Fans of the smash hit show Rivals can now explore the UK destination that provided inspiration for the steamy romances and shocking double-crossing of the TV phenomenon. While the Jilly Cooper adaptation takes place in the fictional county of Rutshire, set jetting enthusiasts can now explore the beautiful Cotswolds countryside and quaint villages that inspired the glamorous setting, as well as Bath, where much of the filming actually took place. Rivals super fans are also able to work with Rabbie’s private tour team to plan their own bespoke Rivals itinerary.
On Rabbie’s one-day Oxford & Traditional Cotswold Villages tour, Rivals fans will explore Burford and Bibury in the heart of the Cotswolds. Like fictional Rutshire, the Cotswolds are renowned for picturesque villages, grand country estates, and a sense of English high society. In the market town of Burford, Rabbie’s guests will find well-appointed grand homes, boutique shops and cosy tea rooms.
On the way to the village of Bibury, the tour heads through some of idyllic landscapes which could easily feature in the show. The Cotswolds is dotted with honey-coloured stone cottages and historic manor houses, much like the extravagant homes which host lavish parties in Rivals. In Bibury, the one-of-a-kind row of rustic cottages, Arlington Row, attracts visitors from around the world, while Arlington Mill and the tranquil River Coln offers lesser-known spots for photos.
The tour also stops in Oxford, and guests have the opportunity to explore its historic colleges and captivating dreaming spires. The one-day tour departs from London, with prices starting from £95 per adult.
While the Cotswolds are the spiritual home of the Rivals, much of the show was filmed in the Georgian city of Bath. The city is often used as a filming location due to its stunning architecture and the surrounding natural beauty. As well as hosting David Tennant and Aidan Turner for Rivals, fellow period romp, Bridgerton and movies such as Les Misérables, The Duchess and Vanity Fair were all also filmed in the city. Guests can explore the beauty of the region themselves on Rabbie’s one-day Bath, Avebury & Lacock Village tour, which departs from London, with prices starting at £80.
Rabbie’s private tour team can also work with fans of the show who wish to plan their own personalised itinerary themed exclusively around the show. Potential stops on a tailored tour include the Cotswold towns of Tetbury (site of Declan O’Hara’s house) and Corsham (where fans can spot Tony Baddingham’s house), as well as Bristol’s historic old city (which hosted the stars for Rivals’ depiction of an 80s television awards ceremony). Rabbie’s private tour team can cater to groups of any size and use their local knowledge to ensure the tour features the very best locations, restaurants, and (if required) accommodation.
All Rabbie’s tours are taken in luxury mini-coaches and led by expert driver-guides.
For more information about Rabbie’s visit: www.rabbies.com
