With a range of Cala developments across Oxfordshire, when it comes to great days out in Oxfordshire, residents and visitors alike are spoilt for choice in an area with many gems to explore.
We will be giving just a snapshot of some of our favourite things to do in Oxfordshire, from days out with the kids to meals out with partners and even the hottest places for a spot of shopping, there really is something for everyone.
Days out to remember
For a royally great day out in Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is an absolute must. The palace, park and 150 acres of gardens are open to the public and feature multiple attractions, including the Formal and Walled Gardens, Marlborough Maze and the Butterfly House. The palace also runs a seasonal calendar of events and exhibitions so there’s always something fresh and exciting to keep visitors coming back to the palace.
For a less regal and more magical day out, the city of Oxford brings the fantastical world of Harry Potter to life with its wonderful walking tours. The unique architecture of the city was a source of inspiration for the world- famous series and became the perfect backdrop for the film adaptations. Walking tours around the city allow witches, wizards and muggles alike to explore filming locations such as Christ Church College, the Bodleian Library and Divinity School.
If you prefer factual beasts to fantastical beasts, the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is home to over 260 animal species, including a Giraffe Walk-way and Walk with Lemurs experience. Surrounded by stunning gardens and complete with a café, picnic areas and kids adventure playground, you’re sure to have a wild day out.
Memorable meals out
Of course, there are hundreds of great places to eat in Oxfordshire and choosing just a few to spotlight was no easy task, so we’ve opted to showcase some of the more unusual dining out options in Oxfordshire.
The Yurt at Nicholsons describes itself as ‘simple and surprising’; and that it certainly is. A unique dining experience with exquisite locally sourced menus, The Yurt offers an enchanting dining experience with sustainability always at its heart. The Mongolian yurt, laden with fairy lights, couldn’t be more ‘instagrammable’ and is surrounded by acres of nursery growing peat free plants under the UK Plant Healthy Scheme.
For something a little more cosmopolitan, the pretty Oxford suburb of Summertown hosts independent restaurant and wine bar, Pompette. Its name is French for ‘tipsy’ and the menu offers a delicious range of seasonal classic European dishes with a focus on simplicity, comfort and care.
And for a more traditional offering, the Star Inn in Sparsholt is everything you could want in a country restaurant. It combines a welcoming bar with an exceptional restaurant and is just half an hour from our new Nobel Park development in Didcot, due to launch later this year.
Eating at The Star Inn is all about special extra touches with each dish designed to emphasise the essential flavours of wonderful locally sourced ingredients cooked with elegance and precision. Ideal for a romantic date night or a weekend away, the Star Inn is a five-star experience.
Shopping not to be forgotten
Home to prestigious global brands, restaurants and cafes, leisure and sophisticated rooftop bars and dining, Westgate Oxford is a haven for retail therapy and a fabulous day out. Complete with favourite high street names, as well as some lesser-known gems, it’s tough to go home empty handed from Westgate Oxford. There are also lots of perfect pitstops to refuel and discuss your purchases over a cocktail or two.
And for something a little more eclectic, the Covered Market is located right in the heart of Oxford city centre and is home to over 50 specialist independent traders. The market dates back to the 1770s and has become famous for being one of the oldest continually operating markets in the country. It offers a unique ‘one stop shop’ selling food, drink, gifts, fashion, flowers, toiletries, hats, and jewellery to name but a few, all enjoyed in a characterful, unique market atmosphere.
As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Oxfordshire and you’re sure to find fun in every direction. Our developments across Oxfordshire feature collections of one- and two-bedroom apartments and two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, offering contemporary living within a sought-after setting, full of wonderful attractions.
Head to our web page dedicated to developments in Oxfordshire for more information about the Cala homes available in this charming region.
