We recently had spent a long weekend in Oxfordshire and The Cotswolds. This is a truly beautiful part of England and an area I am planning to explore more of in the future!
We packed quite a lot into our weekend so read on to find out more and the places I’d recommend.
Places to Visit on a Long Weekend In Oxfordshire and The Cotswolds
We explored the places in The Cotswolds in two, day trips from Witney. The first Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton; followed by Bourton-on-the-Water and The Slaughters.
Witney – Oxfordshire
We stayed in Witney, which, I feel was a really great choice. Located about 20 minutes from Oxford and around half an hour from some of the popular Cotswold destinations, makes it a good base for exploring lots of places.
Witney is a lovely town with plenty of pubs, restaurants, shops and cafes. The town is a good size so there is a nice atmosphere without it being overcrowded like some villages in The Cotswolds.
There is a mix of independent businesses and chains so there should be something for everyone.
Oxford – Oxfordshire
The most well know place in Oxfordshire, famous for its universities. Oxford is a historic city with stunning architecture. We only spent a few hours here but could have easily spent all day. It is definitely on my list to return to.
I enjoyed just wandering the streets and looking at all the beautiful buildings. If shopping is your thing, you won’t be disappointed. There is also a National History Museum or take a stroll along the river.
Oxford is also well known for punting, unfortunately, we didn’t have time to try it out but it’s on my bucket list!
Stow-on-the-Wold – The Cotswolds
Stow-on-the-Wold is a really pretty little village. It was pretty busy with people taking advantage of its many tea rooms and restaurants. We had lunch at Lucy’s Tea room which was lovely.
It’s a small place so a day or, like us, half a day should be long enough here!
Chipping Norton – The Cotswolds
Chipping Norton itself is a very small town, mainly just one high street. It doesn’t quite have the charm of other places in the Cotswolds. We probably spent about an hour here but it is one to skip if you’re short on time!
Bourton-on-the-Water – The Cotswolds
Often described as a “Little Venice”. Although Bourton-on-the-Water is just 1 canal so not quite Venice it is extremely picturesque!
Cute cottages and little shops line the waters edge so perfect for a meander.
The only downside was, as it is one of the better-known places to visit, it was so busy. This put me off it a little!
Again, Bouton is a small place so an afternoon or day here should be enough.
The Slaughters – The Cotswolds
Contrary to how they sound, Upper and Lower Slaughter are both extremely lovely. We ran out of time to explore properly but both looked quite small and the place serious hikers go to walk!
I hope this mini travel guide to a long weekend in Oxfordshire and The Cotswolds and has been useful and you’ve enjoyed reading. Happy travelling!
You can see more of my travel guides HERE
