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Oxfordshire & The Cotswolds #AMBRIDGESHIRE
Issue 2 - 2011
Annual Publication The Ultimate County Guide
Historic Houses | Attractions | Museums & Arts Towns & Districts | Open Air
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WORCESTER PORCELAIN MUSEUM 250 YEARS OF WORLD CLASS HISTORY Take a journey through time with our free audio tour and mix with past Royal Worcester Artists who regularly work in our galleries. Special ‘Behind the Scenes Visits’ and refreshments are available to groups. WORCESTER PORCELAIN MUSEUM Severn Street, Worcester, WR1 2ND Telephone: 01905 21247 Email: info.admin@worcesterporcelainmuseum.org Online: www.worcesterporcelainmuseum.org
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CONTENTS Historic Buildings Gardens Attractions Museums & Arts The Open Air
2011 Competition
Heritage Motor Centre
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Welcome to the 2011 edition of the Oxfordshire & the Cotswolds County Signpost Tourist Guide, your indispensable guide to the best tourist attractions and days out the county has to offer. We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure to read, both interesting and informative, and that you will take it away with you, to use again and again.
We offer a taster of the visitor attractions and events within the County, for both locals and those who wish to visit from afar.
To be featured in our next edition please email the editor.
For a free download please visit our new map-driven, online magazine website
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win a family ticket to the Museum & the Sci-Fi at the movies Exhibition simply email how many counties are represented on the County Signpost website Published by: County Signpost Ltd Editor: Adam Davison
All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd does not accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies which slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd 2011. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.
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Please mention Signpost when visiting any of the attractions.
County Signpost Ltd 01743 874098 info@countysignpost.co.uk
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THE NATIONAL TRUST Avoid the frenzy of the high street and see what the National Trust has to offer. National Trust places throughout the region offer the chance to unwind and relax. Great shops and restaurants, craft fairs, a wealth of history, beautiful gardens and parklands, workshops, children’s activities and family trails - all in beautiful settings too. So come along and enjoy something special.
Stowe Landscape Gardens: Discover the Unexpected
If you travel just a short way out of Oxfordshire there are some truly impressive National Trust properties to be discovered. One of the most spectacular, situated three miles outside of the historic town of Buckingham is Stowe Landscape Gardens. The scale, grandeur and
beauty of Stowe has inspired writers, philosophers, artists, politicians and members of the public from the eighteenth century to the present day. The Temple family, owners of Stowe were one of the pioneers of the ‘landscape garden’, a style that flourished during the eighteenth century, replacing the formal and structured layout of garden design. Today, situated among the 250 acre landscape, nestled in valleys, along pathways or lining lakes are over forty temples and monuments, each built as a representation of the Duke of Buckingham’s personal and political beliefs. From the impressive and imposing Temple of Concord and Victory to the intricate Pebble Alcove, to the Palladian Bridge, one of only four in the world, each temple has its own story to tell and it is unlikely that one visit will be enough to take it all in.
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Oxford Bridge, copyright NTPL
For the visitor that wants to discover more about the history behind the temples and the family that built them, guided tours will provide a wealth of information, free of charge.
Make sure that a trip to Stowe includes a stop in the tea-room; for a quick snack or a hearty meal, the fresh produce is bound to satisfy every appetite. No visit to a National Trust property is complete without a browse round the gift shop, whether buying a gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself the shop at Stowe has a vast selection. From plants, to books, to souvenirs of Stowe there is something for everyone.
Stowe is a garden for all seasons; aconites, bluebells and fritillary, to name only a few, are pushing their way to the surface as Stowe springs into the new season. The surrounding deer park plays host to new born lambs while the lakes in the gardens welcome ducklings taking their first swim.
Picnic at Palladian Bridge, copyright NTPL
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As Summer approaches there is perhaps no better place to enjoy a picnic than Stowe. There are many different and equally magical spots - from the tranquillity of the lake next to the Temple of Venus to the stunning views across from the Palladian Bridge.
Throughout Autumn, as the leaves turn rich shades of gold and reds, the landscape changes on a daily basis and is a riot of colour. As the leaves begin to fall it is the perfect place for a brisk walk, followed by a warming treat from the tea room. As the colder days take hold, Stowe becomes a true Winter Wonderland. Marvel at magnificent views across the frosty landscape and as the snow falls the gardens are transformed, with temples and monuments taking on an otherworldy appearance.
With a full programme of events throughout 2011, including Theatre performances, children’s activities and an 18th century day there really is something for everyone to enjoy time and time again. For further information about times, events and admission prices please call 01280 822850 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowegardens.
Admission for National Trust members to Stowe is free. To benefit from free entry into all National Trust properties why not join today? Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more information
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Hidcote Manor Garden,
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Hidcote Bartrim, nr Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire GL55 6LR 01386 438333 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote
Don’t miss one of England’s greatest gardens. Designed in Arts and Crafts style by horticulturist Lawrence Johnston, it is made up of a series of ‘rooms’ which each have a unique style. Nestled in the Cotswolds with sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham, Hidcote is appealing all year round. Rare shrubs and trees, outstanding herbaceous borders and unusual plant species make this a truly special place to visit.
Whilst you are there, why not enjoy a game of tennis or croquet, visit the newly transformed
kitchen garden, join one of our free talks or enjoy a delicious meal using home-grown produce in our newly refurbished Garden Restaurant. Hidcote has the largest plant centre in the National Trust where you can buy species from Hidcote – including the famous Hidcote lavender – as well as numerous others. The shop stocks unique and appealing gifts and practical items too.
Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate,
Lodge Park, Aldsworth, Nr Cheltenham, Gloucstershire GL54 3PP 01451 844130 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sherborne
Newark Park,
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Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire GL12 7PZ 01793 817666 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newarkpark
An atmospheric house which truly reflects its 450 year history dating back to Tudor times Furnished with an eclectic mix of old and modern furniture, it is certainly well worth a visit. Surrounding the house you will find wild and
romantic gardens which will give you fantastic views towards the Mendips.
From the property there are countryside walks and footpath links to the Cotswold Way. There are croquet sets for hire, great spots for taking a picnic and lots of space to roam about. Look out for family events in the summer. Dogs on leads allowed in the grounds.
Newark Park © NTPL / Andrew Butler
This beautiful Cotswold Country estate contains England’s only surviving and fullyrestored deer course and grandstand. Surrounded by water meadows and parkland rich in wildlife, the rare 17th century grandstand was created in 1634 by John Crump Dutton who had a deep passion for gambling, banqueting and entertaining.
There are a variety of walks from the estate over the rolling Cotswold countryside with views of the River Windrush. Ancient trees such as veteran oak, ash, beech and lime provide important nesting and feeding sites for birds, bats and insects. Barn owls and woodpeckers can sometimes be spotted. Fallow and Roe deer as well as badgers and foxes are all in evidence on the estate.
Look out for events and guided tours over the summer, follow the Sculpture Trail to discover Sherborne through art, or simply come along and enjoy the beautiful grounds.
Hidcote © NTPL / Nick Daly
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Snowshill Manor,
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Snowshill, nr Broadway, Gloucestershire WR12 7JU 01386 852410 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshillmanor
This is a real one-off. The manor is packed to the rafters with 22,000 unusual objects – all laid out theatrically to their collector’s – Charles Wade’s – wishes. From tiny toys to Samurai armour, he was an enthusiastic collector, spending his whole life – and inherited wealth – amassing this spectacular collection.
The beautifully restored Cotswold stone house is surrounded by a peaceful hillside garden. It is the ideal place to come and relax, enjoy a delicious home-made lunch in the restaurant, take a cream tea on the terrace, browse in the 2nd hand bookshop or treat yourself to some local produce from the gift shop. Explorer tours and children’s trails are also available.
Chedworth Roman Villa,
Yanworth, nr Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 3LJ 01242 890256 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth
The remains of one of the largest Roman villas in the country provide a fascinating insight into 4th century Roman Britain. The site was discovered in 1864 on the Earl of Eldon’s estate by a local gamekeeper and then excavated by his estate workers. What remains is fabulous – more than a mile of walls, beautiful mosaics*, two bathhouses, hypocausts, a water shrine and latrine.
Highlights from the villa are: •Taking the plunge. The Romans really did know a thing or two about bathing, heating and plumbing. You can admire their work in the Bath Houses where there are two kinds of baths: one hot and sauna-like and the other a cold plunge bath.
Snowshill Manor © NTPL / Mike Williams
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•A gift from the gods. The natural spring that feeds the villa’s water shrine never dries up and still runs in the 4th century stone channel. This miraculous supply is no doubt the reason the Villa is built here.
Chedworth Roman Villa © NTPL / Paul Harris
•The latrines show how good the Romans were at mod cons. These flushing toilets consist of a wooden bench with a row of holes in it over a sewer. The flush came from a stone water channel which carried through fresh running water.
•Anyone for snails? Amazingly, some very large snails which were introduced by the Romans are still in existence. They would have been fed on milk and then cooked and eaten as a delicacy – but are now fully protected! Apart from Roman delights, Chedworth also offers the chance to explore the stunning grounds enjoying beautiful views over the Cotswolds. Enjoy a picnic in the ruins, visit the shop, or take some light snacks and tea in our shop or tea tent. *PLEASE NOTE: The Roman mosaics in the dining room at the Villa will not be available to view in 2011 as work to create conservation shelters over them will be taking place. When this work is completed in March 2012. the new building will have walkways above the mosaics allowing visitors to look down on them as well as interactive displays about life in Roman Britain. The project is set to go ahead thanks to a £700,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
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STONOR Set in a hidden fold of the Chilterns, four miles from Henley, Stonor has been the home of the Stonor family for 850 years and a centre of Catholicism throughout.
The house appears as an E-shaped Tudor manor house behind a warm red brick façade with Georgian windows. Behind the Georgian exterior is a much older collection of buildings, which
have never been completely rebuilt, including a hall dating back to medieval times and now used as the Tea Room. The 17th century library has a magnificent vaulted ceiling. The main public rooms, restored in the 18th and early 19th centuries from a 14th century hall contain fine furniture, bronzes, silhouettes, Italian pictures and drawings and a growing collection of contemporary ceramics.
Also open to view is the roof space and priest hole occupied by St. Edmund Campion, Jesuit and martyr, and his companions in the 1580’s. It was here that he supervised the printing of his book Decem Rationes (The Ten Reasons for Being a Catholic).
The Chapel, the most ancient of the Stonor buildings, is dedicated to the Blessed Trinity, and remains open today, as it has for more than 850 years, for the celebration of Mass. The Chapel was built on the site of a pagan place of worship and adopted by Christianity in the late 13th or early 14th Century. The brick tower was added in 1416-1417 built by Flemish brickmakers who had settled in the Chilterns. The bricks (200,000 in total) were made by Michael Warwick of Crocker End, Nettlebed and is one of the earliest post Roman uses of brick in Southern England. The walled garden rises up behind the ancient house; the garden is divided between the original pleasure garden directly behind the house with 17th century terraces and two ponds and the old kitchen garden replanted in the 1980s with won-
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derful herbaceous borders. With the recent warm weather, the irises are now blooming and as summer progresses old fashioned roses, peonies and lavenders will flower on the seventeenth century terraces in June, flanked by ancient yew trees and clipped box hedges by the lily ponds. Climbing the terrace stages one finds a long mixed border, ending with a Japanese garden house built by the 5th Lord Camoys after his visit to Kyoto in 1906. The jasmine and rose bower offers spectacular views of the house and deer park.
John Steane said in his book 'Oxfordshire': – “If I had to suggest to a visitor who had only one day to sample the beauties of Oxfordshire, I would suggest a visit to Stonor and a walk through its delectable park.” Telephone 01491 638587 www.stonor.com
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BERKELEY CASTLE
Home of the Berkeley Family for 900 years. Berkeley Castle has been lived in by the same family for over 900 years. It is where history has been made. Where Edward II was murdered, where the Barons of the West gathered before
Magna Carta and where Queen Elizabeth I hunted and played bowls.
The most remarkable thing about the Castle is that for nine centuries, the building, the Berkeley family, the archives (which go back to the 12th Century), the contents, the estate and the town have all survived together.
Its place in history is significant, not just because it is still intact, but because the Berkeley family and their home have played an important part in the power struggles of so many centuries.
Built for War
The Castle is one of the March Castles, built to keep out the Welsh.
It has all the trappings to match: trip steps designed to make the enemy stumble during an assault, arrow slits, murder holes, enormous barred doors, slots where the portcullis once fell, and worn stones where sentries stood guard.
It is also a fairytale Castle with its warm pink stone that glows in soft sunset light. Outside, the battlements drop some 60' to the Great Lawn below; but inside the Inner Courtyard, the building is on a human scale, with uneven battlements, small towers, doors and windows of every shape and size. The surrounding land would have been flooded for defence.
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Where History is a Home The Family are one of only three families in England who can trace their ancestry from father to son back to Saxon times. English history has been lived out within these walls - and by this family. The Castle is the oldest building in the country to be inhabited by the same family who built it.
For centuries, the Berkeleys were close to the throne, able administrators and fighters who supported their king or queen (as long as they could), backed the winning side, and married well. The Castle, naturally enough, is full of stories. The Archives housed in the Castle date back from the earliest part of the 12th Century and number around 20,000 documents, 6,000 of which relate to the mediaeval period. The latter are mainly manorial records which relate to every county in England, excepting two only.
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CHAVENAGE HOUSE Gloucestershire. He was persuaded against his better judgement to vote for Charles I’s impeachment and subsequent execution. Soon after the King was beheaded, Col. Stephens died and it is said that his ghostly form was seen leaving Chavenage in a carriage driven by a headless coachman wearing the Royal vestments.
Berkeley Treasures The Contents of The Castle are items that have been chosen, collected and treasured by members of the Berkeley family throughout the centuries, and many reflect the history of the place.
They include Francis Drake's cabin chest, Queen Elizabeth I's bedspread, and the banner that the 4th Earl of Berkeley took with him to the Battle of Culloden. Many of the unusual tapestries, paintings, ceramics and silverware, have their own story to tell.
The Estate
The Estate consists of 6,000 acres, and includes one of the best examples of a mediaeval deer park in the country, 18 tenant farms, a stretch of the River Severn and the land on which the famous Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge is situated.
Berkeley town itself goes back in time as far as the Castle, and evidence suggests that there was a large Saxon settlement and possibly, a Roman Villa.
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These days, the property is very much a family home and even though it is open to the public on a part-time basis.
Berkeley Castle is available to hire for weddings and special occasions
Telephone 01453 810332 www.berkeley-castle.com
This wonderful welcoming Elizabethan home, offers something different. Visit Chavenage House near Tetbury and enjoy guided tours by the owner or his family. Learn of the two families that have occupied the house since the reign of Elizabeth I. Hear of the legends and stories (especially the ghosts) – Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Cotswold countryside.
The name Chavenage dates back to AngloSaxon times, from the Norman Conquest until the Reformation it was monastic land. After the dissolution of the Monasteries, Henry VIII gave the property to the Seymour family. In 1551 Chavenage was purchased by the Stephens family who resided there for over 10 generations. The house and surrounding farm were purchased by the present owner David LowsleyWilliams’ grandfather in 1891. The main historical interest centres on the English Civil War, when the house was owned by Col. Nathaniel Stephens MP for
In recent years the house and its surroundings have been used as a film/TV location on many occasions including Agatha Christie’s Poirot story ‘The Mysterious Affair at Styles’ and is being seen as Candleford Manor in the BBC’s ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’.
Open May-September Thursdays and Sundays 2-5pm. Also Easter Sunday & Monday and bank Holiday Mondays.
Telephone 01666 502329 www.chavenage.com
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BROUGHTON CASTLE
"Broughton Castle ... about the most beautiful castle in all England ... for sheer loveliness of the combination of water, woods and picturesque buildings."
A generous tribute from historian Sir Charles Oman in 1898, and one continued by the noted diarist James Lees-Milne in a 1989 entry"It is still the most romantic house imaginable. English to the core, as Henry James says. ... Perfection, what with moat, gatehouse, church, and gorgeous orange and buff stone".
A more recent accolade came in 2003 in England's Thousand Best Houses by Sir Simon
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Jenkins. The author gives only twenty of the thousand houses five stars — and Broughton Castle is proud to be one of them.
The garden at Broughton Castle
The walled garden on the south side of the castle, known as the Ladies' Garden was established in the 1880s on the site of the 16th century kitchens.
The fleur de lys beds are planted with 'Rose Heritage' and Rose 'Gruss an Aachen'. The hedge against the castle is of Rose 'Felicia'. The
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other beds contain many old roses and herbaceous plants, together with shrubs such as philadelphus and deutzia. The tree in the Ladies' garden is crataegus laevigata.
On the west side of the Ladies' garden wall is a mixed border, with pink the predominant colour. The roses in this border include 'FantinLatour', 'Fritz Nobis', 'Frau Dagmar Hastrup', 'Margaret Hilling', and climbing roses 'Albertine' and 'Purity'. The rose over the arch, looking through into the ladies garden is R. 'Goldfinch'.
The border nearer the gatehouse has a blue yellow and grey theme and includes roses 'Maigold',
'Golden Wings' and 'Windrush', together with berberis, potentillas, hypericum and campanulas.
The existing planting is based on advice given by Lanning Roper in 1970, the work being carried out by the then gardener Bert Dancer. In the 1980s, the planting was developed by Randal Anderson, like Lanning Roper also of American origin. The garden is now maintained and developed by one gardener , Chris Hopkins, working on his own. Telephone 01295 276070 www.broughtoncastle.com
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SUDELEY CASTLE
Sudeley Castle, located near Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, is described as 'the most romantic Castle in England', and has a host of enticing features and entertainments making it the ideal family day out. Now the home of Lord and Lady Ashcombe and the Dent Brocklehursts, Sudeley Castle nestles in the Cotswolds Hills and boasts over 1200 acres of landscaped gardens. A day ticket includes entry to the gardens, medieval ruins, exhibitions, pheasantry and play area, all of which create a great day out for all the family.
Connoisseur Tours of the splendid private apartments are available three days a week (see Sudeley Castle’s website for details), taking in the Stone Drawing Room, Library and Billiard Room, and masterworks by Rubens, Van Dyck and Lorraine. Redesigned in the 19th century by
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Emma Dent and later by Lady Ashcombe, there’s an elaborate Tudor knot garden, Victorian topiary yew hedges and wildflowers, anemones and snakes head fritillaries in long grass, carpets of blue squill under silver pear trees, magnolias and cherry trees. The centrepiece Queen’s Garden is in the original parterre, where cleomes, echinacea and agapanthus flowerbeds thrive. Ancient roses include Damascus, Provence, Ispahan, Othello, Falstaff, William Shakespeare, Celeste, and Great Maiden's Blush. The gardening team hold 'Rose Week' each year, with the opportunity to talk to the gardeners about the principles used at Sudeley.
A grand family day out should also take in the Banqueting Hall ruins, flanked by sycamores and cascades of thyme, and including the original
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fireplace and an old stone chair. The Mulberry Garden at the Dungeon Tower has banks of cowslip and primroses. The White Garden is where Katherine Parr would have walked with Lady Jane Grey and two topiary figures draped in ivy and roses represent them. Around the Chapel are white Passion Flower, white roses and tulips, tobacco and petunias.
The Secret Garden has 1000 tulips, along with heliotropes, penstemons and sage, while the Victorian Kitchen Garden by the arched gatehouse is a vegetable patch of rare plants. A family attraction and a conservation centre, it produces Onions, Asparagus, purple Beans, Peas and tayberries. By a canal stocked with koi carp, the Tithe Barn has wild hollyhocks, cardoons, hydrangeas and wisteria, and in its rear, beech, oak, ferns, hostas, foxgloves, primroses and cyclamen. Finally, the Wildflower Walk And Meadow offer groves of crab-apples, almonds and apricots, as well as oxeye daisies, camassias, sweet rocket and cranesbill, butterflies, caterpillars and birds.
It leads on to the Pheasantry – another must-see accessible to ticket holders, and an organic part of this captivating family attraction. It hosts 15 rare species from around the globe, notably Indian peafowl and red junglefowl, as well as Blue Eared, Cheer, Golden, Lady Amherst’s, Mikado, Reeves’, Swinhoe’s, True Silver and Yellow Golden pheasants, not to mention Himalayan Monals, Javanese Green Peafowl, Satyr and Temminck Tragopans, and Siamese Firebacks. Twitchers will tell you it’s worth the ticket alone. But there’s still a vast amount to see and do on this variegated family day out.
A children’s play area is nestled in the trees and features a huge wooden fort, slide and fabulous zip wire. The family picnic area and lawn makes the perfect place to stop whilst the kids have fun. Numerous exhibitions include Katherine Parr’s Keepsakes and a new exhibition for 2009 focusing on Henry VIII and his visit to Sudeley in 1535.
Six Wives At Sudeley focuses on Sudeley Castle’s royal connections, with an exhibition of Tudor costumes from “The Six Wives of Henry VIII” TV series. The Emma Dent Collection ranges from diaries, needlework and jewellery, to autographs of Victorian authors, artists and statesmen. Threads Of Time looks at the Dents’ and Brocklehursts’ textile firms and features a 17th century Stumpwork casket with seven secret drawers, Whitework, costumes, furnishings, silk wall hangings and woven tapestries. Telephone 01242 602308 www.sudeleycastle.co.uk
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SULGRAVE MANOR
www.countysignpost.co.uk ment made for the Manor’s ownership – it is held in trust for the peoples of the United States and the United Kingdom. For the peoples, not the governments, not large organisations. It has survived without government or large organisational funding for nearly a century through unremitting efforts to earn its own living.
Tours through three hundred years of history are led by friendly and informative guides who will introduce visitors to what many consider to be a gem amongst historic houses. Set in a historical garden, the Manor is surrounded by stunning countryside. For younger visitors there are trails and challenges and a Children’s Tour on Saturdays.
Sulgrave Manor, once home to the ancestors of George Washington, is a superb example of a small manor house from the time of Shakespeare with a charming eighteenth century wing. Sulgrave Manor is a small manor-house, built by a Lancashireman born at Warton about 1500.
The Manor was established in 1539 by Lawrence Washington who emigrated from the north of England and his great-great grandson, John, emigrated to Virginia in 1657. John’s great grandson, George, grew up as a loyal subject of King George II and became the leader of the
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Open: April-October Weekends from 12 noon. May-October Tues-Thurs from 2pm (August only from noon).Last entry 4pm. Also Family Holiday Mondays including US Holidays: Presidents’ Day and Labor Day; extended opening during School Half Terms; Easter, Independence Day, Apple Weekend, Christmas. Open all year for pre-booked Groups except Christmas/New Year. Sulgrave, near Banbury OX17 2SD
Telephone 01295 760205 www.sulgravemanor.org.uk
first nation to break free from the British Empire.
The shabby farmhouse that was bought in 1914 was smaller than the house that Lawrence Washington built.
Sulgrave Manor shares with no other historic house the distinction of its symbolic role, expressed at its opening to the public in 1921 by the Marquess of Cambridge, the King’s brotherin-law, as “a centre from which sentiments of friendship and goodwill between the British and American peoples will for ever radiate.” This role received concrete expression in the arrange-
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BOURTON HOUSE GARDEN
www.countysignpost.co.uk century basket pond from the Great Exhibition of 1851; an unusual shade house and many creatively planted pots. The unusual, rare and exotic make Bourton House Garden a plantsman’s delight!
Bourton House Garden opened to the public for the first time on a single Sunday in 1987 in aid of the National Garden Scheme. Twenty years later, the garden received the prestigious HHA/Christie’s ‘Garden of the Year’ Award, a tribute to the dedication of everyone involved in its creation over the years. In 2010, Bourton House Garden came under new ownership but remains open for the enjoyment of garden visitors, many of whom return year after year! The garden continues to evolve in the capable hands of long-serving Head Gardener Paul Nicholls and his assistant Jacky Rae.
2011 season
A Brief History
Since Saxon times, the stone built village of Bourton-on-the-Hill has hugged the Cotswold escarpment. Built on monastic lands, Bourton House with its Brewhouse, Stables and Coach House have created a courtyard since the late 16th century.
The Tithe barn preserves the dedication stone of 1570 with the initials RP for the then owner Richard Palmer. It has been classified as a Grade I listed building.
The house itself was rebuilt as a foursquare Jacobean house by the eminent lawyer, Sir Nicholas Overbury in 1598. At the beginning of the 18th century, the unfashionable house was once again rebuilt on the earlier footprint by
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Knot Garden
Bourton House Garden from the raised walk
Alexander Popham, the grandson of a Cromwellian general. The house was taken down to its lower ground floor, the whimsical towers retained, the slits replaced by generous Georgian sash windows. The architect remains unknown. This setting has remained unchanged for three hundred years.
The lands originally belonging to the manor were sold in 1851 by Sir James Buller East MP, to the neighbouring Sezincote estate. Today the house is surrounded by its immediate 3 acre garden and a seven acre walled pasture, now given over to specimen trees and sculpture.
In 1953 the house and land were sold at auction and there followed a quick succession of
owners, 6 to be exact, until 1983 when the house was acquired by Richard and Monique Paice.
The ornamental garden with its 18th century raised walk overlooking rolling hills; its original kitchen garden and orchard have been transformed in the past 25 years and this achievement was recognised when Bourton House Garden received the prestigious HHA/Christie's GARDEN OF THE YEAR (2006) award. Bourton House Garden is an award-winning three acre garden surrounding an 18th century Manor House and Grade I listed 16th century Tithe Barn. The garden features wide herbaceous borders with stunning plant and colour combinations; imaginative topiary including a knot garden, parterre and topiary walk; water features including a raised 18th
Open to the public every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from April to end of October 10am to 5pm Admission £6 Groups are welcome Monday to Friday April to October Advance booking is essential
Tea/Coffee and delicious home-made cakes are available in the Tithe Barn from June to September
Charity Open Days:
Tuesday 26th July for The RNLI – saving lives at sea Sunday 14th August for National Garden Scheme (NGS) Telephone:01386 700754 Email: info@bourtonhouse.com www.bourtonhouse.com
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WATERPERRY GARDENS
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ROUSHAM HOUSE AND GARDEN
Rousham and its landscape garden should be a place of pilgrimage for students of the work of William Kent (1685-1748). Rousham represents the first phase of English landscape design and remains almost as Kent left it, one of the few gardens of this date to have escaped alteration, with many features which delighted eighteenth century visitors to Rousham still in situ, such as the ponds and cascades in Venus’s Vale, the Cold Bath, and seven arched Praeneste, Townsend’s Building, the Temple of the Mill, and, on the skyline, a sham ruin known as the ‘Eyecatcher’.
Waterperry Gardens are steeped in history, with the famous, purely herbaceous border dating back to the 1930’s when Beatrix Havergal established her Ladies Horticultural School. Running more than 200 feet along the length of the old kitchen garden wall, the south facing border provides interest from early May to late September, using early, mid-season and late-flowering herbaceous plants and climbers.
New design elements have been incorporated into the 8 acre gardens over the years, including the colour border, showing how to use flowers, stems, autumn foliage and fruit in design. A formal knot garden reflects planting through the ages from Tudor to modern times and there’s also a herb border and spectacular white and lavender wisteria arch. The Mary Rose Gardens
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show how roses can be used in design and there’s a waterlily canal, herbaceous nursery stock beds from which all our cuttings are taken for the plants sold in the walled garden plant centre; island beds designed by nurseryman Alan Bloom; an alpine garden and riverside walk.
As well as an art gallery, gift barn, small rural life museum and teashop, the garden shop sells a full range of garden sundries, gifts and books. There’s a full programme of Arts, Crafts and Gardening Courses running each year and annual events – from outdoor theatre to horticulturally themed events and special trails for children.
Telephone 01844 339254 Email office@waterperrygardens.co.uk Website: www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
The house, built in 1635 by Sir Robert Dormer, is still in the ownership of the same family. Kent added the wings and the stable block. The south front is almost as Kent left it, but for the replacement of the octagonal glazing with plain glass. This was unfortunately carried out by the architect St. Aubyn when he added the north side of the house in 1876. Kent made alterations to the interior of the house, which retains some 17th century panelling and the original staircases, furniture, pictures and bronzes. Don’t miss the walled garden with its herbacious borders, small parterre, pigeon house and espalier apple trees. A fine herd of rare LongHorn cattle are to be seen in the park. When you visit Rousham you will find it uncommercial and unspoilt with no tea room and no shop. Bring a picnic, wear comfortable shoes and it is yours for the day.
Rousham Gardens are open every day of the year from 10 am. Last admission is at 4.30 pm and the gardens close at 6 pm (or at dusk, if earlier). Tickets for the garden are £5 per person.
Rousham House is only open by prior arrangement. The cost is £10 per person, with a mimimum fee of £100. Please contact Charles Cottrell-Dormer to book a tour. Children under 15 will not be admitted unless by prior arrangement. No dogs are allowed in the gardens.
Refreshments
There is no tea-room at Rousham. However, you are welcome to bring your own picnic lunch or tea. Telephone 01869 347 110 www.rousham.org
Rousham is also available for wedding receptions, photographic shoots and events such as car club rallies. No children under 15. No dogs.
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County Signpost
TRULL HOUSE
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KINGSTON BAGPUIZE HOUSE In 1995, with her husband Francis, Virginia Grant began work on the restoration of the gardens. Since 2003 two areas of woodland have been restored and in February visitors to the gardens can enjoy large areas of naturalized snowdrops. Planting of new trees and shrubs continues both to replace specimens lost and also to extend the range of plants the visitor can enjoy. The family home of Virginia Grant and her children Elizabeth and Alexander, Kingston Bagpuize House is open to the public on selected days and for group visits throughout the year on weekdays by appointment. Licenced for civil ceremonies. The house and grounds are also available for wedding receptions, corporate and charity events and filming.
Trull House, built in 1843, is set amidst 8 acres of gardens in glorious Cotswold countryside. The gardens were laid out at the beginning of the last century and comprise many varieties of garden compartments. The features include a sunken lily pond, rockery, wild garden, walled gardens, expansive lawns and mature trees and shrubs.
• The Garden was featured in 'Country Living' June 2003 • Plants (all home grown), as well as cut flowers and vegetables from the garden are available for sale • Teas (homemade cakes etc) are available each day the garden is open and for groups
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• Displayed in the garden are magnificent Burrelli pots from New Zealand (totally frost proof) which are available for sale
Telephone 01285 841255 www.trullhouse.co.uk
The tea room in the basement of the house serves homemade teas on all open days as well as morning coffee and lunches to groups by appointment. Plants are available for sale in the Herb Garden.
Telephone 01865 820259 www.kingstonbagpuizehouse.org.uk
Originally built in the 1660’s the house was remodelled in the early 1700’s in brick with stone quoins and surrounds to the large Georgian style windows. There is an elegant symmetry to all sides of the house. The most prominent feature inside Kingston Bagpuize House is the cantilevered staircase in Scots pine and oak dating from the 18th century remodeling. The well proportioned panelled rooms have some good furniture and pictures.
The gardens as seen today were principally influenced by Miss Marlie Raphael the owner from 1939 until 1976. She added to the existing formal gardens by creating the Woodland Garden and Shrub Border, planting many unusual species of to trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs including snowdrops give year round interest and colour. A raised terrace walk leads to an 18th century pavilion with views both across the lawns to the house and over the gardens.
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County Signpost
BIRDLAND PARK & GARDENS
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Egg and the Life of Birds, seating and soft play area. There is also ‘Trigg Hall’ the new Conference/classroom/lecture theatre facility . This versatile space seats up to 60 delegates theatre style, or for smaller groups the boardroom setting offers a more personal environment. Ideal for meetings, interviews, seminars or presentations. Family Ticket, Season Ticket, Bird Adoption and Educational sheets are available.
Birdland is a natural setting of woodland, river and gardens, which is inhabited by over 500 birds, with the only group of King Penguins in England, Wales and Ireland. Over 50 aviaries and a Desert House and you will also see a display of fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects. There is the Penguin Café, indoor and outdoor Picnic areas, an indoor and outdoor play areas, Gift Shop and much more. Another 2.5 acres have recently been added to the site and a nature trail area has been developed called ‘Marshmouth Reserve’ which is
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New for 2011 Encounter Zone where you will meet all kinds of creatures for an experience to remember. Arrange ‘Keeper for the Day’ or ‘Feed a Penguin’ Newsletter ‘Pelican Notes’ available form the website. www.birdland.co.uk Telephone 01451 820480
open now, but will be opened officially on 14th May 2011 by ‘Countryfiles’ Adam Henson. The area is a maze of paths and copses with marshland and ponds and views over the Windrush River that will develop over the next few years. This will be a chance for you to immerse yourself it a small area of the Cotswold countryside where you can see many species from a dragonfly to a kingfisher. The refurbishment of the tropical house to ‘Discovery Zone’ is nearly finished, which now offers a dry area to explain the Life Cycle of the
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County Signpost
DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE 175 years after it was incorporated by Act of Parliament in 1835, the Great Western remains Britain's best loved railway. It was built on a heroic scale by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, with a broad gauge, beautiful bridges and sumptuous stations. It served some of the most scenic areas of England and Wales and called itself The Holiday Line. It invented the Cornish Riviera as a tourist destination. In the 20th century the GWR’s Cheltenham Flyer was the world’s fastest train. Its locomotive policy in the first half of the 20th century was an object lesson in the benefits of standardisation and evolutionary design. With the end of steam on the horizon by the 1940s, the GWR had built a fleet of diesel railcars and experimented with gas turbine locomotives. Today Didcot Railway Centre encapsulates the long history of the GWR. The replica of the 1840 broad gauge locomotive Fire Fly offers an experience of travel at the beginning of the railway era. The collection of more than 20 stan-
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dard gauge locomotives from the 1890s to the 1940s include many of the standard classes typified by tapered boilers, copper-capped chimneys and Brunswick green paintwork. They are completed by Didcot’s preserved fleet of chocolate and cream carriages. On a steamday you are guaranteed a ride in vintage carriages from the 1930s or 1940s.
But Didcot is much more than a train ride. The original engine shed, built 1932, is an exhibition hall which displays locomotives in their authentic surroundings. As the only complete GWR locomotive depot that has survived, Didcot also has a coal stage and turntable in working order. Within the railway centre, buildings have been brought from around the GWR system and reerected. These included two signal boxes, one of which is regularly opened with staff to explain how semaphore signalling works. There is a picnic area where you can sit and watch the trains go past.
The railway centre also includes a comprehensive museum of small relics from the GWR. These include the colourful posters which decorated stations, an amazing variety of silverware, glass and crockery used in restaurant cars in the age of elegant dining, and the everyday items crafted in brass or steel and marked with the magic initials GWR.
An interactive Science, Learning and Railways exhibition in two railway coaches explains the theory of steam locomotion to young and not so young visitors. The original air raid shelter from 1940 has been restored as an experience of that dark era when the railways helped to ensure victory, but emerged so run down that nationalisation was inevitable. In 1948 the GWR became part of British Railways, but the brand is so potent that the privatised train operating company has re-adopted the name Great Western.
The 175th Gala - 30th April 2010
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Whether you want to be entertained, educated or to admire engineering excellence, a visit to Didcot Railway Centre is a great experience.
2010 saw Didcot Railway Centre gain full accreditation as a working museum, after many years of working towards this; having been recognised by the Museums, Libraries and Archives council (MLA), as meeting the national standard for UK museums. 2011 will see celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Great Western Society; as well as the unveiling of the steam rail motor, with a new shed to go with it, along with the much anticipated appearance of King class locomotive, King Edward II, back to full steaming health, for the first time since being withdrawn by British Railways in 1962. The entrance to Didcot Railway Centre is at Didcot Parkway railway station on the London to Bristol main line. For information about events, please refer to the website, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk or telephone 01235 817200.
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County Signpost
CHINNOR AND PRINCES RISBOROUGH RAILWAY
The railway has wheelchair access, but not on DMU trains, Disabled toilet facilities.
Light refreshments are available on Chinnor Station and most trains include a licensed buffet. Souvenirs of your visit can be purchased in the gift shop.
Open Times:
Trains run from late Mar to late Oct every Sunday, also all Bank Holidays and every weekend in December. Train Times: 10.15, 11.45, 1.15, 2.45 and 4.15 except December Talking telephone 01844 353535 for precise days and events.
Location:
Chinnor station is situated in Station Road just off the B4009. The M40 J6 is 3 miles away and Princes Risborough is 4 miles further along the B4009. Once in Chinnor follow the brown tourist signs to the railway.
The railway is a friendly country branch line in the style of the former Great Western Railway, providing heritage train rides for both families and enthusiasts alike.
The line runs for 3.5 miles along the foot of the Chiltern Hills, parallel to the historic Icknield Way passing through attractive countryside and red kites can often be seen circling overhead. Most trains are steam hauled and operate every Sunday and Bank Holidays departing from Chinnor station. The railway is open from Mothers Day to Halloween and generally tickets give unlimited travel on the day of purchase. The railway also runs its popular Santa and Mince Pie specials during December and it is advisable to pre-book for Santa!
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Contact:
Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway Co., Station Approach, Station Road, Chinnor, Oxon OX39 4ER Talking Timetable: 01844 353535 Party Bookings: 07979 055366 E-mail: enquiries@chinnorrailway.co.uk Website: www.chinnorrailway.co.uk
Ticket Price:
Adults £9, Children (3-15) £4.50, Concessions £8 and Family £22.50 (Prices may vary on special event days.
It also offers superb cream teas on many of the Sunday afternoon steam hauled trains which George Pembroke of Steam Railway wrote ‘The cream tea is the best on-train catering item offered on normal service, and is highly recommended’. For Cream teas availability and advance booking please telephone 07979 055366.
The Railway offers 'Steam Driver Experience Days' when members of the public can learn how to control a steam locomotive on the Icknield Line. Telephone 07784 189322 for more details.
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County Signpost
HERITAGE MOTOR CENTRE
Fun for all the family. The Heritage Motor Centre houses informative and interactive exhibitions charting the history of British motoring from the 1890s to present day.
Walk the 'Time Road' and discover how motoring and family life has changed through the decades with period music and memorable events including the introduction of double yellow lines.
Travel through 'Making British Cars' and see how influential the motor industry has been over the years and where it is heading in the future.
Get 'Under The Skin' and unravel the mystery of how cars work with interactive exhibits. Experience how suspension has improved over time and compare the difference between rack and pin and power steering.
Free guided tours operate twice a day and there is an onsite café serving hot and cold meals and snacks. Outdoor activities include Land Rover
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4x4 Experience, and children’s Miniature Roadway (each with separate charge), nature path, children's playground and picnic site.
Check the website for school holiday activities and special weekend events.
New for 2011 Sci-fi at the Movies Exhibition
19 February – 4 September A unique opportunity to see original artefacts, replica models and costumes from your favourite Sci-Fi movies! Including Star Wars, E.T. Harry Potter, Predator, and many more.
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DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE
If you’re in the Forest of Dean you should look at combining food with a visit to the Dean Heritage Centre at Soudley. Because it is tucked in a quiet valley in the Forest, they have a captive market but luckily it is a very good place to be captive. You can enter the Cafe without having to buy an admission ticket and there is plenty of choice from all day breakfasts to locally sourced bangers and mash, teas are served in a mug and the portions are generous and tasty. Together you can to sit and eat (high chairs are available) while you look out he across the lake with its water birds providing plenty of entertainment.
After your meal or snack why not go in and look around? As a family you can go downstairs (or in the lift if you have a pushchair) and together explore the Centre itself through a mixture of indoor galleries and outdoor exhibits, the latter found on a walk around the lake. While moving through the galleries focusing on the Royal Forest’s history, you will find activities for children, from brass rubbing to dressing up clothes in the recreated old school room. The site’s atmosphere is rustic and feels remote from the hustle and bustle of the modern world and is open throughout the year except between 24th – 26th December: allow an hour for the exhibits inside. Telephone: 01594 822170 www.deanheritagecentre.com
This exciting exhibition, from a private collection will not only showcase some of the most popular and iconic superheroes and villains complete with weaponry and costumes, but will also take you on a journey of discovery providing an amazing insight into film history, character profiles and little known film trivia. Telephone: 01926 641188 Email: Enquiries@heritage-motor-centre.co.uk Website: www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk
Images © Rupert Marlow Photography
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HOOK NORTON BREWERY VISITOR CENTRE
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ROVES FARM
A great family day out, come rain or shine!
There are lots of indoor and outdoor facilities to entertain everyone, from the very young to the older generation. Roves Farm is a 166 hectare working, mixed, open farm situated 3 miles East of Swindon.
The Visitors Centre is housed in the original maltings that were bought by John Harris in 1849 and where he commenced brewing.
Tours start from the Visitors Centre and last approximately 2 hours. They consist of a trip around the Brewery, museum and village museum, followed by beer sampling. On leaving you will receive a badged glass as a memento of your visit.
Brewery Tours & Brewery Museum
Tours start from the Visitors Centre and last approximately 2 hours. They consist of a trip around the Brewery, museum and village museum, followed by beer sampling. On leaving you will receive a Badged glass as a memento of your visit.
Regretfully the Brewery itself is not suitable for people with walking difficulties or children under 12. However, the shop and reception area is able to cater for both.
The brewer’s craft is rooted in antiquity and many of its secrets are on view for all to see at
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the Hook Norton Visitors’ Centre and brewery museum. Anyone wandering through this astonishing display quickly realises that traditional methods have survived for sound, practical reasons. You can also witness the steam engine on the ground floor of the brewery itself.
The Shire Horses at Work in the Brewery
The shire horse drawn dray at Hook Norton Brewery ceased deliveries in 1950, but was revitalised in 1985, mainly for public relation purposes. The shire horses now only deliver locally within 5 miles of the brewery, but attend many public functions such as fetes, pub openings and on the odd occasion, weddings and the Royal Windsor Horse Show. It should be noted that out of all of the breweries that own horse drawn drays, only two still actually deliver their products by dray and shire horse. At present the Brewery has three shire horses (Consul, Major and Nelson), who are looked after by their two draymen Roger Hughes and Philip White. Telephone 01608 737210 www.hooknortonbrewery.co.uk
The Free Tractor Rides around Roves Farm, which also have wheelchair spaces, provide visitors with the opportunity to see the 60 acres of wild flower meadows, woodlands and willows, and usually stop for a fun, interactive activity along the way. Children can also become a proper farmer on the pedal and electric tractors in the barns.
Roves Farm has a large range of Farm Animals including, Sheep, Donkeys, Shetland Ponies, Highland Cattle, Goats and Pigs! There are always lots of little piglets running around, along with lambs or baby goats to bottle feed. The free range poultry are always interesting to watch too! And for those that like a cuddle, Pets Corner is full of rabbits, guinea pigs and chicks for the young and old to hold and stroke!
Additional indoor daily activities include snipping, sticking and decorating during Kids Craft, and Meet and Feed the animals.
Children’s Birthday Parties at Roves Farm are always a huge hit, with a large list of activities on offer, leaving ythe house intact and mess free! Other Group Visits, Social Parties and Barn Dances are also very popular.
Every Friday during School Term Time we hold Teddy Bear’s Picnic. Additionally, there is a large range of Weekly Themed Activities every School Holiday. Including, The Three Little Pigs, Easter Bunny, Scarecrow Week, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Robin Hood, The Bear Hunt, Sunflower Week and Pumpkin Week. Father Christmas and the Nativity Plays with Live Animals are always a massive hit in December. Roves Farm is open 10:30am – 5pm from 13th February to 31st October 2010, daily during school holidays, bank holidays, June and July, but is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays at all other times. Please see www.rovesfarm.co.uk for more details and for Christmas Open Days.
Outdoor activities:
Adventure Play Area (including sandpit, slides, swings and climbing ropes), 2 Acre Willow Maze with a quiz sheet, Family Walk with a children’s activity sheet past the animal paddocks, Willow Village Picnic Area and Animal Racing during weekends and school holidays.
Undercover activities:
The Indoor Adventure Play Area (including a ball pond and wavy slide!), Bouncy Castle, Huge Climbing Bale Stack with Tunnels, Under 5’s Soft Play and Indoor Sandpit.
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COURT BARN MUSEUM
GLOUCESTER WATERWAYS MUSEUM
Compliment your visit with a 45 minute boat trip with commentary along the Gloucester & Sharpness canal aboard Queen Boadicea II ‘Dunkirk Little Ship’, or book one of our longer themed cruises on board King Arthur. King Arthur is also available for private hire on the canal or river Severn.
Court Barn Museum, celebrates the skill and imagination of designers and makers who have worked in Chipping Campden and the north Cotswolds since the start of the 20th century.
The story begins in 1902 when C.R Ashbee, the radical Arts & Crafts designer best known for his elegant silverwork, moved his London East End workshops here. It was part of his romanticism to think that craft would be at home in the country, he wanted to give his craftsmen a healthier life. Based in an old Silk Mill, his Guild of Handicraft included 40 workers skilled in everything from furniture to jewellery, and for a while the enterprise thrived. Ashbee and the Guild had an impact on the town, digging a swimming pool, reviving the brass band, and starting the Campden School of Arts and Crafts.
But his dream did not last long. Deprived of its economic lifeblood the Guild was a commercial failure and disbanded in 1908. The permanent exhibition at the Museum starts with this story but then turns it round, showing how designers
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The Museum gift shop is a real treasure trove, stocking books, maps, model boats, prints and painted ware plus general giftware. Coots cafe/bar is adjacent to the museum offering a wide selection of refreshments.
© GoHT
and makers have since flourished in the Cotswolds.
Objects on display include engravings of Campden by the visionary architect FL Griggs. There are also books bound by Katharine Adams for the London printer Emery Walker, who wanted to see her recognised as the finest artist binder in England.
Also on display is a silver tea set designed in 1964 by Robert Welch and made for Heals, London. Welch set up a studio and workshop in the Silk Mill in 1955. Throughout his career, he liked to move back and forth between industrial production and one-off, hand-made silversmithing. The family company is still based in Campden.
Throughout the year the Museum runs an exciting programme of exhibitions, events, workshops and lectures.
Telephone 01386 841951 www.courtbarn.org.uk
Telephone 01452 318201 gloucester@thewaterwaystrust.org.uk www.gloucesterwaterwaysmuseum.org.uk Visit Gloucester Waterways Museum and discover the fascinating history of Britain’s most inland port. The Gloucester Waterways Museum is housed in an original Grade II listed Victorian warehouse.
Interactive displays and archive films across extensive galleries illustrate the fascinating stories of our waterways. Discover facts about the ingenious engineering involved in the waterways system, transport and trade, working and living on the canals. Visit the painted ware gallery on level 3. On the museum quayside visitors can see and climb aboard a range of historic boats, including the impressive steam dredger.
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COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK AND GARDENS
www.countysignpost.co.uk with its exuberant planting, free flying birds and a pair of very shy sloths!
Walk with free-roaming lemurs in the Walkthrough Madagascar enclosure.
The Park is open daily from 10am and many families will spend a full day enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, picnicking or eating in the large self-service Oak Tree Restaurant, riding on the train and playing in the adventure playground. Facilities are good with wheelchair access to all the enclosures, free parking, award winning toilet blocks and gift shop.
Burford, Oxfordshire
The Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of Oxfordshire’s major attractions and one of the most beautiful wildlife parks in the country. Set in 140 acres of landscaped parkland with a Listed Georgian Gothic style Manor House at its centre it has a diverse animal collection many of which are rare and endangered in the wild. The Park plays an active role in numerous important captive breeding programmes.
Sifaka Telephone 01993 823006 email: feedback@cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
the perfect setting for tropical birds, penguins and smaller mammals including the ever-popular meerkats. Here you will find the Tropical House
Visitors walk through the grounds to see Asiatic lions, a trio of young White Rhinos, Bactrian camels, giraffes, wolverines, Giant Anteaters and many more.
The Walled Garden, once the kitchen garden for the Manor House has been transformed with displays of exotic plants, tender perennials and is
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Lemurs
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NATURE IN ART
CORINIUM MUSEUM The award winning Corinium Museum is the must-see visitor attraction of the Cotswolds.
You can leave the 21st century behind you and discover the treasures of the Cotswolds as you explore its history at this multi award winning Museum.
A good food stop, especially if you or any members of your family have an interest in art, is Nature in Art at Twigworth, north of Gloucester.
The coffee shop area looks out over the garden with plenty of sculptures to see and then visit after you have eaten. Part of the seating area is in a conservatory so you have a light and airy feel for your coffee and cake or meal. Food ranges from Jacket potatoes to quiches and soups, so it is simple but filling and you can be assured a
friendly service - the cookies are definitely worth sampling with a hot drink!
There are books to browse through too if you want to make your visit more leisurely.
After you have eaten you can discover the various rooms in the 1700’s Georgian Mansion, which houses art featuring many different types of animals, birds, insects etc in pictures and sculptures. Some are abstract, others life studies, but plenty to look at and enjoy for children and adults.
As a year round attraction you and the family can enjoy it throughout the year as it only closes between December 24th – 26th and on Mondays. Telephone 01452 731422 www.nature-in-art.org.uk
Images © Rupert Marlow Photography
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The museum is home to one of the largest collections of Romano-British antiquities extensively from Corinium, Roman Britain's second largest city. You can admire the work of Prehistoric metal smiths, experience life as a Roman and take a peek through the window of a Roman town house and marvel at the many stunning mosaics.
You will also come face to face with the Anglo Saxons of Lechlade and see them reunited with their astonishing buried treasures. And you will be amazed by the Medieval sculpture, Civil War coin hoards and experience the elegance of Georgian Cirencester.
The museum is an inspiring and interactive experience for all the family. It features fun computer interactives and hands on activities that bring history to life. The museum caters for visitors of all ages and along side the permanent trails and activities, in the holidays there are special drop in activities and trails with prizes for the young.
The museum also has a fantastic events and exhibitons programme and the temporary exhibition space can be enjoyed as part of your visit or viewed for free seperately
The museum coordinates a vibrant evening lecture programme delivered by guest speakers who are leaders in their field of study. Day Schools offer an in-depth look at a special subject area. Alternatively there are afternoon talks by popular local speakers and short lunchtime treasure
© Cotswold District Council
talks offering an opportunity to look at objects from the Museum’s reserve collections. From art and architecture, to archaeology and local history, there’s something for everybody to enjoy. For more details please look at their website or pick up their exhibition and events leaflet.
On site is also the excellent Cirencester Visitor Information Centre which has information on the area including local attractions, events and travel. It also has a fantastic range of gifts mainly focusing on the Romans and the Cotswolds. There is also a lovely café next door called Jacks which serves morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon tea. Telephone: 01285 655 611 www.coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk
© Cotswold District Council
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County Signpost
JOHN MOORE COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM
The John Moore Countryside Museum focuses on rural Gloucestershire and its wildlife and being set on the main street through the town means you can easily uncover a good place to eat.
You can stop at the nearby 1471 Delicatessen (named after the Battle of Tewkesbury) or walk round the corner to the Abbey, which has a small cafe run by volunteers. The Bell Hotel does good teas and coffees as well as some unusual bar snacks. After you have eaten head back to the museum in its 15th Century building. Make sure your kids have
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© Rupert Marlow Photography
washed their hands because they can stroke a fox, mole, otter and hedgehog (although they are examples of taxidermy rather than live inhabitants) with further birds and animals to be discovered over the next two floors. To help families explore there are quizzes for children with Moore the Mole providing you with a score at the end. A trip around the museum should be about an hour.
Telephone 01684 297174 www.johnmooremuseum.org
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COTSWOLD MOTOR MUSEUM
Another museum set in a beautiful setting blessed with many food options is the Cotswolds Motor Museum in Bourton-on-theWater.
This picture perfect village is a popular destination so caters well for tourists. Although the museum doesn’t offer refreshments at the moment they are developing an area next to the stream for light snacks.
Inside your children will discover Brum, the little car that starred in his own TV show, but there are lots more finds to make together, with delivery vans, sports cars and even a Formula 1 racing car to see. As well as the cars there are plenty of motoring items and toys dotted throughout the museum with one area devoted to displaying the vintage Toy collection.
Just around the corner, just a minute’s walk, is the Windrush Garden Cafe, which can give you everything from an Eccles cake to a full meal. It is popular so if it is full you have the whole High Street to explore including tea rooms, pubs, pizzerias etc. The museum is open all year except for January and February and allow an hour to visit. Telephone 01451 821255 www.cotswoldmotormuseum.co.uk
Images © Rupert Marlow Photography
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WESTONBIRT, THE NATIONAL ARBORETUM Trees of the world in one amazing place
Westonbirt - The National Arboretum, in the South Cotswolds, is one of the most magical and important tree gardens in the world. With over 600 acres of picturesque historic landscape, 17 miles of paths to explore, and 16,000 trees some of the oldest, rarest and largest of their kind in the UK.
Spring Blooms…
The rich combination of woodland plants and wildflowers brings a vibrant beauty in spring. Breathe in the fresh air whilst you appreciate magnolias in March, or rhododendrons and bluebells in May and June. See the website for regular updates on 'what's looking good',
The leafy glades of summer… Westonbirt is great for those long summer days. Take a relaxing walk, have a picnic, or set the kids free to find our hidden dens or follow a trail. Flower lovers will find beautiful hydrangeas in bloom and Indian Bean Tree at its most dramatic.
World famous autumn colours… The National Japanese Maple Collection and the array of colourful autumn trees mean that Westonbirt is an amazing place to visit from October to November. See the website for weekly autumn colour updates.
A winter wonderland… Winter is truly magical at Westonbirt. Conifers provide a sculptured backdrop to the deciduous trees and smaller shrubs, whilst unexpected
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colour can be found from flaming red barked dogwood and scarlet willows.
Refreshments available on site
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum has a choice of places to eat on site including: The Maples Restaurant, The Courtyard Cafe and a Picnic Area.
Maples Restaurant The restaurant is situated in a beautiful building next to the main carpark. There are indoor and outdoor eating areas which overlook the beautiful view of the downs. You can enjoy one of the delicious hot lunchtime meals which are made using local ingredients or taste some of the homemade cakes available all day. Drinks and snacks are served all day from 10am-5pm. To contact Maples Restaurant please ring 01666 880558
Courtyard Café The Courtyard cafe is located next to the Forest Shop and sells a selection of tasty snacks and hot and cold drinks. Seating is all outside with some tables and benches being under cover. The cafe is open daily from March to December. 10am5pm.
Picnic Area Enjoy a picnic amongst the trees, using the picnic benches and tables close to the main parking area.
Other food facilities There is a microwave available in Maples Restaurant for heating baby food and milk.
Retail
There are two great shops at Westonbirt, the Plant Centre and The Forest Shop.
The Forest Shop When visiting the Arboretum, why not stop by the Forest Shop where you'll find something for all of the family. With the aim of supporting local suppliers, you'll find everything from regional pickles and preserves, to hand-crafted wooden bowls & boxes. For the kids, there is a whole nature corner full of books, toys and educational items. Whether you are looking for a gift, or wanting to take a memory home of your visit, you'll always find something unique at the forest shop.
The Plant Centre The Plant Centre at Westonbirt is proud to have a reputation for stocking a wide range of top quality plants, some of which are rare or unusual. The speciality is quite naturally Acers, but there is more to the Plant Centre than these special plants. Inside the Plant Centre shop there is a wide range of Johnsons and Franchi seeds, greetings cards, books, garden essentials and bird products. The friendly staff are always pleased to help customers choose the right plant for their needs.
Opening times
Open every day of the year Open: 9am weekdays, 8am weekends Close: 8pm summer, 5pm winter, or dusk if earlier
Standard admission prices
2011 prices: Adult £6-10 Concession £5-9 Child £2-4 Children under 5 admitted free
Group rate available for 10+ people booking in advance. Membership available.
Telephone 01666 880220 www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt
Walking in Old Arboretum © Rob Cousins
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County Signpost
THE CHILTERNS
www.countysignpost.co.uk
Whiteleaf Woods © Peter Goodearl
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty The Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) stretches from the River Thames in Oxfordshire up through Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire to Hitchin in Hertfordshire. It is a beautiful area, full of rolling chalk hills, beech woodland, clear chalk streams and a wealth of wildlife. It was designated as an AONB in 1965, in recognition that its landscape is amongst the finest in the country. It is one of 47 AONBs in the UK which, together with National Parks, represent our most scenic countryside. The Chiltern Hills have been well-known for centuries, though not always for the best reasons. In medieval times the heavily-wooded hills and secluded valleys were the hangout of fugitives escaping the law and the area acquired a
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View of Fingest Valley © John Morris
bad reputation. However, as nearby London grew some of its prosperous citizens began seeking country estates and a number of great houses and parks were created in the Chilterns, gradually improving its respectability. Nowadays you can visit many of these properties plus a wealth of other historic treasures in the area.
There are lots of ways to enjoy the Chilterns, and most will keep you and your wallet healthy! With over 2000km of footpaths criss-crossing the area, plus the Ridgeway and Thames Path National Trails, the opportunities to go for scenic walks are endless. You can do a gentle walk in a valley, visiting attractive villages or strolling through a river meadow. Those who want something more active could tackle a longer walk along the Chilterns ridge, admiring the stunning views and getting refreshment in one of the many pubs in the area. If you enjoy cycling there is a good network of off road routes and quiet country lanes.
Lovers of wildlife may already know that the Chilterns is one of the best places in the UK to see the red kite, a stunning bird of prey regularly seen soaring above the hills. Once heavily persecuted, it became extinct in England in the 19th century. Twenty years ago the Chilterns was chosen as the location for a reintroduction project, and since then the kites have thrived here, growing to thousands in number.
many other attractions. There is even a section on some of the famous people from the past who have lived in the area.
There is something to enjoy in every season, from stunning bluebell woods in April and May to hillsides dotted with wildflowers in the summer and vistas of red and gold as the woods turn in autumn. Even winter has its attractions, as the upper reaches of the chalk streams begin to flow and the red kites are out in full force. For lots of information on where to go and what to see in the Chilterns AONB, visit www.chilternsaonb.org. You can download walking and cycling leaflets and find out about countryside sites, local National Trust properties and
Red Kite © Gerry Whitlow
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DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE
Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 7NJ 01235 817200 info@didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
Recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway with wonderfully restored steam locomotives. Featuring the original 1932 built GWR four road shed, in full working condition. With other original GWR buildings and structures, including the coaling stage with 75,000 gallon water tank atop. (both working) Also a country station, signal box, and transfer shed.
20 former GWR steam locomotives, including a working (on special occasions) replica broad gauge (7 ft) locomotive, dating from 1840. Learn about machines that changed the world, in the interactive Science, Learning and Railways Exhibition Over 40 mostly GWR coaches. Over 50 mostly GWR wagons. Four cranes. Carriage and wagon works. Working turntable, with demonstrations on steam days.
Special events include Day Out With Thomas. Regular steam days during the year. Open every weekend, and daily most school holidays. Telephone or refer to website for details. GWR small relics museum. Café. Shop. Picnic area.
Recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway Registered Charity No 272616
L AKEVIEW H OLIDAYS
Perfect for your holiday in the heart of the Cotswolds. A small development of four lakeside properties finished to high specification, overlooking the large lawn running down to the lake.
• 8 acres of stunning ornamental gardens
Lakeview Holidays, Whelford Pools Fisheries Whelford Road, Fairford, Gloucestershire GL7 4DT Tel 1: 01285 713649 Tel 2: 01285 711339 www.lakeviewholidays.co.uk www.whelfordpools.co.uk
• Quality plant centre • Teashop • Gallery • Museum. Inspirational gardens, quality plants, sumptuous food and great ideas for the home and garden. Waterperry Gardens, Waterperry, Near Wheatley, Oxfordshire OX33 1JZ Tel 01844 339254. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
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