Day Trip Diaries | Burford

In honour of our Burford boutique’s long-awaited re-opening following its extensive remodel, we have curated a list of some charming attractions of the picturesque village and surroundings. 

Burford is often referred to as the “gateway to the Cotswolds”, a truly splendid area of natural beauty and historic significance. For those seeking destinations closer to home this summer, the community’s offering of countryside living at its best is a balm for the pandemic weary soul. 

Church of St. John the Baptist 

Should you wander this way, you’ll find St. John the Baptist Church an unmissable (if only for its size) local landmark. The spectacular architecture commands first notice but the building is steeped in fascinating local history that begins in the 12th century and grew in scope and grandeur for the following 400 years. 

Upon closer inspection, you will find ancient Roman carvings, memorials of royal contemporaries and intricate Medieval wall paintings. 

Visit Here: Church of St. John the Baptist 

Bakery on the Hill 

A few doors up from our boutique you will find the Bakery on the Hill, a family-owned and operated local bakery that is open throughout the day. Stop by if you are in the market for fabulous pastries and great coffee. If you have neglected your lockdown sourdough starter (us too) you can also pick up the most amazing sourdough loaves whilst you are there.

Visit Here: Bakery On The Hill

Windrush Circular Walk

There are some incredible walking trails and routes around Burford. The Windrush Circular Walk (5 miles) is one that passes through the charming villages of Asthall, Widford and Swinbrook with some lovely pubs en route including the Swan at Swinbrook and the Maytime in Asthall. It’s the perfect length for a rambling weekend day when you’d like to enjoy the weather and be able to stop for a mid-walk refreshment or several. 

Find Out More: Windrush Circular Walk

Burford Antiques Centre 

Though smaller in scale, our next attraction contains a similar history in the form of beautiful antiques. The vast array of quality antique furniture is renowned in the area and attracts enthusiasts from around the country. 

This is the perfect place to while away the hours browsing or shopping the curation of stunning antiques. 

Visit or Shop Online Here: Burford Antiques Centre

Kilkenny Lane Country Park

Beloved by dog walkers and families, Kilkenny Lane Country Park is a long, rectangular parcel of nature and parkland just minutes south-east of Burford.

In addition to a willow maze and almost 3 kilometres of footpaths, cycle and bridleways, there’s an adventure play area here for bigger kids, including rope nets, a zip-line and trampolines, and a playground for little ones. 

Visit Here: Kilkenny Lane Country Park

The Shilton Rose and Crown

If you are in search of a quintessential pub lunch in the Burford area, there are a plethora of scrumptious options. However, one that stands a cut above is The Shilton Rose and Crown. It offers hearty fare and a stunning Sunday roast with the unpretentious and quaint surroundings typical of a country pub. Unassuming from the outside, this hidden gem is a traditional pub for those seeking unfussy great food and drink in the lovely garden or classic interior next to a roaring fire (in the colder months, of course).   

Visit Here: The Shilton Rose and Crown

Sahara Burford

 Of course, you can't visit Burford without popping into our brand new Burford boutique. We are so pleased to officially re-open with a beautiful environment to browse and shop. With your safety as our priorty we have ensured all social distance and hygeine proceedures are carried out throughout the store so you can visit with peace of mind.

We can't wait to see you again!

“Lockdown has had its ups and downs. I have definitely started to enjoy the finer things in life such as walking and being outdoors. Other simple pleasures like baking and getting some jobs done at home are lovely but I am very glad to be returning to the boutique and can’t wait to see our customers back. The store is looking wonderful and it’s great to see people on the high street and Burford up and running again. Everyone seems to be doing a good job of social distancing and wearing their masks in Burford; it’s a great atmosphere and people seem very happy to be out and about again!”

- Georgia, Burford Boutique Manager

Find us Here: Sahara Burford