As a well-known tourist trap where visitors can marvel at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Woodstock is no ordinary market town. While many come to visit the impressive Blenheim Palace, it’s the period properties and local amenities that most appeal to those relocating. Coupled with the historic character and surrounding Oxfordshire countryside, Woodstock is an attractive place to call home.
It’s long been an exclusive destination, once visited by kings and queens during its early history as a royal hunting ground. Today it’s better known for its charming market centre and honey-coloured streets. Residents can enjoy a selection of independent businesses that sit alongside antique shops, tearooms and historic pubs.
The Blenheim estate may be a famed tourist attraction, but it’s still a popular spot with locals. It’s not surprising given the scenic splendour, where gentle walking routes and secret paths navigate these landscaped gardens. Other leisure attractions include an outdoor swimming pool, the Woodstock Bowls & Tennis Club, as well as two nearby golf clubs.
For added convenience, the town’s proximity to Oxford offers quick and convenient transport links via train and road. It continues to attract young professionals to Woodstock, while families have a choice of top-performing schools.
Transportation in Woodstock
Woodstock enjoys the convenience of the nearby Oxford Parkway and Oxford railway stations. Both can be reached in under 15 minutes via the A34. From here, frequent services to the capital promise a speedy commute, with a journey time of approximately 60 minutes to London Marylebone. Other trains connect to major hubs in the north, including Manchester and Newcastle via Birmingham New Street.
Otherwise, residents can make use of the closest railway station at Hanborough, which is sat on the Cotswold Line. Only a short six-minute drive from Woodstock, this provides quick access to Oxford and all the picturesque villages in the area.
Woodstock’s location adjacent to the A44 makes it just as appealing for those commuting by car. This road provides a convenient connection to Oxford, while the M40 can be reached in 14 minutes. The closest international airport is Heathrow at 55 minutes, closely followed by Birmingham at approximately 64 minutes.
Things to do in Woodstock
As an area steeped in history, Woodstock is well known for its cultural treasures and historic sights. Blending this old-world charm with modern luxuries, a great choice of sports facilities and family attractions can also be found in the area. Here are some of the most popular places of interest:
- Blenheim Palace
- St Martin’s Church
- Woodstock Bowls & Tennis Club
- The Oxfordshire Museum
- Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum
- Woodstock Health Fitness
- Cromwell’s House
- Kirtlington Golf Club
- Bicester Village
- The Theatre Chipping Norton
- Woodstock Open Air Pool
- Kelmscott Manor
What is Woodstock Like?
Woodstock is a town steeped in history, the birthplace of historical titans such as Winston Churchill and the Black Prince, as well as becoming home to a reluctant Elizabeth I when she was imprisoned in Woodstock Manor during the reign of Queen Mary I.
These days, Woodstock is an oasis of peace and green within Oxfordshire, known best for its green spaces, Blenheim Palace, and the preponderance of independent shops, tearooms, and historic pubs and restaurants.
Served by excellent schools, resting on the edge of the Cotswolds, and with close links to Oxford and beyond, it’s perfect for families as well as those looking to explore England and its history. Woodstock is rich in historical highlights, but a few include:
- Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The house and the surrounding grounds are open to the public, offering a wealth of activities for young and old alike.
- Oxfordshire Museum and Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum are two fascinating collections of heritage for the county at large, and the evolving exhibitions reward repeat visits. Activities for children mean they’re excellent for families too!
- From the two courses at Kirtlington Golf Club to the Bowls & Tennis Club or the open air pool, there’s plenty of relaxing activities to enjoy in Woodstock.
Transport Links
Woodstock has no rail station of its own, but residents benefit from the proximity of both Oxford Parkway and Oxford railway stations. Services from Oxford Parkway will take you to London Marylebone in around 60 minutes, while travellers from Oxford station can reach destinations like Reading in 23 minutes, London Paddington in under an hour, and even Manchester in under three hours.
Drivers will make the most of the A44, which connects you with Oxford in less than 25 minutes and winds north to destinations like Worcester. The nearby M40 also provides a direct route to Birmingham that takes just an hour by car, or can take you to Heathrow Airport in just 55 minutes.
Schools in the Area
Residents in Woodstock are blessed with a number of excellent schools, making it perfect for raising a family.
Parents will appreciate that all three primary schools are a good choice for their child. Ofsted praised Wootton-By-Woodstock Church of England Primary School for providing pupils with “interesting, challenging activities, which help them to work hard” and were equally impressed that pupils at Bladon Church of England Primary School make “standards of attainment that are above average in reading, writing and mathematics by the time they leave Year 6.” Both schools were rated ‘good’.
Woodstock Church of England Primary School enjoys an ‘outstanding’ rating from Ofsted, and not just because pupils make outstanding progress in reading, writing and mathematics. Ofsted highlighted how teachers “have created an outstanding learning environment where all pupils can achieve their full potential.” Teaching is also enriched with numerous visits and sporting events, too, that help to “prepare [pupils] very well for the next stage of their education.”
Although there is only one secondary school in Woodstock, parents needn’t worry; Ofsted have rated The Marlborough Church of England School as ‘good’, noting how leaders have “established an ethos of high aspirations” which, coupled with excellent teaching, “successfully promotes pupils’ interest, involvement and motivation in lessons.”
Woodstock is also home to LVS Oxford, an independent school for young people aged 11-19 with a diagnosis of autism. The school provides pupils in Woodstock and the local area with a “welcoming, purposeful and calm environment”, and Ofsted noted that the team at this ‘good’ school “are genuinely committed to ensuring that pupils leave the school well prepared for a successful future.”
Looking beyond school, Woodstock students benefit from a proximity to Oxford and its prestigious university, just 20 minutes from home by car.
Attractions in Woodstock
Woodstock is a treasure trove for history buffs, having played host to monarchs and mighty political figures alike.
Towering over the town is nearby Blenheim Palace, right on your doorstep. The palace itself is open to the public to explore the stunning architecture and history found within, including the suite of rooms in which Winston Churchill was born. In addition to the palace, the surrounding park is equally open to the public. Enjoy the adventure playground in the Walled Garden, try to find your way out of the Marlborough Maze, or simply enjoy a walk amongst the trees or around the Great Lake (Harry Potter fans will recognise a particular cedar tree for its role in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix!)
Blenheim Palace isn’t the only treat for history buffs in Woodstock. Oxfordshire Museum is a superb space where you can learn about the history of the county. Permanent galleries delve into the stories of past residents, while kids will delight at the dinosaur gallery. The Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum also manages a tricky balancing act, providing a moving exploration of the impact of warfare while also providing enough family-friendly events and activities that everyone can enjoy their visit. Children can enjoy trails and dress-up events, while adults will find plenty to reflect on in the exhibitions.
And as dramatic as Blenheim Park is, it’s not your only choice when it comes to green spaces. The Water Meadows is 5.5 hectares of green space in the heart of town, home to pollarded willows and white poplar that provide a stunning habitat for birds and small mammals. Perfect for a relaxing walk. Or visit the Old Woodstock Line (OWL) Nature Reserve, a wild stretch of land reclaimed from an abandoned railway line.
And, of course, Woodstock sits right on the edge of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds. Residents enjoy countless days of exploration, with 800 square miles of ancient woodlands, market towns, footpaths and bridleways right on your doorstep.
Bars, Restaurants and Nightlife
Despite its size, Woodstock is packed with excellent pubs and restaurants, leaving you spoilt for choice when it comes to planning a lovely evening.
La Galleria owner Lucio has been serving the residents of Woodstock with fine food for almost 30 years, and you’ll understand why when you make your own visit to La Galleria. From the cobbled courtyard to the huge windows that let in an ocean of sunlight, you’ll be taken with the charm of the restaurant before you even taste the delicious, traditional Sardinian food. From pasta and salads to traditional Italian meat dishes, it’s a menu you’ll want to keep coming back to so you can try everything!
If you’re looking for a pub, look no further than The Black Prince. Named after the famous prince born in Woodstock, this pub is well-known for offering a traditional pub experience, from the stone walls to the roaring fire and even a suit of armour! With classic British pub meals on offer and a huge variety of beers, ales, wines, and spirits, this pub is the perfect spot to relax after enjoying a stroll through Woodstock’s countryside.
Residents and visitors to Woodstock owe themselves a visit to The Killingworth Castle in nearby Wootton. With 3 stars from the Soil Association, 2-AA Rosettes, a Michelin recommendation, and named one of the UK’s best gastropubs, it’s no surprise that the food is incredible. After all, the head chef studied his craft at some of the best Michelin restaurants, including Gordon Ramsay & Le Champignon Sauvage. Whether you choose the Loch Duart salmon, loin of venison, or you treat yourself to the sensational tasting menu, you’re guaranteed an experience you won’t soon forget.
The building that plays host to The King’s Arms is steeped in heritage, predating even Blenheim Palace! Inside you’ll find a cosy, traditional British pub with the mix of beers, wines, and spirits that you’d expect. But you’ll also find contemporary cask ales and an innovative menu that blends British favourites and Sunday roasts with modern takes and new tastes that will both surprise and delight every time. The King’s Arms is always worth a visit.
Though Woodstock has no cinemas or theatres of its own, nearby Bicester hosts a Vue Cinema. Oxford boasts both a Vue, an Odeon, and Phoenix Picturehouse. Oxford is also home to a host of theatres both large and small, from the Oxford Playhouse to the tiny yet innovative Burton Taylor Studio.
Leisure Centres and Outdoor Activities
Woodstock offers plenty of fun ways to get moving.
Nearby Kidlington hosts the Kidlington & Gosford Leisure Centre, just a 13 minute drive from Woodstock and offering a wealth of exercise options. The gym features everything from cross trainers to resistance machines as well as access to the expertise of a team of personal trainers. Swimmers will love the choice of the 25m and 15m swimming pools, and fitness fanatics will appreciate the choice of a range of classes from Body Pump to Body Combat, pilates to cycling. The sports hall offers facilities for games such as badminton and basketball too.
Swimmers have an option closer to home in the shape of the Woodstock Open Air Pool. This 25m pool is open seasonally, yet heated even for those chilly mornings. There’s a diving board if you want to practise your technique, as well as full facilities including changing rooms and toilets. After your swim, you can dry off in the sun on the grass and enjoy an ice cream bought from reception. You earnt it!
For those looking for something a little different, visit Woodstock Bowls & Tennis Club. Established in 1939, the Bowls Club operates seasonally between mid-April to September on its six-rink bowling green, while the tennis club plays all year round on its four all-weather artificial grass tennis courts. You’ll be welcome regardless of your expertise, making both clubs perfect for both beginners and seasoned players.
You’ll struggle to find a better game of golf than at Kirtlington Golf Club. Aptly described as secluded and panoramic, there are two courses on offer: the 18-hole Kirtlington and the 9-hole Blenheim. Both provide very different challenges. The Kirtlington features one of the largest bunkers in England, encouraging careful play, while the Blenheim starts with a challenging uphill that rewards players with stunning views. It’s a tough choice to make, but one without any drawbacks; you’ll enjoy your game at this beautiful club whichever course you play.
History of Woodstock
Few quaint market towns boast the vibrant history of Woodstock. It can be traced back to its earliest recorded mention in The Domesday Book. Described as a royal hunting ground, the area would be frequented by English kings and the town grew around this prosperity. The Bear Hotel, which still stands today, has catered to travellers and distinguished visitors since the 13th century.
In 1554, the area gained royal notoriety as Elizabeth I stayed here during an uprising to depose Queen Mary I. The young princess lived in Woodstock Palace, which would later fall into disrepute and be replaced with the Blenheim estate. This World Heritage Site is now considered one of the most impressive palaces in the UK. It’s most famous residents include Winston Churchill, who was born here.
While visitors come to explore these historic wonders, residents of Woodstock enjoy the longstanding traditions. Whether it’s the weekly farmers market – a local favourite since 1179 – or annual Woodstock Fair and Christmas market, this town is proud of its heritage.