Oxford
Scholars have flocked to Oxford since the 13th century when the first of its 38 university colleges were established. As you wander down its cobbled backstreets lined with medieval halls and ornate chapels, the weight of academic achievement seems to seep from the walls. History has a very conspicuous presence here, whether you walk in the footsteps of prime ministers, literary giants and media megastars, browse the collections at its world-class museums, wobble down a waterway in a flat-bottomed punt or sip a pint in one of its atmospheric old pubs.
It’s not all dusty old institutions however. With an ambitious modern art museum, talent-launching live music venues and a host of quirky independent shops, the city has a more cosmopolitan, hipster side too in the trendy bars and restaurants of Jericho and the student hangouts and boho health-food stores.
Blenheim Palace
Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting a long and diverse history. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful Palaces in the World, with breathtaking parkland designed by the renowned Capability Brown. Blenheim has sporting and cultural events on throughout the year with lots of activities for children and the adjoining Georgian market town of Woodstock is characterful and idyllic .
Bicester Village
Boasting over 160 high end designer brand boutique shops and numerous top restaurants, the World famous Bicester Village really is the shopping destination of the country! Breakfast at Café Wolseley is our favourite way to start a high-energy day of shopping!
Soho Farmhouse
Described as one of the starriest, coolest hotels in Britain, Soho Farmhouse is Nick Jones’ take on the Cotswolds. At the heart of Soho Farmhouse are a collection of pre-existing barns and stone buildings filled with enough recognisable Soho House elements to satisfy urban visitors. Then there's the fun and games: an indoor-outdoor pool floating on a lake; a hot-tub island with an ice room; an Electric Barn cinema showing current releases; jolly boating across the lake; a kitchen garden and cookery school; reconditioned milk floats to take you on a picnic or serve a cocktail at your cabin.
Daylesford Organic Farm
Daylesford Organic Farm has been dubbed "the Harvey Nichols of the Cotswolds". Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked each morning from the market garden and travel just a few yards into the shop and to chefs in the award-winning café. Next door is the dairy and creamery and farm kitchens, while farm animals roam freely on the surrounding organic pastures. Daylesford’s food comes straight from their farm to your fork: meat and poultry; fruit and vegetables from the market garden; bread from the bakery; and cheese, milk and yoghurt from the creamery.
Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons (15 miles/ 20 minutes) is one of the country’s most cherished manor house hotels. The restaurant received 2 Michelin stars in 1984 when it opened and has retained them ever since. The setting is postcard-perfect and the restaurant and cooking school sit at the cutting edge of culinary excellence.
Oxford Punting
Punting is a truly timeless, slightly eccentric, quintessentially Oxford idyllic pleasure! The Cherwell Boathouse will let you take out a punt and try your hand at the surprisingly difficult skill. Alternatively they also offer chauffeured punts! There is a great restaurant at the boathouse too, which is bliss on a warm day. Alternatively, head to Magdalen Bridge Boathouse in the centre of the city where they will supply you with a picnic on request.
Bicester Golf and Spa
Set in 134 acres of stunning Oxfordshire countryside, Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa is surrounded by a glorious Golf Course boasting 11 lakes and also offers a health club with gym, tennis courts and an indoor swimming pool. Poolside facilities include a hydro spa, spa bath, steam rooms, sauna and a solarium. The Forest of Wellbeing Beauty Spa has 7 treatment rooms, a luxurious hot tub garden and access to the stunning pool area.
Kirtlington Park Polo Club
Kirtlington Park Polo Club is located in the Oxfordshire country side just outside of Oxford City. Surrounded by the beautiful Capability Brown landscaped park , Kirtlington Park Polo Club is a leading polo club boasting 6 Polo Grounds, Clubhouse and Hospitality facilities. Established in 1926, Kirtlington Park Polo Club has a long tradition of supplying a competitive yet social environment to enjoy the magnificent sport for members and visitors alike.
The Milk Shed
The Milk Shed is somewhat of a local phenomenon and is walking distance from Stonehouse. Great breakfasts, lunches, coffee, ice cream and more are all on offer! The food is of excellent quality and the atmosphere is always buzzing. Lunchtimes can get very busy so get there early to get a table. Closed on Mondays, much to our dismay!
The Old Flight House
The Old Flight House was originally the Officers’ Mess for the Royal Flying Corps at RAF Weston on the Green. Whilst the airfield is still in use as a parachute training school, The Old Flight House is now an antiques house unlike any you may have seen before. Described as “a refreshingly different antiques, vintage and interiors centre” you can also stop for a bite to eat at their café after browsing an eclectic selection of over 70 stalls. Wile away the hours here on a rainy day looking for treasures and curiosities.
The Bell at Hampton Poyle
The Bell at Hampton Poyle is a delightful independent, privately owned boutique hotel, pub and restaurant. The charm of this century's old historic pub has been complimented by the contemporary design of the restaurant. Flagstone floors, oak beams and large leather armchairs set the tone in this classic English inn. With fantastic food and a great atmosphere this lovely pub is highly recommended by all the locals!
