Welcome to Witney, a picturesque market town located in West Oxfordshire, England. Situated on the banks of the River Windrush, and just 12 miles west of Oxford, it offers an appealing blend of historical charm and natural beauty worth a visit.
Here is our list of things to do in Witney for any visitors to the area.
Where is Witney Located?
Witney is the largest market town in Oxfordshire’s Cotswolds region. Nestled on the banks of the River Windrush, it’s 12 miles west of Oxford, and 5 miles from Carterton.
The town’s name is derived from Old English, meaning “Witta’s island”, and Witney’s riverside setting, combined with its rich heritage, makes it an appealing destination for visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
Annual events and festivals in Witney to look out for
- Witney Music Festival: This popular two-day event, held in June at The Leys Recreation Ground, celebrates local music talent. It features performances on multiple stages, a dance tent, a funfair, and a traders’ village.
- Witney Carnival: Mid-July, the long-standing carnival starts with a colourful float procession through the town, followed by entertainment and various activities at The Leys.
- Witney Feast: Held annually in September, this traditional funfair dates back to medieval times and 1243 AD. It spans two days and includes rides, games, and other fairground attractions, set up on The Leys. The Witney Feast is one of the town’s oldest and most cherished traditions.
- Witney In Bloom: This initiative, organized by the Witney Town Council, takes place throughout the summer. It encourages local residents and businesses to participate in beautifying the town with floral displays.
- OPA Playday: A free event designed for children, held in early August. It offers a range of fun and educational activities.
- Witney Christmas Light Switch-On: The festive season begins with the town’s Christmas light switch-on in late November, organized by the Witney Rotary Club. It includes a market, live entertainment, and seasonal activities.
Top 10 Things to Do in Witney
See the animals at Cogges Manor Farm
Church Ln, Witney, OX28 3LA
Located on Church Lane in Witney, Cogges Manor Farm boasts a history spanning over 1,000 years and even made an appearance in the Domesday Book of 1086. Today, Cogges Manor Farm stands as a beloved tourist attraction, a fully operational working farm, and a venue for local events. Its fame was further elevated as a shooting location for the renowned period drama, Downton Abbey, making it a heritage site that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Children, in particular, will be delighted by the animals including adorable pygmy goats and Shetland ponies to cuddly rabbits, guinea pigs, and Oxford sandy and black pigs. On weekends, the farm hosts “meet the animals” sessions, allowing kids to interact and even cuddle some of the friendly creatures.
Spanning 15 acres, the farm grounds are a sight to behold. The walled garden and orchard are a treasure trove of fruit varieties, including the luscious Moorpark apricot, Cox apple, Blenheim orange, and Morello cherry. Within the farm, you’ll also find Cogges Kitchen, where locally roasted coffee and homemade scones are prepared using the bountiful produce from the walled garden.
Dating mostly from the 16th century, with remnants of the 13th-century structure visible in the kitchen, hall, and dairy, the Manor House is a captivating testament to the region’s architectural heritage and regularly opens its doors for tours.
Meander down Witney High Street
Witney’s vibe is best experienced along its elongated High Street, adorned with Cotswold stone buildings and lime trees that exude traditional regional charm. Beginning at the southern end, visitors are greeted by the magnificent landmark Butter Cross.
Another notable gem is the Victorian Corn Exchange, dating back to 1863. This remarkable structure often opens its doors to host exhibitions and live music events. The 18th Century Town Hall showcases Classical architecture, featuring an arcade supported by elegant Tuscan columns.
The High Street offers a delightful mix of familiar UK high street chains and an array of locally-owned shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants, creating a dynamic atmosphere that caters to diverse tastes and interests. Look out for the SOTA Gallery, showcasing local and national art, ceramics, and crafts.
Just a short walk from the High Street, The Leys Recreation Ground is a large open space featuring tree-lined paths, a play area, adventure golf, tennis courts, and even a seasonal splash park. It is perfect for family outings and outdoor activities.
Visit The Witney Blanket Hall
100 High St, Witney, OX28 6HL
The historic Witney Blanket Hall, erected in 1721 by the Company of Blanket Makers, holds a significant place in the town’s once thriving past. For over 120 years, this esteemed establishment played a vital role in the local blanket industry, with every one woven in Witney meticulously weighed and measured here.
Upstairs, in the grand Great Room, the Company established the regulations and standards for the trade. However, with the establishment of New Mills after 1845, which had their own measuring systems, the Blanket Hall’s original purpose became obsolete.
The Blanket Hall went through a series of transformations throughout its history, serving various purposes in different eras. It housed a brewery, a lemonade factory, an engineering shop, an office for recording births, marriages, and deaths, and even a dancing school. At one point, it even stood as a distinctive Gentleman’s House.
In 2015, the Blanket Hall reopened as a captivating museum dedicated to showcasing Witney’s historic relationship with the trade. Visitors can take informative tours and even purchase authentic woollen blankets as mementoes. The premises also house a delightful café and pie shop, where visitors can indulge in delectable treats.
Entrance is free, but donations appreciated.
Soak in the history of Minster Lovell Hall
Minster Riding, Witney, OX29 0RR
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/minster-lovell-hall-and-dovecote/
Minster Lovell Hall is a captivating historic site nestled in the village of Minster Lovell, located approximately 8 miles southwest of Witney in Oxfordshire, England. This enchanting hall holds a rich history and is known for its picturesque ruins, which date back to the 15th century.
Once a grand manor house belonging to the Lovell family, Minster Lovell Hall offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the region’s past. The remains of the hall showcase the architectural grandeur of the era and provide a glimpse into the lives of the noble families who once called this place home.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the hall offers a serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore its grounds and marvel at the remnants of its former glory. From the weathered stone walls to the impressive tower and the scenic River Windrush flowing nearby, the site exudes a captivating charm that resonates with history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Look for the monkey on the Spire at St. Mary’s Church
Church Green, Witney, OX28 4AW
St. Mary’s Church is a prominent landmark with its towering spire and historical significance, and showcases stunning architectural features.
Its origins can be traced to the medieval period, with parts of the building dating as far back as the 12th century. Over the years, the church has undergone various expansions and renovations, resulting in a captivating blend of architectural styles.
On the 156ft spire of you will spot a stone carving of a monkey, with the story being linked to a stall holders monkey at the Witney Feast who climbed the spire and fell to it’s death.
While you are here, there is a historical gem on Station Road, the Holloway Almshouses are Grade II listed buildings date back to 1724. Originally established to house elderly women by local clothier John Holloway, they were rebuilt in 1868. There are also other sets of historic alms houses around the town, such as the Townsend Almshouses and Church Green Almshouses.
If the weather is nice, you can have a picnic here too. Grimes Meadow consists of two flood meadows along the River Windrush. It’s a great spot for nature lovers, with opportunities to see various bird species and other wildlife, offering a peaceful retreat from the town’s bustling areas.
Stop by the Witney and District Museum
Gloucester Court Mews, 75 High St, Witney OX28 6JA
The Witney and District Museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture. This captivating museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the heritage of Witney and its surrounding district, offering visitors an immersive journey through time.
Housed in a charming building, the Witney and District Museum boasts an extensive collection of artefacts, photographs, documents, and interactive exhibits that vividly bring the region’s past to life. From the town’s humble beginnings to its transformation into a bustling market town, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Witney’s development over the centuries.
As you explore the museum’s various galleries, you’ll discover fascinating displays of traditional industries that once thrived in the area. Here you can gain an insight into the daily lives and triumphs of the town’s past generations through captivating stories and personal accounts.
Wychwood Brewery make Hobgoblin IPA and many others
Take a tour of Wychwood Brewery
Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Witney, OX28 4DP
The Wychwood Brewery is a renowned and beloved brewery which produces 50,000 barrels (8,200,00 litres) of cask ale each year in the UK. With its rich brewing traditions and a wide array of flavourful ales, the brewery has become a prominent fixture in the local and national craft beer scene.
Founded in 1983, the Wychwood Brewery has a strong commitment to quality and craftsmanship, creating distinctive and characterful beers that capture the essence of traditional English brewing. The brewery takes its name from the ancient Wychwood Forest, which once covered a vast area surrounding Witney. It’s also on the original site of the Clinches Brewery, dating back to 1811.
Wychwood Brewery is celebrated for its range of ales, including its flagship brand, Hobgoblin. This iconic beer, with its bold flavours and distinctive branding featuring the mischievous Hobgoblin character, has gained a loyal following both in the UK and abroad. The brewery also produces a diverse selection of other beers, each with its own unique characteristics and tastes, catering to a variety of palates.
Visiting the Wychwood Brewery offers beer enthusiasts and curious visitors an opportunity to learn about the brewing process and discover the breweries history. Guided tours (bizarrely not mentioned or prices mentioned on the website but cost £8.50 the last time I visited), last around 2 hours.
The tour provide an insight into the art of brewing, showcasing the traditional methods and modern techniques used to craft their exceptional ales. Visitors can witness first-hand the passion and expertise that goes into each brew, and even sample a few of their finest creations in the taproom.
Take a walk at Witney Lake and Country Park
Ducklington Lake, Witney
www.witney-tc.gov.uk/services/lake-country-park/
Witney Lake and Country Park, also known as Ducklington Lake, is a picturesque and tranquil oasis located near the town of Witney, Oxfordshire. Situated just a mile from the town centre, this beautiful park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor recreation. The park centres around a scenic man made lake, which spans approximately 70 acres.
Witney Lake, formed through gravel extraction, boasts an impressive depth without the presence of muddy edges or sandy beaches. Encircled by a recently enhanced path, the lake offers a picturesque stroll with convenient picnic tables and benches scattered along its banks.
This scenic water body not only supports a variety of seldom-seen invertebrates and wetland plants but also serves as a sanctuary for a diverse range of birdlife. During the summer months, you might catch glimpses of vibrant kingfishers darting about and swifts soaring gracefully through the air. As winter sets in, the lake becomes a temporary habitat for snipes and lapwings. Meanwhile, the great crested grebes call the lake their year-round home, showcasing their elegance throughout the seasons.
Other natural delights
Located just outside Witney, the Foxburrow Wood nature reserve has seen wildlife like barn owls, goldfinches, and even weasels return as it transitions from former grassland pastures to a thriving woodland habitat.
Play golf or visit the spa at Witney Lakes Resort
Downs Rd, Witney OX29 0SY
Situated on the outskirts of Witney, a premier leisure destination awaits, catering to those seeking a rejuvenating spa experience or an exhilarating game of golf. The highlight of this destination is an immaculate 18-hole par-71 championship golf course, nestled within scenic lakeland terrain. With its strategic doglegs, expansive drives, and challenging par 3s, this course demands the use of every club in your bag and tests your skills to the fullest.
To enjoy discounted green fees, it is advisable to book through the website. Weekday rates start at £22 for a round (One Ball), while weekend rates are £26. This enables golf enthusiasts to indulge in their passion while making the most of their budget.
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the spa at Witney Lakes offers a comprehensive range of treatments to pamper and revitalize your senses. The extensive menu includes five types of massages, indulgent facials, rejuvenating wraps, exquisite manicures, professional make-up services, as well as waxing and tanning options. The spa aims to provide a complete wellness experience, catering to your specific needs and ensuring a blissful escape from the stresses of everyday life.
See the Crocodiles of the World in Brize Norton
Burford Rd, Brize Norton, Carterton OX18 3NX
www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk
Situated just a short distance from Witney, there is a one-of-a-kind zoo that is a must-visit for animal enthusiasts in the area. Established in 2011 by renowned conservationist Shaun Foggett, this extraordinary zoo has gained tremendous popularity and relocated to its current home in Brize Norton in 2014 due to its remarkable growth.
At this remarkable zoo, you’ll encounter a captivating collection of over 150 crocodiles, representing 17 out of the total 24 species known worldwide. It stands as the only zoo in the UK solely dedicated to the preservation and study of these awe-inspiring creatures.
Among the notable inhabitants are the formidable saltwater crocodiles, alongside several rare species that may be unfamiliar to many visitors. The endangered Siamese and Cuban crocodiles, Tomistoma, slender-snouted crocodile, Cuvier’s caiman, black caiman, and broad-snouted caiman are just a few examples of the diverse crocodile species you’ll encounter here.
In addition to its crocodile population, the zoo houses a diverse array of other fascinating animals. From playful meerkats and Asian short-clawed otters to the rare cotton-topped tamarins, there are various mammalian species to admire. The zoo is also home to a captivating selection of monitor lizards, snakes, tortoises, and a small collection of exotic birds.
Places to Stay
Minster Mill and The Old Swan are situated about 4 miles from Witney in Minster Lovell, these idyllic hotels offer luxury accommodations surrounded by 65 acres of gardens, meadows, and woodland. Perfect for a relaxing countryside escape.
Additional Information
Coordinates: 51.7869° N, 1.4851° W
Postcode district: OX28
Population: Approximately 28,000 (2021 Census)
Average House Price (2024): £368,000
Transport Links: Witney is well-connected by road, located near the A40, which provides easy access to Oxford and London. Although the town does not have a railway station, bus services connect Witney to nearby railway stations in Oxford and Hanborough, with direct rail links to London Paddington and other major cities.
Education: Witney offers several educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools such as Henry Box School and Wood Green School. The town also has a campus of Abingdon and Witney College.
Things to do in Oxfordshire Guides
