West Oxfordshire is characterised by the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, offering excitement for any visitor. You will find that some of the most beautiful Cotswold villages, such as Minster Lovell and Burford, are in Oxfordshire. Relax with an afternoon tea in a charming, honey-coloured Cotswold village. This 2-day Cotswolds itinerary follows the route of the Stagecoach 233 service linking Woodstock to Witney and Burford. Discover many fascinating places along the way.
Day 1 – Woodstock to Witney
Morning
Start your journey in the historic town of Woodstock, home to The Oxfordshire Museum as well as antique shops and great pubs. No visit to Woodstock would be complete without a visit to Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.
A few minutes further along the bus route is Long Hanborough train station. The station is on the Great Western Railway (GWR) line linking London Paddington to the Cotswolds.
Afternoon
Further along is North Leigh Roman Villa, one of the largest villas from Roman Britain set on the banks of the River Evenlode. It’s a 2.5km walk from the bus stop on the main road, but worth the pretty walk to see a near complete mosaic tile floor dating back to the 3rd century.
Jump back on the bus and the next stop is the old market town of Witney. The town is home to Cogges Manor Farm, where visitors can feed the pygmy goats, play in the adventure park, or learn about the history of the 13th century manor house.
Hotel Options
Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford: If you wanted to stay closer to Oxford city centre, contemporary Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford is a great base for adventures in and around Oxford. The hotel also features Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse, Bar and Grill.
The Bear Hotel: If you’re looking for a hotel in Woodstock, The Bear Hotel is a great option. One of the finest four-star hotels in Oxfordshire, this 13th-century coaching inn combines history and culture with luxurious facilities.
Day 2 – Witney to Burford
Morning
From Witney, your journey will take you through the picturesque village of Minster Lovell. Explore the riverside ruins of 15th century Minster Lovell Hall.
Afternoon
Another 8km from Minster Lovell, leave the bus in Shilton. Nearby is Crocodiles of the World, the UK’s only crocodile zoo. Enjoy plenty of photo opportunities, feeding displays, crocodiles talks and much more.
Finally, the route stops in Burford, frequently referred to as the ‘gateway to the Cotswolds’. Home to rows of idyllic honey stone cottages, tea shops and boutiques, Burford is a place full of character and Cotswold charm.
Hotel Options
StayCotswold: For a self-catered stay, StayCotswold has a fantastic range of cottages, barns and family homes to hire. Their wide portfolio of luxury self-catering properties can cater for couples looking for a romantic bolthole, to larger family or friends groups looking to get together in Oxfordshire. From secluded rural locations, to village and town properties the StayCotswold portfolio has something for everyone.