It's great