Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burford, England and Bedford, England
Are you looking for a unique road trip adventure in England? If so, we recommend taking a drive from Burford to Bedford. The route is approximately 120 miles and takes about three hours to drive, excluding stops. This road trip takes you through beautiful English countryside and passes through some of England's hidden gems. In this article, we share with you five unexpected places to stop on your road trip from Burford to Bedford.
Coventry, WAR
Before we introduce you to our five unexpected stops, we would like to highlight the halfway point of your journey, Coventry. Coventry is a historic city located in the heart of England. It is known for its medieval heritage, beautiful architecture, and cultural landmarks. Some of the must-see attractions in Coventry include Coventry Cathedral, Coventry Transport Museum, and St. Mary's Guildhall. It is also home to some of the best pubs and restaurants in the region, making it the perfect place to take a break and recharge before continuing your journey.
1. The Edgehill Battlefields
As you continue your journey from Burford, we recommend stopping at the Edgehill battlefields. The Edgehill battle was one of the most significant battles of the English civil war, fought in 1642. This battle takes place in the beautiful Cotswold countryside, with views that extend as far as the eye can see. Visitors can explore the battleground and learn about the history of the English civil war. After your tour, you can enjoy a traditional pub meal at The Castle Inn, a charming pub filled with history and character.
2. The Rollright Stones
As you pass through the Cotswolds, we recommend making a stop at the Rollright Stones, a prehistoric stone circle located near the village of Long Compton. The stones are believed to date back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age and were used for religious ceremonies. Visitors can take a guided tour from The Rollright Trust and learn about the history and myth surrounding this mysterious place. After your tour, enjoy afternoon tea at The Red Lion, a beautiful traditional pub overlooking the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
3. Blenheim Palace
As you approach Oxfordshire, make a stop at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most beautiful palaces in England and is located in a stunning parkland designed by Capability Brown. Visitors can explore the palace's grand interior, beautifully landscaped gardens, and Churchill exhibitions. After your tour, indulge in a delicious cream tea at The Orangery restaurant, overlooking the exotic plants and fountains of the Italian Garden.
4. Stowe House and Gardens
Continuing on your journey from Blenheim Palace, we recommend stopping at Stowe House and Gardens. This magnificent property was designed by Lord Cobham in the 18th century as a celebration of British culture and identity. Visitors can explore the stunning gardens, temples, and lakes that are part of this National Trust property. After your tour, sit down for a unique tasting experience at The Old Dairy Cafe, offering artisanal cheeses and locally sourced charcuterie.
5. The Shuttleworth Collection
As you approach Bedfordshire, make a stop at The Shuttleworth Collection, a museum of vintage aircraft and cars. This collection is located within the beautiful grounds of the Shuttleworth Estate and offers visitors a glimpse into the history of aviation and motoring. Visitors can explore the historic aircraft and cars and learn about how they were used. After your tour, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Swiss Garden Cafe, overlooking the picturesque garden and lake.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a drive from Burford to Bedford offers you an unforgettable journey through some of England's most beautiful countryside. Along the way, we hope these five unexpected stops have inspired you to discover the hidden gems and historic landmarks of this region. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, this road trip has something for everyone. So, grab your map and get ready for an adventure!