Local Attractions

WITNEY

Our nearest town, Witney is the largest of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds market towns, with independent shops, cafés and a market twice a week. Don’t miss the 18th-century Blanket Hall, once the heart of the town’s world-famous blanket trade. Today you can browse woollen throws, tuck into a pie and learn how Witney earned its reputation.
www.cotswolds.com/explore/towns-and-villages/witney

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD

Stow-on-the-Wold is a delightful market town and, along with Moreton-in-Marsh, perhaps the best known of the small Cotswold towns. It is the highest of the Cotswold towns, standing exposed on 800-foot Stow Hill at a junction of seven major roads, including the Roman Fosse Way.
www.stowonthewold.info

BURFORD

Still wonderfully unspoilt, the town of today seems to leave its mark on anyone who has lived in or visited it. A Mayor and Town Council have replaced the original Burgesses and Aldermen. There are still plenty of pubs, restaurants and hotels catering for all tastes among residents and visitors. The shops provide a good selection of produce, clothing, and period furniture; one of them being the oldest chemist shop in the country. High Street chains have yet to make a significant impression on Burford, which adds to its uniqueness and helps make it an enduring place to live, work and visit.
www.cotswolds.com/burford

BOURTON-ON-THE-WATER

Regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England, Bourton-on-the-Water has a unique appeal to visitors and residents alike. There is plenty to see and do with a wealth of attractions, shops, restaurants and tea rooms, or simply enjoy some tranquil time by the River Windrush with its beautiful bridges.
www.bourtoninfo.com

BIBURY

Bibury is a charming village, typical of the Cotswolds, just a short drive from the region’s ‘capital’, Cirencester. Bibury was once described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England”. Many say that Bibury is one of the world’s most picturesque villages, the cottages of Arlington Row are often referred to as the most photographed and beautiful in the country.
www.bibury.com

WOODSTOCK

The town has an active local business community and makes provision for the everyday needs of visitors and residents alike: bank, supermarket, newsagent, cafés, restaurants, galleries and a wide range of shops are all situated in the town centre. The local people are always willing to assist visitors with honesty and a smile. Woodstock is a safe place to be. Walking around at any time of day or night will allow you to enjoy the experience of being in a typical old English town.
www.cotswolds.info/places/woodstock

MINSTER LOVELL HALL

Right on our doorstep, the atmospheric ruins of this 15th-century manor house sit beside the River Windrush, just a gentle stroll from the hotel. Built in the 1430s for William, Lord Lovell, the great hall, tower and nearby dovecote are cared for by English Heritage and free to explore. Bring a picnic and linger by the river. Parking isn’t permitted on the dead-end lane to the site, so walking from the hotel is the best way to get there.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/minster-lovell-hall-and-dovecote

BODLEIAN LIBRARY

Oxford’s Bodleian Library is one of the oldest public libraries in the world and possibly the most impressive you’ll ever see. First opened to scholars in 1602, it incorporates an earlier library built by the University in the 15th century to house books donated by Humfrey, Duke of Gloucester. Since 1602 it has expanded to keep pace with the ever-growing accumulation of books, papers and other materials, but the core of the old buildings has remained intact. A regular programme of guided tours of the Old Bodleian Library allows visitors to see inside its historic rooms including the 15th-century Divinity School, medieval Duke Humfrey’s Library, and the impressive Radcliffe Camera.
www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk

BLENHEIM PALACE

Blenheim Palace was built in the early 18th Century to celebrate victory over the French in the War of the Spanish Succession. The picture-perfect British stately home of Blenheim Palace sits among more than 2,000 acres of extraordinary landscaped Parkland and Formal Gardens. Enjoy the gardens, maze and a trip inside the palace.
www.blenheimpalace.com

ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM

Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean is the University of Oxford’s home to outstanding art and archaeology collections. It’s Britain’s oldest public museum and the world’s first university museum. Its collections are extraordinarily diverse, representing most of the world’s great civilisations, with objects dating from 8000 BC to the present day. Admission is free, but please note the museum is closed on Mondays (unless it’s a bank holiday).
www.ashmolean.org

BALLIOL COLLEGE

Balliol is one of Oxford’s oldest and largest colleges, founded in 1263 it is the oldest academic institution in the English speaking world that is still on its original site. Balliol College welcomes visitors who wish to tour its buildings and gardens. Please call in advance to check there are no College events that require the college to be closed on 01865 277777 or enquire with Reception who will be happy to assist.
www.balliol.ox.ac.uk

BAMPTON

The ancient market town of Bampton lies in the south of the area, not far from the River Thames. Until about 1850 it stood in the centre of a large area of common land, hence its name ‘Bampton in the Bush’. Bampton may seem oddly familiar to some first time visitors – it was used for filming the outdoor scenes in the popular TV drama ‘Downton Abbey’. Guided tours can be arranged for guests who wish to learn more about the history of this fascinating little village.
www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org/plan-your-visit/towns-and-villages/bampton

ROLLRIGHT STONES

Step back thousands of years at the Rollright Stones, a mysterious ancient stone circle on the Oxfordshire border, near Chipping Norton. Local legend tells of a king and his men turned to stone by a witch. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric half-day trip, and an easy one to combine with a wander around Chipping Norton.
www.rollrightstones.co.uk

KELMSCOTT MANOR

Tucked beside the upper Thames near Lechlade, Kelmscott Manor was the beloved summer home of William Morris, the designer and leading figure of the Arts and Crafts movement. Wander the Elizabethan house, filled with his textiles and furnishings, and stroll through the gardens and meadows that inspired him.
www.kelmscottmanor.org.uk

CHASTLETON HOUSE (NATIONAL TRUST)

Step into a time capsule. This remarkable Jacobean house has barely changed in 400 years, with faded tapestries, creaking floors and rooms that feel lived in rather than polished. Outside, the croquet lawn is where the rules of the modern game were first written down.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/oxfordshire/chastleton-house

SUDELEY CASTLE

Near Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle was the home, and is the final resting place, of Katherine Parr, the last of Henry VIII’s six wives. Explore its Tudor history, the award-winning gardens and the beautiful estate, all set beneath the Cotswold escarpment. A lovely day out in any season.
www.sudeleycastle.co.uk

BROADWAY TOWER & CHIPPING CAMPDEN

Perched high on the Cotswold escarpment, this quirky 18th-century folly rewards you with views that stretch for miles across the surrounding countryside. Climb to the top, then enjoy the parkland walks and picnic spots nearby. Pair it with a visit to Chipping Campden for a classic Cotswolds day.
www.broadwaytower.co.uk

HOOK NORTON BREWERY

A treat for the grown-ups. Brewing here since 1849, Hook Norton is one of the finest surviving Victorian tower breweries, complete with a working steam engine and shire horses. Tours wind through the historic building and end with a tasting. Booking in advance is essential.
www.hooky.co.uk

WALK FROM BURFORD

With its fantastic cathedral-like church and tales of ghosts and Levellers, through the little village of Fulbrook, with its ancient jousting field and notorious highwaymen (long-dead!), to the plague village of Widford, where only the manor house and church remain. Then follow the river Windrush through Swinbrook, childhood home of the Mitford sisters and on to join the Roman Road of Akeman Street, before looping through pretty Shilton to arrive back at Burford in time for tea and scones.
Distance: 9 miles (shorter version: 6 miles) | Difficulty: Moderate (shorter version: Easy to Moderate)

WALK FROM BOURTON-ON-THE-WATER

Where the river flows through the village to the famous little villages of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter, follow the River Eye (great for paddling) upstream and then over the wold into the former quarrying village of Naunton, with its rare historic dovecote. Then follow the River Windrush downstream, through surprisingly empty countryside, and past a farm that breeds the ancient Cotswold Lion (breed of sheep!) and back into Bourton, with its model village, Birdland and other family-friendly attractions.
Distance: 10 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Route guide from the Cotswolds National Landscape

WALK OUT OF CHARMING WINCHCOMBE

Pausing to see the town stocks, up onto the wolds above to the ancient Long Barrow of Belas Knap, with its 5000 year old tombs and great views. Then continue on to the little hamlet of Charlton Abbots, with its tiny church, before heading downstream through woods and meadows towards Sudeley Castle, which was once owned by Henry VIII, and which was destroyed in the Civil War. From there it is just a short walk back to Winchcombe.
Distance: Approx. 6-8 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Winchcombe Welcomes Walkers: self-guided walks

COTSWOLD WAY NATIONAL TRAIL

A trail that can be walked as one continuous journey or in shorter sections. Far from the bustle of the crowds, the trail is a bucolic journey through the Cotswolds. The total journey is 102 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath along the Cotswold escarpment, but of course it is up to you how far you go!
Distance: 102 miles in total (walk as much or as little as you like) | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging overall; sections vary
www.nationaltrail.co.uk/cotswold-way/routes

WALK & TROUT FISHING

A glorious walk down the river Leach, perhaps the Cotswolds’ prettiest and least well-known river, through the delightful villages of Eastleach and Southrop, before ending up in Lechlade. Nearby, the Lechlade and Bushyleaze Trout Fisheries offer day-ticket fly fishing in the Cotswold countryside, so you could round off the walk with a few hours by the water. Do check what’s available and book ahead before you set off.
Distance: 5 miles | Difficulty: Easy
www.lechladetrout.co.uk

DIDDLY SQUAT FARM SHOP

Made famous by Jeremy Clarkson and Prime Video’s Clarkson’s Farm, Diddly Squat is just a short drive from the hotel. Browse the farm shop for local produce, honey, jams and Diddly Squat merchandise, and pick up a few bottles of Hawkstone lager. It’s the perfect excuse for a countryside drive and a basket of local treats to bring back to your room.
www.diddlysquatfarmshop.com

DAYLESFORD ORGANIC

A beautifully curated farm shop near Kingham, Daylesford is a feast for the senses, with fresh organic produce, artisan food, a bakery and café, and stylish homeware and gifts. A lovely spot if you’re on the hunt for some local treats.
www.daylesford.com

BURFORD GARDEN COMPANY

Far more than a garden centre, this family-run emporium just outside Burford offers plants and garden furniture alongside homeware, art, clothing and food, plus an award-winning café. Allow plenty of time, as it’s easy to lose an afternoon here.
www.burford.co.uk

BICESTER VILLAGE

Discover a world of luxury at Bicester Village, home to more than 160 boutiques of world-famous brands, each offering exceptional value with savings of up to 60% off recommended retail price all year round. The village offers instant tax refunds for visitors from outside the EU, multilingual hosts, hospitality services include hands-free shopping, valet parking, luggage drop and personal shopper. We are delighted to offer an additional 10% savings when shopping at Bicester Village, please ask at reception for your VIP invitation to Bicester Village.
www.bicestervillage.com/en/home

OXFORD

Oxford, the city of dreaming spires, is famous the world over for its University and place in history. For over 800 years, it has been a home to royalty and scholars, and since the 9th century an established town, although people are known to have lived in the area for thousands of years. Nowadays, the city is a bustling cosmopolitan town. With its ancient University, Oxford has a mix of old and modern – there is plenty for the tourist to do. Whether it’s visiting one of the many historic buildings, colleges or museums, going out for a drink or a meal, taking in a show or shopping till you drop, Oxford has it all.
www.oxfordcity.co.uk

CHELTENHAM

Cheltenham is a Spa town in Gloucestershire, home to the renowned Cheltenham Festival, four days of horse jump racing culminating in the Gold Cup, held annually in March at Cheltenham Racecourse. It’s also known for Regency buildings, including the Pittville Pump Room, a remnant of Cheltenham’s past as a spa town. There’s fine art at The Wilson museum, and the Victorian Everyman Theatre has an ornate auditorium. Enjoy plenty of high street shopping or head to Montpellier where there are individually styled shops and boutiques.
www.visitcheltenham.com

WESTGATE OXFORD

Westgate Oxford is home to prestigious global brands, eclectic restaurants and cafes, leisure and sophisticated rooftop bars and dining. 100 brand new stores feature the best of the British high street as well as luxurious brands. If you’re looking for somewhere to shop ’til you drop in Oxford, then Westgate can’t wait to welcome you.
www.westgateoxford.co.uk

SWINDON DESIGNER OUTLET

Housed in the beautifully restored Grade II listed buildings of the old Great Western Railway Works, Swindon Designer Outlet is one of Europe’s largest covered outlets. With over 90 stores, it offers something for everyone, from designer labels like Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein to high-street favourites such as Reiss, Hobbs and Superdry, with savings of up to 60% off.
https://frasersplus.com/destinations/swindon

JEREMY CLARKSON’S DIDDLY SQUAT FARM & THE FARMER’S DOG PUB

Just a short drive from the hotel, Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm has become a must-see for fans of the hit Prime Video series Clarkson’s Farm. Browse the farm shop and its quirky, often humorous offerings, then head to The Farmer’s Dog, Clarkson’s pub at Asthall near Burford, for a proper British pub lunch. The shop gets very busy and parking is limited, so allow plenty of time, and book ahead if you’d like a table inside the pub. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply enjoying a countryside drive, it’s a fun stop during your local explorations.
www.thefarmersdogpub.com

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK & GARDENS

A place that must be visited and it is perfect for all ages. With over 250 species of animals in beautiful landscaped parkland and gardens there is something for everyone to enjoy. There are daily animal talks and feeding experiences to enjoy along with an adventure playground.
www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

CROCODILES OF THE WORLD

This is a very exciting and different day out. There is no other place like it. See crocodiles in clear water habitats with incredible underwater viewing. Come face to face with some of the most feared predators on the planet – Nile crocodiles, American alligators, black caiman, and more! Daily crocodile encounters and handling experiences with the friendly team.
www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk

COGGES MANOR FARM

Just a ten-minute walk from Witney town centre, Cogges Manor Farm is a family-friendly heritage farm with over 1,000 years of history. Meet the animals in the Victorian farmyard, wander the walled garden and orchard, let the children loose in the woodland adventure play areas and explore the 13th-century manor house. Downton Abbey fans may recognise it as Yew Tree Farm. Stop for a bite at the Cogges Kitchen café. Open seasonally from February to early November, with festive events in December, so please check the website before you visit.
www.cogges.org.uk

COTSWOLD FARM PARK

Run by Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, there are over 50 breeds of animal with demonstrations each day, along with animal petting and feeding. On the farm you will find a play area, maze, country walks and a farm shop.
www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

COTSWOLD WATER PARK & BEACH

Cotswold Country Park and Beach comprises two lakes formed around forty years ago through gravel extraction. The lakes are filled by the natural groundwater, which means they are very clean. In fact, you can usually see the bottom of the lake from the viewing gallery on the Millennium Building! In the winter, although many of the water-based facilities close, the country park is still a great place to come for a beautiful lakeside walk and have a hot chocolate afterwards. However, this is a rural country park with some uneven surfaces, so please take care within the park and surrounding footpaths.
www.waterpark.org

BATSFORD ARBORETUM

Near Moreton-in-Marsh, Batsford Arboretum is home to a remarkable collection of rare trees, set across a hillside with Japanese-inspired planting and far-reaching views. It’s especially glorious in autumn, when the maples blaze in fiery shades of red and gold.
www.batsfordarboretum.co.uk

COTSWOLD LAVENDER (SNOWSHILL)

In summer, the hillsides above Snowshill ripple with purple rows of lavender, filling the air with scent and the countryside with colour. Wander the fields, snap a few photographs and browse the shop for lavender-scented gifts. A must for a summer visit.
www.cotswoldlavender.co.uk

OXFORD BOTANIC GARDEN

Founded in 1621, this is the oldest botanic garden in Britain, tucked beside the River Cherwell in the heart of Oxford. Wander the walled garden and glasshouses and enjoy a tranquil break from the bustle of the city’s colleges and museums.
www.obga.ox.ac.uk