Colleges, Cottages, and Cobbled Streets

Our whirlwind adventure through southern England was incredible! In just 2 days, we hit the highlights of Cambridge, traversed the enchanting Cotswolds, and soaked up the scholarly vibes of Oxford. 

We kicked off our day in Cambridge with a delightful lunch at Fitzbillies, nestled right in front of the iconic King's College. Our taste buds were treated to the famed Chelsea Bun—let me tell you, it was an absolute treat! Post-lunch, we couldn’t resist a visit to The Fudge Kitchen next door, where we surrendered to temptation and left with an abundance of fudge (because who needs self-control?). Strolling around Cambridge, we marveled at the stunning architecture—each building felt like a piece of history. 

When the mood struck us to try a punt down the River Cam, the sky had different plans. As the heavens opened in a sudden downpour, we first sought refuge under a tree, but soon retreated to a nearby pub. Lucky for us, this establishment boasted a pop culture pedigree, having hosted Pink Floyd before they were rock royalty.

Thanks to Scudamore’s punting, we were equipped with cozy blankets and umbrellas for our river adventure. Sharing the boat with fellow travelers made for a jolly group, with everyone snapping photos and sharing smiles along the way. As we glided past various colleges, our guide filled us in on the riveting history and illustrious alumni of each school. Rain or shine, the experience was utterly captivating. 

The following day whisked us off to Diddly Squat Farm on the outskirts of Chipping Norton, a pilgrimage for fans of Top Gear and Clarkson’s Farm. Queues may have been long, but the burgers were worth the wait, and we even snagged some fresh dairy. The cherry on top? We spotted Clarkson himself! 

A family member urged us to swing by Daylesford if we found ourselves in the area. Being the dutiful relatives we are, we complied. What I expected to be a quaint grocery store turned out to be a lavish farm shop, complete with a restaurant and spa. Surrounded by Range Rovers in the parking lot, I knew I was out of my element. 

Venturing deeper into the Cotswolds, we stumbled upon the postcard-perfect town of Stow-on-the-Wold. The highlight for my inner English teacher: The very door that inspired elements of Tolkien’s Middle Earth—a moment of literary bliss! 

We capped our journey in Oxford, timing our arrival for a lovely late afternoon tea and a leisurely wander through the stunning streets. 

While Cambridge dazzled with its charm, there’s an unparalleled gravitas to Oxford’s architecture that left me entranced. Let’s just say I might have looked into online courses as soon as I got home. Oh, and here’s a fun tidbit: both Oxford and Cambridge boast their very own Bridge of Sighs. Who knew you could pretend to visit Venice in two different places?