Take an adventure into Witney this autumn. This thriving town is one of the biggest in West Oxfordshire and has so much to offer visitors, from one of the nations favourite breweries to bustling shopping districts, taste-bud-satisfying restaurants and more.
Witney is the proud home of the Wychwood Brewery, who you may know as the brewers of Hobgoblin Ale – a favourite throughout the UK. Open to visitors for tours, the tour team will guide you through a 2-hour masterclass in the beer making process, from the raw ingredients to finished bottles of both Wychwood and Breakspear beers. After the tour, you’ll even have a chance to sample these flagship beers yourself. Please note that children under 12 are unable to participate in these tours.
What’s a nice drink without a good meal? Luckily Witney is home to a wide variety of delicious restaurants. A few stand out names include Chequers Smoke House, who bring barbecue to a whole new level with melt in the mouth meats and world-class potatoes, and the Eden Cafe, who produce some of the best vegan-friendly meals and snacks around.
Witney has a deep and storied past and there are so many different ways to explore it during your visit. The Witney and District Museum tells the story of Witney with a focus on the part the town played in the blanket industry. Witney was once known for its high-quality woollen blankets and, over the course of 300 years, produced blankets that were used all over the world. While the last Witney mill sadly closed in 2002, the Witney and District Museum brings this roaring trade back to life.
If all the noise of industry is too much, then the Witney Lake and Meadows are well worth a visit. Located just outside of Witney town centre, this one-time gravel pit now offers a tranquil haven for both visitors and local wildlife to enjoy. The lake is home to many interesting birds, including the Great-Crested Grebe, Heron and Kingfishers – so make sure you pack your binoculars and keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures.
Another place to get away from the bustle of modern life is Cogges Manor Farm. This heritage and farm centre is open to all and provides a beautiful set of grounds to relax in as well as an opportunity to learn more about animal husbandry and farming by experiencing it first hand. Fans of the hit series Downton Abbey may recognise Cogges Manor Farm, as it was used as the set for the fictional Yew Tree Farm!
Once you’ve experienced some of the great sights and attractions of Witney, there’s no better feeling than knowing you’ve got a spot at Hardwick Parks to relax in. Located in Witney, all of the above attractions are just a short trip away. There’s still time to enjoy the last of the good weather, but hurry, there’s not much time left. Book your stay at Hardwick Parks today and get ready for your next Oxfordshire adventure!
