A Visitor's Introduction to Bicester, Oxfordshire

Why is Bicester Worth a Visit?

Bicester is worth visiting for its combination of history, beautiful landscapes, and one of the best shopping experiences in the UK. Its historic town centre features charming architecture and buildings dating back to the 16th century, while Bicester Village is a must for fashion enthusiasts, drawing millions of visitors each year. With excellent transport links to London and other major cities, Bicester is both accessible and welcoming, offering visitors a variety of activities, from sightseeing and shopping to dining and enjoying the local countryside.

Bicester Highlights: Things to See and Do in Bicester

1. Bicester Village

The star attraction in Bicester, Bicester Village is a luxury shopping outlet with over 160 designer boutiques offering year-round discounts. Brands such as Gucci, Burberry, and Prada can be found here, along with popular dining spots and charming café terraces. The Village itself has a lovely design with a village feel and beautifully landscaped walkways, making it a great day out for shopping enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

2. Garth Park

Garth Park, located in the heart of Bicester, offers lush green lawns, colourful flowerbeds, and lovely walking paths. The park has a children’s play area, a splash pool, and hosts events like summer concerts and outdoor cinema nights. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, and the Garth House, an impressive Victorian building, adds to the park’s charm.

3. St Edburg’s Church

St Edburg’s Church is Bicester’s oldest and most historic building, dating back to the 12th century. Known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and medieval architecture, the church is a tranquil place to explore and admire. The churchyard is also worth a visit, with its ancient headstones and lovely views across the town, making it a meaningful stop for history lovers.

4. Bicester Heritage

Located on a former RAF airfield, Bicester Heritage is a unique hub dedicated to vintage cars and classic motoring. It’s the UK’s centre for classic cars, featuring restored historic buildings and a fascinating collection of vintage automobiles. Bicester Heritage regularly hosts “Sunday Scramble” events, where visitors can explore the site, view rare cars, and meet car enthusiasts from all over the country.

5. Bicester Market

Held every Friday, Bicester Market is a lively spot to shop for fresh produce, flowers, homemade baked goods, and local crafts. The market’s traditional stalls and friendly vendors create a bustling atmosphere in the town centre. A farmers’ market also takes place monthly, offering local meats, cheeses, and organic vegetables from nearby farms.

6. Market Square

Bicester’s historic Market Square is surrounded by Georgian and Victorian architecture, creating a picturesque setting to explore. The square hosts occasional events, such as food festivals and Christmas markets, and has a selection of independent shops and cafés. It’s a great area to soak in the town’s history, relax with a coffee, and browse local boutiques.

7. Rousham House and Gardens

Located just outside Bicester, Rousham House is a beautiful stately home known for its stunning 18th-century gardens designed by William Kent. The house and gardens are well-preserved and offer visitors a tranquil escape into a world of classical landscapes, temples, and water features. This hidden gem is perfect for history and garden enthusiasts looking for a peaceful day out.

8. Whitelands Farm Sports Ground

For families or those seeking some recreation, Whitelands Farm Sports Ground has excellent facilities, including football pitches, a skate park, and a children’s play area. The sports ground also features a lovely nature trail, perfect for an easy walk with scenic views of the Oxfordshire countryside.

9. Chesterton Windmill

A short drive from Bicester, the historic Chesterton Windmill is a fascinating site and one of the most photographed landmarks in Oxfordshire. Built in the early 1600s, it stands on a hill offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Although the windmill is not open for public tours, it’s a beautiful spot for photos and a great place to enjoy a country walk.

10. Bicester Airfield

Bicester Airfield, part of Bicester Heritage, is an active airfield and home to vintage aviation events. Visitors can watch glider planes take off, and on event days, see vintage aircraft demonstrations. The site is steeped in history, and the hangars and facilities have been carefully preserved to give an authentic 20th-century aviation feel.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Bicester is easily accessible by train and road. Bicester Village station and Bicester North station provide regular services to London Marylebone (around an hour away) and Birmingham. For drivers, Bicester is well-connected via the M40 motorway, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway. Bicester Village also operates a direct luxury shopping bus from central London, ideal for those visiting primarily to shop.

Parking

Bicester offers several car parks within the town centre and at Bicester Village. Parking at Bicester Village is free, though it can be busy, particularly on weekends. Town centre car parks are paid, with options available near Garth Park and Market Square. If visiting Bicester Heritage, parking is available on-site during events.

Dining

Bicester’s dining scene is varied, with options from traditional pubs to fine dining. The Trigger Pond in nearby Bucknell is a popular pub with classic British dishes, while Denis Turkish Restaurant offers Mediterranean flavours in a friendly setting. At Bicester Village, Farmshop Restaurant & Café serves fresh, seasonal British fare in a chic environment. For a quick coffee, Brewhouse & Kitchen near Market Square is a great spot, with its own microbrewery.

Shopping

Bicester is known for its shopping, especially Bicester Village, where high-end fashion brands and luxury boutiques offer discounted prices. In town, Market Square and Sheep Street have independent shops, bookstores, and gift shops. The Oxfordshire Pantry in Bicester Village provides a wonderful selection of local foods, from artisanal cheeses to honey, making it an ideal spot for souvenirs.

When to Visit

Bicester is a year-round destination, though spring and summer bring warmer weather, ideal for exploring outdoor areas like Garth Park or Rousham Gardens. Winter is a busy season for Bicester Village, with festive lights and holiday shopping drawing visitors from all over the country. The “Sunday Scramble” events at Bicester Heritage are held throughout the year and provide a unique experience for car enthusiasts.

Local Events

Bicester hosts various community events that highlight the town’s culture. Sunday Scramble events at Bicester Heritage are a must for car lovers, bringing rare vintage cars and open workshops for a hands-on motoring experience. Bicester Festival in September celebrates arts, music, and local talent with performances and installations throughout the town. The Christmas Market at Bicester Village is especially festive, with beautifully decorated shops and a cheerful holiday atmosphere.

Exploring Beyond Bicester

Bicester’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions. Oxford, just a 20-minute drive away, offers historic colleges, museums, and architecture. The Cotswolds, with charming villages like Chipping Norton and Burford, is a scenic drive from Bicester and perfect for countryside walks. Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is a 30-minute drive away and offers stunning grounds and seasonal events.