The world famous Bicester Village shopping village is very nearby (5 mins drive). Join the bargain hunters for top quality brands at affordable prices.

Pubs: The Oxford Arms in the nextdoor village of Kirtlington is recomended. The Bell at Hampton Poyle is also excellent. Then in Woodstock, there’s the very nice King’s Arms. And the bar/restaurant at the Feather’s Hotel there is also nice. There are famous gastro pubs galore around the Cotswolds, our favourites are: The Plough at
Kingham for a special treat; The Chequers at Churchill; The Feathered Nest at Nether Westcote; the Swan at Southrop in the beautiful Coln Valley south of Burford; and the excellent Five Alls in Filkins.

Getting to Oxford: Driving into Oxford has generally be discouraged by the authorities for years. It’s okay to drive and park in the evenings, but probably for day trips it’s easiest to use the Park & Ride system. The nearest place to park and get the bus into Oxford is at the Pear Tree Roundabout on the A34. But in summer, the best way to see Oxford is to hire a bicycle and see it under your own steam - bike hire at www.


Blenheim Palace - The most famous house in the country is literally in the
nearby village of Woodstock. You can park inside the palace no problem. Its a gem, and its also great if you just want to go for a walk (free of charge) around the grounds. There are also numerous events there throughout the year. Please check on their website. Combo up with a nice pub (see above) lunch or dinner in Woodstock.

Places not to miss: The Slad Valley, north of Stroud (where Laurie Lee’s Cider with Rosie was set); Bath, it’s a Regency gem; Chipping Camden, classic Cotswold town; Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe; Hidcote Manor Gardens; The Coln Valley south of Burford, beautiful villages around Quenington, Eastleach and Southrop.

The area’s most famous polo club is literally in the nextdoor village of Kirtlington, pop along in summer months and take in a few chukkas from