A look around the Cotswolds - part 1

  Minster Lovell Hall:

   











Burford:

    




     There are many outstandingly beautiful places to visit in Britain and many quaint and gorgeous villages to explore.  It would be remiss of me to even entertain the thought that the places I enjoyed are the be all and end all of where to go and what to see.  I can only convey to you the beauty of what I have seen and hope it will inspire you to seek these places out and many of the others found throughout this beautiful island.

     From the start I can only ask that you be thoughtful in your driving:  

     Many of the country roads are narrow and you may need to back up to allow the passage of other vehicles.  How is it decided as to who should reverse?  Common sense rules.  You know how close you are to a passing area if you are driving thoughtfully or maybe you are able to pull over safely.  Do not forget to give a courteous wave.

     The roads are shared with horse riders ....... slow down to a crawl when passing.  Do not forget to wave.

     Most of all, enjoy the experience for there is no other country in the world where the drivers are more courteous.

     On this trip we will breakfast in Minster Lovell,  morning tea at Burford and a late lunch at The Bell Inn in Langford.

     Before setting out pack a flask of hot water for a cup of tea or brew a coffee and fill the flask.  Unless of course you enjoy the non flavour of powdered instant.  Pack also something to eat for breakfast.  Whatever you fancy although maybe Croissants and jam to spread would be a delicious choice.  Also a blanket to spread on the ground on which to sit and enjoy the location.

     Firstly to Minster Lovell where breakfast will be the perfect meal to enjoy beside the River Windrush.  From Oxford take the A40 toward Witney.   Continue past Witney and begin to enjoy the beautiful views across the Cotswalds.  There are rolling hills, small areas of woodlands, drystone walls and gorgeous stone villages dotting the countryside. This truly is an area of great beauty.

      Continue along the A40 until you come to a roundabout showing Minster Lovell B4047 to the right.  Take the B4047 and continue along making sure you pass the White Hart Pub on the right, a beautiful old white building.  Further along the road turn left at the well signposted turn and continue toward Minster Lovell.  Turn right across the stone bridge passing playing fields on your right.  Turn right at the next intersection and enjoy the view of beautiful houses and thatched stone cottages as you slowly pass through the village.  Continue on through the village and up the hill to the next intersection where you will turn right at the sign which points to 'The Church'.  Park your car in one of the marked bays at this point.  Be early to get a park.  From there it is a short, pleasant walk down the hill to the church and Minster Lovell Hall. 

     The entrance to Minster Lovell Hall is through the grounds of St. Kenelm's Church.  A pretty little church surrounded by a grave yard with headstones leaning a precarious angles.  Just walking through here is gorgeous and worthy of taking some delightful photographs.  Fro the river side of the building there are some interesting views of the Minster Lovell Hall to be seen through the headstones.

     The ruins of Minster Lovell Hall, a 15th century manor house is now in ruins with much of the stone removed by locals.  The grounds are magnificently kept and there is a dovecote in the manor farm nearby.  The River Windrush flows peacefully by at the bottom of the grounds.  It is beautiful and peaceful and a perfect place to spread out the blanket and enjoy breakfast before moving on to the not so peaceful Burford.

    After breakfast and a wander around the ruins head back to your car and make your way in the reverse direction back to the A40.  Be careful to turn right after crossing the stone bridge.

     At the big roundabout turn right toward Burford.  Continue on to the Burford Roundabout at which a right turn will take you to the top of the hill looking down to this gorgeous, quaint and very busy town.  It is a truly beautiful view so do not drive too quickly so you capture it in your memory for all time.  If you are lucky you may find a car park space on your way down through the town.  If not, turn right when you are almost through the town, and you will find parking at the end of the lane.  There is a sign on the left pointing to the lane although be guided by the Cotswold Arms pub on the left.  It is the next turn right just past the pub.  It is a narrow lane so be careful as you continue on to where the lane turns sharply to the right and a lane continues on straight ahead.  There is a low down signage which points to the parking on the corner yet keep in mind to simply continue on the 'straight and narrow' across the bridge over the River Windrush. find a car park and pay and display.  If you have any left over crusts from breakfast you can always feed the ducks down by the River before setting off to explore.

     This is a beautiful town to explore with so many gorgeous shops filled with all manner of wares to tempt those wanting to purchase mementos, clothing, or any other item which will take your fancy.  One shop to visit is the old sweet shop filled with sweets from yesteryear.  If you leave without a purchase you must be unwell.  The fudge is to die for.  Any one of the delightful cafe is a great place to enjoy morning tea.  The prices differ so simply check out the menu and the decor to see which you would like to be pampered in.  Because the is so much to see and do in Burford keep an eye on the time so as to not suffer the wrath of the parking inspector.

     Having enjoyed your wander around Burford it is now back to the A40 turning right at the roundabout the left not long after into the B4425 down to Bibury.

     On the River Coln beside which you hopefully will find a car park, Bibury is, as the artist John Morris described it, the most beautiful village in England and wanted to transport it back to America.   The village is truly beautiful with its honey-coloured stone cottages with steeply pitched roofs.  Also in Bibury is Arlington Row which comprises a picturesque row of cottages built in 1380 and converted in the seventeenth century to a row of weaver's cottages for the local Arlington Mill.

     Back in the car continue down the B4425 to Cirencester with its beautiful St. John the Baptist parish church.  This is a market town and delightful to wander around and explore.

     From Cirencester travel along the A417 to Lechlade on Thames.  This is the highest town on which narrow boats can travel up the River Thames.  It also boast the highest lock and it is from here you can walk to London along the Thames Path.  I dare say you would need more than a cut lunch to do that walk.

     After exploring Lechlade on Thames take the A361 turning right at the end of the long drystone wall to Little Farrington. Continue on through Little Farrington turning left toward Langford just through the village.  There is a small sign pointing to Langford at the intersection.   At Langford visit the Bell Inn on Station Street for a delicious lunch in traditional English pub setting.  Here is their website for you to investigate.  http://bellatlangford.co.uk/

     After lunch it is back to Oxford.  Two ways to return are back to the A361 to the A40 then back to Oxford the way you came or back down to Lechlade on Thames with a left turn onto the A417 down to Farington then onto the A420 to Oxford to complete the round trip.

     Remember, this is just a brief look at the delightful places I have been.  Choose any or all to visit mixed of course with other places you wish to see or have heard about.  The main thing is, enjoy each place you visit and above all .... do not rush.  The idea is quality not quantity.  I had four years to see what I saw.


Bibury:

Cirencester:

Lechlade on Thames:

Visiting Warwick and surrounds - part 3

 

     Can a days outing get any better?  Morning tea beside the Oxford Canal at Banbury then lunch at a medieval castle, how cool!  Well yes it can for it is time to press on to Foxton to have a look at the stair-case locks.

     To give you an idea of what a route planner from Michelin looks like click on the link http://www.viamichelin.com/web/Routes  and type in (from) Warwick United Kingdon and (to) Foxton United Kingdom.  This is the direction to take and my advice is to print out the sheets and have them in order of direction to take.  They, as you will see, are very comprehensive and easy to follow.  The signs on the roads and roundabouts are also easy.

     Having arrived at Foxton follow the signage to the parking area at the top of the locks. There is a short walk alongside the Canal to the top of the staircase which is complimented by the beautiful view afforded from the path.

     This is the largest flight of staircase locks on the English canal system with two staircases of five locks.  Staircase locks are used to allow boats to climb a steep incline and it takes about an hour for a boat to navigate the entire staircase.

     Take time to watch the operation of the locks as the boats make their way up or down.   During the busy season it can be quite some time before a boat is clear of the locks and on its way to its next destination.

     At the bottom of the lock system is a pub, cafe and shop.  It is a long drive back to Oxford so I may suggest you visit the cafe for afternoon tea.  Spend time exploring before heading back.

     To return to Oxford take the B6047 down tthen turn right into the A4304.   Follow the A4304 to the M1 turning left toward London.

     Turn off the M1 at Junction 15a taking the A43 down to the M40.  The M40 is exited at Junction 9 which will take you to A34.  Take this toward Oxford and exit onto the A44 which will take you straight into Oxford where you can drop into the Eagle and Child and have a refreshing ale and a delicious dinner.

Visiting Warwick and surrounds part 2

 

     I do apologise for what may seem confusion regarding 'A', 'B' and 'other' roads yet, unless you have a guide, it is necessary to understand where to turn etc.  My suggestion is to be armed with either of the following well before you even decide to visit England.

a.  Purchase a Motorist's Atlas and study it in regards to where you would like to visit. There are so many interesting places once you begin to look.  The Atlas I used many, many times is 'Philip's Motorist's Atlas 2004 Britain'
b.  Use the internet to study a route planner such as Michelin and print out the route plan. Very, very useful.

    Motoring in England is a very pleasant and mainly stress free experience.  Most drivers are extremely courteous and will let you join the flow of traffic when entering from side streets etc.  Be sure to thank them with a wave.   After a while you will find yourself doing just the same thing.  Also, be aware that country lanes and lesser roads are shared by horse and rider so slow down and simply enjoy the experience of not being rushed.  It is quite calming and well enjoyable.

     Having arrived in Warwick it is time to park the car in the ample car park, pop your pay and display ticket on the dash and go explore the Castle.  

     Warwick Castle is a wonderful example of a medieval castle and was completed in the 14th century.  It is now owned by the Tassauds therefore lifelike displays play a vital part of one section of the castle.  Cross the draw-bridge and enter a world of wonder as you travel back in time.  The castle is full of turrets, great halls, dungeons, amazing displays and, at the right time of day, live shows.

     Climb the ancient stone stairs spiralling up one of the main turrets and you will have an amazing view of Warwick and surrounding countryside as well as a commanding view over the grounds of the castle.  Imaging you are one of the soldiers defending the castle from invaders and get an idea of what it must have been like back in the 14th century as you did battle with your long bows and other weapons at hand.

     Cross over the draw-bridge and wind your way back down the stone staircase making your way down to the display of the instruments of torture.  Have a go at lifting a sword and be surprised at the weight.   One thing though would be not to imagine what it would be like to be placed in one of the cages and lifted up on high to be left to die a terrible death.

    Enter into the great hall and make your way through the display rooms which are simply fascinating and so realistic and lifelike.  I had to, on occasions, stop and stare to see that the people in the displays were not real.  Truly amazing.

     Be sure to take in a live performance in the courtyard.  It could be jousting, knights fighting or something as simple as an amazing fire-eating display.  There is always something to see.

     Explore The Mound and take in the views.

     Finally, have some lunch and a coffee at the Coach House Family Restaurant on your way out.  There are other eating places so really the choice is yours.

     The main thing is to enjoy the complete experience of visiting this amazing castle.  This is a 'blokes' castle yet anyone can and, I am sure, will have a wonderful time exploring.

     Part 3 will be the canal staircase.

Visiting Warwick and surrounds part 1

 

  

Having seen all you want to in Oxford it is time to have a look around the area by way of day trips.

    Castles are always fascinating places to visit and Warwick Castle is certainly right up there.  From Oxford it is easy to get to by way of the M40 although that is probably the most boring way to go unless Warwick Castle is all you wish to see.  Personally, I prefer to travel on 'A', 'B' and the minor roads which all seem to immerse me in the countryside and allow me to pass through quaint villages and hamlets.

    The following day trip is best tackled in summer when the days are longer.  During winter modifications would be required for eight hours would be the best you could possibly achieve in daylight hours.

    On this trip we will be visiting Warwick Castle then further up to Foxton Locks which is the largest flight of staircase locks on the English canals system.  Along the way we will pass through some gorgeous countryside and visit some interesting villages as well as a brief stopover in Banbury for a look around and have a delicious morning tea.

    Departing Oxford head to Kidlington by taking the A4165 (Banbury Road) through Summertown to connect up with the A4260 (Banbury Road) which takes you through Kidlington heading toward Banbury.  A quick visit to Deddington along the way where you will find the Market Place in the centre of town as well as some quaint pubs such as the Deddington Arms Hotel.

    After a look around pop back on to the A4260 toward Banbury.  As soon as you reach Banbury to road will become 'B', 'A' and whatever.  Disregard this and continue on past Banbury Cross and turn right at Castle Street and make your way to the Castle Quay Shopping Centre where you will be able park undercover for a fee.  Park your car and head out to explore Banbury taking in Banbury Cross and the shops in the High Street as well as in the many streets and lanes.

    After looking around the shops head back to Castle Quay and enjoy the sights of the narrow boats moored alongside the Shopping Centre.  If you are fortunate you may even see the lock in operation as one of the boats heads either up or down the canal.  It is here also that you are able to enjoy a delicious pastry and a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. 

    Leaving Castle Quay head back along Castle Street and turn right at the next major intersection into the A361 (Southam Road).  From this point it can be as simple as staying on the A361 which becomes the A423 turning left at Southam onto the A425 to Royal Leamington Spa then into Warwick. Time permitting take the A422 at the round about then onto Warwick Road (A422/B4100).  This is a beautiful drive passing through gorgeous villages and some magnificent countryside.  Maybe even a visit to Aston Martin just off Kingsway.  Turn right onto the B4087 (Oakley Wood Road) which will take you to Warwick.

    Visiting Warwick Part 2 will take you on a tour of the Castle.

     

A Wander around Oxford Part 3

  Oxford is not just the University although it does play a huge part in the reason people visit Oxford in huge numbers.  There is so much more to see and some really quaint pubs in which you may appease your appetite with some really delicious food.

    Some streets are a must to see.  They are:
a.  The High Street.   Described as "one of the world's greatest streets" because of the gentle curve lined by some of the most beautiful buildings.  Looking toward Carfax there are the Examination Schools on the left, University College also on the left and then on the right are Queen's College,All Souls and Brasenose Colleges.  Worth visiting is St. Mary's Church with a climb to the top of the tower a must to appreciate the views of the top of Oxford.  Many beautiful buildings line the High Street the last being Carfax Tower, the last remains of the 12th century St Martin's Church.  Climb to the top for a beautiful view down The High.
b.   Cornmarket Street.  Closed to traffic and very busy.  There are a few amazing buildings in this street the most interesting being the tower of St Michael of Northgate.  It is ther oldest building in Oxford and dates back to about AD 1000 - 1050.  Worth seeing also is the timber-framed building on the corner of Ship Street.  It is the surviving half of a building which was completed in 1386.

c.   Broad Street.     A beautiful wide street  which is a must to explore.  There is The Oxford Story, book shops, gift shops, Balliol and Trinity Colleges and, just after Trinity, The White Horse which is possibly one of the most delightful pubs to enter and have a pint in.

     Other streets worthy of a wander and explore are Holleywell, Turl and Merton Streets.  Merton Street is a beautiful untouched cobblestone street so be careful when walking along the street.

     Rose Lane off of the High Street, right beside The Botanic Garden is a must.  It leads down to Dead Man's Walk which runs behind Merton and Corpus Christi Colleges, onto Broad Walk to The back of Christ Church then down to the River Isis, or River Thames anywhere else other than Oxford.

      Pop over to the other side of Magdalen Bridge for a great photograph looking back toward Magdalen College.  Once taken head back then walk down between the bridge and Magdalen College.  There is a great little gift shop there and it is here also where you are able to hire a Punt.  Hop on board and punt your way upstream to the The Victoria pub with its beer garden.

     Oxford Castle has been brought back to life and is no longer used for a prison as seen in the T.V. series, Porridge.  It is beautifully restored and, dare I say, changed in some areas but well worth the time to explore.

     There are many hidden gems in Oxford to keep you exploring for hours or even days depending on what you like to look at.  All this looking of course makes you thirsty and hungry and my favourite place to satisfy both is the Eagle and Child in St Giles.  The Inklings, an Oxford writer's group met at least one day a week in the pub.  The group included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. 

     A good meal can also be picked up in the Covered Markets which has quite a selection of food as well as  apparel and gifts.

     There is something for everyone in Oxford so my advice is go have a long wander around and take in the delights it has to offer.  Down at the curve in Beaumont Street is the tourist information.  Best advice........... visit it first.

A wander around Oxford Part 2

   

   It is time to take a stroll around Oxford and take in the beauty of the buildings and drink in the history of this amazing city.

   The University being so prominent in the minds of most people who visit Oxford it is only sensible this segment of information will cover the University and its amazing colleges, halls, museums and libraries.

   The oldest college, tracing back to 1249, is University College on High Street and is worth a visit.  It also has The Queens College across the road, a beautiful college founded in 1341 renowned for its eighteenth century architecture.

    Not all colleges are open to tourists so contact with the colleges is a wise idea before your visit, or visit http://www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com/see-and-do/University-of-Oxford-Colleges.aspx, otherwise check the notice outside the Porter's Lodge as you walk by.

    There are thirty eight colleges so it would be almost impossible to visit all that are open to the public unless you are staying in the area for many days.  The following are my favourites and, in my opinion, the best to give a good proportion of time looking around:
a.  Christ Church http://www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com/thedms.aspx?dms=13&venue=2912558, founded in 1546.  Christ Church is located in St Aldates with entrance beneath Tom Tower which houses the bell, Great Tom.  Great Tom is still sounded 101 times every night signifying the original 100 scholars plus one other which was added in 1663.  The bell is rung at 21:05 current UK time which is what used to be 21:00 Oxford time.
b.  Magdalen College http://www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com/thedms.aspx?dms=13&venue=2910292, pronounced Maudlin, was founded in 1458.  Located on the Oxford side of Magdalen Bridge on the High Street, the College has some of the most beautiful buildings and grounds in Oxford.  The chapel, deer park and a wander across the footbridge over the branch of the River Cherwell is a must.
c.   New College http://www.new.ox.ac.uk/, founded in 1379 is certainly worth a visit.  It is one of only a few places where part of the original wall surrounding Oxford can be seen.  New College is on Hollywell Street.

      All the colleges that are open to tourists are worth visiting yet time is always the determining factor for the is much more to be seen.  Visit the web site above or even http://www.ox.ac.uk/colleges/colleges_and_halls_az/index.html for a list of colleges and visit their web sites to get a feel for which you would like to visit.

     Other University buildings worthy of a visit are:
a.   The Examination Schools located in the High Street.  Built in 1882, the Schools is used for the organisation and administration of the University examinations.  It is also used as the main lecture facility for the University.  Points of interest:
      i.  You will probably only be permitted to see inside the entrance.  Check with the staff at the counter.
      ii.  A great view point is through the gates on Merton Street looking over the quad to the clock tower.  Be sure you have the gate with the roses on it in your photo.
      iii. The examination period is a perfect time to see the candidates celebrate their final exam in Merton Street.  Is is always a colourful event.
b.   Green Templeton College (Green College) is worth visiting for the Radcliffe Observatory, among one of Oxford's finest buildings.  Green Templeton College is on Woodstock Road.
c.   The Natural History Museum in Parks Road, Museum of the History of Science in Broad Street and the Ashmolean Museum in Beaumont Street are a must.
d.   Sites only able to be viewed from the outside yet worthy are the Bridge of Sighs in New College Lane and the Radcliffe Camera very close by.
e.   The Bodleian Library in Broad Street.
f.    The Sheldonian Theatre built in 1668 in Broad Street.  The magnificence of the theatre is only surpassed by the view from the top of the tower as you look across the dreaming spires to the countryside beyond.
g.    The Botanic Garden is amazing and a perfect place to wind down and reflect.

      There is much more to be seen with regards to the University of Oxford.  I have outlined what could be regarded as my favourite places.  I suggest you research a little before you visit to ensure you get the most out of your time and not be continually wandering around in circles.  It is easily done.

A wander around Oxford Part 1

 

    No matter whether you are staying in Oxford or coming into the city to visit time is important.  There are so many potential places to visit and rushing can only cause stress which should really be left to those attending any one of the beautiful colleges that make up the University of Oxford.


     A few facts to get your head around in planning your visit.  Most important are:
a.  Colleges are not always open to the public.  It pays to select which you want to see and either contact the college or look on their website before you visit.
b.  There are times of the year when museums and galleries are not open on a Monday. Check websites for opening times.
c.   Bicycles are in great numbers, about twenty thousand come into Oxford each day, they are quiet and bells are not often rung.  LOOK before stepping onto the road or lane.
d.   Be aware that there are those around that would like to lighten your load so be careful of your wallets and bags.
e.   Cars are not permitted to enter certain streets in the city. They are:
      i.   High Street between 7.30am and 6.30pm.
      ii   Broad Street western end closed 24hr.
      iii  Park End Street beyond the car park access. 
      iv  Turl Street during daylight
      v   Cornmarket Street has all traffic banned seven days a week.
f.    I was once asked, "Where is the University?"  The reply, "You are standing in the midst of it."  The University of Oxford, like Cambridge University, is a collegiate university meaning it is made up of colleges and departments.  There are thirty eight colleges and six permanent private halls as well as many departments making up the University so it all comes back to time.  How much do you have to look around?
g.    The University also has Museums, libraries, parks and gardens.  These, along with the rest of the sights of Oxford means planning is paramount.
h.    Purchase, download or find a map of Oxford for it is easy to get around yet also easy to get lost and end up walking around in circles and not seeing all you planned to see.
i.     Parking is time limited and expensive.  In saying that, if you happened to collect a parking ticket from one of the obliging parking inspectors, pay it immediately and you will receive a discount.  Better still, use the Park and Ride.

     I am sure there is much more  you would like to know in your planning.  Simply ask and I will try to answer your questions.   I will give you my favourite places to visit, eat and drink as well as money changing and quality souvenirs. 

Helping you get the best out of Oxford Part 2

    Before exploring the city of Oxford it is, if time permits, worth skirting around the edges looking in.

    There are a few elevated places to enjoy a view of the dreaming spires.  Outside the ring road is the great viewing locations of Hinksey Hill and Boars Hill located off the A34 close to the intersection of the A34 and A423.  Take the Hinksey Hill Road and follow directions although asking locals is always a sure way of arriving at exactly the best spot to view.

    Closer to Oxford and within walking distance of the city centre is South Park.  There is a stunning view across Oxford to the countryside beyond from the top of the hill.  I summer the park is filled with frisbee throwing students and is a wonderful place for a picnic.

    For those more energetic the walk along the Oxford Canal to Wolvercote, across to the River Thames then back to Oxford is a wonderful way to spend a few hours.

    Taking the tow path at Hythe Bridge Street where it crosses the Castle Mill Stream.   This is easily reached from the Seacourt Park and Ride on Botley Road just off the A34.  It is a very interesting walk along the tow path although care must be taken at certain times of the year.   Some problems as well as advantages are:

     a.    Nettles grow profusely during summer and intrude onto the edges of the tow path.   They do sting although sticky tape wrapped around the hand sticky side then dabbed on the sting is a good way of removing the fine stinging hairs.

    b.     Nesting geese can bail you up along the way.   Be wary for they do like to protect their territory.

    c.    Cyclists share the tow path which is not overly wide so keep an eye out for them and listening ear for their warning bell.

    d.     Blackberry grows very well along the tow path and, although pruned in winter, is strong and larger than life in summer.  One benefit is the fruit so easily picked when in season.   Enjoy while you  take in the sights.

   Points of interest along the Canal beginning at the cast-iron single arch Oxford Canal Roving Bridge (243) are:

     a.     The site of the Castle Mill Boat Yard, cause of much protest back in 2007, as well as St. Barnabas Church.

     b.     The residential mooring toward Wolvercote.  Maybe have a chat with one of the locals.

     c.      The St Edward's Lift Bridge (238)

     d.      Balls Bridge (237) a Grade II listed building at Wolvercote.

     e.      The Plough pub just a short walk across Ball's Bridge.

     f.       Wolvercote Lock

     From Wolvercote Lock take the steps up to the road bridge and head west toward the River Thames.   Points of interest along the way are:

     a.     Port Meadow across which is afforded a good view of the Oxford  spires.

     b    The Post Box store where a delicious somosa can be purchased.   Say hello to Carl.

     c.   The Red Lion pub where a delicious meal can be bought along with a satisfying ale.

     d.     Airmen's Bridge named in memory of two airmen killed in a plane crash nearby.

    e.    The Trout Inn where a delicious meal and ale can be consumed beside the fast flowing River Thames.   This is one of the locations used in the Inspector Morse series.

    Cross the River Thames then turn downstream making sure you have a look at the Godstow Nunnery ruins then the Godstow Lock.  This is an electro-hydraulic lock operated by a Lock-keeper. Stop and have a chat and watch how the boats navigate this part of the river.

     Follow the path back to Oxford taking in the sights along the way.  This is a peaceful walk with views of the spires, the expanse of Port Meadow with the free roaming horses and cows.  Be aware that the free roaming cows you pass along the way can be dangerous if you cross between mother and calf.

   Crossing the Medley Footbridge gives a good view up and downstream before you continue on downstream to Osney Bridge where you are able to catch the Park and Ride back to your vehicle at Seacourt.

     If you feel energetic before heading down the River Thames you could always keep going to Wytham which is a quaint little village with possibly one of the nicest pubs, The White Hart which is quaint, warm and welcoming.   Check its opening times before visiting to make sure you are not disappointed.

Helping you get the best out of visiting Oxford Part 1

    Oxford is an amazing city to visit and easy to get around at the right time of year being either side of summer.  In summer the place is packed with tourists filling the footpaths and the places of interest.  If you do not mind crowds then this is a good time to visit to see Oxford filled with colour from the many flower boxes filled with spectacular blooms hanging from shop fronts and light posts.

    Spring offers the burst of colour along the roads with the plentiful showing of daffodils and other tubular plants growing wild along the verges.

    Autumn is the opposite with the golden glow of many shades of yellow, orange, red and the countless shades in-between as the trees and shrubs turn and begin to shed their leaves.

    Whichever season you choose to visit you will be assured of an amazing spectacle of beautiful buildings, delightful walks and delicious food.  Oxford is a must for Harry Potter, Lewis and Inspector Morse fans with many locations from the films and series easily recognised.  My suggestion is to research before you arrive to make sure you know the colleges, locations and pubs used in the series of your interest.  I recall one lady with her son in tow, when I was working at the Examination Schools, asking, "Where is the Harry Potter college?"  The college she was seeking was Christ Church.

    Suggestions to help make your visit much more enjoyable:

   a.    If possible, spread your visit over two days at least for there really is so much to            do and take in,

    b.    Look for accommodation out of Oxford for it will be cheaper and, if a B&B or self catering, much more interesting.

    c.    Do not drive into Oxford and park for it is expensive and time is limited.  The best

solution is to take advantage of the Park and Ride.  This does cost yet is no where near the cost of two hour parking in the city.  Park and Ride can be found at:          
          i.    Thornhill - located off the A40 from Thame, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, London             and the M40 to the east of Oxford, just before the ring road.
          ii.   Redbridge - located off the A34 from Abingdon, Didcot and Newbury, located south of Oxford.
          iii.  Seacourt - located off the A420 from Swindon and Bath, to the west of Oxford on the Botley Road. 

          iv.   Peartree - located to the north of Oxford and can be accessed off the A40 from Witney and Cheltenham, the A4260 from Kidlington, the A34 from Banbury, Bicester and Northhampton and the M40.
          v.    Water Eaton - located to the north of Oxford accessed off the A40, A4260, A34 and the M40.
    d.   Look for quality and not quantity while visiting.  It is better to spend time in a few colleges than rush through them all.  This is obvious also when dropping in to one of the many pubs.
    e.   Go out and look in.  There a many locations outside of the city where a view of the dreaming spires can be truly appreciated. 

    In the next blog I will skirt around the edge of the city then follow up with a tour around the more interesting sites within Oxford itself.

Getting the best out of Visiting England

    This blog is for all those people who are thinking of visiting England and are looking for information to help them with their planning of where to visit.

    I spent four years living in Oxford and, apart from visits to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy and France, searching out beautiful and quaint villages occupied the occasional weekend.

    All that is written is of experiences enjoyed while visiting each of the villages.  The blog will have routes taken using Oxford as the start point with hints as to how to gain the most from the experience. Public transport is only used to travel from Oxford to London, Hop-on Hop-off busses and Park and Ride where applicable.  Rail is not considered except in Wales where a steam train trip is written about.

     Most journeys are day trips although there are two extended stays which include accommodation.  Best times to visit are explained as are satisfactory snack/meal locations.

    Most of the locations will be from Warwick through to Lands End with a brief look at Dover and making the trip across to France and beyond using  the tunnel or Chunnel as it is affectionately called.

    I trust the information will be of use to those who are looking to visit the areas shown in this blog and are looking to do it on a budget.  There is no five star accommodation and certainly no, other than pub or cafe, dining experiences although this should not deter those who wish to indulge from experiencing the locations visited.