Discover Woodstock

Woodstock sits on the eastern edge of the Cotswolds, just eight miles northwest of Oxford. Often visited as the gateway to Blenheim Palace, the town itself is a historic gem, with a medieval layout, Georgian façades, and a 900-year record of hospitality. Woodstock combines history, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a town well worth exploring in its own right.

Things to Do in Woodstock

Woodstock is perfect for leisurely exploration. Wander its historic streets and discover independent shops, galleries, cafés, and period buildings that often conceal far older architecture. The Oxfordshire Museum and the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum offer fascinating insights into local history, while the town’s church features an impressive collection of embroidered kneelers and a musical clock that plays a different tune each day.

For a scenic walk, head through the town to Blenheim Palace, where a stroll down the old streets brings you to the Town Gate and a stunning view across the lake to the Grand Bridge and the palace beyond. The town also provides a great starting point for nearby countryside walks and cycling routes

Eating Out in Woodstock

Woodstock has a wide variety of cafés, tearooms, and restaurants, offering everything from light lunches and afternoon tea to hearty evening meals. Dining here allows visitors to soak up the historic streets and relaxed pace of this charming town.

Shopping in Woodstock

Shopping in Woodstock centres on independent shops, boutiques, and galleries, perfect for finding unique gifts, artisan products, and local crafts. Visitors can enjoy browsing at a leisurely pace while taking in the town’s historic architecture.

Accommodation in Woodstock

Accommodation in Woodstock ranges from boutique hotels and historic inns to guesthouses and self-catering cottages. Staying overnight allows visitors to explore the town fully, enjoy its atmosphere once day-trippers have left, and make the most of nearby attractions like Blenheim Palace.

When to Visit Woodstock

Woodstock is a year-round destination. Spring and summer bring bustling streets, markets, and nearby walks, while autumn offers a quieter pace with colourful scenery. Winter allows visitors to enjoy the historic centre and cosy cafés in a peaceful setting. Staying overnight also provides the perfect opportunity to see Blenheim Palace at a more relaxed pace.

Downloads:

• Uncover Woodstock - 48 hours in Woodstock
• Woodstock Town Guide
• Woodstock Town Walk - a short historical walk around the town
• Woodstock Children's History Trail - a short & fun historical walk for children
• Woodstock Historic Wall Plaques - a short trail of historic plaques to discover some of Woodstock's fine houses
• Woodstock Browser
• Woodstock to Wootton - a 7 mile circular walk linking with the Wychwood Way
• Glyme Valley Way - a 16 mile linear walk between Woodstock and Chipping Norton
• Stonesfield (Step in to the Cotswolds) - a 6.5 mile walk across undulating countryside between Stonesfield and Combe a few miles west of Woodstock
• The Cherwell Valley Ride - a cycle ride that passes through Woodstock