Carterton City Guide

About Carterton – History and Culture

Carterton is a town in West Oxfordshire, England, with a history rooted in the early 20th century. It was initially developed as a settlement for workers constructing the nearby RAF Brize Norton airbase, which opened in 1937. The town grew rapidly during World War II and later became a civil parish in 1959. Today, Carterton maintains a strong military connection while evolving into a diverse community.

The town's cultural identity is shaped by its RAF heritage and the mix of residents from military and civilian backgrounds. Local traditions include the Carterton Community Festival, which features parades, live music, and family activities. The town also hosts remembrance events and supports various charities through its active community groups.

Modern Carterton is a blend of historic buildings and new developments. The town centre offers shops, cafes, and services, while surrounding countryside provides rural tranquility. Despite its modest size, Carterton has a distinct character that appeals to families and professionals seeking a balance between urban amenities and village charm.

• RAF Brize Norton – the largest RAF station in the UK
• St John the Evangelist Church – a modern church building
• Kilkenny Country Park – 110 acres of green space
• Carterton Leisure Centre – sports and fitness facilities
• The Shambles – historic market area
• Carterton Library – community hub
• War Memorial – commemorates local service personnel
• Old Town area – remnants of original settlement

Did You Know? – Facts about Carterton

Carterton may not be a major city, but it holds unique distinctions. It is one of the few planned towns in Oxfordshire, created specifically to house airbase workers. Its proximity to RAF Brize Norton makes it a key location for UK defence operations. The town's layout is predominantly residential with a central shopping area.

The community is notably diverse, with many residents from military families who have lived abroad. This gives the town a cosmopolitan feel. Carterton also has a higher than average proportion of young adults and children, reflecting its family-friendly nature. The local council invests in green spaces and community projects.

• Carterton was originally called 'Carter's Town' after a local family?
• The town has a sister city relationship with a French commune?
• RAF Brize Norton is home to the Voyager fleet and the Red Arrows?
• Kilkenny Country Park was once part of a large estate?
• The town's population has doubled since the 1960s?
• Carterton has over 30 active community groups?
• The local secondary school is Carterton Community College?
• It lies on the edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?
• The town has a regular farmers' market?
• There are several ancient burial mounds nearby?
• Carterton has its own town council?
• The region is part of the historic county of Oxfordshire?
• It is approximately a two-hour drive from London?

Geography and Climate of Carterton

Carterton is situated in the Thames Valley region, on the western edge of Oxfordshire. The town lies on a gentle slope descending towards the River Windrush valley. Its landscape is characterised by open fields, hedgerows, and small woodlands typical of the Cotswold fringe. The geology is mainly Oxford Clay and limestone.

The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 4°C in January to 17°C in July. Rainfall is moderate, around 700mm annually, spread throughout the year. The area enjoys occasional snow in winter but rarely severe.

• Elevation: approximately 80 meters above sea level
• Nearby river: River Windrush (4 miles south)
• Nearest major water body: River Thames at Lechlade (10 miles)
• Annual sunshine: around 1,500 hours
• Prevailing winds: south-westerly
• Borough: West Oxfordshire district
• Nearest towns: Witney (6 miles), Burford (5 miles)
• Natural features: Cotswold escarpment to the west

Things to Do in Carterton

Carterton offers a range of leisure activities despite its modest size. From exploring parks to enjoying local food, there is something for everyone. The town's community spirit is evident in its events and facilities.

Food & Dining

The local dining scene includes traditional pubs, cafes, and takeaways. The Crown Inn on Burford Road is a popular spot for Sunday roasts. For Indian cuisine, the Rajpoot restaurant offers authentic curries. Cafes like the Coffee Shop provide light lunches and homemade cakes. Several fish and chip shops serve classic British fare.

Nearby Burford and Witney offer more upscale dining options, including Michelin-recommended eateries. The Cotswolds region is known for its farm-to-table restaurants. Carterton itself has a mix of fast-food chains and independent outlets, catering to both military families and locals.

• The Crown Inn – traditional pub
• Rajpoot – Indian restaurant
• Millie's Café – breakfast and lunch
• Domino's Pizza – chain delivery
• Burford Garden Company Café – nearby garden centre cafe
• The Angel at Burford – fine dining
• Witney's High Street – diverse eateries
• Carterton Community Centre – occasional food festivals

Festivals & Events

The Carterton Community Festival is the highlight of the town's social calendar, held annually in July. It features a funfair, live music, food stalls, and a parade. Christmas lights switch-on and Remembrance Day services are also significant events. The town supports charity runs and quiz nights throughout the year.

Nearby Witney hosts the Witney Music Festival and the Witney Feast. Burford holds an annual Sheep Fair, celebrating its wool trade heritage. RAF Brize Norton occasionally opens its gates for air shows, though access is limited. Community groups organise dog shows and craft fairs.

• Carterton Community Festival (July)
• Christmas lights switch-on (November)
• Remembrance Day parade (November)
• Charity fun runs (various)
• Witney Music Festival (May)
• Burford Sheep Fair (September)
• RAF Brize Norton families’ days (restricted)
• Carterton Carnival (historical, now part of festival)

Cultural Attractions

While Carterton lacks major museums, it has cultural sites within easy reach. The Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock covers military history. The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is a world-class institution. Locally, the Carterton Library hosts art exhibitions and author talks.

The town's own history is captured in displays at the library and community centre. The nearby Cotswolds area is rich in historic houses like Blenheim Palace and Chastleton House. Visitors interested in aviation can view aircraft from the perimeter of RAF Brize Norton.

• Blenheim Palace (20 miles) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum (15 miles)
• Ashmolean Museum, Oxford (20 miles)
• Carterton Library – local history exhibits
• RAF Brize Norton – viewing area (public road)
• Cotswold Museum, Burford (5 miles)
• Chastleton House (8 miles) – National Trust
• Oxford Castle – historic prison tours

Outdoor Activities

Carterton is a gateway to the Cotswolds, offering excellent walking and cycling. Kilkenny Country Park has trails, a lake, and picnic spots. The Windrush Valley provides scenic routes. Nearby golf clubs include Burford Golf Club and Witney Lakes Resort.

Fishing is popular on the River Windrush and local lakes. The town has several playgrounds and sports fields. For more adventurous activities, Go Ape at Mallory Court in Leamington Spa is a short drive. The Cotswold Water Park offers watersports and birdwatching.

• Kilkenny Country Park – walking, cycling, fishing
• Windrush Valley – rambling
• Burford Golf Club – 18-hole course
• Witney Lakes Resort – golf and gym
• Cotswold Water Park – sailing, kayaking
• River Windrush – trout fishing
• Carterton Sports Ground – football, cricket
• North Leigh Roman Villa – historic walk
• Minster Lovell – riverside ruins
• Cotswold Way – long-distance footpath (10 miles away)

Economy and Key Industries

Carterton's economy is dominated by the presence of RAF Brize Norton, which provides numerous civilian and military jobs. The base supports logistics, aircraft maintenance, and administration. Many residents work at the base or in related supply chains. The town also has a growing retail and service sector.

Small businesses thrive, including trades, hospitality, and professional services. Agriculture plays a minor role, with some farming on the outskirts. The local council encourages enterprise through business grants and networking events. Commuting to Oxford, Swindon, and London is common for higher-skilled jobs.

Key industries include defence, logistics, construction, and retail. The leisure and tourism sector benefits from the Cotswold location. Plans for housing development aim to attract more workers. The town's economy is stable but reliant on government spending at the airbase.

• RAF Brize Norton – major employer
• Defence infrastructure and logistics
• Retail: supermarkets (Tesco, Co-op), independent shops
• Construction: new housing developments
• Hospitality: pubs, hotels, B&Bs
• Professional services: estate agents, accountants
• Education: Carterton Community College, primary schools
• Healthcare: GP surgeries, care homes
• Transport: bus services, taxis
• Agriculture: sheep and arable farming
• Tourism: Cotswold attractions

Where to Live in Carterton

Carterton offers a mix of housing types, from Victorian terraces to modern estates. The town centre has compact houses and flats, while the outskirts feature larger family homes. Popular residential areas include The Moors, Brize Norton Road, and the newer developments near the leisure centre.

Neighbourhoods vary in character: older parts have narrower streets; newer estates offer cul-de-sacs and green spaces. The town is generally affordable compared to Oxford, with average house prices around £250,000. Rental demand is high due to military postings. Families often choose areas near schools and parks.

Lifestyle-wise, Carterton is quiet but convenient. Shops and services are walkable from most homes. The community is welcoming to newcomers. Those seeking nightlife may prefer Witney or Oxford. But for a safe, family-oriented environment, Carterton is an excellent choice.

• The Moors – established residential area
• Brize Norton Road – near the base
• Park Avenue – green, family-friendly
• Alvescot Road – historic houses
• Shilton Park – modern estate
• Kingsmead – new development
• Old Village – historic core
• Hailey – nearby village
• Minster Lovell – picturesque village (3 miles)
• Burford – honey-stone Cotswold town (5 miles)

Formalities and Visas in Carterton

As part of the UK, Carterton follows national immigration rules. Non-UK nationals need appropriate visas for work, study, or family visits. The nearest visa application centres are in Oxford or London. The UK's points-based system applies for skilled workers. EU citizens now need visas since Brexit.

For those moving to work at RAF Brize Norton, the Ministry of Defence may sponsor visas for specialist roles. Students can apply for Student visas if studying at local institutions. Family visas allow dependents to join. Permanent residency can be obtained after five years of legal residence.

Applications are made online with biometric appointments. Processing times vary. It is advisable to consult an immigration solicitor for complex cases. The local Citizens Advice Bureau can offer general guidance. Employment and proof of accommodation are typically required.

• UK visa types: Skilled Worker, Student, Family, Visitor
• Points-based system: requires 70 points minimum
• Sponsor licence needed for employers
• EU Settlement Scheme: closed but pre-settled status available
• Biometric residence permit required
• Right to rent checks for accommodation
• National Insurance number needed for work
• NHS surcharge: £470 per year (2025)
• Visa processing: 3-8 weeks typical
• Indefinite leave to remain after 5 years
• Citizenship possible after 6 years
• Legal advice: Oxford Immigration Law

Working in Carterton

The job market in Carterton is centred on the RAF base, with opportunities in logistics, engineering, administration, and security. Civilian roles include catering, maintenance, and childcare. Outside the base, retail, healthcare, and education provide employment. Commuting to nearby towns expands options.

The town has a low unemployment rate, partly due to military demand. However, wages are average for the South East. Many work on base or in Witney/Oxford. Professional sectors like IT and finance are less represented locally, requiring longer commutes. Part-time and zero-hour contracts are common in hospitality.

Work culture is typical British: formal but friendly. Military jobs offer good benefits and pensions. Self-employment is growing among tradespeople. Networking events are held at the community centre. The local job centre offers support for job seekers.

• Main employer: Ministry of Defence (RAF Brize Norton)
• Top sectors: defence, logistics, retail, education
• Average salary: £28,000-£35,000
• Commuting time to Oxford: 40 min
• Key skills: IT, mechanics, admin, care
• Part-time work available in shops and pubs
• Professional services: limited but growing
• Temporary agencies: Hays, Reed in Witney
• Self-employment options: trades, cleaning
• Work-from-home: increasing after pandemic

Studying in Carterton

Carterton has primary and secondary schools under the Oxfordshire county system. Carterton Community College is the main secondary, serving ages 11-16. There is no sixth form; students often attend Witney’s Abingdon and Witney College or Burford School. Private schools are available in nearby Oxford and Cheltenham.

For higher education, the University of Oxford is 20 miles away, with colleges offering world-class degrees. Oxford Brookes University is also accessible. Other options include University of Gloucestershire in Cheltenham. Adult education classes are held at the library and community centre.

Student life in Carterton itself is limited; most students commute or move to Oxford. However, the town's quiet environment suits mature students. Part-time courses are available in computing, languages, and fitness. The local council supports lifelong learning.

• Primary schools: Carterton Primary, St John's CE Primary
• Secondary: Carterton Community College
• Sixth form: Abingdon and Witney College (Witney)
• Private schools: Oxford High School, St Edward's Oxford
• University: University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes
• Further education: Activate Learning (Oxford)
• Adult education: Oxfordshire Adult Learning
• Library: free courses, IT access
• Student accommodation: primarily in Oxford
• Scholarships: available for local students

Finance and Banks in Carterton

Carterton has branches of major UK banks: Lloyds, Barclays, and NatWest offer personal and business accounts. There are also building societies like Nationwide. Cash machines are available in the town centre. Online banking is widely used. For currency exchange, post offices provide services.

Opening a bank account requires proof of address and identity. International students may need a letter from their university. Tax is handled by HMRC; National Insurance applies. Financial advisers operate in Witney. The cost of banking is low, with many free accounts.

• High street banks: Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest
• Building society: Nationwide
• Post Office: basic banking, savings
• Digital banks: Monzo, Starling (popular)
• ATM locations: town centre, supermarkets
• Business banking: available at all major banks
• Currency exchange: post office, travel agents
• Tax: 20% basic rate, 40% higher rate
• ISAs: tax-free saving accounts
• Financial advice: Witney-based IFA

Health Care in Carterton

Healthcare is provided through the NHS, with GP surgeries and a community hospital. The Carterton Health Centre offers general practice and some specialist services. For emergencies, the nearest A&E is at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford (30 min). Minor injuries unit is at Witney Community Hospital.

Dentists and opticians are available locally. Mental health support is provided by Oxford Health NHS Trust. Prescription costs are £9.90 per item (2025). Private healthcare is available at Oxford’s Nuffield Health Hospital. Ambulance services are run by South Central Ambulance Service.

• GP surgery: Carterton Health Centre
• Dentists: Bupa Dental Care, mydentist
• Opticians: Specsavers, Boots Opticians
• A&E: John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford
• Minor injuries: Witney Community Hospital
• Mental health: Oxford Health NHS
• Pharmacies: Boots, Lloyds Pharmacy
• Health visitors: school nursing team
• Care homes: several in area
• Private GP: available in Witney

Accommodation in Carterton

Housing in Carterton ranges from one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom detached houses. Rental prices are moderate; a 2-bed house averages £800-£1000/month. Buying a 3-bed semi-detached costs around £250,000. New builds are popular with families. Council tax is Band B-C typically.

Most properties are freehold or leasehold. Estate agents include Chancellors, Carter Jonas, and local agents. Demand is steady due to military and civilian workers. Renting through agencies requires deposits and references. Some properties are available through the MOD for service personnel.

• Average rent 2-bed: £900/month
• Average house price 3-bed: £280,000
• New developments: Shilton Park, Kingsmead
• Council tax: Band B approx. £1,700/year
• Deposit: 5 weeks rent typically
• Estate agents: Chancellors, Allen & Harris

Planning Your Move to Carterton

Moving to Carterton requires planning. Arrange utilities before arrival: electricity, gas, water, internet. Notify the council for council tax. Register with a GP and dentist. For military moves, the MOD provides relocation support. Ensure visas are in order if from overseas.

Check school places for children. Consider transport options: car is essential for some, but bus services connect to Witney and Oxford. Pack for all seasons; the weather is changeable. Join local social media groups to get tips. Budget for moving costs, including deposits and new furniture.

• Notify utilities: British Gas, Thames Water
• Register with Carterton Health Centre
• School admissions: Oxfordshire County Council
• Council tax: West Oxfordshire District Council
• Bin collections: weekly recycling, fortnightly waste
• Internet: BT, Virgin, Sky (check availability)
• Driving license: DVLA update address
• Bank account: open before moving
• TV license: required for live TV
• Home insurance: buildings and contents

Leisure in Carterton

Leisure options in Carterton include the leisure centre with gym, pool, and classes. There is a cinema in Witney, and several pubs with entertainment. The town has a bowling club and a skate park. Shopping is limited to essentials; Witney offers more variety. Nightlife is quiet; Oxford has clubs and theatres.

For families, there are parks and soft play areas. Adult education and hobby groups meet at the library. The community centre hosts dances and bingo. Local sports clubs include football, rugby, and cricket. The Cotswold countryside provides ample walking and cycling routes.

• Carterton Leisure Centre – swimming, gym, classes
• Witney Cinema – latest films
• Pubs with events: The Crozier, The Blue Boar
• Bowling club: Carterton Bowls Club
• Skate park: near Shilton Park
• Soft play: Play Factor in Witney
• Walking groups: Carterton Walkers
• Football club: Carterton FC

Transportation Options in Carterton

Carterton relies on road transport. The A40 runs north of the town, connecting to Oxford and Cheltenham. Bus services (S1, S2) operate to Witney and Oxford. There is no railway station; the nearest is at Charlbury (8 miles) or Shipton-under-Wychwood (6 miles). Taxis and ride-sharing are available.

Cycling is popular, with some dedicated paths. For air travel, London Heathrow is about 80 minutes by car. Bristol Airport is 1.5 hours. Local bus services are infrequent on Sundays. Most residents own cars. Car clubs are not common. The M40 motorway is accessible at junction 9 near Stow-on-the-Wold.

• Bus services: Stagecoach S1, S2 to Witney/Oxford
• Nearest train station: Charlbury (8 miles) – trains to London Paddington
• Taxi firms: Carterton Taxis, A2B
• Road: A40 west-east dual carriageway
• Cycling: National Cycle Network Route 48 nearby
• Airport: Heathrow (80 minutes), Birmingham (1.5 hours)
• Parking: ample free parking in town centre

Everyday Life in Carterton

Life in Carterton is peaceful and friendly. The town has a low crime rate, with community policing. Shops are convenient for daily needs. The council maintains parks and public spaces. Schools are generally well-regarded. Many residents know each other, creating a close-knit atmosphere.

Services like post office, library, and health centre are within walking distance for most. Traffic is manageable except at peak times near the base. The community is active on social media, sharing news and events. Military presence adds a transient element but also brings variety.

• Safety: low crime, community wardens
• Post office: near town square
• Library: free events and computers
• Supermarkets: Tesco Express, Co-op
• Farmers' market: last Saturday of month
• Religious centres: churches, mosque in Witney
• Community centre: classes and socials

Cost of Living in Carterton

Cost of living in Carterton is lower than the UK average, especially housing. Rents are 30% cheaper than Oxford. Utilities are typical for the region. Groceries are comparable to national prices. Transport costs are moderate if using a car. Leisure activities are affordable.

Council tax is band B average £1,700. Internet £30/month. Eating out: pub meal £15. A pint of beer £4.50. Overall, a single person needs around £1,200/month excluding rent. Family of four: £2,500/month excluding housing. Budgeting tips: use local markets, car share.

• Rent 1-bed flat: £700/month
• Utilities (gas, elec, water): £200/month
• Council tax: £1,700/year
• Food shopping: £300/month for couple
• Transport: bus to Oxford return £8
• Gym membership: £35/month
• Childcare: £50/day for nursery

Places to Visit in Carterton

Carterton itself has a few attractions: Kilkenny Country Park offers serene walks and wildlife. The leisure centre is a hub for families. But the region is packed with must-see sites. Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill, is a UNESCO site with stunning gardens. The Cotswold towns of Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water are enchanting.

Oxford city provides world-class museums, colleges, and shopping. The Ashmolean Museum, Pitt Rivers Museum, and Oxford Botanic Garden are highlights. For history lovers, the Rollright Stones (neolithic) and Sudeley Castle (near Winchcombe) are day trips. The Cotswold Wildlife Park in Bradwell is great for families.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the Windrush Valley, the Cotswold Way, and Wychwood Forest. The Thames Path runs near Kelmscott Manor, home of William Morris. For aviation fans, the RAF Museum in Cosford is about 90 minutes away. And the Cotswold Water Park offers boat hire and bird hides.

Seasonal events include the Burford Sheep Fair and the Witney Feast. Christmas at Blenheim Palace is spectacular. The local area is also an excellent base for walking holidays. Many footpaths connect villages with welcoming pubs.

• Kilkenny Country Park – free entry, parking
• Blenheim Palace – rooms, gardens, adventure playground
• Burford – medieval high street, churches
• Bourton-on-the-Water – model village, Cotswold Motoring Museum
• Stow-on-the-Wold – antique shops, market square
• Oxford – Ashmolean, Bodleian, Christ Church
• Cotswold Wildlife Park – animals, train ride
• Rollright Stones – stone circle
• Sudeley Castle – gardens, exhibitions
• Minster Lovell Hall – ruins by river
• Kelmscott Manor – Arts and Crafts home
• Cotswold Water Park – watersports, cycling
• Witney – Cogges Manor Farm, museum

News & Testimonies

Recent developments in Carterton include new housing estates and improvements to the leisure centre. The town council has launched a community plan aiming for sustainable growth. Local news is covered by the Witney Gazette and Oxford Mail. There are discussions about a bypass to reduce traffic through the town.

Residents often praise the friendly community and safe environment. Testimonies from families highlight good schools and parks. New arrivals appreciate the convenience to Oxford and the Cotswolds. Some note limited nightlife and public transport. Overall, satisfaction is high for those valuing a quiet lifestyle.

• New housing development: Shilton Park phase 3
• Leisure centre refurbishment: new gym equipment
• Community plan: focus on green spaces
• Resident quote: 'Best place to raise children'
• Commuters: 'Easy access to Oxford and London'
• Critic: 'Need better bus service on Sundays'

Forum Topics on Living in Carterton

Online forums like Mumsnet and Reddit have threads about moving to Carterton. Common questions: 'Is Carterton safe?' 'What are the schools like?' 'How is the commute to London?' Answers generally positive. People advise checking school catchment areas and visiting before moving.

There are discussions about the best places to live within Carterton, with many recommending the older parts for character. Some talk about the impact of the RAF base on property rental prices. Others share tips on finding tradespeople and local amenities. The consensus is that Carterton is a good-value, quiet town.

• 'Carterton vs Witney – which is better?' – mixed opinions
• 'Schools in Carterton – reviews of Carterton Community College'
• 'Rental property availability near RAF Brize Norton'
• 'Internet speeds in Carterton – broadband provider recommendations'
• 'Day trips from Carterton – best family days out'
• 'Moving from London to Carterton – pros and cons'
• 'Local tradespeople – plumbers, electricians'
• 'Community spirit in Carterton – social groups'

Life in Carterton Summary

Carterton offers a balanced lifestyle combining rural charm with modern amenities. Its strengths are affordability, safety, and community. The military connection brings a sense of purpose and diversity. However, those seeking vibrant nightlife or extensive shopping may find it lacking. For families, especially those with ties to the base, it is ideal.

The town's future looks bright with planned developments. Green spaces are plentiful. Transport links are decent but not excellent. Overall, Carterton is a hidden gem in the Cotswolds – a place where you can settle, raise a family, and enjoy the beauty of Oxfordshire.

• Pros: low crime, good schools, affordable housing, community spirit
• Cons: limited nightlife, poor public transport, risk of RAF base contraction
• Appeal: peaceful, family-friendly, close to Cotswolds
• Challenges: need a car, limited job diversity
• Overall: recommended for families and military personnel

Important Places and Distances from Carterton

The town centre of Carterton is compact around the Shambles and Alvescot Road. Key landmarks include the Town Council offices, the library, and the war memorial. For daily needs, the Co-op and Tesco are centrally located. The leisure centre is on the east side of town. Kilkenny Country Park is a short drive west.

Distances to major places are as follows: Oxford city centre is approximately 20 miles (32 km) east. London is about 80 miles (130 km) southeast. Birmingham is about 55 miles (90 km) north. Heathrow Airport is 65 miles (105 km). The nearest seaside (Bournemouth) is about 100 miles (160 km). Cotswold towns like Burford are 4 miles away.

• Carterton town centre to RAF Brize Norton: 2 miles
• To Witney: 6 miles (10 km)
• To Burford: 5 miles (8 km)
• To Oxford: 20 miles (32 km)
• To Cheltenham: 30 miles (48 km)
• To London Paddington (via Charlbury train): 1.5 hours
• To Heathrow Airport: 65 miles (105 km)
• To Birmingham Airport: 60 miles (96 km)
• To Bristol: 70 miles (113 km)
• To Swindon: 20 miles (32 km)

Nearby Locations and Cities

Carterton sits in the heart of West Oxfordshire, surrounded by charming Cotswold villages and market towns. To the east, Witney offers more comprehensive shopping, a cinema, and a hospital. To the west, Burford is a historic wool town with lovely stone buildings. Northwards, Chipping Norton and Stow-on-the-Wold provide further exploration.

To the south, Faringdon and Wantage are worth visits. The larger cities of Oxford (east) and Cheltenham (west) offer cultural and career opportunities. The region is well-connected by roads and railways. The Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is at your doorstep, providing endless scenic drives and walks.

• Witney (6 miles): largest nearby town, shopping, leisure
• Burford (5 miles): picturesque high street, antique shops
• Chipping Norton (10 miles): historic market town, theatre
• Stow-on-the-Wold (12 miles): famous square, antique centre
• Cheltenham (30 miles): Regency spa town, festivals
• Oxford (20 miles): historic university city, museums
• Swindon (20 miles): large town with outlet shopping
• Banbury (20