Exploring The Oxfordshire Countryside
The UK is filled with amazing destinations (not just London!); one such locale is the beautiful city of Oxford. In my latest blog article, I will list some great things to experience during your visit. Carry on reading to find out more.
Oxford is famous for its historic university (which is even mentioned regularly in Hollywood movies and TV shows) and is also remarkably quieter than London, so it is rather attractive for tourists looking for a place that is not fast-paced and super busy! The city is much smaller than many of its counterparts, yet is surrounded by fantastic countryside locations, which I will recommend for some great day trips out! Once you hit the local station, be sure to drop off your bags at a luggage storage in Oxford (so they are safe and sound!), and then you can visit some of these fabulous destinations, making cherished memories in the process!
Bourton-On-The-Water
This lovely village is only an hour’s drive from the city centre and is the perfect gateway to exploring the famous Cotswolds. Bourton-On-The-Water is a stunning-looking small village featuring numerous preserved old stone houses and buildings situated on the bank of the River Windrush. You can easily get lost enjoying the picturesque location as you wander across the bridges and narrow cobbled streets. Remember to check out the model village – a miniature-scale replica of the town (one of the main attractions).
Castle Combe
On the edge of the Cotswolds, you will find the quintessential English village of Castle Combe – often used within period TV dramas or as landscapes in big-budget movies (you may even recognise some of the sites when you begin exploring!). This town is considered one of the best-looking places in the UK – it is not feature-packed or filled with attractions but holds its thanks to its undeniable beauty and fantastic cafes and pubs for lunch or dinner (remember to wear a suitable outfit!).
Chiltern Hills
If you are keen to explore further afield, you must visit the Chiltern Hills, which are less than an hour away from Oxford (either by car or one of the many train lines). This area is jam-packed with green fields, massive hills and woodlands (ideal for camping) that have been there for centuries – if you want to experience the English countryside to the fullest, the Chiltern area is one of the best places to start. Even though you are relatively close to one of the busiest cities in the world, you will soon forget this fact as you delve deeper into various key points such as the tranquil Wendover Woods or Hartslock Nature Reserve (a protected area, which is also notable for offering striking views over the River Thames.).
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is easily recognisable worldwide, and the iconic Neolithic stone circle is one of the great mysteries of our history. When you visit, you will also be welcomed by staff at the visitor centre, and you can learn much more about this incredible location. However, Stonehenge is typically busy, with many tourists keen to view the infamous structures. Alternatively, you can check out some of the many local ancient tombs (usually deserted) you can visit and admire – the huge circle at Avebury is one such example.
North Wessex Downs
If you have access to a car, then be sure to take a trip to the edge of the North Wessex Downs (only 30 minutes from Oxford), which offers a vast area to explore! The rolling chalk lands of the old Saxon kingdom of Wessex are positioned across four different counties – a lovely place to walk and hike, taking advantage of the seemingly endless trails across the cinematic hills. It is also notable as being a Dark Sky Preserve, so you will be in your element if you love checking out the sky and stargazing! (not to mention to delightful local wildlife that you will encounter as you pass through this unspoilt land).
When you take your trip to Oxford, you will now be able to mark off a few destinations on your itinerary and be able to enjoy the unspoilt landscape of the English countryside (remember to take your camera to get some shots too, to share with your friends and family!). I would love to hear about your experiences and adventures after you visit. Feel free to share in the comments section below.
