If you’re looking for a village with the same majestic charm as Oxford, then this small village offers the perfect mix of historic buildings, gorgeous grounds and a cosy atmosphere
A smaller more intimate village will leave people getting a “taste of Oxford” but without the crowds. The UK’s bigger towns and cities are often hotspots for visitors and tourists, and with their extra popularity prompting busier centres.
But some of the nation’s smaller towns often don’t get a look in, and with 6,000 gorgeous villages dotted around, there’s an abundance of choice with some more beautiful than others. Buscot is a small village set on the Thames, in the southeast of England. It is also in close proximity to Oxford, home to the world-famous Oxford University and one of many filming sites of the Harry Potter series. As a result, it attracts seven million tourists every year – which means it can get pretty packed. Fortunately, Buscot allows you to get the Oxford experience while also beating the crowds. With its cobblestone streets, romantic stone buildings, nooks and crannies, it makes for a delightful getaway for anyone seeking a quiet, cosy atmosphere.
Many of the village’s country houses are also owned by the National Trust. Meanwhile, the village also features a 13th century parish church with a bell tower and stained glass windows by famous artist William Morris. There is also an ancient town hall with a clock tower, which also features a tea shop, adjacent car park, and a children’s playground. For those looking to wander through beautiful grounds, Buscot Park is an 18th century country house and estate dating all the way from the late 18th century. It was first bought in 1850 by Australian gold prospector Robert Tertius Campbell, who turned it into one the most progressive farms of its time.
Now the family home of Lord Faringdon, it is well-maintained. Visitors can explore its Italian water garden, the walled vegetable garden and the manor’s bountiful fruit orchards.
Art-lovers will also be excited to discover the ‘Faringdon Collection’ of paintings, which includes paintings by Rembrandt, Botticelli, Reynolds, Rubens and Murillo. It also features a wealth of British art from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. One TripAdvisor review of the gardens reads: “Spent the afternoon in wonderful sun and warmth at Buscot-the gardens are truly wonderful, the walled gardens are starting to bloom and the colours are becoming radiant.
“The main gardens are full of quiet spots and walkways that lead you to many areas where you can just sit and take in the surroundings at your own pace. The house and the rooms you can visit are wonderfully taken care of and must be a joy to be able to use by the family when the park is closed.”
Some of the best nearby pubs include the Plough Inn, which features a lovely beer garden and a traditional, charming atmosphere. Dog-owners can also bring their beloved pets to dine with them.
In terms of getting there, you can either drive or travel by train or bus. The nearest rail station is Swindon, which is 14 miles away, while Oxford rail station is 21 miles away. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Buscot Manor B&B was built in 1692 and is positioned in a quiet location at the edge of Buscot. It is within walking distance of the River Thames and Buscot Lock.