Atmospheric glimpses into England's past, quaint riverside country pubs, leafy lanes, grassy meadows alive with birdsong and the sound of leather on willow all conjure up the essence of a truly English summer - and they are all to be found along this section of the River Windrush on the eastern edge of the Cotswolds.
The 13th century Church of St Oswald's is all that remains of the village of Widford, possibly deserted because of the plague. The tiny church stands alone on the hillside, poignantly inviting and proud.
The ruin of Minster Lovell Hall is the scene of many secrets and legends, with its grand entrance pointing to a distinguished past. Several staircases are visible, intact but out of reach, and the huge chimney stacks give the impression that the fires have just been extinguished.
The routes are based on easy meadow walking, country lanes and wooded paths.
The leaflet includes easy-to-follow maps, comprehensive written directions and points of local historical interest. You can download it for free:
If you cannot, or have trouble printing this leaflet, please contact us and we will print it out and send it to you.
Distance
3.5 or 5 miles (5.5 or 8km)
Dogs
Allowed under close control, on leads where livestock present
Information
Burford Visitor Information Centre or Library
Public transport
For transport information call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33.
Public Houses
Asthall, Swinbrook, Minster Lovell and Crawley
Public amenities
Car parking in Burford and Witney.
Route review
If you have walked or ridden one of the routes that we suggest, you can review the route for others.
Reviews
"Had a very nice day out doing walk number 1 near Swinbrook. A great little pub (Maytime Inn) for food at the end of the walk. Good directions." David, Oxford.
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