Places To Visit
Exploring the Cotswolds: Beauty at Your Doorstep
While Ledwell and its cottage are undoubtedly captivating, there's a whole world waiting to be explored in the Cotswolds. From Ledwell, you're ideally situated to embark on journeys to nearby villages, each more charming than the last. Take a scenic drive to Great Tew, a quintessential Cotswold village with its honey-colored stone houses and idyllic countryside. Wander the streets, visit the local pub, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the region.
Venturing further afield, you'll discover a treasure trove of picturesque towns and historic landmarks. Explore the enchanting Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," with its meandering river and charming bridges. Lose yourself in the splendor of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or indulge in retail therapy in the quaint boutiques of Chipping Norton.
1. Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a magnificent country house surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland.
2. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens: Located near Burford, this park is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. It also features beautiful gardens and a children's farmyard.
3. Broughton Castle: This 14th-century moated manor house in Banbury offers guided tours showcasing its well-preserved interiors and picturesque grounds.
4. Rollright Stones: A fascinating prehistoric stone circle and ancient monument near Chipping Norton, shrouded in myths and legends, making it an intriguing site to explore.
5. Upton House and Gardens: Managed by the National Trust, Upton House boasts an impressive art collection, stunning gardens, and an interactive exhibition on the lives of the family who once lived there.
6. Rousham House and Gardens: With its unspoiled 18th-century landscape garden, Rousham House provides a peaceful retreat with classical temples, cascades, and stunning vistas.
7. Bicester Village: A luxury shopping destination near Bicester, offering a wide range of designer outlets, boutiques, and upscale dining options.
8. Hook Norton Brewery: Discover the brewing process and taste traditional ales at this family-run brewery located in the picturesque village of Hook Norton.
9. Banbury Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Banbury through its interactive exhibits, including the famous Banbury Cross and the nursery rhyme "Ride a cock-horse."
10. Sulgrave Manor: This Tudor manor house near Banbury is the ancestral home of George Washington, the first President of the United States, and showcases life in the 16th century.
11. The Oxfordshire Museum: Situated in Woodstock, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the county's history, natural heritage, and art collections.
12. Chastleton House: Step back in time at Chastleton House, a Jacobean country house near Moreton-in-Marsh, renowned for its beautifully preserved interiors and tranquil gardens.
13. Broughton Grange Gardens: Located in Broughton, these contemporary gardens are known for their innovative design, blending traditional and modern elements in perfect harmony.
14. Waterperry Gardens: Explore the enchanting gardens and orchards at Waterperry, which include a famous herbaceous border, rose garden, and a tranquil riverside walk.
15. Deddington Castle: Discover the remnants of a medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Deddington, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
16. Steane Park: This Georgian country house near Brackley features stunning parkland, a lake, and beautiful gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
17. The Great Tew Estate: A picturesque village in the Cotswolds, the Great Tew Estate offers charming thatched cottages, a village pub, and scenic walks in the surrounding countryside.
18. Chipping Norton Museum: Learn about the history of the market town of Chipping Norton through a range of exhibits, including local archaeology and artifacts.
19. Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway: Take a nostalgic steam train ride along this heritage railway, enjoying the scenic views of the Chiltern Hills and surrounding countryside.
20. Crocodiles of the World: Located in Brize Norton, this specialized zoo is home to one of the largest collections of crocodiles and alligators in the