Dating back to Saxon times, Bicester boasts a rich history that can be traced back 1,000 years to the Domesday book. It’s a historic market town best known for its shopping outlets, but also boasts historic landmarks, country houses and leafy parks.

Things to do

Looking to splurge? Give your credit card a workout at Bicester Village, the United Kingdom’s most popular shopping outlet. It attracts shopping enthusiasts from around the world with its wide range of items, particularly luxury goods and designer brands in over 160 upscale shops.

Take a break from shopping to meander through the manicured gardens of Rousham House, designed by William Kent. You’ll find scenic pathways that lead to beautiful ponds, apple trees and a walled garden, while the 17th-century interior retains its original panelling, staircases, furniture and pictures.

A former hunting lodge built in the 1840s, Garth House features three hectares of parkland and formal gardens. Check their calendar, as they host a programme of outdoor events throughout summer, including music concerts and festivals.

Take a day trip to see the Renaissance-style chateau at Waddesdon Manor, which houses one of the finest collections of 18th-century decorative arts in the world. A masterpiece of Baroque architecture, Blenheim Palace is only a 20-minute drive away. Take a guided tour through the Heritage-listed stately rooms and 800 hectares of formal gardens.

Getting around

Bicester is a one-hour drive from London and Birmingham, but can also be accessed by train from London Marylebone and buses from Oxford. In town, the easiest way to get around is by car.