It is the quintessential landscape of south west England – an area that looks as if it was made for exploring, with its honey-stone villages (the building material comes from local quarries), winding lanes behind centuries-old hedgerows; and cosy pubs or tearooms dotted between viewpoints where you simply have to stop the car to open your camera. Should you travel by car or relax with a guided tour? A practical way to choose:

For complete liberty, rent a car and go by yourself

If you prefer to travel on your own schedule, driving yourself may be the best option. Stay longer in a village that appeals, take off on an unplanned side visit to a farm shop or adjust your plans according to the changeable weather.

Self-drive often suits you if:

You are local (not running off on a day trip)

Actually you like route planning

You are looking to venture into less crowded places away from the well trod path.

Trade-off: Cotswold roads are often narrow, parking can be scarce and getting there is no quick drive.

If you prefer a little handholding and insider knowledge, go with the guided tour:

That is one thing a good tour should have removed for you – stress. You will often receive a well-rounded itinerary, local anecdotes that you won’t see on any map, and guidance and tips to dodge the worst crowds. For Cotswolds Private Tours, consider //cotswoldtour.co.uk/cotswolds-private-tours/

When a guided tour is suited for you:

You do not have enough time (especially on a one day trip)

You don’t want to drive on country roads

You would rather talk about landscape, pictures and food than focus on the road

You desire a path that has been crafted with local background knowledge.

Trade-off: Less flexible, stops are timed.