What an amazing day it was when Indian Chef, Saransh Goila arrived to film me at Secret Cottage.
This had been organised by Visit Britain, Virgin Atlantic and Cotswold Tourism as part of a food related promotional tour starting in London and ending up in Edinburgh.
Little did we know Saransh would include our Cotswold Tour as part of his series!
On route they knew that they’d be going through the Cotswolds and were very excited as they had seen many pictures in books of spectacular houses and cottages, so Saransh started looking on the internet for an opportunity to film the inside of a private home to show all his viewers back at home how an English family lived.
He found Secret Cottage which is my private thatched home. At Secret Cottage we offer a six hour Cotswold tour which includes picturesque hidden villages with an invitation to go inside a private thatched home whilst on the tour for coffee, lunch and a cream tea.
Having looked at our website , he contacted Visit Britain to see if I’d be interested in him coming here to film me cooking scones in the Aga.
Saransh Goila enjoys a Cotswold Tour cream tea!
I was very apprehensive and didn’t want to be filmed because I didn’t have any experience of being in front of the camera, so I refused, but agreed that he could only film in the kitchen and that he’d have to show how the scones were cooked instead.
Whilst waiting for them to arrive I had a sneaking suspicion that they may ask me to be filmed, but I was adamant that this would not happen. However, when the film crew arrived, they made me feel totally at ease and knowing that it would be good for promoting our new tour, I had a change of heart.
So, Saransh and the film crew persuaded me to describe how the Aga worked on the strict understanding that if I didn’t like it when they played it back afterwards, I would not have to continue and they’d revert back to Saransh cooking instead , but slowly my confidence grew and I ended up filming for nearly four hours!
It was a great day and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Now that the ‘Cream Tea Party’ episode is out, future visitors will have an insight into where they’ll have coffee, lunch and a traditional English cream tea, whilst I take them to the most amazing Cotswold villages during the day.
Take a look at some of the pictures from our filming and enjoy the seven minute video at the end!
To watch the video, please CLICK HERE
You did really well Becky and didn’t appear nervous at all. Glad the cellar was shown, so interesting. Hope secret cottage will now thrive with foreign visitors flocking to your door. Thanks for sending me the video. Babs
Seeing this video made me long to be back on my amazing tour with Becky to the Secret Cottage! It was my favorite experience of my trip to England.
Fabulous Becky! You’re a natural and appeared so at ease on film. I wonder what your next endeavor will be. Thank you for sending the video link and rekindling my fond memories and love for all that is the Secret Cottage and the Cotswolds.
All the best and great success in your unique venture!
Fantastic! I love that he’s wearing a tea cosy on his head at the end!
Great job Becky! It brought back wonderful memories of our visit to your cottage. The “secret” is now out and I wish you the best.
Robin: Thanks for letting me know about Secret Cottage. I just watched the video and am eager to visit. Sounds like a great day trip from London. Hopefully I will have the chance soon.
All best,
Cal
[…] https://www.cotswoldtourismtours.co.uk/indian-chef-saransh-goila-takes-cotswold-tour/ […]
[…] recently been part of a television series with a whole episode dedicated to Secret Cottage, this was organised by Visit Britain, Virgin […]
[…] tour was recently been part of a television series with a whole episode dedicated to Secret Cottage, this was organised by Visit Britain, Virgin […]
Great interview Becky. I have to say that your Secret Cottage Tour was one of the highlights of Gina’s and my trip to the Cotswolds. You and Robin were the perfect hosts, the food was delicious and great information for a better understanding of the area in general. This was a very fun way to explore the area in an off-the-beaten-track sort of way. Thank you for a delightful day and inviting us into your home. Our day is certain to be one of my forever memories of our recent trip.
We’ve just been there few days ago, but I’m longing to go back. What a fantastic day my family spent with Becky discovering hidden treasure of Cotswolds. When my kids are asked what was the favorite part of the trip, they reply in unison – Secret Cottage.
It looks so lovely in summer, Becky! I really hope we will be back. I’m sure I will have to reserve long in advance, now, once the secret is out 🙂
I recently visited the Secret Cottage and it was phenomenal! It was literally the best day trip I’ve ever taken thanks to Becky, Robin and their sous chef 🙂
Becky is a gracious host and really knows what visitors want to experience and how to make your visit something you just won’t forget! I can’t thank them enough!
I don’t want to give away the secrets, so you’ll just have to try it for yourself 🙂
This was the most delightful day & one of the best tours I’ve done. So informal & relaxing. Thank you so much & I wish you all the best with this venture
To write a review about a Secret never to be told
To tell you about our Perfect Day
The villages, the churches and views to unfold
Without giving the clues away
The fire in the cottage made it so cosey
And the tour gave us both the chance to be nosey!
Thank you, Becky and Robin, for opening up your home to us recently on the Secret Cottage Tour and showing us a glimpse of your life in the Cotswolds. What an idyllic location and what a memorable day! We loved every minute of the tour–the cream tea and the buffet lunch (and sitting outside in your garden on a lovely sunny day), the small group which made it very personal and intimate, and the chance to see your beautifully decorated and cared for cottage. We also loved the opportunity to get out and ramble in the countryside and see some places off the beaten path. This tour was the highlight of our trip!
We were so excited to learn of the Secret Cottage Tour when we were planning our trip to England. We had very high hopes and the tour far surpassed anything we could have imagined. The hospitality of Becky and Robin was so warm and we were treated to morning coffee, lunch and a cream tea in their cozy and beautiful cottage. And we were shown around some of the most picturesque and romantic countryside in Englad. We loved every minute.
I have read the comments and just want to say “ditto” to them all! My friend and I stumbled upon the ad in Britain Magazine for this lovely tour. We took a chance on it and are so happy we did. The other guests on the tour were a delight to get to know. Becky and her crew do a fabulous job. I have been on several private car tours of this area, but I am sure none compare to this one! I will recommend this tour to anyone going to The Cotswolds. Being picked up at the train depot was easy, and it allows for people staying in surrounding areas to experience this fabulous day out by simply taking the train to Moreton. What a delightful treat! Thanks, Becky et al for a memorable experience.
Thank you for an absolutely delightful day. The tour of the Cotswold countryside was like looking at one painting after another at each and every turn. But the real treat was visiting the Secret Cottage! Your warm hospitality and the delicious food could not have been topped. It was a day that will forever be etched in my memory! Thank you!!
Awesome job!! Your tour and hospitality was wonderful!! It was one of my favorite parts of my England trip!! I would recommend your tour to all!!
Becky provided an absolutely amazing day in the Cotswalds. I was just there a few weeks ago and I had a wonderful time and ate like a queen. Everything was wonderful and watching this video, I long to be back in England again. . . .
Hi Becky and Robin:
A hearty thank you for a wonderful day in the Cotswolds. Your intimate tour, your personalities, your helpful and personable gentlemen guides made for a totally delightful experience. Of course, the superb meals and cream tea only topped off the surprises. You have a wonderful cottage that can only be enjoyed completely by visiting and entering this magical home. No pictures can really do it justice. We now have many fond memories as a result. It was also a pleasure to see Robin by chance at the train station as he was meeting your daughter there. It was fun chatting across the platform as we said good bye again. We send you our best wishes for the future and hope maybe to see you in the Cotswolds again !!Thank you !!
Keith and Greta
Toronto, Canada.
Our day tour with Becky exceeded all expectations- it was magical on every level! We may have to do it again. The hidden villages and your lovely garden were such treats to experience, and each morsel of food was amazing. We have encouraged everyone we know, who are living in or visiting the UK, to add this to their ‘must-do’ list. Thanks so much for fulfilling our fantasy of being inside a thatched-roof home, deep within the Cotswolds. It’s one of our best tours ever!
We did The Secret Cottage Tour at the end of our huge trip to the UK so it was nice to sit back and let someone else do the organising and driving. I don’t normally like doing planned tours but this was more like a family outing rather than a professional tour. Visiting Becky and Robin’s home was a bonus. It was nice to visit places that aren’t on the tourist map.
Hi Becky & Robin, I love this!
I was at the Secret Cottage less than a month ago and even though my memories are still fresh, they became even sharper when I watched this interview. Seeing your garden – and your cellar – made me feel a bit nostalgic.
I had planned to take a walking tour of The Cotswolds but on the morning of the walk, I was too exhausted to move. Later that day, I started to regret not pushing myself to go. Then I though, why not book another tour? My research found me several but the Secret Cottage seemed perfect.
It offers perks none of the others do. In addition to visiting absolutely beautiful villages for which The Cotswolds are well known, we’d be able to go inside Becky’s & Robin’s charming thatched cottage. (Let me tell you, a thatch cottage is just as romantic and cozy as it looks!) Another plus was the traditional English cream tea and pastries that Becky & Robin offer. Oh, and how could I not mention that elderberry drink? It was delicious!
It’s one thing to see a Cotswold village from a bus, like I did on my last visit to London, quite another to see them up close. Robin, our knowledgeable local guide, regaled us with information and insider stories about this extremely picturesque and bucolic area of England. Sadly, the day ended way too quickly. I’m ready to do the tour again! If you’re considering a Cotswolds tour, I encourage you to book Secret Cottage. Believe me, you will not regret it!
Thank you so much, Becky & Robin, for opening your home to us.
– Marcia
Michael and I just finished watching the film and we so enjoyed seeing your beautiful cottage again! Our trip to the Cotswolds was one of the highlights of our recent trip to England. Visiting your home and enjoying your cream tea was fabulous. Becky, you and Robin were fun and knowledgeable guides and gracious hosts. It could not have been more enjoyable–we highly recommend this tour!
Dear Becky and Simon,
Your tour was our holiday highlight! Thank you for a unique day in every way!
What a lovely life you lead. Good luck always.
Love from us both Tim and Heather xoxo
Great film! You did a great job Becky and we had such a great time on your tour!!! I have already recommended it to so many people!
Revived happy memories of the wonderful time we had in magical Cotswold. The 6 hour tour interspersed with 3 mouthwatering spreads leaves you feeling all warm n mushy, sort of like the delicious scones served with such generosity by our charming hosts,Ian & Charlotte.
The Secret Cottage tour is a briliant concept. So glad we took it.
Thanks!
Shamini
An Amazing Video Really!!
Personally, I had a fantastic journey with them this Feb, was an amazing day ever I had it in my life!! I would like to visit them again!
I traveled to many places but this is one of my BEST!
it is very unique place to visit & I highly recommend to all of you to visit it (must put it in your (calendar!) and GO Soon.
I would like to thank Mr.Robin & Ms. Becky for everything. you are very lucky that you have this gorgeous house! WooooooW!!
Love you all.
Our family of five adults recently enjoyed a delightful day in the Cotswolds with Robin and Becky. The tour was fantastic – so personal and friendly! We thoroughly our tour of the cottage & villages visited! It was a picture perfect, gorgeous spring day & we couldn’t have been more delighted. Robin was a fabulous driver – sharing bits and pieces of fun and interesting information about life in the Cotswolds and the properties. The pace was perfect; the right amount of driving interspersed with some walking & frolicing and lots of incredible food. Do come hungry – you won’t be disappointed! I had requested some non-meat options for lunch, which Becky arranged. The egg salad, prawn sandwiches & quiches were out of this world! We highly recommend the Secret Cottage Tour!
Watching this video brings back fond memories of our secret cottage tour – what a wonderful day we had and en experience we will always cherish. Thank you for sharing your home with us. We will see you again soon and tell all our friends of this must-do-when-in-the-Cotswolds!
Watching this really makes me want to do the tour again!!! Becky you were as kind, welcoming and informative on the film as you were on the tour! This really was the highlight of my trip! The tour and the fact we were able to see a true Secret Cottage made this an experience I will cherish.. I hope to bring my other daughter and granddaughter one day! Don’t want to give to much away but the hospitality, beautiful table setting and delicious food were such a surprise to all of us. Not really having any expectations, to say we were blown away, is an understatement.
Oh! Watching this video made my heart happy and my eyes weepy! Was just there two weeks ago and what a highlight the day was during my trip to England. I cannot recommend the tour enough! So special and unique with the best hosts and guides! My sister and I have talked of it many times since. I really hope to come back and take the tour again someday!!
Thank you Robin, Becky, Ian and Charlotte!
I agree with all of the previously favorable comments about the Secret Cottage tour. Indeed it was our favorite part of our England trip. And the Cotswold experience would never have been complete or even near as precious if it hadn’t been for this marvelous Secret Cottage. I don’t want to say any more, hence the word “Secret”. That is part of the surprise. It will take your heart away. When I look at my pictures of this day, my heart soars. Thanks Becky, Robin and friends!!
My husband and I had a fantastic day! Thanks Beck! I do hope I can organize groups for such a lovely, unique day out!
Hello Becky from Alabama……Gordon & I are now back home on the Gulf Coast. We have been discussing the highs & lows of our 3 week time in Europe. For me, your Secret Cottage Tour was the highlight for me. I loved the beautiful Cotswold countryside you showed us. I loved the flowers and the streams. And, of course, your home is so cozy and warm. The three meals you treated us to were fantastic. I think I could have embarrassed myself and eaten your whole platter of scones with clotted cream. I hope to try my hand in making some really soon. Thank you for sharing your corner of the Cotswolds with us.
Thank you Becky & Robin. It was an amazing experience to visit Cotsworld. Loved the views, the nature around and most of all your hospitality. Appreciate everything you did! Its inspirational to see your dedication & passion in doing things. Definitely want to visit again. Also, Thanks for veg food, it was delicious! 🙂
We spent a day in late July with Ian (our driver and ‘tour guide’). We had our 18 year old grand-daughter with us and she enjoyed it at least as much as we did. We were in the very back of the van so we couldn’t hear Ian very well and that was my one disappointment. Thanks for showing us some places we wouldn’t have seen otherwise. The cottage and garden was breathtaking. The choices of food to eat was crazy! Too much! But lovely! And tasty . . . it was nice to be able to try some of your local traditional bits and bites. I’m happy that I’ve visited now that you’re going to be overrun with clients – wonderful idea to share your cottage with us and best of luck!
Dear Beccy and Robin I did your tour of the Cotswolds in July 2016. It was the most wonderful day, I loved the fact that you stopped so we could get some beautiful photos because when we tourists come home that is what we have to remember our holiday by. I wish you great success with your wonderful business. Bev Dacey from Australia.
Impressive trip! It was great for everything! Convinient pickup, lovely meals, super-cozy home, private guider……
Definitely recommend this lovely cotswold trip organized by Becky and Robin!
If you are tired of traditional big groups, try this one!
So nice to receive this at a time when my holiday memories are fading.
This is a required day trip during a London stay or any U.k. visit.You cannot understand the psyche of the U.K. until you see the Cotswolds and this is by far the best way to do it– by train and especially with Robin, Becky, Polly ,and Ian as guides and hosts.
All and all a memorable day– thank you .
Ronald and Mary
Becky and Robin, I really don’t think that this clip does justice to your wonderful tour which I took recently. It does not reveal the true ambience of your cottage, the garden or the quality of the food provided. The tour itself was also very special in the small uncrowded villages visited and this is not highlighted. I do think that you could organise a more relevant video that would do justice to what you have on offer.
Great video, but the actual Secret Cottage experience/tour was even better. It was an incredible journey into the real Cotswolds… away from the tourists and into the beauty of this great area. The time spent in the cottage itself was wonderful as well. It was really cool to see how a real family lives in these old homes. The food was incredible as well; I was so stuffed when I left that I didn’t even eat dinner!
I was staying in the Cotswolds but this tour would be well worth a day trip from London. Thanks to Becky, Robin, Ian and Chrissie for a very special day.
I can’t wait to be back at the secret cottage! May be Becky & Robin would be able to toss up a new itinerary for repeat visitors, I think that would be wonderful. Such fond memories. Becky looks absolutely confident in the video, not at all nervous. Keep up the good work folks!
A wonderful video we must show our friends who will want to come also! The tour was amazing, actually we took both tours and recommend that to all. Spend the night in Moreton and immerse yourself in the Cotswolds as only Becky can show you the unique experiences you will see! Loved the tours.
Hi,Beckie and Robin.It was such an amazing experience to have an invitation into a private home of 500 years old. Yes, it really is a Secret Cottage, and was the highlight of my trip to England. I visited your place on April 1,2017, a bit early for a variety of flowers but still lots of impressive yellows, daffodils and rape flowers. I teach English at college and showed my students the video clip you had sent us. They really enjoyed it. I’m so sure some of them will visit Cotswolds some day and join the Secret Cottage Tour without hesitation.
Thank you, Beckie and Robin, for the wonderful memory.
Becky, you did a wonderful job! I enjoyed the video as it brought back such wonderful memories of the day my friends and I spent with you last month. It truly was the highlight of our trip and I hope to return someday. Regards to you and your lovely daughter who did such a great job of preparing and serving the delicious food the day we were there.
Oh, this brought back a wonderful memory of our Secret Garden tour last week! When he put the cream scone with strawberry jam in his mouth I could just taste it! Such a perfect day. I’m so glad he showed the cellar because I missed seeing it.