Burford, Oxfordshire: Gateway to the Cotswolds, History & Things to Do

Burford is a small Oxfordshire town on the River Windrush, on the eastern edge of the Cotswolds. Its wide High Street runs steeply downhill between houses of golden stone to an old bridge over the river, with views over the hills beyond.

Why Burford Is Special

Burford is often called the gateway to the Cotswolds, and its High Street is one of the most beautiful in England, lined with old inns, antiques shops, galleries and tea rooms.

It is a perfect introduction to the Cotswolds, with the honey-coloured stone, wool history and great church of the region all within a short walk.

The History of Burford

Between the 14th and 17th centuries Burford was important for its wool trade, and its merchants built the fine stone houses that line its streets.

The Tolsey, a little building on pillars midway along the High Street, was once the focal point for trade, where tolls were paid and the town's business was done. It is now a museum.

In 1649, during the Civil War, the church of St John the Baptist was used as a prison for the Banbury mutineers of the New Model Army, who were held there after being captured in the town; three of them were shot in the churchyard. One prisoner carved his name on the font, and it can still be seen.

Things to Do in Burford

Walk down the High Street to the medieval bridge over the Windrush, stopping at the Tolsey Museum (check opening times) and the antiques shops. Visit the church of St John the Baptist, one of the finest in Oxfordshire, with its carved monuments and the name on the font.

Walk along the Windrush valley to the village of Swinbrook, with its church and riverside inn.

Gardens, Countryside & Antiques near Burford

For antiques, start at Antiques at The George on the High Street. The Cotswolds stretch west; see our guides to the Cotswolds and Bibury.

Oxford is about twenty miles east, with Farrow & Ball Oxford, and Harvey Jones Bicester Village is a little further.

Burford Through the Seasons

Spring brings fresh green to the Windrush meadows. Summer is the time for riverside walks and picnics. Autumn colours the valley, and at Christmas the High Street glows with lights.

Getting to Burford

The nearest railway stations are Charlbury and Kingham, about eight miles away, and buses run from Oxford and Witney. There is parking near the river.

Burford: Questions & Answers

Why is Burford called the gateway to the Cotswolds?

It stands on the eastern edge of the Cotswolds, on the road from Oxford, and is often the first Cotswold town visitors reach.

What happened in Burford church in 1649?

Banbury mutineers of the New Model Army were held prisoner in the church, and three were shot in the churchyard.

Our Advice

Our advice: Park at the bottom of the town, walk up the High Street and back, and leave time for the walk along the Windrush to Swinbrook.