A Cotswolds day trip from London, without owning a car
You don't need your own car to see the Cotswolds in a day. There are four realistic options from London, and the right one depends on how many villages you want to see.
Option 1: Coach tour
Easy and sociable, but you follow a fixed route and timetable, with short stops in busy villages.
Option 2: Train and local buses
Trains from London Paddington reach Cotswolds-edge stations such as Moreton-in-Marsh (Cotswold Line), Kemble (for Cirencester) and Swindon. Some towns have buses, but services can be infrequent, especially on Sundays and evenings. Check times on National Rail and the local bus operator before you go.
Option 3: Train and taxi
Flexible for one or two stops, but costs add up across a full day and rural taxis need booking ahead.
Option 4: Train to Swindon and drive
Great Western Railway runs regular trains from Paddington to Swindon, many direct, taking roughly an hour. Collect our electric Fiat 500e at Swindon station and you can reach Bibury, Cirencester, Castle Combe and Burford in one day at your own pace.
A sample day
- Morning train Paddington to Swindon.
- Drive to Bibury for Arlington Row before the crowds.
- Lunch in Cirencester or Burford.
- Afternoon in Bourton-on-the-Water or Castle Combe.
- Return the car and train back to London.
Train + drive
Arriving by train? Collect our grey electric Fiat 500e at Swindon station and explore at your own pace. Today's price, availability and protection options are shown on Turo.
Check dates and price on Turo →FAQ
Can you do the Cotswolds in a day from London without a car?
Yes. Take the train from London Paddington and then join a tour, use local buses or taxis, or pick up a hire car at a station such as Swindon. A car lets you see the most villages in one day.
How long is the train from London to Swindon?
Great Western Railway trains from London Paddington to Swindon take roughly an hour, and many are direct. Check National Rail for times and fares on your date.