The Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of England's most scenic sights, stretching between the towns of Stratford-upon-Avon and Bath in south-west England. For many, it's an area that presents the quintessential picture of rural England with quaint villages and thatched cottages made from honey-coloured stone all set against a backdrop of gently rolling hills. Nobody can possibly resist the chance to see this rural region in all its picturesque splendour, so if you're travelling here from London then do it in style and luxury - choose from our Dream Collection to make it a drive to remember.
Oxford's dreaming spires
Your quickest escape from London would be to head for the M40, where you'll have your first opportunity to put a high-performance car like the Porsche Carrera through its paces. In under an hour you could reach Oxford, gateway to the Cotswolds. But before you head off to the countryside, take a while to explore this famous university town, whose ancient colleges are open to visitors. On a summer's day, the Botanic Garden is the perfect place to see one of the oldest collections of plants in the world, or you might simply want to take out a punt on the River Thames.
The magnificent Blenheim Palace
Take the A4260 through the picture postcard Oxfordshire villages of Kidlington, Thrupp and Shipton-on-Cherwell towards the north-west of Oxford, and explore the tranquil backdrop of rural England. The winding country roads make perfect conditions for the smooth handling of the Porsche Panamera luxury sedan. Stop off for a visit to Blenheim Palace as you head for the Cotswolds - this magnificent Baroque masterpiece has long been the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and was also the childhood home of Sir Winston Churchill. Nothing can quite prepare you for the sight of the stately home as you approach it from the grand driveway. There are frequent tours of the house and gardens, while the grounds make for a magnificent walk.
The Cotswolds' highest town
Going right into the heart of the Cotswolds, cruise along the A429 to visit Stow-on-the-Wold. On the way you'll pass through stunning countryside on gently meandering roads; made even more enjoyable thanks to your luxurious transportation. To reach Stow, you'll climb up to the highest town in the Cotswolds. This has always been a very important market town - though today it's predominantly a major tourist attraction - and the grand central square is full of stalls and sellers throughout the week.
Time for a spa
Of the larger towns in the Cotswolds, Cheltenham and Bath are both well worth a visit. You can reach Cheltenham along the A40 and, once there, you'll find somewhere once famed for its health-giving spa. To match Cheltenham's grand surroundings, a sporty SUV like the Porsche Cayenne might be just the thing. To reach Bath take the A429 south from Cirencester and, at the end of the drive, you'll be rewarded with a town that not only boasts some of the finest Regency terraces in the country, but also many ancient Roman remains too.