A Bespoke Multi-Generational family adventure in England: Cotswolds games, polo lessons and a fresh look at London

<h2>Behind the Scenes of a Bespoke Multi-Generational Trip to England</h2>Our Bespoke Behind the Scenes series lets you in on some of the incredible trips that B&amp;R Experience Designers create for travellers. From multi-generational family reunions to once-in-a-lifetime journeys that explore remote destinations, our team works one-on-one with travellers to design adventures that meet every need and desire. Here, our traveller Penney shares some memories from a multi-generational adventure with her family in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/united-kingdom">England</a> and Experience Designer <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/meet-the-designers/lucy-clark">Lucy Clark</a> shares details about some of the local traditions she introduced to the family.&nbsp;Sometimes a travel wish list can only be delivered with a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/how-to-travel/bespoke">Bespoke</a> experience, and this was one of those times.&nbsp;&nbsp;Penney wanted to plan a multi-generational trip to England for her family, with travellers ranging in age from eight to 85—a group that while all passionate about being active had interests as varied as their ages. The terrain to explore: the Cotswalds, known for its picturesque villages, rolling green hills and quaint stone architecture, and London, with a goal of exploring the capital city in a new way.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I worked very closely with Lucy and we had a great time talking about our family needs. She picked up on the high energy of our family and planned a hiking day, a cycling day, a polo lesson and an afternoon of games,” says Penney.&nbsp;

<h2>Active Adventures in the Cotswolds</h2>The group of 19 were up for any adventure, and embraced some friendly rivalries, too. Many of their experiences were also a fun entry into the region’s history and cultural traditions. An afternoon was spent at Cirencester Polo Club, which dates back to 1894, where the group learned about the history of the game through a lesson—complete with climbing atop a wooden horse to perfect their swing. Then it was game time, with the family splitting into two teams and some retreating to the sidelines to cheer on the players.&nbsp;On another day, the group’s guides, Gaby and Jago, hosted the Olimpick Games, a custom version of a 400-year-old Cotswolds summer tradition. The games included tug ‘o’ war and shin kicking, which is exactly as it sounds. “Our version also incorporated ‘wellie wanging,’ a wellington boot-throwing competition,” Lucy explains.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The guides were exceptional, took such good care of us and were so knowledgeable and so much fun,” says one of Penney’s family members. “We left with amazing memories and new friends.”&nbsp;<h2>Culinary Delights on a Bespoke Trip</h2>There was magic to be found in the details too, like the variety of meals the family got to enjoy. From a full English breakfast at the stunning country house Crucis Park they made homebase while in the Cotswolds to village pub lunches to fine dining in a private room at a Mayfair restaurant in London.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Experiencing London Beyond the Tourist Trail</h2>Once in the city, the family was treated to new ways to see and understand London. There was the early morning tour of the Tower of London with a Yeoman Warder including a viewing of the castle’s opening ceremony. They had a behind-the-scenes tour of the Cabinet War Rooms. And they took to a RIB speedboat for an adrenaline-boosting ride through the city on the Thames River. “Seeing London from our speed boat ride was so unique and gave us a terrific ‘other view’ of the city,” says one of Penney’s family members.&nbsp;“There were a number of things that Lucy orchestrated off of the typical tourist route that we loved,” Penney adds. “We tried it all.”&nbsp;

Discover a tailor-made family adventure in England, blending active fun in the Cotswolds with unique cultural traditions, polo lessons, and exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences in London. A bespoke multi-generational journey designed for unforgettable memories. 

England

Where the English live.

This is England

Ride quiet country roads between honey-coloured villages and busy market towns, explore the heritage of historic cities like Oxford and Roman-influenced Bath, enjoy world-class cuisine and sumptuous picnics, and wash it all down with a local ale at our favourite pub.

Take in the magic of England’s treasured national parks—starting in the Lake District and then venturing south to the Yorkshire Dales. We'll lead you to our favourite hidden spots in the verdant countryside as you retrace the footsteps of England’s greatest poets and novelists. You'll get acquainted with the locals, from humble farmers who invite you into their homes for lunch to amicable herds of sheep acting as your constant companions. Along your journey, rest your legs at cozy, fire-lit pubs and refuel with farm-to-table delicacies and world-class Michelin-starred chefs.

Adventure Awaits In The English Countryside

This tour offers guided tours of the highlights of London, walking in the beautiful Lake Distirct and a visit to the historic University Town of Cambridge.

Take in the Cotswolds' charm on foot and explore the lavish gardens, ancient cities and honey-pot homes in one of Britain's quaintest corners. From Churchill's residence at Blenheim Palace to the Roman-influenced city of Bath, strolling the Cotswolds is a glorious step back in time.Please note the 2025 hotel lineup: The Wild Rabbit, The Painswick, The Royal Crescent Hotel &amp; Spa

Historic Sites

Great Walks

Authentic Food

In the Cotswolds, quaint British charm reaches its peak, gardens go lavishly rogue, and you can't help but feel like you've just stepped out of a time machine. Wander storybook lanes from sleepy Snowshill to lofty lookouts, indulge in cozy pub meals and strolls through Roman-influenced Bath, every step feels delightfully out of sync with modern life.

Stroll through chocolate-box charm

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

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Experience Designers

Take in the Cotswolds' charm on foot and explore the lavish gardens, ancient cities, and honey-pot homes in one of Britain's quaintest corners. From Churchill's residence at Blenheim Palace to the Roman influences infused in Bath, strolling the Cotswolds is a glorious step back in time.&nbsp;

Cotswolds Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Discover the idyllic charm of Cornwall, the sparkling jewel of England's West Country. Lace up your walking shoes and venture along the unspoilt coastline, soaking up the sun-kissed views and indulging in the freshest seafood imaginable. Join a traditional gig racing team, enjoy local sea shanties, then relax with bubbly, oysters and the perfect beach club lounger.

Discover the idyllic charm of Cornwall, the sparkling jewel of England's West Country. Lace up your walking shoes and venture along the unspoilt coastline, soaking up the sun-kissed views and indulging in the freshest seafood imaginable. Join a traditional gig racing team, enjoy local sea shanties, then relax with bubbly, oysters and the perfect beach club lounger.

Coastal Charm & Maritime Magic

Cornwall Coastal Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Brits tend to stick close to home for the holidays and as you soak in the endless coastal views and dramatic National Parks, you'll understand why. Dine on gastronomic comforts where the locals frequent and meander through mystical moors contrasted by flawlessly manicured gardens.

Diverse Landscapes

British Humour

History & Literature

England charms without even trying—rolling hills, seaside villages and countryside straight out of a Jane Austen fever dream. Cycle coastal Cornwall, ramble through the Lakes or sip your way through the Cotswolds. With farm-fresh feasts, cosy manor stays and just the right amount of literary name-dropping, this is England with all the polish and none of the pretence.

England’s charm exudes through quaint, whimsical towns

Bike Cornwall, the Cotswolds and Georgian Bath on a custom England itinerary. Three of the country's most beautiful regions, privately guided with estate

England Private Tours: Cornwall, the Cotswolds & Georgian Bath

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Off the Beaten Path

Insider Access

Art & History

Discover the quiet magic of southern England, from the honey-hued villages of the Cotswolds to the creative pulse of Somerset. Cycle scenic lanes, explore hidden gardens and vibrant galleries, sip cider in ancient orchards, and savour seasonal fare in spectacular settings. This is England at its most pastoral, poetic, and beautifully reimagined.&nbsp;

Spend 5 nights biking the Cotswolds and Somerset in a small group. Honey-stone villages, Georgian Bath and a stay at one of England's finest garden estates.

Cotswolds to Somerset Bike Tour: Villages, Bath & a Private Garden Estate

Epic Landscapes

Royal Connections

There is a version of England that has nothing to do with tourist trails or ticking boxes, and this is it. On foot through the Cotswolds and Somerset, the countryside unfolds at its own pace: honey-hued villages, ancient hilltops and windswept moorland shaped by centuries of history and tradition. From the Roman Baths and the prehistoric Stanton Drew Stone Circles to the galleries of Bruton, the finest experiences in southern England lie quietly in wait — not as stops on a checklist, but as chapters in the story of the land itself.

Experience Designer

Hike honey-hued villages, royal gardens and ancient hilltops on this luxury guided hiking tour through the Cotswolds and Somerset. Discover England's finest countryside with B&R.

A Bespoke Multi-Generational family adventure in England: Cotswolds games, polo lessons and a fresh look at London

By Butterfield & Robinson

England

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