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Home , Aloysius (Waugh), Black Bourton, Bledington, Blenheim Palace, Bould, Brighthampton

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Rural at its finest... A4 Great 15 4 3 Great Te w Attractions A361 Little Te w Ledwell Salford 9 14 Cornwell Chipping Page Sandford Norton St Martin 1 Aston Pottery 16

B4066 Middle Barton 2 Bampton/Downton Abbey Film Locations 8 10 21 60 2 3 Batsford Arboretum 17 Churchill A4 B4022 Over 4 Village 18 1 36 A 5 Birdland Park and Gardens 19 Nether Westcote 6 Biztro 17 Ta ckley 4 Wootton 5 A 424 Ascott-under- 7 Blenheim 20 Fifield Milton-under- Wychwood 8 6/7 Woodstock 9 9 Shipton-under- 25 Wychwood Combe 7 10 Churchill & Heritage Centre 21 12 19 20 5 9 0 4 A 11 Manor Farm 22 Ramsden 18 12 21 Taynton Long Windrush Crawley Fulbrook Hailey The 13 Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens 23 Barringtons Freeland Church Minster Hanborough 14 Fairytale Farm 22 5 Lovell Burford 8 B442 15 Railway 24 Westwell 24 22 23 16 Manor 25 A40 17 26 11 Shilton 17 Marriots Walk Shopping Centre 13 Bradwell Grove Curbridge Brize 13 Carterton Norton 18 Museum 26 19 Oxfordshire Museum 26

Stanton Harcourt 20 Real Wood Furniture Company 11 Ye lford 21 Rousham 27 B4449 Aston 22 Teddy Bears of Witney 14 2 Bampton Northmoor Langford 1 Cote Clanfield 6 23 Witney 12 24 Witney Lakes Resort 28 Lechlade Radcot 25 Woodstock 10 16 Kelmscott 26 Wychwood Brewery 15

Approximate mileage: Burford to Chipping Norton 10 miles Welcome to The Oxfordshire Cotswolds The Bedroom Browser is not a definitive guide to An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Oxfordshire Cotswolds offers towns and villages of honey coloured stone set amongst green rolling hills punctuated by secluded the Oxfordshire Cotswolds but an introduction river valleys: rural England at its finest. highlighting some of the many There are picturesque, lively market towns offering a wide range of unusual and interesting shops, a far cry from the uniform High Streets in many larger towns. Places attractions on offer, some like Burford, Chipping Norton and Woodstock all have a distinct character of their own – ideal to explore at your leisure, with shops to entice and enchant and plenty of tea rooms, well known, others and restaurants to discover and enjoy at your leisure, especially as they all offer less so. Browse free parking. The Oxfordshire Cotswolds has a wonderful range of attractions ranging from at your leisure, the tiny, like Heritage Centre, to the grandeur of Blenheim then venture Palace, a World Heritage Site with 2,000 acres of parkland. There are historic houses, gardens, animal attractions, museums, brewery tours, something to suit out to explore every taste and interest and many of which are open all year round. and discover for There is no chance in a publication this size to list all the treasures waiting to be explored, like the picture postcard villages and the medieval churches, nor is there yourself... room here to detail the many events and festivals that take place. For details of all these visit our website www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org

3 Leaving the car behind...

To really enjoy the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, why This is a walker’s paradise: gently rolling hills and tree lined valleys, criss-crossed by more than 500 miles of public footpaths. A leisurely riverside stroll, a gentle ramble not leave the car behind for a day? On foot or by through woods carpeted with bluebells or a brisk and virtuous winter hike: the choice is yours. For a slightly faster pace there’s nothing quite like the freedom offered by two bike you really can appreciate the wheels and the thrill of feeling a fresh breeze upon your face. Miles of quiet country lanes, bridleways galore and a number of circular cycle routes, providing opportunities Oxfordshire Cotswolds, an for long or short rides, on and off road. The ‘gently rolling hills’, characteristic of the Cotswolds, mean that uphill sections are usually short and satisfyingly rewarded officially designated by a freewheel afterwards! Area of Outstanding No mention of walking or cycling in the area would be complete without reference to the traditional Natural Beauty. Cotswold inn. There are plenty of great country pubs Moving at a gentler conveniently dotted around the area – few walks or bike There are more than 50 free pace, you will be rides will fail to pass at least downloadable walks and 20 free one, normally several. The downloadable cycle rides available on able to enjoy the promise of a welcoming inn is our website a vital element: whether as an sights that make incentive for the reluctant or a www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org/walks the area so special. reward for the virtuous! www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org/rides

4 Further Information

To really make the most of your stay visit one of our local Visitor Information Centres, where professional, experienced staff are on hand to offer advice and Visitor Information Centres inspiration as well as BURFORD answering your questions, 33a High Street, Burford OX18 4QA however simple or obscure. Tel: 01993 823558 Email: [email protected] Monday to Saturday Not only do the centres contain a 9.30am - 5pm wealth of information on local visitor Sunday and Bank Holidays attractions, both large and small, on 10am - 4pm leisure facilities, on walks, cycle rides, WITNEY accommodation, public transport and local events but 3 Welch Way, Witney OX28 6JH they also house a Tel: 01993 775802 wide range of maps and Email: [email protected] guides to help you enjoy your Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm stay. As well as a selection of gifts and Saturday 9.30am - 5pm souvenirs, the centres also sell tickets for a number of local Sunday Closed attractions and events, as well as taking local cinema and Bank Holidays 10am - 4pm theatre bookings.

5 Burford www.burfordtown.com

A medieval town with burgage plots and shop fronts measured in “perches”; it has not changed for centuries and much of it was built before Columbus discovered the Americas in 1492. The view down the Hill and High Street is world famous. After 900 years Burford is still a busy market town and whether your interest is eating where the famous ate, treading the boards where Charles II, Nell Gwynn, Lord Nelson and many others have stayed or leisurely browsing and shopping, you will find much to interest you in Burford. The majestic church built from the wealth of the medieval wool trade has also been a prison and execution site for in Cromwell’s time. Today it is used for a wide range of concerts and events as well as being of great architectural and historical interest at all times. The pubs and hotels are also steeped in history but offer a wide range of meals to suit all tastes and occasions from casual to formal. The shops have changed from saddleries and tanners to the individual galleries, jewellers, craft and other outlets not found in most High Streets today.

6 Burford www.burfordcotswolds.co.uk

Burford the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’ is world famous for its tree lined high street and beautiful Cotswold architecture. Steeped in history it has one of the top twenty English churches and stunning views and walks along the Windrush valley in this area of outstanding natural beauty. This vibrant medieval market town is a great place to visit or stay and experience the friendly hospitality. There are award winning hotels and tearooms, pubs and restaurants serving locally brewed beer and other Cotswold specialities. Burford offers a great shopping experience with a fantastic diversity of unique independent shops, galleries and businesses, many of which are family-run. This includes the oldest pharmacy in England, specialist antiques, collectibles and delicious delicatessen and food shops. Discover the creative delights of the needlework shop or the superb craftsmanship of the designer furniture-makers and bespoke jewellers before browsing the beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories. Burford is the perfect place for innovative shopping, a relaxing break, meeting friends and family or a day out. No wonder it’s considered one of the finest High Streets in Britain – and the parking is free!

7 Downton Abbey Film Locations Locations within the Oxfordshire Cotswolds have featured prominently in the popular TV drama Downton Abbey. The village of Bampton may seem oddly familiar to Downton fans for this is where the village scenes are filmed and where many dramas have been played out in the streets around the church. As well as a variety of buildings that have been used as pubs, shops and the post office the main locations in Bampton are: Churchgate House, used as the Crawley family home; Bampton Community Archive, which served as ‘Downton’ hospital; St Mary’s Church, renamed as St Michael and All Angels, has hosted a number of dramatic ‘Downton’ events including weddings, funerals, christenings and even a jilting at the altar! Filming has also taken place at The Swan Inn at Swinbrook, at and in the village of Shilton. More details can be found at www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org/downton

8 Photograph: James Wildman Chipping Norton www.experiencechippingnorton.com Chipping Norton was once a centre for the Cotswold wool trade whose riches are reflected in the medieval Guildhall and St Mary’s Church. The town’s history is lovingly traced in Chipping Norton’s museum of local history. ‘Chippy’ as known by the locals, is a working Cotswold market town at the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’. Wander through the charming streets steeped in history and discover independent retailers, boutiques and creative shops offering a lively and friendly shopping experience. It’s a fantastic place to visit, with a range of places to eat and drink. There are plenty of FREE parking spaces. An award-winning theatre with an extraordinarily diverse programme and also the Lido, one of the UK’s few remaining outdoor heated swimming pools. Wednesday is market day and the town hosts a farmers’ market on the third Saturday of every month from 8.30am to 1.30pm. The town has its share of historic buildings and is surrounded by stunning beautiful countryside. Many visitors use Chippy as a base for local walks and exploring nearby attractions such as mystical Neolithic stone circle the and of course the wider Cotswolds themselves – home to beautiful villages and cosy pubs. For more information on Chipping Norton including what’s on and where to eat and drink please visit www.experiencechippingnorton.com

9 With its ivy-clad façades, Cotswold stone buildings and situated a stone’s throw from glorious Woodstock with its lake and gardens designed by , the enchanting market town of Woodstock is the perfect place to visit… a haven for relaxation, the perfect www.wakeuptowoodstock.com destination for a day out, or a weekend away. Wander through the charming streets steeped in history and discover independent, innovative and creative shops offering a lively and friendly shopping experience which offer real choice, not just the same chain stores that can be found on many a high street. There are some 15 eateries in Woodstock; enjoy a light snack at Hampers Food and Wine Company, who also boast a lovely delicatessen; dine al fresco at La Galleria or at The Kings Arms which has an AA rosette. tells the story of Woodstock and Oxfordshire through eleven galleries and exhibitions featuring history, popular culture, contemporary arts and crafts throughout the year, with something for all ages. If you are looking for somewhere to stay, there is wealth of choice between fine hotels and luxurious B&Bs...The Bear Hotel and The Kings Arms offer the full hotel experience, whilst The Glove House offers a luxury B&B experience. Woodstock’s varied programme of events, driven by the Wake up to Woodstock campaign, appeal to the young and old alike: from the Charity Carnival in mid-June, to the thrills and spills of The Old Woodstock Mock Mayor Celebrations in August, Woodstock Live which takes place over the end of August Bank Holiday Weekend, Art in Woodstock during half- term week in October when the whole of the town is transformed into an extravaganza of the visual arts, to A Night of a Thousand Candles on the last Saturday in November – there is something for everyone in Woodstock. There’s now a new Pocket Woodstock mobile phone app as well as a wealth of information on where to stay and where to eat, and more on its businesses and events at www.wakeuptowoodstock.com

10 The Real Wood The Real Wood Furniture Company displays probably the largest collection of bespoke country furniture in the country which attracts visitors from far and wide. A labyrinth of showrooms in adjoining listed period buildings Furniture Company house a fascinating collection, set out in room sets dressed with an amazing collection of accessories which are also for sale. Browse with no pressure House, Oxford Street and seek inspiration… it’s more like a visitor experience Woodstock OX20 1TS than a showroom! Check out The Sculpture Garden Tel: 01993 813887 to the rear of the showrooms and discover a Email: [email protected] haven of tranquility away from the bustle of www.rwfco.com the main road. The vistors’ book reads like we might have written it ourselves: ‘A shop full of dreams…’ ‘The best collection of oak furniture in the country….’ ‘I want to live here….’ ‘Delicious shop, fabulous furniture and an eclectic mix of art…. something for everyone…’ We make a timeless range of furniture, with the ability to alter size, specification and finish to suit your home. We work exclusively in solid English timbers, specializing in the use of character and burr oak, ash and cherry.

Opening times

Monday to Saturday 10.30am - 5.30pm Sunday 11am - 5pm

www.rwfco.com

11 Witney Witney, the largest town in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, is set on the banks of the lovely Windrush River and is www.witney-tc.gov.uk positioned between the river’s tranquil lowlands and the broad sweep of the Cotswolds. For centuries Witney was linked with the making of woollen cloth and the famous blankets that carried its name around the world. There is a Wool Trail walk and many historic buildings and sites to view such as the Buttercross, the Corn Exchange, the Witney and District Museum, the Blanket Hall and three sets of Almshouses. Witney offers the best shopping experience in the region with a huge choice of shops from big names to stylish and traditional independents and a twice weekly market; all with free parking. The town is thriving and offers a variety of ways to relax and enjoy your leisure time. Two busy public halls regularly host arts, entertainment and other events. There are also a number of recreation grounds and play areas with a good standard of sports facilities. Just a short distance from the town centre is the Lake and Country Park a 37 hectare park with an abundant variety of plants and wildlife inhabiting the lake, wet grassland and hay meadow. You’ll find Witney a fantastic town to explore, whether as a base for your travels, a day trip, or an evening out.

12 One of the few places you can shop and PARK FOR FREE Marriotts Walk Marriotts Walk is in the centre of Witney, just off Welch Way, and offers High Street named shops in a rural stress free setting with the added bonus of FREE parking in our multi-storey car park adjacent to the centre. For up-to-date information, offers and news, visit our website www.marriottswalk.co.uk. Shopping Centre We have an excellent fashion and food offer headed by Debenhams and Marks and ; complimented by New Look, Dorothy Perkins, Wallis, Monsoon, Accessorize, Crew Clothing, East, Witney OX28 6GW Fat Face, Phase Eight and Cotton Traders. If it’s gifts you’re looking for we have Whittards and Fresh Tel: 01993 704262 Cards & Gifts that cater for the traditional as well as the quirky Email: [email protected] shopper and if shopping makes you feel peckish then you can recharge your batteries at Caffè Nero. New to the centre this www.marriottswalk.co.uk year is Tog 24, your leading store for ski and outdoor wear. The centre also boasts a new, comfortable 5 screen cinema, Cineworld, so why not round off your day with a movie and a meal at one of our excellent restaurants Frankie & Benny’s or Café Opening times Rouge or grab a bite at Subway. Normal hours: The Witney Yarn Mosaic and the Buttercross Needle are Monday to Saturday two interesting pieces of modern artwork at the centre; the 9am - 5.30pm former tracing the development of Witney from its early Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am - 4pm beginnings to the present day. Built on a site bequeathed (Individual stores may vary) to the town by the blanket making family Marriott, hence Cineworld: its name, the centre was developed in conjunction with Monday to Friday District Council, is owned by RREEF 11.15am - 11.15pm Witney Ltd and is managed by Savills. Marriotts Walk both Saturday and Sunday 9.30am -11.15pm complements and completes the shopping experience of Times may vary, visit cineworld.co.uk Witney. We look forward to welcoming you... Restaurants open all day Car Parking is FREE

13 Teddy Bears Teddy Bears of Witney has a selection of traditional teddy bears that will take your breath away! of Witney Specialising in traditional bears for collectors, there is an amazing choice of bears, mostly limited editions, by Steiff, and 99 High Street, other leading manufacturers, as well as bears by artists from around Witney OX28 6HY the world. Tel: 01993 706616 In addition to the shop you can also see many old and rare bears in Email: [email protected] their small museum. Their favourite is Alfonzo, a rare and romantic red www.teddybears.co.uk Steiff bear given to Princess Xenia in 1908 by her father, Grand Duke George Michaelovich. Opening times Amongst the other attractions is a letter written by Christopher Robin, when Monday to Friday he was just six and other wonderful 9.30am - 5.30pm ephemera relating to Winnie-the-Pooh Saturday 9.30am - 5pm and the Milne family. Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm The most famous bear on display is Open most Bank Holidays probably Aloysius, the actual bear Stratford by Steiff which starred in Brideshead Revisited. The shop is open 7 days a week – a warm welcome awaits you.

Aloysius replica by Merrythought, England 14 George by Steiff Alfonzo by Steiff circa 1908 Brewing in Witney dates back to 1811 and Wychwood Wychwood Brewery is sited at the Old Eagle Maltings, built more than 150 years ago when barley was malted for the town’s Opening times brewery. Today Wychwood brews an extensive range of Brewery high quality crafted ale each year using traditional methods Brewery Store: and is home of the legendary Hobgoblin and Brakspear Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm beers. Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Closed Sundays & Public Holidays. In 1988 the brewery was asked to brew a special Witney OX28 4DP Brewery Tours: Tel: 01993 890800 celebratory wedding beer for a local landlord for his daughter’s wedding. Chris Moss, Head Brewer at the time, Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. www.wychwood.co.uk created the ale of his life. The deliciously dark, rich brew Pre-booking is essential as the tours became The Legendary Hobgoblin. In January 1996 the first are extremely popular. Hobgoblin beer in bottles was produced. The highly distinctive The cost of a tour is £7.50 per and quirky labels appealed immediately to a new, younger person. market for traditional English ales. Hobgoblin is now the We will, where possible, look to flagship beer of Wychwood Brewery and the bestselling accommodate requests for group premium bottled ale in the UK. bookings that wish to have an In 2004, Wychwood Brewery began brewing Brakspear evening tour. We are unable to beers following a £1 Million refurbishment. Much accept children under the age of 12. of the original brewing plant from the Brakspear Brewery in Henley on Thames was incorporated into To check availability, and to make an the existing brewery and as part of this development online booking, please visit the Brakspear fermenting room with famous “double www.wychwood.co.uk or call us on drop” system was created. All Brakspear beers are now 01993 890800. brewed at Wychwood, alongside Wychwood beers and we still supply all the Brakspear pubs every week. Our brewery tour experience takes approximately two hours. The tour includes a complimentary drink in our Cellar Bar, a tour of the brewery, a bottle tasting session, and the opportunity to look around the brewery store. All of our merchandise and bottled beers are available to purchase.

15 Aston Pottery Country café Kingsway Farm, Aston OX18 2BT Take a break in our spacious country café, which Tel: 01993 852031 serves a wide variety of delicious and locally Email: [email protected] sourced fare. www.astonpottery.co.uk Working pottery All our pottery is made and painted on site, using traditional methods of production which can be seen on a tour of the pottery. You can even book in to paint your own! Shopping Visit Aston Pottery’s fabulous showroom and browse the wide range of gifts including jewellery, bags, textiles and much more. See our latest contemporary designs along with familiar Opening times classics. Gardens We are open 7 days a week: Admire our two newly planted spectacular Monday to Saturday herbaceous borders with over 250 different 9am - 5pm perennials, flowering from April to October - Sundays and Bank Holidays come and be inspired. 10.30am - 5pm Aston is a 5 minute drive from Witney on the B4449 between Standlake and Bampton. Aston Pottery has ample free parking

16 Batsford Arboretum Biztro and Garden Centre Restaurant with Rooms

Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AB Wheelgate House, Market Square, Tel: 01386 701441 Bampton OX18 2JH Email: [email protected] Tel: 01993 851151 www.batsarb.co.uk Just a mile from the historic Email: [email protected] market town of Moreton-in- www.biztro.co.uk Marsh, Batsford is home to one of the country’s largest private tree collections with 56 acres of wild gardens, paths and streams, stunning the home of great food views and beautiful statues. Enjoy early colour from snowdrops, Opening times spring-flowering bulbs and Japanese Biztro, The Home of Great Food flowering cherries; escape the heat Set in the picturesque village of Bampton, Biztro is a contemporary haven serving Open daily (except Christmas Day) under the tree canopy in summer modern British cuisine to discerning diners. Once warmly welcomed into the 10am - 5pm and prepare to be amazed by the intimate and relaxed environment, our guests are treated to friendly, professional (Applies to arboretum only) outstanding autumn colour! Admission service and superb cookery. Menus are updated with the seasons and we use Adult £7 Browse the walled garden plant fresh, locally sourced produce. centre, garden and gift shops, join us Concession £6 Come for a cosy dinner for two, supper for one of our lovely annual events or Child £3 after your busy day, meet your friends soak up the sunshine from the deck for a celebratory meal or book the Opening times Family (2 adults, 2 children) £17 of the Garden Terrace Café where we restaurant for your special event. serve fabulous cakes, afternoon teas Tuesday to Saturday evenings and home baked lunches. 6 - 11 pm

17 Bicester Village

50 Pingle Drive, Bicester OX26 6WD Discover a relaxed shopping haven in the beautiful Oxfordshire Tel: 01869 366 266 countryside, where spacious boutiques showcase the world’s Email: [email protected] leading fashion and lifestyle brands, normally only found www.bicestervillage.com in the most exclusive shopping streets, and all offering fabulous savings, all year round. Shopping is pure pleasure at Bicester Village, where sophisticated boutiques, spacious boulevards, attentive service and a friendly, unhurried atmosphere combine to offer a truly unique retail experience. There’s so much to enjoy here, whether it’s browsing prestigious boutiques at leisure for great-value buys, or sampling fine food and drink in the Village’s cafés and restaurants. And with such a rich selection of attractions nearby – from gorgeous scenery, imposing stately homes and historic towns to explore, to Michelin-starred restaurants and sophisticated places to stay – it’s easy to create a memorable itinerary around a Bicester Village visit. Opening times

For opening hours please visit www.BicesterVillage.com

18 Birdland in Bourton-on-the-Water is set in nine acres of gardens and Birdland Park woodland, creating a picturesque canopy on the winding . Discover over 500 exotic and rare birds from around the world in naturally themed aviaries and waterside habitats. Enjoy close encounters with and Gardens flamingos, colourful parrots, laughing kookaburras, birds of prey, pelicans, magical owls and much more. Rissington Road, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BN Penguins are fascinating, funny and very entertaining; meet majestic King Tel: 01451 820480 Ex. 2 Penguins and the comical Humboldts at Penguin Shore. Email: [email protected] See them tuck into what they love most at the daily www.birdland.co.uk feeding demonstration at 2.30pm with an informative and fun explanation from one of our experts. The Opening times windows in the water show how penguins’ much loved waddling turns to power and elegance once they are Open all year except Christmas Day underwater and truly in their element! April to October 10am - 6pm Explore the indoor discovery zone and meet more November to March egg-laying creatures from fish to amphibians and 10am - 4pm reptiles. Don’t miss the Hatchery where you can (last admission one hour before watch eggs hatching and see chicks take their closing) first steps. Follow the trails through Marshmouth Nature Admission Reserve where there’s always something new Adult £8.95 to spot from a numerous range of indigenous species as diverse as otters, dragonflies, Child £5.95 (3–15 years) kingfishers, toads and many birds. Under 3 years free Relax at the newly refurbished Flamingo Point Café Senior/Student £7.95 for morning coffee, light lunch or afternoon tea. Sit Family £28 (2 adults and 2 children) inside or out to enjoy wonderful views over our flamingo river. Every day is different at Birdland and there is always something new to discover, with a full programme of entertaining talks, feeding displays and close encounter sessions. Help feed penguins, become a keeper for a day or meet birds of prey, lizards, tortoise and snakes. See our website for all the latest news and find out what’s on!

19 Blenheim Palace A World Heritage Site Blenheim Palace is home to the 11th Duke and Opening times Duchess of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir The Palace, Park and Gardens Woodstock OX20 1PP . A true masterpiece of 18th open daily from 15 February until Tel: 0800 849 6500 (Free phone recorded information) Century architecture, Blenheim Palace 2 November, then Wednesday to Email: [email protected] delivers an awe-inspiring experience for visitors. Sunday inclusive from 5 November to www.blenheimpalace.com Discover the beauty of this World Heritage Site 14 December 2014. amongst over 2000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown The Park opens from 9am, the Formal parkland and Formal Gardens. Ride the miniature Gardens from 10am and the Palace train to The Pleasure Gardens, a dedicated family area opens at 10.30am. that offers a giant , butterfly house and adventure playground. Last entry to the Palace and Gardens is at 4.45pm. The Palace and Tours, exhibitions and events reveal the sheer Gardens close at 5.30pm and the splendour of Blenheim Palace. Whether you Park closes at 6pm. want to entertain the family, experience the great outdoors, discover a rich history or just enjoy the During the Palace closed season, finer things in life, you can be sure to get all this the Park remains open except for and more when visiting Britain’s Greatest Palace. Christmas Day, from 9am until 4.45pm or dusk if earlier. Buy one day, get 12 months free - so you can keep coming back to explore all that there is on Admission offer! Palace, Park and Gardens ticket (valid for free Annual Pass) Adult £21.50, Concession £17, Child £11.80, Family £57 Park and Gardens ticket Adult £12.50, Concession £9.30, Child £6.50, Family £33

Blenheim Palace reserves the right to change any of its opening hours, events or offers or to restrict access at any time without notice. You are strongly advised to check the relevant details before visiting.

20 Combe Mill Churchill and Blenheim Palace Sawmill, Combe, Sarsden Heritage Centre OX29 8ET Combe Mill Museum is the original Tel: 01993 358694 Hastings Hill, Churchill, ‘workshop’ of the old Blenheim Nr Chipping Norton OX7 6NA Email: [email protected] Estate and is a working museum Tel: 01608 658603 www.combemill.org offering visitors a fascinating insight Email: [email protected] into working conditions of our Victorian ancestors. You get a feel for the past as www.churchillheritage.org.uk you enter this un-restored building where you can talk with Society members operating the machinery and demonstrating lost skills. Enjoy watching our steam beam engine power the line shafting that drives the woodworking machinery. “A little gem...” See the waterwheel turn and try your hand at making Possibly the smallest museum in something in the working blacksmiths’ forge. Your Oxfordshire, the Heritage Centre is whole family will find something of interest as you placed in a stunning setting overlooking look and touch our exhibits of craftmen’s tools and Opening times the site of the ‘lost’ village of Churchill, artefacts. Explore the social history of Open Saturdays, Sundays and destroyed by fire in 1684. people who once worked at Combe Bank Holidays Yard. The building may be only 15’ by 30’ but 2 - 4pm from April to the end of Opening times its ancient walls contain state of the art See also our noted collection of September technology, with interesting temporary April until September open historic tower clocks. Refreshments And other times by appointment exhibitions and touch screens telling Wednesday and Sunday 10.30am are available and there is also the remarkable stories of two eminent - 4.30pm (last admission 3.30pm) a riverside picnic area. We are Admission sons of the village, Warren Hastings, first although not in steam located just off the A4095 at Long Free governor-general of India, and William Steam Events take place on Sundays Hanborough. Smith, the Father of English Geology. 16 March, 20 April,18 May, 15 June, 20 July, 17 August, 21 September and 19 October: 10am - 5pm Admission Steaming Events: Adult £6, Child and Concession £4.50, Under 5s free, Family £16.50 Open Days: Adult £4, Child and Concession £3, Under 5s free, Family £11

21 Cogges Manor Fairytale Farm

Farm Southcombe, Chipping Norton OX7 5QH Church Lane, Witney OX28 3LA Tel: 01608 238014 Tel: 01993 772602 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.fairytalefarm.co.uk www.cogges.org.uk

Cogges is an historic farmstead dating back to Saxon times. The manor house lies at the centre of a magnificent collection of Cotswold stone farm buildings, walled garden, barns and outbuildings. Farm animals, including some rare breeds, bring the farmyard to life. The grounds house Children will love Fairytale Farm, just outside Chipping Norton - a an orchard, walks by the river and an adventure sensory and learning wonderland for all the family. With our exciting play area next to the Norman moat. The adventure playground, an enchanted walk with a surprise site has recently featured in a number around every corner and a chance to meet our amazing animals, there is so much Opening times of film and TV shows and is the location for Yew Tree Farm in Downton Opening times to see and do. Tuesday to Sunday (and Mondays in Abbey. Fairytale Farm is the UK’s first visitor Summer holiday) 10.30am - 5pm A farm shop sells locally sourced, or Open daily 10am - 5pm from 5 April to attraction to put disabled children first 2 November 2014. in our design and layout - but we are Adult £5.50 Cogges grown, vegetables and food Opening times for Illuminated loved by children (and adults) of all Children (3-16) £4 products, local beers and ciders and crafts from around the region. The café Weekends in September and October, abilities. Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) £17 serves fine teas, coffee, homemade Halloween event and Christmas We also have a shop, cafe, small indoor cakes and scones and freshly prepared Fairytale event in December are on our play area and free car park. hot food. website. Admission Adult £5 Child (3-16) £4.75 Under 3 years free Senior (60+) £4.75 Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £17 Carer (max one per child) free Discounts for groups and annual membership available.

22 Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens Go Wild in the Cotswolds! A fantastic day out for all ages! Stroll around the Park and watch Rhinos graze on the in front of the Gothic Manor House. Walk up the Giraffe walkway and get eye-to-eye with these Burford OX18 4JP amazing creatures or explore the Walled Garden’s Tropical House with free roaming Sloths, Tel: 01993 823006 birds and bats. Watch the Penguin’s being fed and then get up close with the Lemurs in their Email: [email protected] free-roaming Madagascar Exhibit. www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Take a ride on the Bella the Train around the Park, explore the adventure playground or do a Brass Rubbing in the Manor House. Discover the Farmyard with Goat petting Opening times area, guinea pigs, rabbits and other farm animals. If you’re brave why not visit our Reptile house with Open daily at 10am venomous snakes including Black Mambas, giant Last admission at 4.30pm Anacondas and Morelet’s Crocodiles to name (British Summer Time) and 3.30pm but a few. If that wasn’t enough then peek in (Winter Time) our dark Bat House. Alternatively creep into Open all year round the recently renovated Insect House with (except Christmas Day) Scorpians, spiders, cockroaches and other Admission bugs. All this in beautiful Parkland, with mature Adult £14.50 trees, exotic planting in the Walled Garden, Child (3-16 years) £10 and seasonal displays; which makes a stunning Under 3 years free backdrop for the animals. Senior (over 65 years) £10

23 A unique way to see the glorious Cotswolds! Gloucestershire Travel with us on a 24 mile round trip that takes in some of the best views in the country. On one side, there are the lovely villages of the Cotswolds, Hailes Abbey, examples of Opening times Warwickshire ridge and furrow cultivation and on the other, great views to the Malvern Hills, Abbey, the Black mountains Every weekend from February to the of Wales, and the Shropshire Hills. On a clear day the view end of October and Tuesday and extends for almost 50 miles. Wednesdays in May and Tuesdays, Railway Wednesdays and Thursdays during The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway has been the summer. See our website for full The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT developed by hundreds of volunteers and we now run steam, diesel hauled, and diesel rail car services from Toddington timetable details and information on Tel: 01242 621405 in Gloucestershire (satnav GL54 5DT ) to Race Special Events. Email: [email protected] Course (satnav GL50 4SH) from March, weekends and midweek. Free car parking at all stations www.gwsr.com We aim to provide a full day out for the whole family for the price - Toddington, and of a train ticket. On all days we run trains, we have at least two Cheltenham Race Course. different modes of rail transport which will thrill all ages. The 1950s Coffee Pot Cafe at You can relive the days of steam train travel and ride in Winchcombe and the Flag & style in one of our restored 1950s carriages behind one of Whistle Tea Room at Toddington are our steam locomotives. Enjoy the nostalgia of the smell open on operating days serving a of steam and the sound and rhythm of the train. selection of homemade cakes Then you can change trains and travel either behind one of our heritage diesels or in our diesel railcar where Admission you can get up close behind the driver and have a 360 degree view of the countryside. We find that children All Day Rover Tickets (unlimited love the diesel railcar as they can see what the driver travel on day) is doing, and many parents love the steam and heritage diesel trains as these take them back to their childhood. Adult £15 Not only can you travel all day, but there are refreshment Senior £14 facilities on most of our steam trains, and a 1950s style Child £6 coffee shop at Winchcombe Station and the Family (2 adults and 3 children) £38 newly refurbished Flag and Whistle tea room at Toddington. To complete your day out, we have a free heritage trail at Toddington, a walkway behind the sheds to see our locomotives, a free children’s quiz, and a well stocked shop where you can purchase lots of books and toys including our genuine I-Spy book. If you check our website, you will also see we have special themed weekends – from children’s specials to major railway galas. 24

Kelmscott, Nr Lechlade GL7 3HJ Enquiries and bookings: 01367 252486 Administration: 01367 253348 Email: [email protected] www.kelmscottmanor.org.uk

Opening times “The loveliest haunt of ancient peace...” Kelmscott Manor was the country home of April until the end of October. – poet, craftsman and socialist – from 1871 until his House and Garden open Wednesday death in 1896. The house contains a collection of the and Saturday 11am - 5pm. Ticket possessions and works of Morris, his family and office open from 10.30am. associates including furniture, textiles, carpets and Last admission to the house 4.30pm. ceramics. Please note that the Manor has a William Morris called the village of Kelmscott, “a limited visitor capacity and heaven on earth”. His delight in its discovery can still admission is by timed ticket. be felt by the visitor today. The garden with its barns, dovecot, stream, meadow and formal garden was a Admission constant source of inspiration for Morris and the flora and fauna of the surrounding area are reflected in his Adult £9 textile and wallpaper designs. Child (8-16 years) £4.50 Student £4.50 Garden only tickets £2.50

25 The Oxfordshire and Museum A large 18th century Exhibition Park Street, Woodstock OX20 1SN house in the historic Tel: 01993 811456 Station Yard, Main Road, town of Woodstock Long Hanborough OX29 8LA Email: [email protected] provides a home for Tel: 01993 883617 www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/ the County’s collections. www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk oxfordshiremuseum Touring exhibitions, a stunning garden, Museum shop and café compliment the permanent displays. The Museum is bigger than you Opening times might think with eleven galleries Two exhibition halls telling the story of 10.30am - 4.30pm Wednesdays and displaying art, archaeology, local road transport in Oxfordshire from the Sundays all year, also Saturdays from Opening times and natural history. Explore the end of the nineteenth century to the April to September County’s innovative industries from present day. In a separate workshop Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm nanotechnology to nuclear power Last admission 3.30pm block restoration work can be seen in Sunday 2 – 5pm and it’s past from the Jurassic to the progress. Closed 18 – 28 December inclusive Bank Holidays open 2 – 5pm Victorian period and beyond. A family friendly museum with a Admission children’s activity area. Free vintage bus Admission rides on selected dates; phone or visit Adult £4.50 Free Admission the website for details. Concession £3.50 Full disabled access Car park, shop and café. Child £2.50 Family (2 adults, 2 children) £10

26 Rousham

Rousham, Nr , Bicester OX25 4QX Tel: 01869 347110 Rousham and its landscape garden should be a place of pilgrimage for students of the work of (1685–1748). Rousham represents the first phase of English Email: [email protected] landscape design and remains almost as Kent left it, one of the few gardens of this www.rousham.org date to have escaped alteration, with many features which delighted eighteenth century visitors to Rousham still in situ, such as the ponds and cascades in Venus’ Vale, the Cold Bath, and seven arched Praeneste, Townsend’s Building, the Temple of the Mill, and, on the skyline, a sham ruin known as the ‘Eyecatcher’. The house, built in 1635 by Sir Robert Dormer, is still in the ownership of the same family. Kent added the wings and the stable block. The south front is almost as Kent left it, but for the replacement of the octagonal glazing with plain glass. This was unfortunately carried out by the architect St Aubyn when he added the north side of the house in 1876. Kent made alterations to the interior of the house, which retains some 17th century panelling and the original staircases, furniture, pictures and bronzes. Don’t miss the walled garden with its herbaceous borders, small , pigeon house and espalier apple trees. A fine herd of rare Long-Horn cattle are to be seen in the park. Rousham is uncommercial and unspoilt with no tea room and no shop. Bring a picnic, wear comfortable shoes and it is yours for the day. Opening times Rousham is also available for wedding receptions and Garden: Open daily, all year, fashion or other photographic shoots. 10am - 4.30pm (last entry) No children under 15. No dogs. House: Groups by arrangement any day from May to September (inclusive) Admission

Garden: £5 House: (open by prior arrangement only) £10 per person (which includes admission to the gardens), minimum charge of £120

Photography courtesy of Harpur Garden Images

27 Witney Lakes

Witney Lakes Resort provides the perfect getaway for those who want to relax and Resort unwind. You will feel warmly welcomed, whatever the purpose of your visit be it a round of golf or just to indulge in our spa or dine in our beautiful lakeside restaurant. Witney OX29 0SY The golf course is an excellent choice for both accomplished golfers and high Tel: 01993 893000 handicappers. It is a 6,500yd, par 71 lakeland style course, welcoming private Email: [email protected] members, green fee players and golf societies alike. The course features a number of www.witney-lakes.co.uk dog-leg holes, which combined with the interesting order of par 3’s, 4’s and 5’s invites the golfer to use every club in the bag. As West Oxfordshire’s premier local restaurant we use the finest seasonal ingredients to produce outstanding contemporary British cuisine from our award winning kitchen. Combine that with friendly service and great value for money and you have our philosophy. Our menus reflect the changing seasons and our wines change regularly to allow customers the opportunity to explore new treats. The Restaurant is open for lunch from 12pm, Sunday to Friday and dinner from 6.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday. The Spa provides you with a chance to taste the exotics as well as adding a touch of luxury to your regular treatments. Whether you are escaping the pressures of modern life on your own or enjoying a fabulous break with friends, we have a wonderful choice of Spa Day Packages to suit, and between treatments you can chill out in our tranquil relaxation room.The Spa is open Monday to Saturday, and Sundays on request.

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Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this guide is as accurate and up to date as possible at the time of printing. West Oxfordshire District Council and LDI Print cannot accept any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, nor does inclusion necessarily imply approval or recommendation. www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org