Charlbury

Charlbury is a small but charming Cotswolds market town in Oxfordshire, and it’s one of those places people often describe as a “hidden gem.” Here are some reasons why you might want to visit:

Beautiful Cotswold Scenery

• Surrounded by rolling hills, meadows, and woodlands, it’s perfect for countryside walks.

• Nearby is Wychwood Forest, once a royal hunting forest, now a tranquil area for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Historic Character

• Charlbury has roots dating back to Saxon times.

• You’ll find honey-coloured stone cottages, winding lanes, and traditional pubs that capture the Cotswold feel without the heavy tourist crowds of places like Bourton-on-the-Water.

Cultural Life

• It punches above its weight for events:

  • Charlbury Street Fair (every September) has stalls, music, and a great community feel.

  • Charlbury Beer Festival (summer) is one of the UK’s biggest one-day beer festivals, with dozens of local brews, music, and family activities.

  • Local live music, theatre, and talks happen year-round.

Great Pubs & Food

• Cosy pubs like The Bell Inn, The Rose & Crown, and The Bull are well-loved for good food, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Charlbury also has a café culture, with spots perfect for walkers or cyclists stopping off.

Location & Accessibility

• Despite its rural feel, Charlbury has a train station with direct links to Oxford (15 mins) and London Paddington (about 70–80 mins).

• That makes it an easy countryside escape from the city.

Nearby Attractions

• A short drive or train ride gets you to Blenheim Palace (World Heritage Site and Winston Churchill’s birthplace).

• Woodstock, Burford, and other classic Cotswolds towns are close by.

• Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, one of the most famous farm shops in England, is nearby too.

In short, Charlbury is great if you want the beauty and charm of the Cotswolds, but with fewer crowds and more of a real community feel.