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Welcome to Banbury...
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, this Banbury Town Guide is here to help you make the most of everything our vibrant town has to offer.
Packed with useful information, handy contacts, and inspiration for things to see and do, this guide is your go-to resource for exploring Banbury’s past, present, and future.
Set on the edge of the Cotswolds, Banbury blends rich history with a lively, modern community. It’s perhaps best known for the famous “Banbury Cross” and the rhyme that put us on the map, but there’s so much more to discover. From the bustling town centre and canal-side walks to family attractions, local markets, and cosy cafés, Banbury offers something for everyone.
We’ve also included an insight into Banbury’s fascinating heritage - from its medieval market roots to its role in the English Civil War, and its proud industrial past. As you explore the town, you’ll find history woven into the streets, buildings, and landmarks all around you.
Whether you’re looking for places to eat, cultural experiences, green spaces, or practical contacts for living and working here, this guide is designed to be helpful, welcoming, and easy to use.
So dive in, explore, and enjoy all that Banbury has to offer. There’s more to see than you might think – and it’s all right here at your fingertips!
Aerial view of Banbury Cross
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History of Banbury...
Nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds and perched along the banks of the River Cherwell, Banbury’s a town that blends the charm of rural England with a rich and varied history.
Though perhaps best known for the nursery rhyme about “a fine lady upon a white horse”, Banbury’s real story is even more intriguing...
Early Beginnings: Banbury’s origins can be traced back to the Saxon period. The town's name likely derives from "Banna's burgh", meaning the fortified place (burgh) of a Saxon chieftain named Banna. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, Banbury was already a settled and significant location, with a small population and a thriving agricultural base.
The town’s importance grew during the Middle Ages, when it was granted a market charter in the mid-12th century by King Henry II. This marked the beginning of Banbury's development into a regional commercial hub. Its location at the crossroads of major trade routes made it an ideal market town, and its regular fairs attracted merchants and visitors from miles around.
Religious & Political Significance: One of the town’s early defining features was Banbury Castle, built around 1135. It played a pivotal role during the English Civil War in the 1640s. The castle changed hands multiple times between Royalist and Parliamentarian forces, eventually being intentionally damaged after the war to prevent its further use.
Religiously, Banbury became associated with Puritanism in the 16th and 17th centuries. This reputation was so pronounced that the term “Banbury man” became slang for a Puritan. The town’s Protestant leanings were reinforced during the Reformation, with locals embracing the new religious ideals and turning away from traditional Catholic practices. Banbury’s St. Mary’s Church (pictured) is one of the earliest Georgian churches built outside London, a testament to the town’s continued religious evolution.
St. Mary’s Church
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Industrial Growth & Victorian Era: Banbury remained relatively small through the 18th century, but the arrival of the Oxford Canal (pictured) in 1778 and later the railway in the 1850s changed everything. The canal connected Banbury to Coventry and Oxford, providing an efficient way to transport goods. The railway further boosted trade and travel, linking Banbury to London and Birmingham and establishing it as a key stop on the growing national network.
The 19th century also saw the rise of Banbury’s industrial identity. It became known for engineering, food processing, and printing. The most famous culinary contribution however, was the ‘Banbury Cake’, a spiced, currant-filled pastry with a flaky crust, beloved by locals and visitors alike. These cakes were once exported across the British Empire and even enjoyed by Queen Victoria.
Modern Transformation: Like many traditional market towns, Banbury faced challenges in the 20th century, including the decline of local industry and shifts in retail habits. But the town’s adapted well. The redevelopment of the town centre injected new life into the community. The opening of The Light leisure complex is a sign of Banbury’s ambition to grow, while preserving its heritage.
Education and innovation have also become central to Banbury’s identity. The town’s home to the Banbury and Bicester College Campus of Activate Learning, which offers a range of vocational and higher education courses. There's also an increasing focus on sustainability and green development, with local initiatives promoting eco-friendly transport and energy.
The Cultural Legacy: No Banbury discussion would be complete without a mention of the famous rhyme: “Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross, To see a fine lady upon a white horse…” While the exact origins of the rhyme are debated, it’s become an enduring symbol of the town. Banbury Cross itself (not the original medieval structure, but a Victorian-era monument erected in 1859) stands as a proud reminder of the town’s cultural significance.
Today, Banbury visitors can enjoy a range of attractions, from the Banbury Museum & Gallery to walks along the Oxford Canal or around the historic Market Place. The town retains much of its Georgian and Victorian architecture, giving it a timeless charm that appeals to residents and tourists alike.
Banbury’s history is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of war, religion, commerce, and culture. From its Saxon roots to its modern-day reinvention, the town has managed to hold on to its unique character while evolving with the times. Whether you come for the history, the cakes, or simply a stroll through its picturesque streets, Banbury offers a warm welcome and a story that’s worth discovering!
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Shopping in Banbury...
Banbury offers a vibrant and diverse shopping experience that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern convenience. From the bustling high street to its quaint independent boutiques, this market town caters to every shopper's desire.
High Street & Old Town:
Banbury's High Street and Old Town are the beating heart of its retail scene. Here, you'll find a delightful mix of independent retailers as well as well-known chains.
• Independent Gems: Explore unique shops on the High Street like Henry's Menswear and Michael Jones Jewellers. For art enthusiasts, The Artery offers a range of supplies and classes. Gamers shouldn't miss The Hive Gaming, Banbury’s very own gaming hub!
• Cafés & Eateries: Take a break at Caffé Veneto or indulge in sweet treats at Love Desserts, both on the High Street. For a unique experience, Good Game Board Game Café combines dining with entertainment.
Castle Quay Shopping Centre:
Located alongside the Oxford Canal, Castle Quay is Banbury's primary shopping destination. With over 50 stores, dining options and leisure activities, it houses major retailers like Boots, Clarks, Holland & Barrett, Pandora, New Look, JD Sports, Waterstones, Superdrug and many more.
• The Light: Situated within Castle Quay, The Light offers something for everyone! The three-floor venue is home to a seven-screen cinema, 10 lanes of luxury bowling, a retro arcade, a top-quality climbing centre, interactive darts, a karaoke room, diner, American pool tables and much more. Guests can also enjoy cocktails at The Greenhouse on the Terrace, overlooking the Oxfordshire Canal.
• Lock29: Also within Castle Quay, Lock29 features diverse and exciting food and drink artisans. From live music to comedy, pop-ups to mini festivals, there’s plenty of entertainment in Lock29!
Banbury High Street
Ben
...Continued from overleaf
Retail Parks: For those seeking a broader retail experience, Banbury boasts several retail parks...
• Banbury Gateway Shopping Park: Home to fashion giants like M&S, Primark and Next. Shoppers can also find Mountain Warehouse and enjoy refreshments at Starbucks or McDonald's.
• Banbury Cross Retail Park: Including stores like Argos, Home Bargains, Hobbycraft and Pets at Home. Adjacent to a large Tesco Extra, it's a one-stop destination for various needs.
Charity Shops: Banbury's array of charity shops offer both bargains and unique hidden treasures just waiting to be found!
Age UK (Parson’s Street), British Heart Foundation (High Street & Broad Street), Cancer Research UK (Parson’s Street), Katharine House Hospice (Bridge Street & Hillview Crescent), Salvation Army (Bridge Street & Swan Cl Road), Sue Ryder (Warwick Road) and Woodgreen Pets Charity Shop (High Street)
Markets & Seasonal Events:
Banbury's Market Place hosts regular markets every Thursday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, crafts, and more. The first Friday of each month features a farmers' market, celebrating local produce.
Planning Your Visit:
Banbury's shopping districts are easily accessible, with ample parking and public transport links. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the town's blend of traditional charm and modern retail ensures a delightful shopping experience!
Image: Andy Sutherland /Shutterstock.com
The Old Lampreys Building on Bridge Street, 2024
Image:
Stephen William Robinson/Shutterstock.com
KART RACING AT SHENINGTON!
Feel the thrill of high-speed racing - up to 100mph! Over 200+ drivers compete in our 10-round Club Championship Drivers aged 8 to 60+ - Karting is for all ages!
• Race Days - £10 per car spectating
• Practice Days - FREE entry to view
• Every 3rd Sunday of the month (Jan-Nov, except August)
• Check the website for exact dates
BRING THE FAMILY!
• On-site catering
• Dogs on leads welcome
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Spectators welcome - Feel the rush up-close!
GET INVOLVED!
• Rookie Racing - Taster sessions for ages 6-17
• More info: www.rookieracing.co.uk
• Volunteer as an Official or Marshal - Training provided
• Economy Class Racing for ages 16+
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or family traveller, Banbury offers a diverse array of attractions to explore!
Heritage & History
• Banbury Museum & Gallery: Situated beside the canal, this free museum delves into Banbury’s past, featuring exhibits on the English Civil War, Victorian market life, and the town’s plush manufacturing heritage. Don’t miss the adjacent Tooley’s Boatyard & Forge, offering boat trips on Saturdays throughout the summer.
• St. Mary’s Church: This Grade I listed building (designed by Samuel Pepys Cockerell in the 1790s) boasts a striking dome and stained-glass windows depicting biblical parables.
• St. John the Evangelist Church: A fine example of Gothic Revival architecture, this Roman Catholic church was completed in 1838.
Outdoor Escapes & Family Fun
• Spiceball Park: A central green space offering walking paths, sports facilities, and a children’s play area, making it ideal for family outings. It’ll also host the Banbury Show on June 14th 2025! Celebrating the best Banbury has to offer, from local acts and performers to popular food and drink stalls representing businesses from across the town! Read more on page 23.
Things to see & do
in Banbury...
• Waterfowl Sanctuary & Children’s Farm: Southwest of Banbury, this sanctuary provides interactive experiences like animal petting and bottle-feeding lambs, set within five acres of countryside. Entry: £5 per person (cash only).
Scenic Walks & Nature Trails
• Banbury Fringe Walk: This walk was created in partnership with the GoJauntly app and Cherwell District Council. An epic circular challenge walk around the edge of Banbury, featuring the gorgeous canal and countryside paths. A 5hr 30min walk that is approx. 16.1km. This walk has also been divided into four shorter circular sections, all starting in the town centre.
• Thenford Arboretum: A short drive East from Banbury, this 70-acre arboretum boasts over 3,000 species of trees and shrubs, along with water gardens and a sculpture garden.
Continued overleaf...
Banbury Show, 2019
...Continued from overleaf
Shopping & Local Flavours
• Castle Quay Shopping Centre: With 50+ stores, dining options, and leisure activities. Castle Quay Waterfront features ‘The Light’ venue, a Premier Inn and diverse eateries like Lock29. ‘The Light’ has something for everyone; cinema, luxury bowling, retro arcade, climbing centre, interactive darts, karaoke, American pool tables and more! Lock29 features diverse and exciting food and drink artisans, a casual pop-up cinema and educational activities.
• Banbury Market: Held every Thursday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, crafts, and antiques, reflecting the town’s vibrant community spirit.
• Banbury Cakes: A local delicacy, these oval-shaped pastries filled with spiced currants have been a town staple for over 300 years.
Read more about shopping in Banbury across pages 11-12.
Day Trips & Nearby Attractions
• Broughton Castle: Just three miles southwest, this moated manor house dates back to 1306 and has been the Fiennes family home since 1447. The castle’s open for visitors from 2pm-5pm on Wednesdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from April 2nd to September 28th.
• Upton House & Gardens: Seven miles northwest, this National Trust property showcases a world-renowned art collection as well as dramatic terraced gardens, designed by Kathleen Lloyd Jones during the 1930s with herbaceous boarders, orchard, mirror pool and woodland walk. You can also enjoy a bite to eat at the on-site Pavilion Café and visit the Gift Shop & Plant Centre.
• Hook Norton Brewery: Experience traditional brewing methods at this Victorian Tower Brewery. They also offer Brewery Tours (£20 per person) where a tour guide will take you around the brewery where you’ll experience the sights, sounds and smells of brewing. The tour takes approx. 1.5hrs and ends with a tutored tasting in the cellar bar!
• National Herb Centre: A haven for gardening enthusiasts, this centre offers a vast range of herbs, scenic walking trails, and a café with panoramic countryside views.
Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying family-friendly attractions, or indulging in local flavours, Banbury offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every visitor!
Broughton Castle
1: Banbury Cross: Erected in 1859, Banbury Cross is notable for the song ‘Ride a Cock Horse to Banbury Cross’, and is one of the most famous monuments in the town. Read more about Banbury Cross on page 25.
- Located at the top of Banbury High Street, Horsefair, South Bar and West Bar Street.
2: Banbury Town Hall: A Victorian Grade II listed Gothicstyle building located in the centre of town. It was opened in October 1854 with the clock tower being added in 1860. During its early life, the building was also the police station with cells remaining to this day.
- Located on the High Street, OX16 5JS banburytownhall.co.uk
3: St. Mary’s Church: A stunning 18th century CofE parish church providing a place of prayer and worship, not far from Banbury Cross.
- Located on Horse Fair, OX16 0AA banburystmary.org.uk
4: Banbury Museum & Gallery: Learn all about the history of Banbury at this wonderful family-friendly museum located alongside Banbury’s bustling canal-side waterfront.
- Located on Spiceball Park Road, OX16 2PQ banburymuseum.org
5: Spiceball Country Park: A fantastic green space close to the centre of Banbury, and at 26 acres is the largest park in the town. Read more about Spiceball Park on page 22.
- Main entrance is located off Cherwell Drive with other entrances from Oxford Canal Walk and Grimsbury Green
6: People’s Park: A delightful and beautiful open space in the heart of Banbury. There are spacious grassed areas where people can sit, relax and enjoy picnics as well as dedicated areas for play and exercise.
- Main entrance is located off of Warwick Road, with other entrances from Bath Road and the Leys.
7: Castle Quay Shopping Centre: Large shopping centre with 50+ stores, cafés and restaurants. Located in the centre of town close to plenty of carparks, the canal and market place. Open Monday to Saturday 8:30am6pm and Sunday 10:30am-4:30pm.
- Castle Quay, OX16 5UN castlequay.co.uk
Dog friendly Banbury...
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll be pleased to know that Banbury is a wonderfully dog-friendly town!
Scenic Walks & Outdoor Adventures
• Spiceball Park: A spacious park close to the town centre, perfect for dogs to stretch their legs. With riverside trails, open fields and shady paths, it’s a favourite strolling spot. You can read more about Spiceball Park on page 23.
• People’s Park: Well-maintained and peaceful, this Victorian park is a lovely place to walk a calm dog on a lead. While it’s not an off-lead space, it's ideal for gentle exercise with floral borders and tree-lined paths.
• Bodicote Circular Walk: Just south of town, this 3.6 mile (5.8km) countryside walk includes bridleways and quiet lanes-great for weekend exploring.
Dog-Friendly Pubs, Cafés & Eateries
• The Old Auctioneer (Parsons Street)
• Caffé Veneto (High Street)
• Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn (Parsons Street)
• The Pickled Ploughman (Aynho Road)
• Horse & Jockey (Malthouse Lane)
Pet Supplies, Vets & Services
• Pets at Home: On the Banbury Cross Retail Park, this large pet store stocks everything pet-related you’d need. Dogs are welcome in-store, too! They also have a branch of Vets for Pets inside the shop. 01295 253941.
• West Bar Veterinary Hospital: A wellestablished, fully equipped veterinary hospital offering 24/7 emergency care. Located on West Bar St. 01295 262332.
• Hawthorne Lodge Veterinary Practice: West Bar Street, 01295 259446.
• Walking Pawz: Professional dog walking and pet care service founded by dog lover Maisie in 2020, offering tailored, enriching experiences for dogs (incl. group walks and secure field play) delivered by a fully insured, pet firstaid trained team committed to safety, socialisation, and canine wellbeing. 07788 895695.
Guidance for dog walkers:
• Be aware of, and adhere to, restrictions limiting where dogs can go, particularly if it impacts local wildlife or livestock.
• Keep your dog under control at all times.
• Use a lead when needed/requested.
• Prevent your dog from approaching cordoned areas.
• Always bag and bin your dog’s waste.
• Be sure to have plenty of water with you, especially during warmer months or if heading out for a long walk.
Banbury Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 8.00am - 6:15pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.15pm Located in Banbury with branches in Woodford Halse, Southam, North Banbury and Adderbury
24 Hour Emergency Call: 01295 262332
Spiceball Country Park...
Spiceball Country Park is a fantastic green space close to the centre of Banbury, and at 26 acres, is the largest park in the town.
It’s a country park in the true sense of the title with a combination of both caredfor and wild areas. The Oxford Canal runs along the park’s western edge and the River Cherwell divides the park into two sections with wooden bridges linking the two.
The park dates back to the 1880's when High Street butcher Thomas Hankinson (Town Mayor in 1894) donated a plot of land so that the “poor people of Banbury” could have a recreation area. Hankinson was renowned for his handmade meatballs, known as ‘spiceballs’.
His land gift (the original Spiceball Park) was off Bridge Street and is now known as Bridge Street Park.
The address for the park is: Cherwell Drive, OX16 2RR. There’s also other entrances from Oxford Canal Walk and Grimsbury Green.
Banbury Town Council offers free car parking to park users at: Waterworks Car Park, Grimsbury Green, OX16 3JJ (Opposite Banbury Cross Sailing Club). There’s other paid parking at: Riverside Car Park, Cherwell Drive, OX16 2AY and Compton Road Car Park, Compton Road, OX16 2PR
The main area of the park is mostly laid to grass, ideal for playing ball games and flying kites, there’s a picnic area with free-to-use, DIY BBQ equipment as well as a children’s play area and skate ramps, which are popular facilities.
The park also has a suite of fitness equipment and the circular routes are ideal for walkers and runners alike, making the park a hotspot for fitness enthusiasts. Read more about sport in Banbury on page 29.
Across the river is the wild section of the park, with trees, hedgerows and plants, community woodland and where several areas of native trees and shrubs can all be found. Well-used nature trails and woodland walks are outstanding features. This haven for wildlife is managed in conjunction with ‘Wild Banbury’.
The on-going partnership with Wild Banbury and the Town Council began in 2015 and has seen parts of the park develop into a valued educational and leisure wilderness for local residents. The project ensures that Spiceball Park is a patchwork of habitats and wildlifespotting opportunities.
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Banbury Cross was erected in 1859 to celebrate the wedding of Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter, the Princess Royal, to Prince Frederick of Prussia. The sponsors of the Cross wished for a monument to be installed that would honour the occasion, and also serve as a “lasting credit and honour to the town”.
Located at the top of Banbury High Street, Horsefair, South Bar and West Bar Street, the Cross was installed with three statues in 1914 of Queen Victoria, Edward VII and George V to celebrate the coronation of the latter in 1911. It’s also engraved with the different arms of the town throughout its history, along with the town’s motto ‘Dominus nobis sol et scutum’ (The Lord is our Sun and Shield). On the upper part of the monument are the coats of arms of important people connected with the history of the town.
Refurbishment in 2012:
Banbury Town Council is committed to enhancing the attractiveness of the town. The continued preservation of this famous monument is in keeping with its aims.
Banbury Cross...
Work on a major cleaning and refurbishment project was undertaken by Harristone Masonry during May/June 2012 and this work was part-funded by Fine Lady on a White Horse Appeal ). It was felt to be an appropriate way to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.
The 2012 refurbishment project included; Dismantling, inspecting, derusting, re-fabricating missing features, and redecorating the metal cross to the apex of the spire; Steam cleaning the stonework; Re-pointing all open joints; Treating the parapet and plinth with biocide; Repainting the shields and other painted embellishments using an enamel finish on a suitable base undercoat and restoring the colours as well as sealing the monument with a breathable protective sealant.
The Fine Lady Statue...
The Fine Lady statue was funded and erected by the people of Banbury on April 27th, 2005, and unveiled by the Princess Royal. This was to commemorate the nursery rhyme which has made Banbury famous throughout the Englishspeaking world:
“Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross, to see a Fine Lady upon a White Horse, with rings on her fingers and bells on her toes, she shall have music wherever she goes.”
This rhyme contains three essential elements: Banbury Cross, the “Cock Horse” and a Fine Lady on a White Horse.
• The statue now brings the rhyme to life all year round. The statue was designed by Artcycle Ltd, cast in bronze and mounted on a plinth of local Hornton stone.
• The horse (sculpted by Denise Dutton for Artcycle) is modelled on a Welsh Cob.
• The Fine Lady is depicted as the “Queen of the May” and incorporates many symbols of spring:
• Spring Flowers: The Fine Lady wears a crown of 13 (the ancient months of the year) spring flowers, alternating daffodils and wild roses. Hidden among the flowers, you can spot two butterflies and a moth.
• The bells on her feet are interpreted as both musical bells and by seven bluebells, (representing the days of the week) on her toes and she drops petals from her raised left hand.
• The raised left arm not only balances the raised right leg of the horse, it represents the creative side of the brain while the right arm holds the reins showing motor control.
• The frog represents metamorphosis, the cycle of nature and community.
• The other symbol to look for is the sun, which has been a symbol of Banbury since the 16th century.
Further Banbury history can be found on pages 7-8.
Banbury Borough Bowling Club
Peoples Park, Warwick Rd, OX16 0AD 01295 861645
banburyboroughbowlsclub.com
Banbury Boxing Club
47d Broad St, OX16 5BT 07809 410692, banburyboxingclub.co.uk
Banbury Central Bowling Club
Horton View Sports Ground, OX16 9HP 07733 881729, banburycentral.co.uk
Banbury Cricket Club
White Post Rd, Bodicote, OX15 4BN 01295 264368, banburycricketclub.co.uk
Banbury Cross Archers
The Warriner School, Bloxham, OX15 4LJ banburycrossarchers.com
Banbury Cross Indoor Bowls Club
Woodgreen Leisure Centre, OX16 0HS 07477 621371, banburycrossibc.co.uk
Banbury Cross Sailing Club
Grimsby Reservoir, OX16 3JJ banburycross-sailingclub.co.uk
Banbury Harriers Athletics Club
Drayton Pavilion, North Oxfordshire Academy, Drayton Rd, OX16 0UD banburyharriers.org
Banbury Hockey Club
North Oxford Academy, Drayton Rd, OX16 0UD, banburyhockeyclub.co.uk
Banbury Judo Club
Blessed George Napier Catholic School, Addison Rd, OX16 9DG 07752 269940, banburyjudoclub.org.uk
Banbury RFC
Bodicote Park, Oxford Rd, 0X15 4AF 07769 202249, banburyrufc.com
Banbury Swimming Club
Spiceball Leisure Centre, Cherwell Drive, OX16 2QU, 01295 257522
Sports in & around
Banbury...
Banbury Tennis Club
Horton View Sports Ground, OX16 9HR 07917 332888, banburytennis.co.uk
Banbury Twenty Cricket Club
Ermont Way, OX16 4AE, 07780 485881
Banbury United FC
The Spencer Stadium,
Station Approach, OX16 5AB banburyunitedfc.co.uk
Easington Sports Football Club
Addison Rd, OX16 9DH 01295 257006, easingtonsportsfc.com
Gymophobics
1a George Street, OX16 5BH 01295 521306, gymophobics.co.uk
Marlborough Badminton Club
Blessed George Napier Catholic School, Addison Rd, OX16 9DG 01295 712775, marlboroughbc.org.uk
Spectrum Sports
31 Bridge St., Banbury, OX16 5PN spectrumsports.org
Spiceball Leisure Centre
Cherwell Drive, Banbury, OX16 2BW 01295 257522, leisurecentre.com
Spit ‘n’ Sawdust Boxing & Fitness Gym
49a Northbar St, OX16 0TH 07888 829534, snsboxing.com
Sport Karate Academy
Riverside Business Park, Banbury, OX16 5TU, ostma.co.uk
Wade Gymnastics Club
Grove House Barn, Kings Sutton Rd, OX17 2AQ 01295 710107, wadegymnasticsclub.com
Stay a while?
The Three Pigeons Inn, Banbury
The Three Pigeons Inn has long been a home-from-home and offers a laid back, friendly local pub whether you’re looking for music, a fun quiz or to just meet with friends/family. There’s 3 kingsized, en-suite guestrooms that offer comfort, practicality and the perfect location to enjoy Banbury!
Ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of Banbury? Discover our curated selection of accommodations, each promising a comfortable and memorable stay. Stay a while... and let the journey unfold!
Uplands House, near Banbury
Set well back from the A422 up a long avenue of ancient lime trees, Uplands House is a multi-award-winning, 5-star luxury B&B that offers dinner too! The 3 guest bedrooms exude peace and tranquillity, enjoy lovely countryside views and have en-suite bathrooms. A truly wonderful place to stay!
Banbury Cross Bed & Breakfast, Banbury
An award-winning B&B that’s just a 5-minute walk to the centre of Banbury. A Victorian house with single, double and twin rooms available, all traditionally furnished and finished to a high standard. There’s a great breakfast choice selection, together with a lovely garden and veranda to relax after a busy day visiting the area!
Whately Hall Hotel, Banbury
Stay in the idyllic 17th Century setting where Jonathan Swift wrote Gulliver’s Travels in 1723. A characterful hotel with 69 bedrooms, offering guests a range of accommodation options including privilege rooms, spacious suites, interconnecting rooms and enhanced accessibility. Each room has a range of facilities.
The Cromwell Lodge Hotel, Banbury
Set in the heart of Banbury, Cromwell Lodge is a stunning 17th century dog-friendly hotel named after the crucial role the town played in the English Civil War. The 25 en-suite rooms offer large, comfortable beds and bright and airy bathrooms. There’s also a wonderfully traditional bar and restaurant. Free WiFi.
Sleep Wild, Banbury
Sleeps 2. Charming farmhouse-style cabin on a peaceful farm, surrounded by wild meadows. Perfect spot to unwind and relax in tranquillity. Wood burning stove, wood-fired hottub out on the decking to soak under the stars. The owners train racehorses, which you can see on the gallops or grazing in the paddocks nearby.
THE CROMWELL LODGE
Banbury, Oxfordshire Historic charm - Modern hospitality
Experience Timeless Charm at e Cromwell Lodge Hotel
Step into the heart of Banbury and discover the 17th-century elegance of The Cromwell. With 25 en-suite rooms blending historic character with modern comforts, it’s the perfect retreat for both leisure and business
Savour classic British dishes in our traditional pub restaurant, unwind in the cosy bar, or enjoy a drink in the beer garden. We’re dog-friendly too, so your four-legged companions are welcome!
Planning a special event? Our charming courtyard marquee accommodates up to 70 guests, ideal for weddings and gatherings. Plus, with Banbury’s attractions and the Cotswolds nearby, there’s plenty to explore!
Get Married at Cromwell Lodge!
Create unforgettable memories in our beautiful historic setting with tailored Wedding Packages starting from just £2,750, including:
• Delicious catering
• Elegant room hire
• Chair covers with sashes
• Welcome drink for your guests
Whether it’s a joyful celebration or a thoughtful gathering, we o er the perfect space with warmth and hospitality!
Banbury BID
(Business Improvement District) 01295 27778, banburybid.com
Banbury Foodbank
The Church Centre, Horsefair, OX16 0AH banbury.foodbank.org.uk
Banbury Museum & Gallery
Spiceball Park Road, OX16 2PQ 01295 236165, banburymuseum.org
Banbury Town Council
Town Hall, Bridge Street, OX16 5QB 01295 250340, banbury.gov.uk
HOSPITALS & HEALTH CENTRES:
Banbury Cross Health Centre
6 Oxford Road, OX16 9AD 01295 256261, Mon-Fri 8am-6:30pm
Hightown Surgery
Hightown Gardens, OX16 9DB 01295 270722, Mon 7:30am-7pm & Tue-Fri 7:30am-6:30pm
The Cherwell Hospital
Oxford Road, OX16 9FG 01295 755000
ramsayhealth.co.uk/hospitals/thecherwell-hospital
The New Foscote Hospital
2 Foscote Rise, OX16 9XP 01295 252281, thefoscotehospital.co.uk
The Orchard Health Centre Cope Road, OX16 2EZ, 01865 904600
Mon-Thur 9am-5pm & Fri 9am-4:30pm
West Bar Doctors Surgery
6 Oxford Road, OX16 9AD, 01295 256261
Mon-Fri 8am-6:30pm
Windrush Surgery
21 West Bar Street, OX16 9SA 01295 251491, Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:30pm
Woodlands Surgery
4 Burchester Place, OX16 3WT 01295 368022
Mon 8am-8pm & Tue-Fri 8am-6:30pm
Local Information & Contacts...
POLICE, CRIME & FIRE:
EMERGENCIES: Phone 999
Banbury Police Station Warwick Road, OX16 2AE, 01865 841148 policestationreps.com
Cherwell Crime Partnership (Tackling business-related crime) 01865 845106, cherwellsafe.org
Banbury Fire Station 52 Cope Road, OX16 2EY oxfordshire.gov.uk
VETS:
Hawthorne Lodge Veterinary Practice 1 W Bar St, Banbury OX16 9SD 01295 259446 hawthorne-lodge-vets-banbury.co.uk
Vets for Pets
Banbury Cross Retail Park (inside Pets at Home), OX16 1LX 01295 253941, vets4pets.com
West Bar Veterinary Hospital
19 W Bar Street, OX16 9SA 01295 262332, westbarvets.co.uk
