An ancient market town perched on the River Cherwell, Banbury is an enclave of parks, castles and 14th-century architecture. It’s also home to the renowned Banbury Cakes, which are served in dozens of charming cafes and eateries around town.

Things to Do

Perched in the city centre, People’s Park houses a stunning rose garden and a war memorial. Travelling with the family? You can let the kids loose on the playground or tennis courts, then walk along the curving pathways to spot various species of birds and flowers.

Head over to 1300s-era Broughton Castle to see its ancient moat and lush manicured gardens. Go on a guided tour or have a picnic and relax of the lawns and scattered benches. Attendants bring chairs outdoors on sunny days, while tea and lunch is served in the on-site tearoom.

Want to learn more about the city’s history? Visit the Banbury Museum to explore diverse exhibits ranging from 17th-century fashion to Civil War artefacts. The museum also features virtual reality workshops and offers demonstrations on how to make hobby horses.

Seek out the best Banbury Cakes, which are famous currant and fruit-filled puff pastries. You can also stop by The Granary, one of the oldest cafes in town, to try recipes that reportedly date back 300 years.

Getting around

Taxis, buses and shuttles operate throughout Banbury, while renting a bicycle is a pleasant way to explore the city. You can pick up a rental car at Birmingham Airport, almost 70 kilometres away.