Explore the Vale of White Horse – stretching from the edge of Oxford to the threshold of the Cotswolds. Its enchanting landscape is marked by a mysterious pagan past; the very name comes from the oldest chalk figure in Britain, dating back over 3,000 years.
Suggested itinerary
The Ridgeway Trail is steeped in history, having been used by traders and invaders as far back as 5,000 years ago. Today the 140 kilometre routeway, which stretches across counties and scenic countryside, is enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and horse riders seeking far-reaching views, historic sites and wildlife. Follow our 3-day trail from the ancient White Horse Hill, only 29 kilometres from Oxford, to Thame in South Oxfordshire.
Read more...Morning
Walk up to The Ridgeway to see Segsbury Camp hillfort, passing along the chalk stream called the Letcombe Brook and through the historic village of Letcombe Bassett where you may like to stop for lunch at The Greyhound pub. There is also a great day’s cycle ride from Wantage eastwards along a signed cycle route through the Lockinges and Ginges and Hendreds villages, then up to The Ridgeway to head westwards back to Wantage. There are some great pubs and historic buildings to look out for in the villages, including a village shop from a bygone age in East Hendred.
Read more...Morning
From Wallingford, there is a scenic day’s walk along The Ridgeway to the attractive historic town of Watlington, home to The Orange Bakery – an artisan bakery selling breads and pastries to fuel you for your walk. This area is known as the Chiltern Hills, famous for its parklands and beechwoods. The first stretch passes along Grim’s Ditch, a ditch and bank boundary thought to date back to Saxon times. Watlington is where a huge hoard of Viking coins was famously found in 2016. Some of these coins displayed the head of King Alfred the Great and a replica display can be seen in Watlington’s library.
Read more...Discover more of Oxfordshire
Attractions
The Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum tells the story of British Army chaplaincy from earliest times to the present day.
The Oxfordshire Walks app showcases 200+ walks such as Chimney Meadows, Burford and Farmoor Reservoir.
With attractions such as a golf course and falconry centre, Millets Farm Centre is a unique destination for the family.
You’ll find so much more than just a museum, from fossils to a F1 car, there’s something for everyone!
Food and drink
Inspired by the American roadside pit-stop, Mollie’s combines an open kitchen with Cadillac booths and comfort food.
Tearoom Bambi serve delicious French crepes and Hong Kong waffles from a beautiful van and also make bespoke cakes and cookies.hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
At wildwood, their aim is simple: A friendly team, serving great food, in a place where you can feel at home. hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Shop local
Located in Wantage, Creations sells revamped furniture, soft furnishings, jewellery, scarves, gifts and much more.
This stunning Pick Your Own dahlia farm is based at Millets Farm and runs workshops in growing and picking dahlias.
You will receive a friendly welcome by people who are enthusiastic to help you create a comfortable environment.
MotorLux is one of Vale of White Horse & Newbury’s leading independent, family-owned car dealer groups.
A farm shop and garden centre with restaurants, attractions and seasonal events, a unique destination for the family.
An independent record shop offering a wide range of vinyl albums, singles and CDs, second-hand guitars and more.
Accommodation
★★★★ Located just outside Abingdon, the hotel offers superior and connecting rooms, great for families.
★★★ Dating back to 1605, the Crown & Thistle is a Grade II listed coaching inn located in Abingdon-on-Thames.
★★★ Located close to Oxford, Mollie’s Motel offers 79 rooms, friendly lobby work spaces, free parking and EV charging.
Self-catering. Snaptrip offers a great range of places to stay from cosy cottages to luxury stately homes in Oxfordshire.
Self-catering. Sykes Holiday Cottages offer an array of properties from pet-friendly cottages to those with hot tubs.
