Located in the heart of Oxfordshire, Bicester is a charming town that has been attracting an increasing number of residents due to its appealing blend of modern amenities and historical charm. This article explores what it is like to live in Bicester, why people choose to move there, and the various aspects of life in this delightful town.
Is Bicester a Nice Place to Live?
Bicester is a highly desirable town with historical appeal, fantastic transport links, excellent schools, a thriving local economy, and a vibrant community. Whether you are a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Bicester has plenty to offer.
Bicester is especially appealing for commuters who are looking for a relaxed, friendly town without being too far from the big cities, with direct train services to both London and Birmingham.
What is Bicester Like?
Bicester is a picturesque market town which is known for its blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. The town offers a variety of amenities, making everyday life comfortable and enjoyable.
The town boasts a rich heritage with numerous historical buildings and sites, such as the 12th-century St Edburg’s Church as well as the architectural wonders of the 16th-century market square. Bicester Village, a renowned shopping outlet, attracts visitors from far and wide with its array of luxury brands and discounted designer goods.
Bicester’s residents have easy access to the beautiful countryside of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds too, providing endless outdoor opportunities.
Why Bicester?
Now let’s go into some more detail on why you might want to make Bicester your next home.
Historical Charm
Bicester has a rich history dating back to Saxon times, evident in its historical buildings and landmarks. The town centre features charming streets lined with period architecture, giving residents a sense of connection to the past.
Proximity to Major Cities
One of Bicester’s key advantages is its proximity to major cities like Birmingham, Oxford and London. With excellent road and rail connections, residents can easily commute to these major centres for work or leisure. The town’s accessibility makes it a convenient base for those who want to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle while still having access to the amenities and opportunities of larger cities.
Shopping Options
Shopping is a significant part of life in Bicester, thanks to its variety of retail options.
As mentioned, Bicester Village is a major shopping destination, offering a range of luxury brands at discounted prices. It attracts shoppers from all over, adding to the town’s bustling atmosphere.
The town centre features a mix of high street shops, independent retailers, and supermarkets too, ensuring residents have access to all the essentials. Also, weekly and monthly markets offer local produce and unique goods.
Modern Development
Bicester has seen a lot of development over recent years. As well as Bicester Village, this modern development has brought new housing, amenities, and job opportunities to the town, making it an increasingly desirable place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Bicester is known for its strong sense of community. Residents enjoy a friendly atmosphere, with various local events and activities fostering connections among neighbours.
Safety and Cleanliness
Bicester boasts a low crime rate and well-maintained public spaces, contributing to a sense of safety and cleanliness that appeals to many families and individuals seeking a peaceful place to call home.
Employment Opportunities
Bicester’s economy offers various employment opportunities across different sectors. The town’s strategic location and ongoing development have created a dynamic job market. The main employment sectors in Bicester are in manufacturing and retail.
Bicester Village and Bicester Motion offers numerous employment opportunities in retail and hospitality, and construction, engineering and technology respectively. Bicester Heritage (more below) is a hub for motoring excellence and employs more than 34,000 skilled people.
Also, Bicester’s superb transport links mean that many residents choose to work outside of Bicester.
Education in Bicester
For families with children, education is a crucial consideration. Bicester offers a range of educational options, from primary schools to secondary schools and beyond.
At primary school level, some of the most highly regarded schools in the area are:
- Southwold Primary School (ages 2-11): Rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted
- Kings Meadow Primary School (ages 3-11). Rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted
- Glory Farm School (ages 3-11): Rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted
- Bure Park Primary School (ages 3-11): Rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted
- Brookside Primary School (ages 3-11): Rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted
Secondary schools in the area include The Bicester School, The Copper School and Whitelands Academy.
Transport Links
Bicester boasts excellent transport links, with two stations serving the town: Bicester North and Bicester Village. There are direct services available to the likes of London Marylebone, Oxford, Banbury, and Birmingham Snow Hill.
The town has a reliable bus system too that connect different parts of Bicester and the surrounding villages. There is also a bus route to Oxford City Centre.
For those travelling by car, Bicester is located near the M40 motorway. Central London is approximately 80 minutes away, and Birmingham is reachable in an hour. For international travel, Heathrow Airport is just a 50-minute drive.
Property Prices in Bicester
Homebuyers can choose from a range of different properties in Bicester. From traditional terraced houses and cottages in historic areas, to sleek new-builds in neighbourhoods like Graven Hill, and larger detached and semi-detached homes with generous gardens. Modern apartments, ideal for young professionals and downsizers, are also common near the town centre.
Average Property Prices
According to our data, as of August 2024, the average property price in Bicester over the last 12 months was £362,474.
The average price by property type is as follows:
- Detached: £528,624
- Semi-detached: £353,807
- Terraced: £298,777
- Flat/apartment: £170,705
Explore all our properties for sale in Bicester.
Average Rental Prices
According to our data, as of August 2024, the average rental price over the last 12 months was £1,329.
The average price by property type is as follows:
- Detached: £1,754
- Semi-detached: £1,377
- Terraced: £1,247
- Flat/apartment: £1,008
Explore all our properties to rent in Bicester.
Attractions in Bicester
Bicester is home to several attractions that draw visitors from near and far.
Bicester Village
One of the most famous attractions in Bicester is Bicester Village, a luxury shopping destination. With a wide range of designer brands and a beautiful setting, it attracts shoppers from all over the world and provides a unique shopping experience for residents. It is in fact the second most visited place in the UK by Chinese tourists.
The shopping village guarantees a robust retail presence in Bicester, significantly contributing to the local economy and job opportunities. Few other market towns can boast employers like Gucci, Pandora, and Saint Laurent.
Garth Park
Garth Park is the principal public park in Bicester. It forms the parkland and formal gardens surrounding Garth House. Garth Park is not just a picturesque green space too, it also hosts a variety of outdoor events, from Proms Night to a jazz festival.
Bure Park Nature Reserve
Bure Park Nature Reserve is a local gem, offering a serene and picturesque setting. With green spaces, well-maintained trails and diverse natural attractions, this park is a wonderful area for some rejuvenation and to enjoy the abundant wildlife.
St Edburg’s Church
St. Edburg’s Church is a stunning testament to Bicester’s history. Dating back to the 12th century, it features Victorian stained glass and memorials to local figures, making it appealing to both history enthusiasts and admirers of beautiful architecture.
Bicester Heritage
Bicester Heritage is a renowned centre dedicated to classic motoring located on a former RAF bomber station. Established in 2013, Bicester Heritage is a hub for automotive enthusiasts and businesses. Hosting car shows and vintage markets, it attracts visitors from far and wide. The site also houses specialist workshops focused on classic vehicle restoration, making it a unique destination for car lovers and historians alike.
Bicester is surrounded by historical sites too, including Rousham House and Gardens and the nearby Blenheim Palace. These sites offer fascinating insights into the region’s history and provide beautiful settings for day trips and outings.
Eating and Drinking in Bicester
Bicester has many bars, pubs, and restaurants. Fans of well-known brands will appreciate places like Prezzo, Brewers Fayre, Pizza Express, and Nando’s. There are also many fantastic independent restaurants in the area.
Some of Bicester’s most popular restaurants include:
- Monty’s Burger Bar: Fantastic burgers and friendly staff
- Denis Turkish Restaurant: A very popular and highly regarded Turkish restaurant
- Bosphorus Turkish & Mediterranean Restaurant: Another popular Turkish restaurant
- La Tua Pasta: A fantastic, award-winning Italian restaurant with a warm welcome
- Shan Shui: Pays homage to the best of Chinese and Asian cuisine in a Shanghai-1920s inspired setting
- Grand Village Imperial: An artful, Chinese restaurant with traditional décor, serving classic Chinese food
- Copper Kitchen: A stone-clad restaurant which serves classic pub food in a warm environment
For those keen on a drink or two, Bicester has plenty to offer. Some of Bicester’s pubs include The Plough Bicester, Bure Farm, The Acorn, The Lion Bicester, The Shakespeare Bicester, and The Bell. There is also Tropic Bar Bicester, which is a Hawaiian-themed cocktail bar.
Leisure, Gyms and Outdoor Opportunities
Bicester Leisure Centre features a state-of-the-art gym with over 90 stations, providing ample options for exercise. The centre also offers a range of group classes, from HIIT to Pilates, a 25-meter swimming pool, and a sports hall with pitches.
Bicester is home to many gyms including Anytime Fitness Bicester, David Lloyd Bicester, Bicester Gym, PureGym Bicester, Bicester Performance Centre and Belong to a Stronger Crowd.
Bicester Hotel, Golf & Spa offers excellent facilities for fitness and relaxation, including a 20-meter pool, multiple spas, and a golf course with 11 lakes. The gym features top equipment and classes, and there are luxurious treatment rooms and a private spa garden.
There are many sport clubs in the area too, catering to a wide range of ages, abilities and interests. These clubs include Bicester Akido Club, Bicester Boxing Club, Bicester. Football Social Football Club, Bicester Athletic Club, Bicester Table Tennis Club and Bicester Lawn Tennis Club.
Bicester is surrounded by beautiful green spaces and countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. With the likes of Garth Park and Bure Park Nature Reserve, Bicester’s residents have easy access to green spaces for leisure and recreation.
The surrounding Oxfordshire countryside is perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring nature. The nearby Cotswolds and Chiltern Hills offer stunning landscapes and picturesque villages, ideal for day trips and weekend getaways.
Cost of Living in Bicester
The cost of living in Bicester is standard for everyday items, groceries and utilities. Housing costs are higher than average though, and this is due to Bicester’s proximity to Oxford and appeal as a commuter town for London.
Broadband Information
The cost of broadband ranges from around £22.00 to £84.00 depending on the level of service and provider. The average MBPs is 116, which is slightly higher than the average in the South East.
Crime and Safety
Bicester is generally regarded as a safe town with a relatively low crime rate, particularly in comparison to larger urban areas. The overall crime rate in Bicester in 2023 was 113 crimes per 1,000 people.
Other Areas of Oxfordshire Where You Could Live
While Bicester has much to offer, other areas in Oxfordshire may also appeal to potential residents.
Oxford
The historic city of Oxford is renowned for its prestigious university, rich cultural scene, and beautiful architecture. It offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with plenty of amenities and job opportunities.
Abingdon
Abingdon is a charming market town with a strong community spirit, excellent schools, and a range of amenities. Its picturesque riverside setting adds to its appeal.
Find out more about what it is like to live in Abingdon.
Banbury
Banbury is another market town with a rich history and a mix of modern amenities. It offers a more affordable cost of living compared to some other areas in Oxfordshire.
Find out more about what it is like to live in Banbury.
Witney
Witney is known for its beautiful countryside, good schools, and friendly community. It provides a more rural lifestyle while still offering convenient access to Oxford and other nearby towns.
Pros and Cons of Living in Bicester
Pros
- Excellent transport links: Easy access to major cities and transport hubs.
- Growing economy: A dynamic job market with various employment opportunities.
- Quality education: Good schools and proximity to prestigious universities.
- Vibrant community: A friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
- Modern amenities: A range of shopping, dining, and leisure options.
Cons
- Development pressure: Rapid growth can lead to increased traffic and pressure on infrastructure.
- High housing costs: Property prices and rent can be high due to Bicester’s desirable location.
- Limited nightlife: Bicester has fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger cities.
Are You Thinking of Moving to Bicester?
With its excellent transport links, growing economy, and vibrant community, Bicester provides a high quality of life for its residents. Whether you are drawn to its rich history, modern amenities, or beautiful countryside, Bicester is undoubtedly a place worth considering for your next home. If you are looking to move to Bicester, our Bicester estate agents can help. Our team provide services for buyers and tenants, as well as sellers and landlords.
