Escape to the Cotswolds: London to Bourton-on-the-Water by Train & Bus

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Sometimes called the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water is all golden stone bridges, babbling brooks, and charming tea rooms. And yes — it’s absolutely worth the journey. While there’s no direct train, the ride from London to Moreton-in-Marsh, followed by a short bus, makes for a delightfully scenic countryside adventure. 🌿🧳🍰

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🎯 Highlights Along the Way
• Departing from London Paddington 🚉
Hop on a Great Western Railway (GWR) train toward Moreton-in-Marsh, a classic Cotswold market town. The ride is smooth, quiet, and gets greener by the mile.
• Cotswolds Countryside Views 🌾
• Pass through Reading and Didcot Parkway, watching London’s suburbs fade into green fields
• Between Kingham and Moreton-in-Marsh, the views are stunning — rolling hills, grazing sheep, and dry-stone walls lining the land
• Keep your eyes out for thatched cottages, woodland groves, and distant church spires
• From Moreton-in-Marsh to Bourton-on-the-Water 🚌
• Take the Pulhams bus 801 (or a short taxi) — a scenic 30-minute ride past fields and villages like Stow-on-the-Wold
• The bus drops you in the heart of Bourton, where the River Windrush flows gently under little arched bridges

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📍 Why Visit Bourton-on-the-Water?
• 🌉 Fairy-Tale Views: The low stone bridges and sparkling river that cuts through the village make it one of England’s prettiest spots — perfect for photos and picnics
• 🦆 Wildlife & Walks: Wander along the riverbank, visit the Birdland Park & Gardens, or stroll to nearby Lower Slaughter via peaceful footpaths
• 🏛️ Miniature Marvels: Don’t miss the quirky Model Village, a perfect one-ninth replica of Bourton itself — even the tiny trees are pruned to scale!
• 🍵 Tea & Treats: Cosy up in a traditional tearoom or riverside café — Bakery on the Water is a favourite for warm pastries and cream teas
• 🚗 Cotswold Motoring Museum: A nostalgic gem full of vintage cars, enamel signs, and toys — great for families or classic car lovers

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🗺️ Getting There
• Train: London Paddington → Moreton-in-Marsh (~1 hr 30 mins, direct via GWR)
• Bus: Pulhams 801 Moreton-in-Marsh → Bourton-on-the-Water (~30–40 mins)
• Total Journey Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours
• Top Tip: Check train-bus timings in advance, especially on Sundays when services are less frequent

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🌟 Tips from a Cotswold Commuter
• 🪟 Best Seat: Sit on the right from Oxford onwards for long-range countryside views
• 🥐 Snack Hack: Pack a pastry from Paddington’s PAUL bakery and enjoy it by the Windrush when you arrive
• 📸 Golden Hour Goals: The bridges glow at sunset — head to the central green just as the light fades
• 🥾 Hidden Gem Walk: From Bourton, take the 1.5-mile walk to Lower Slaughter — it’s flat, peaceful, and postcard-perfect
• 🛍️ Local Finds: Browse little shops for Cotswold-made soaps, honey, and crafts — perfect for souvenirs that aren’t touristy