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.
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