Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Formerly a florist and greengrocer, Gee's, Oxford's fine dining restaurant, was converted by present owner Jeremy Mogford 15 years ago. The menu is based on seasonal food, local produce and fine ingredients.
Branca opened its doors in late 2000, offering Oxford a contemporary Italian bar and restaurant. The restaurant seats 110 and serves nothing but quality food with quality ingredients.
Broadway Tower is the Cotswolds highest castle, it is an unusual Capability Brown Folly and of huge architectural interest. From the summit of the Tower you can see for an interval of 62 miles, in fact you can see 16 counties from here, it has astounding vistas. Within the Tower is a series of interesting exhibitions that take you back in time, it covers the lives of the Earls of Coventry, William Morris, quirky collectors and wartime heroes, there is even a Cold War bunker here, but it is only open on the weekends and specific days. Located along the Cotswold Way it is a big draw for cyclists, walkers and wildlife enthusiasts who come to enjoy the peace and tranquillity here and see the beautiful Red Deer that roam the area. As you climb higher you can feel your stresses floating away as you escape from the hustle and bustle of life. Here it is just you and the great outdoors, the noises of nature and amazing scenery. It is a great place for a family day out, the children have loads of space to run free, play ball, ride their bikes, fly a kite the list goes on. Take a picnic or enjoy the surroundings of the Morris and Brown Cafe, where there serve refreshments and light snacks that are tasty and delicious. Or shop in the onsite shop that serves a delightful collection of items from local and up and coming designers all at reasonable prices.
Fun Days Out
Delve into the dark side of Oxford's alleyways and streets and find out about its ghostly past, if you dare! With its many colleges and historic buildings, it's a great place for ghostly goings on.
Snakes and Ladders is a huge indoor playground fitted to the brim with climbing frames, ball ponds, cargo nets and slides. A ride on electric motor bikes is also not to be missed.
Home to a fascinating and varied collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates from all over the world, the park encourages a greater understanding and respect for wildlife. Lots to see and do, making it a great family day out.
Tour Gems - 19.7 Miles (31.5 KM)
Groups of two to four travellers who want to get the most out of their stay in Cotswold can schedule a Tour Gems day tour! Climb inside an air conditioned 8 seat people carrier and let your guide do the driving. Standard tours cover much of the region's lush landscape with trout-filled streams, valleys and views atop the Cotswold Escarpment.
Find out about upcoming races and events, book tickets or just enjoy a coffee and browse the walls of this visitor centre at Silverstone, home of the British Grand Prix. Now you have the chance to follow in the wheel tracks of these motor racing legends and drive a range of racing and sports cars on the legendary circuits at Silverstone.
Try digging for fossils in the dinosaur park or ride a tractor in the farm park. Discover what's lurking in the pond at the Pond Explorer Station or visit the animals in the Cuddle Corner. You won't want to miss tending to farmer Gully's crops in the giant vegetable patch.
There's plenty of hands on fun for children here. They can bottle feed lambs, milk cows, groom ponies, play crazy golf, race go karts, or play in the adventure playground. An endless day of fun and games!
Wander through a tropical rainforest with a myriad multicoloured butterflies, sunbirds and koi carp. See fascinating animals in Insect City and view deadly spiders in arachnoland.
Magic Land - 29.7 Miles (47.5 KM)
13,000 sq foot of indoor play area for the children to enjoy with a separate area for under 4's and an on-site café.
Join the Stratford ghost walk — if you dare! Walk through the streets with 'witches and ghosts and things just not right'. Guides are members of Equity and are magical entertainers; a great evening awaits.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
On this tour you can visit some of the scenes seen on the TV show Inspector Morse, with lots of stories along the way. See the places where the famous TV detective cracked the crimes of Oxford.
Get on your bikes as a family and explore the forest along the 5 mile cycle route. Alternatively, follow the three walking trails, two of which are all-access. You'll definitely want to ascend the Tree Top Way, a wooden walkway that takes you above the trees and beyond! The views from the top are fantastic.
Take a guided tour around Shakespeare's home town of Stratford. Available 365 days of the year, the walk has been awarded the Godiva award for best visitor attraction. There's no need to book, just turn up rain or shine.
Golf & Sports
This is a large outdoor heated swimming pool with free swimming for kids, relaxation area, outdoor play area and refreshments.
Make your way down the tree lined drive to see the spectacular views over the lakes that await you at the bottom. On offer is top quality fishing in pretty, peaceful and relaxing surroundings.
This 18 hole, par 71 course, situated in an outstanding Cotswold countryside already known for its charm and peacefulness, offers a challenge for golfers of all ages.
With a choice of three championship golf courses and over 54 holes, Woburn is the ideal place for a quality day's golfing.
Nature Reserves
No recommended Nature Reserves found within 30 miles of this property.
Gardens & Woodlands
Visitors to Stowe Gardens can explore more than 40 monuments, temples and secret corners, enjoying breathtaking scenery whilst strolling along the walks and trails through the gardens and surrounding parkland.
Birdland - 19.5 Miles (31.2 KM)
The beautiful Birdland Park and Gardens was founded in 1957 in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water. This location was among the first bird encounter attractions to open in the United Kingdom. The facility features 9 spacious acres with more than 150 trees that form lofty canopies for the facility's beloved feathered residents.
The Dragonfly Maze is more than a beautiful garden. This exciting attraction also holds many surprises for curious visitors who successfully unravel its secrets. Gather your clue card at the start of the journey then attempt to make your way to the centre, gathering new clues displayed on engraved flagstones.
Batsford offers one of the largest and most extensive private collections of trees and shrubs in Britain. You'll also find a statue of Buddha Batsford and a Japanese style bridge in this amazing garden.
A fantastic Cotswold garden covering 3 acres that has only recently opened for public viewing. Its features include a knot garden, potager, coloured borders and a shade house.
Built upon a number of shallow terraces, this delightful 2 1/2 acre garden has been open for public viewing since the early 1990s. The old mill pond has been incorporated into the design of the garden.(Limited wheelchair access - enquire before visit)
Stonor Park is one of England's oldest manor houses and is set in beautiful surroundings. The park, with its herd of fallow deer can be accessed via public footpath.
A truly great English garden arranged in outdoor 'rooms', each having its own character, separated by hedges and walls. The garden is famous for its rare trees and shrubs.
Here we have a 20th century garden that is blessed with colour and an informal atmosphere. A sunken garden has a fine display of Spring bulbs and the roses peak in June and July.
Barnsley House Garden, over 4.5 acres surrounding a 17th century manor house with stunning knot gardens, formal lawns and two summer houses offering a pleasant place to sit and relax.
Escape from the hectic atmosphere of modern civilisation and immerse yourself in the serene landscape of the Cerney House Gardens. This lush space features vibrant blossoms and deep green hues that will enchant the mind and the eyes. Observe local wildlife and tranquil woodland while exploring 40 acres of gorgeous parkland.
Local Attractions
Formerly The Oxford Apollo, now under the name of New Theatre, this exciting venue offers a wide range of shows and events — check the website for up to date listings.
A city centre cinema showing up to date films (check website for times). Free and disabled parking is available and the centre is wheelchair friendly.
Come and experience the colourful fun and excitement that is the Giffords Circus! This extravaganza of entertainment began in 2000 as a small, traditional circus company with big potential. Today the troupe tours with waggons baring musicians, performers, horses and many other unique elements that make this captivating show so memorable!
Sit back, relax and enjoy the U.K. behind the wheel of a classic car! The Open Road Day Drives provides visitors with the unique opportunity to hire a classic car in many popular styles, including Ford Mustang Convertibles, Jaguar MK II, Jaguar XK8, Morris Minor Convertibles, MGB Roasters, Jaguar E-Types, Triumph Stags and many more!
The Court Barn is an old tithe barn that itself is interesting but, housed in this historic structure is an exhibition relating to the Arts and Crafts movement in Chipping Campden. The exhibits on show are well presented and are all relevant to the local area or by local artists showcasing their works and talent. The staff here are very friendly and enthusiastic and really enhance your visit to the Court Barn. It is an intimate venue but the quality of work on display is fantastic and there are some really nice and unique items available to purchase. There are some interesting videos that demonstrate how certain items are made. It does not take you very long to get around the museum but, nevertheless it is interesting and informative and throws considerable light on the Arts and Crafts movement and its legacy here in the Cotswolds. If you are in the area then a visit to the court Barn Museum is worthwhile.
Silk Mill - 25 Miles (40 KM)
The Old Silk Mill offers a cooperative of more than twenty artists and craftspeople a venue to showcase their crafts and talents in this historic building. The Old Silk Mill is also known as the home of C.R Ashbee's world acclaimed Guild of Handicraft who inhabited the property from 1902 to 1908. There continues to be a representative of the Guild at the Old Silk Mill through Hart Goldmiths and Silversmiths and you can see these and other artists at work here, it is like stepping back in time. In addition they are more than happy to discuss their work with you. The Old Silk Mill provides the perfect conditions to exhibit these works in a bright and airy environment with a welcoming atmosphere. You will find a combination of contemporary and traditional craftspeople, they include artists, ceramicists, designers, furniture makers, glass makers, metal workers, photographers, sculptors, stone carvers, textile artists and wood carvers. The aim of the co-operative is to help expose and develop the artists profiles and allow people to meet them and discuss their works. Each member will have the opportunity to administer the co-operatives numerous exhibitions. The gallery is open each day from 10am to 5pm. There is a lovely coffee shop that has a inviting and relaxed ambience where you can enjoy a good selection of tea and coffees and some delicious cakes/biscuits that offer great value for money. Do take the time to visit the Old Silk Mill it is a true working museum and has a really nice selection of exhibits and also offers the opportunity to purchase a unique gift.
Ernest Wilson Memorial Garden are dedicated to the memory of a local, Ernest "Chinese" Wilson who became a well known plant hunter who operated from the USA, his expeditions took him all over China, Japan, Korea and much of Asia. The gardens offer a place of peace and tranquillity in Chipping Campden, they are beautiful and well maintained. You will find some unusual and rare plants here that were originally brought back from Asia, they are all labelled which, is helpful. In fact he introduced more than 1,200 species of trees and shrubs. There is a story board that illustrates the life and exploits of Ernest Wilson in China, and his later years, it is very informative and interesting. The gardens are hidden away behind a brick wall that faces the high street and is accessed via a little Tudor archway. There are lots of benches where you can sit and enjoy the calming atmosphere. The gardens rely on donations and there are boxes for contributions. If you are interested in plants and trees and want to know where they came from and when they were brought into the country you will find all this and more here at the Ernest Wilson Memorial Garden. If you have some time then come and see these delightful gardens and find out more about this intriguing man at the Ernest Wilson Memorial Garden
The Richard Hagan Gallery focuses on Original Contemporary British Art, it is housed in a charming 17th century building that is full of character. The gallery is open daily during the year and has a continually altering display of excellent paintings and sculptures, in addition to some permanent displays. During the year there are three inclusive group exhibitions. The main focus at this gallery is on the finest in Scottish contemporary and Cornish art. The paintings and objects on display here lean more to the modern representational and abstract.
Cotswold Lavender are probably the prettiest and nicest smelling fields that you will ever see, you are invited to come and visit them on their farm to see for yourself the beauty of these fields. Generally open from June to August when the lavender is in bloom, you are welcome to come and walk the fields and distillery. The harvest will take place when the crop is ready and this cannot be predetermined, it then needs to be distilled immediately after cutting, it is only on these times that the distillery will actually be operational. Located in a splendidly renovated Cotswold Stone barn on the premises are the lovely Gift Shop and Tea Rooms. The Gift Shop stocks the complete range of products they sell from lavender plants, dry lavender bunches, the best English Lavender Essential Oils and their best seller the Slumber Gel, there are loads more products available here. The Tea Rooms are cosy and welcoming and sell refreshments and light snacks as well as a selection of cakes and pastries for your enjoyment. Cotswold Lavender offers a unique and unusual day out that is interesting and enjoyable for all the family.
Peatfire Tales offers a different kind of attraction here in Orkney. Run by a husband and wife team they invite you to join them in an evening of storytelling around the delights of a blazing and welcoming peat fire. Settle in and enjoy the warmth and sit back to be regaled by stories of the history of the island, hear local folklore and and learn about the local culture as well as enjoying wonderful music and dancing. Many of the tales have been passed through generations and continue to enthral and entertain audiences from all over the world, you are transported to another era and get a real feel of this bygone time. John and Lynn are very welcoming and friendly as well as being passionate and accomplished storytellers, you are immediately transfixed and will be captivated by the stories being told. This magical evening just flies by and you glean so much from the stories being told. Their storytelling takes place in a number of venues on the island. They are extremely popular and advance booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. Peatfire Tales offers a unique and delightful experience, the storytelling is faultless and you will end the evening wanting to return again, highly recommended.
In 1991, the Abbey Home Farm switched from conventional production to organic. The 650 hectare property offers seasonal tours and trailer rides. Visitors can also explore walking trails and a 6 miles circular walk which is canine-friendly. Browse the charming organic farm shop and stop by the on-site cafe for a meal with relaxed, rustic atmosphere.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Blenheim Palace is located in 2000 acres of stunning parkland at the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and yet is only 8 miles from Oxford. It is a world heritage site and well known as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.
Over 40 vehicles are on display. Most are buses in the ownership of the museum. Some are privately owned buses on long-term loan for exhibition to the public.
The Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection is a fun place for families in Bourton-on-the-Water. The extensive collections feature a wide range of exhibits, including the Mill Gallery which is full of sleek vehicles. Visitors can see a blacksmith's workshop or take a journey through Windrush Alley for a closer look at street level motoring.
A wonderful museum with much to see, including lots of rare artefacts from Wellingtons and other aircraft. In addition it features a unique collection of Royal Airforce treasures, records and photographs and a village history.
This is a little property with a big history, a very rare 17th century Cotswold country estate. A unique Deer Park with deer course and 4,000 acres of stunning countryside to escape to.
St James' Church is a prominent landmark here in Chipping Camden and this majestic church has been standing here since the 1400's, and can be seen for miles around. It is a renowned Perpendicular Wool church and one of the finest examples in England. There are cards available to allow you to take a self guided tour, it will not take you very long to see this church nevertheless it is still interesting with many lovely features, including medieval altar frontals, medieval cope, stone sculptures, stained glass windows, tapestries and works of silk. Outside there is an old graveyard and the headstones and tombs make for interesting reading and there are some lovely views out over the stunning surrounding countryside. The church relies on donations for its upkeep so there are boxes around where you can make a donation. The church extends a warm and welcoming greeting to all who visit and you are invited to join them in worship, there are services every Sunday and there are other special services throughout the year. If you get to hear the organ being played it is a mesmerising sound. St James' Church is a true gem and if you are in the area make time to visit this beautiful and historic building, you will not be disappointed by it.
Grevel House is located at the north end of Campden, and is the town's oldest house. It is an excellent illustration of 14th century architecture, in the Perpendicular Gothic style, with its elegantly decorated windows, its gargoyles, their purpose was to scare away bad spirits as well as acting as rain spouts, and sundial. This historic house was the home of William Grevel and is the first great wool mansion, having chimneys as opposed to just holes in the roof. William Grevel was one of the country's most effective wool merchants. At the time his home would have been surrounded by wattle and daub huts, so you get a perspective of his immense wealth. Unfortunately you can't get inside the house but can admire its beauty from outside.
The legendary Bletchley Park where the Enigma code was broken is now home to the national codes centre. This fascinating site was home to to one of Britain's biggest war time secrets and played a pivotal role in gaining victory in 1945. Learn how they cracked the code, see the impressive Churchill collection and delve into tales of spies, deception and intrigue.
Discover hypocausts, surviving mosaics, latrines and old bathhouses whilst viewing this 1,700 year old stately home in its lovely wooded combe surroundings.
Gordon Russell Design Museum is a dedication to the life and work of one of Britain's foremost design pioneers, his life spanned many amazing events and changes and these are all documented here. The museum is actually located in the original workshop, and is a celebration of his life and work, over a period of 60 years. Gordon Russell was an extremely talented man and had many skills, he was a furniture designer and maker, calligrapher, entrepreneur and champion of accessible well crafted design. He trained locally and had a belief that a good design could have consequences on peoples lives. He continued to pursue quality and craftsmanship even when he introduced machinery. He was heavily involved in promoting Britian's design industry following the end of World War II, his persistence and dedication had a lasting impression and effect on British industry, design and education. The museum houses a unique collection of furniture that covers many eras from the Arts and Crafts movement right through to the 80's and the introduction of utility furniture. To support these stunning pieces there is a huge archive of authentic drawings, notebooks, catalogues and correspondence in addition to admittance to the firm's original reference library. The museum is an interesting and engaging space that is educational and interesting simultaneously, a great day out for all, the guides are informative and friendly and the furniture on show is superb.
Enjoy both history and nature by visiting Charlecote Park. This fascinating landmark includes a spectacular Tudor house which was home to the Lucy family as far back as the 12th century. Learn about the life and times through stories, portraits and a collection of beautiful items gathered from all over the globe.
You are invited to hop on board the famous GWR locomotives and explore hands on the ways of this beautifully restored railway. Learn about the extraordinary people whose stories are embedded in the history of these fascinating trains, from their original conception, to their build and subsequent journeys. Visitors are also told of the life of the maverick genius that was Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who created the GWR.
Everyone is invited to experience the spiritual beauty of the Parish of Cirencester. This fascinating landmark is open to worshippers and travellers alike. Services and events are still held at the church. The attraction is partnered with the Corner Stone book and coffee shop so travellers can enjoy a relaxing break with Christian books, gifts and more.
Explore the Corinium Museum and learn more about history and the people who lived it. This facility contains an enormous collection consisting of more than 60,000 objects. Many broad categories are covered, including social history, archaeology, prints and photographs. Each item relates to the Cotswold District. Travellers can also stop by the museum shop to find many unique trinkets and gifts.
