Travel back in time on the Avon Valley Railway in the Cotswolds

For an unforgettable way to see the beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds, a steam train trip along the Avon Valley Railway could be ideal.

This part of the UK is renowned for its rolling green hills, picturesque villages and historic sights and has plenty of self catering accommodation, making it particularly attractive for those seeking a relaxing short break.

The Avon Valley Railway was first opened in 1869 by Midland Railway, offering a new way for travellers to get from Bath to Bristol and back again.

Now tourists can recreate the experience of travelling through the beautiful scenery of the Avon Valley by hopping on one of the restored steam locomotives that make their way through the area.

The Avon Valley Railway operates from Bitton station, which has also been returned to its former glory by a group of volunteers. Artefacts dating back to the railway's heyday can be seen in various locations around the station.

You can ride on the railway's steam trains during one of the special events regularly held throughout the year, such as the Santa Specials that take place in the run-up to Christmas, as well as the Murder Mystery and Real Ale Festival journeys.

Other events include the Thomas Day Out for fans of Thomas the Tank Engine, along with the Teddy Bears Picnic, the Vintage Bus Rally, Polish Day and Steam 'N' Cuisine, which offers a luxurious dining experience in first class.

Once you've enjoyed your steam train trip, you can take in some of the many other attractions on offer to those staying in Cotswolds self catering accommodation.

The cities of Bath and Bristol are well worth visiting, but if you want to head off the beaten track there are many villages that may be more tempting.

Biddestone, Painswick, Woodstock and Winchcombe are among the smaller destinations in the Cotswolds that are no less interesting than their larger counterparts.

One village in particular, Northleach, boasts a wonderfully historic church nicknamed the Cathedral of the Cotswolds.

Other attractions include Westonbirt Arboretum - which is particularly beautiful in the spring and autumn - and Blenheim Palace, which is where Winston Churchill was born and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.