Best Things to do in Burford, Cotswold’s Most Picturesque Town
Burford is a historic market town in the Cotswolds, famous for its medieval high street, antique shops, traditional tearooms, historic pubs, and surrounding countryside walks. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a short Cotswolds break, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Burford, along with charm, history, and a wonderfully slow pace of life.
A Golden-Stone Escape That Feels Gently Removed from Modern Rush
That slow pace of life is exactly what makes Burford so special — I’ve visited several times over the years, and it never fails to captivate.
Unlike many Cotswolds towns, Burford doesn’t have its own train station — and that feels perfectly fitting. When I arrive by car or via nearby connections, I notice how the slight effort adds to the town’s preserved, unhurried character. You don’t simply spill out onto the High Street in a rush; you arrive intentionally.
Burford sits enviably on the edge of the Cotswold hills, England. The town unfolds down its famous sloping medieval high street, lined with honey-coloured stone buildings that appear almost untouched by time. There are no glaring retail chains here — just independent shops, old-fashioned sweet stores, antique treasures waiting to be discovered, and cosy tearooms where conversations stretch lazily into the afternoon.
Burford has welcomed notable historical figures over the centuries, yet it has retained an unspoilt, storybook quality. It’s the kind of place where you wander without checking the time, browse without rushing, and settle into a cosy pub simply because it feels right.
Burford is not a time-restricted checklist — you can enjoy the town in as little as three hours, or spend six hours or more exploring at a slower pace. With so many things to do and the stunning countryside on its doorstep, I’ve found it makes a perfect day trip from London or a relaxed short break in the Cotswolds.
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, Burford offers heritage, charm, and genuine tranquillity — and it’s a place where you can take your time, soak it all in, and let the day unfold naturally.
What to Expect in this Guide to Burford
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Burford, where to eat and drink, how to visit with or without a car, and a few nearby places worth adding to your itinerary — along with my personal tips to help you plan ahead.
Just remember to book your place to stay well ahead of your visit. All the best places in Burford get exceptionally busy, and it’s not just during the high seasons.
Last updated on February 24, 2026
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Where is Burford?
Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds”, Burford sits right on the edge of the Cotswolds, just 3 km (2 miles) from the Gloucestershire border.
It may be small, but its setting is rather special.
Burford rests on a gentle hillside, with the River Windrush flowing quietly at its foot, and open stretches of English countryside rolling out in every direction. The surrounding landscape feels quintessentially Cotswold — honey-stone villages, dry-stone walls, grazing sheep, and those wide skies that seem to slow everything down.
It’s also brilliantly positioned for exploring more of the region. The picture-perfect village of Bibury is just a short drive away, while Oxford, often called the “City of Spires”, lies around 30 km (19 miles) to the east.
From Burford, you’re within easy reach of classic Cotswold favourites such as Cirencester, Cheltenham, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Moreton-in-Marsh — making it a wonderfully strategic base if you’re planning to explore beyond just one town.
Yet despite its convenient location, Burford somehow feels tucked away from the rush — which, as you’ve probably guessed by now, is very much part of its appeal.
How to Get to Burford, Oxfordshire
Because Burford doesn’t have a train station of its own, getting here requires a little planning — but that’s part of its charm. You don’t arrive by accident. You come intentionally.
Here’s how to reach Burford, whether you’re travelling by car or public transport.
Burford by Car
Driving is by far the easiest way to visit Burford.
From London, the journey is around 119 km (74 miles) and takes approximately two hours via the M40 and A40, depending on traffic. The drive itself is pleasant once you leave the motorway behind and begin weaving through Cotswold countryside.
Parking in Burford
Burford is popular — and its historic High Street wasn’t designed with modern traffic in mind. Finding a space directly along the High Street can be difficult, particularly at weekends and during peak seasons.
Instead, follow signs to the designated free car park located to the east of the High Street. It’s a short walk into town and far less stressful than circling for a space.
Visiting Burford Without a Car
Although there’s no train station in Burford itself, it’s still possible to visit using public transport — it just requires one additional step.
By Bus
You can reach Burford by bus from nearby towns. Stagecoach service 233 operates from Woodstock, and Swanbrook Coaches service 853 runs from Oxford.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Burford is Charlbury railway station. Shipton railway station is slightly closer geographically, though it has more limited services.
Both stations are on the Cotswold Line between London Paddington railway station and Worcester. Trains from London Paddington typically run twice an hour.
BOOK your train journey from London Paddington to Charlbury HERE
Charlbury is around 14.5 km (9 miles) north-east of Burford, while Shipton is approximately 8 km (5 miles) north. From either station, you’ll need to take a taxi to reach Burford — and it’s wise to pre-book, particularly outside peak travel times, as taxis aren’t always waiting at the station.
If you prefer, secure your trains and buses in a few taps HERE
Visit Burford With a Tour from London or Oxford
f you’re based in London or Oxford and prefer not to drive, joining a guided Cotswolds day tour is one of the easiest ways to visit Burford. It removes the stress of navigating country roads or limited public transport and allows you to experience several quintessential Cotswold villages in one thoughtfully planned day.
For first-time visitors, a tour offers a relaxed introduction to the region — with time to wander Burford’s charming High Street before continuing on to other honey-stone villages.
Here are some highly rated options that regularly include Burford:
Tours from London
- Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London — A small-group experience combining Oxford’s historic colleges with classic Cotswold villages such as Burford and Bibury.
- Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full-Day Tour from London — A full-day itinerary blending guided insight with free time to explore Burford and neighbouring villages at your own pace.
Tours from Oxford
- Cotswolds Towns and Villages Tour from Oxford — A convenient option if you’re already in Oxford and want to explore Burford alongside other picturesque Cotswold towns.
- Small-Group Cotswolds Tour from Oxford — A more intimate countryside experience, ideal for travellers who prefer smaller groups and a gentler pace through Burford and surrounding villages.
A guided tour is particularly helpful if you’re short on time and would like a curated overview of the Cotswolds. Many travellers find it the perfect first introduction — often returning later for a slower, deeper stay in the villages they loved most.
Best Things to Do in Burford
The sloping High Street, stretching from the top of the hill down to the willow-fringed River Windrush, is a living snapshot of Burford’s history. Every building, every corner has a story, and wandering here feels like stepping into another era.
Here’s a selection of my favourite things to do — from gentle strolls to tucked-away gems you won’t want to miss.
Stroll Along Burford High Street
You don’t need to buy a thing to enjoy Burford High Street. Just walking its length is a treat. The street is a showcase of architectural variety — half-timbered Tudor buildings like the Tolsey, elegant Baroque town-houses (one of which is now a Methodist church), and 15th-century houses that seem frozen in time.
If you peek into the shop windows, you’ll find a mix of independent stores: florists, booksellers, butchers, bakers, candlestick makers, and antique shops.
Burford has long been celebrated for its antiques. Gateway Antiques specialises in 17th- to early 20th-century English furniture and decorative items, while Burford Antiques offers everything from vintage curios to contemporary pieces. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a delight just to browse — and you never know what little treasure might catch your eye.
Visit England’s Oldest Pharmacy
Step inside #124 High Street, and you’re stepping into almost 300 years of history. Originally a village pub, it became an apothecary in 1734. Inside, Victorian cabinets hold drawers marked with ancient ingredients, and there’s a prescription from 1899.
The building hums with the quiet presence of centuries of local life, remedies dispensed, and conversations held over generations.
Make Time for The Tolsey
#126 High Street Burford is home to Burford Tolsey Museum. Situated midway along the high street, it is a striking Tudor style architecture built in the early 1500s of black and white timber fronted building raised on stone pillars with open space underneath.
This medieval building played a key role in Burford’s history as a market place for the wool trade. The open space underneath was a meeting point for the wealthy wool merchants who collected and paid their taxes here. These days, it is simply known as The Tolsey and carefully displays a collection of the town’s archives, social history archaeology, history and anthropology.
Burford’s magic isn’t just on the High Street — a few side streets hold their own quiet charms. Explore the Charming Offshoot Streets: Sheep Street, Priory Lane and Lawrence Street.
The Picturesque Sheep Street
Sheep Street runs next to The Tolsey, with a row of terraced cottages on one side and the cosy Bay Tree Hotel on the other, leading to the historic Lamb Inn, Burford’s oldest inn. Stop for a quick peek inside — it’s still wonderfully traditional, with low beams and a welcoming fire in the winter.
Sheep Street leads you onto Priory Lane.
Priory Lane
From there, Priory Lane takes you past a private Benedictine monastery. History whispers here — it’s said Charles II and Nell Gwynn met in secret along this quiet lane. It’s a reminder that every corner of Burford holds stories waiting to be discovered.
Lawrence Street
Turn off the high street at Lawrence Street. A short walk down Lawrence Street leads you past Burford School, founded in 1571. This stroll takes you to an impressive open green space, Church Green before the gates of St John the Baptist.
Across the green space is a row of beautiful Warwick Almshouses, built in 1457 by Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick. The tiny cottages seem almost to tell their own stories of the families who lived here over centuries.
Peek into St Catherine’s Chapel
Just a short walk north from the High Street, tucked behind the surrounding buildings, lies St Catherine’s Chapel — one of Burford’s hidden gems. The chapel carries a touch of drama: inside, a memorial to Sir Lawrence and Lady Tanfield reflects their notorious reputations, yet the detailed carvings are undeniably beautiful.
Sir Lawrence, Lord of the Manor in Burford and Chief Baron of the Exchequer under Elizabeth I, was famously disliked for his high-handedness and greed. So infamous, in fact, that for two centuries after his death, locals gleefully burned effigies of him and Lady Tanfield each year.
Lady Tanfield herself oversaw the erection of an elaborate memorial inside the chapel — grand and ostentatious, yet striking in its craftsmanship.
Even centuries later, the stories of the Tanfields linger quietly within the chapel walls. The carvings and memorials speak of Burford’s colourful past, offering visitors a glimpse into the town’s history without ever feeling overwhelming.
The Great House, Burford
At #30 Witney Street stands the 17th-century Great House. A Grade II listed building, it is extraordinarily large and grand.
Built for Sir Lawrence Tanfield and his wife, it towers over the neighbouring modest cottages in the humble Witney Street, which was once the main entry into the town from the east. Now part of the Cotswolds Inns & Hotels Group, its grand stone façade quietly reminds visitors of Burford’s social history.
Must Visit Burford Parish Church
St John the Baptist Church is one of Burford’s most striking buildings. Known as one of the Cotswolds’ “wool churches,” it was built between 1175 and 1500, probably on the site of an earlier church. A Grade I listed building, the church welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually.
The slender spire is a landmark of Burford and a small carving on its side is said to date pre Christian, to c.100 A.D.. The most admired features are to be found inside the church.
Inside, the nave is bathed in soft light, with proportions that create a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
On the north side of the north aisle, look for the memorial of Edmund Harman (1569). Specifically, a carving on the front of the memorial. It is thought that this carving is the earliest example of native South Americans in the UK. Another notable carving to look out for is inside the font. A well preserved inscription that reads: “Anthony Sedley 1649 Prisner“.
The work around the West door is said to date from 1175, along with the wood and ironwork are original also.
A plaque on the exterior wall on the south side of the church is dedicated to the three Levellers who were executed by the Cromwell army while their followers were forced to watch.
St John the Baptist Church is Burford’s parish church and is one of the most striking examples of ancient buildings.
Cross the Medieval Bridge and Walk the River Windrush
A charming three-arched medieval bridge spans the River Windrush, and crossing it reveals beautiful views of the watermeadows and the spire of St John the Baptist.
The meandering, willow-fringed riverside path, with its calm waters, gentle rustle of the trees, and distant glimpses of historic buildings, creates a perfect moment of tranquillity — a walk that lingers long after you leave.
Wander to Widford – St Oswald’s Church
A gentle 35–40 minute walk along grassy paths by the River Windrush leads to Widford-St Oswald’s Church, surrounded by fields.
In the Middle Ages, Widford was a large village but what remains today is a single 16th century manor house alongside a handful of houses. The field surrounding St Oswald’s shows the lumps and bumps, outlines of former buildings.
The medieval village of Widford was mostly destroyed by the Black Death, leaving this serene, isolated spot.
The church itself has 13th-century origins, with evidence of 11th century Saxon or Norman influence attributed to its dividing wall, a chevroned corbel and a plain rough font.
The nave has early 19th century box pews, two areas of uncovered Roman mosaic and several 14th century wall paintings.
A popular local walk, this path lets the past quietly linger in the peaceful landscape.
Summary of Top Things to do in Burford, Oxfordshire:
- Stroll along Burford High Street;
- Visit the Oldest Pharmacy in England;
- Make Time for the Tolsey;
- Wander the Picturesque Sheep Street;
- Explore Priory Lane;
- Walk along Lawrence Street;
- Peek into St Catherine’s Chapel;
- Take a look at the Great House, Burford;
- Visit Burford Parish Church;
- Visit the Medieval Bridge and Take a Walk along the River Windrush.
- Visit Widford-St Oswald’s Church;
As your stroll along the River Windrush comes to a close, Burford has a few more stories, stays, and discoveries waiting just around the corner.
Stay a While in Burford
Uncover its history, find the perfect hotel, and explore even more charming corners of this quintessential Cotswold town.
Walks Around Burford, Oxfordshire
If you want to see more of the Cotswolds countryside, several circular walks from Burford visit the surrounding villages of Fulbrook, Swinbrook, Widford and Shilton.
A popular Cotswold Walk is the Burford Walk. This 9.6 km (6 miles) circular trail starts from Burford High Street, and takes you on easy grass paths on open farmland along River Windrush to St Oswald’s Church. It continues to the top of the valley, to the village of Fulbrook, and returns you to Burford.
This route can take up to 3 hours with plenty of photo stops. Just so you know, this route has some gates and cattle grids.
For more walks in and around Burford, and in Cotswolds, go here for a map and directions for popular and off-beat walks >> Ordnance Map and guide to 28 Walks in the Cotswolds which is very helpful.
Places to Eat and Drink In and Around Burford, Oxfordshire
Burford’s town centre is dotted with inviting eateries, traditional pubs and charming hotel restaurants. You might wander into the Cotswold Cheese Company for a foodie treat, stop for a relaxed coffee at Lynwood & Co Cafe, or settle in for a quintessential afternoon tea at Huffkins, which has been serving since 1890.
When choosing where to eat, I tend to gravitate towards places that offer thoughtful, seasonal menus — fresh, locally sourced produce, organic ingredients, meat from animal-friendly farms, and sustainably sourced fish and seafood. Food tastes better when you know care has gone into it.
With that in mind, here is my personal selection of places to eat in and around Burford — from award-winning restaurants to cosy café comforts. Each offers something a little different, whether it’s atmosphere, heritage, or a strong commitment to quality ingredients. They’re the kind of places that quietly become part of your Burford story.
The Lamb Inn
You get the best of all worlds at The Lamb Inn, an award winning restaurant in Sheep Street as well as a hotel where you can indulge in absolute bliss.
While excelling in customer service and exquisite dining, The Lamb Inn prides itself in taking local ingredients and turning them into delicious meals, creating traditional English dishes with a contemporary twist. Try the Cannon of Lamb or the Slow Roasted Autumn Squash and Sage Ravioli.
The charming dining room is light and airy, and overlooks a courtyard terrace.
The Bay Tree Restaurant
Featuring original leaded windows, glagstone floors and tapestries, the Bay Tree is an exceptional hotel and restaurant. The dining room is warmly lit and the kitchen serves up a wide variety of seasonal meals. Take a look at their menu here. The Bay Tree Hotel is a top place to stay in Burford which has received excellent reviews.
The Mermaid, Burford
Set in a warm cosy atmosphere, serving up wholesome traditional hearty meals is the captivating Mermaid restaurant at Burford High Street. Located within an 18th century building, the restaurant retains some of its original fireplaces, and old wooden beams. Serving up real and local ales with English meals, fish, pies and everyone’s favourite, Sunday roast.
The Angel, Burford
The whole family is invited here including your canine. The Angel located at Witney Street, is housed in a 16th century coaching inn and is well loved by the people of Burford. Whether a quick pint, or a delicious meal of fish & chips, steaks or pies, all food are sourced locally to create a seasonal special. Offers several rooms for a quintessential stay in Burford, as mentioned above.
Other Places to Eat and Drink in Burford
The Spice Lounge for traditional Indian and Bangladeshi within a lovely, warm and relaxed setting; Try the New Dragon Inn located within a Grade I listed building offering Chinese cuisine at an affordable price. Both are located at Burford High Street.
Places to Eat and Drink Outside Burford Town Centre
Daylesford Organic Farm, Moreton-in-Marsh
If you want to try somewhere outside of Burford town centre, Daylesford Organic Farm is a really nice place to go to. Home to a fabulous deli, a restaurant offering a field to fork menu and a spa!
Upton Smokery, Burford
Located just outside of Burford town centre, Upton Smokery is a great place for families with kids. Unsurprisingly, the restaurant offers a range of smoked meats and fish. The Firehouse restaurant is great for kids and comes with a big sharing table. It exudes a relaxed atmosphere and offers a fabulous family friendly BBQ menu.
Villages and Places to Visit Near Burford
Although Burford is one of the smaller Cotswold towns, the area is surrounded by quaint villages rich in history and makes a superb base to stay for exploring the majestic Cotswolds.
Other Cotswold Villages within a stone’s throw of Burford
Villages such as Aldsworth, Hatherop, Little Barrington and Southrop are all within reach as are the famous Cotswold village, Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury, described by William Morris, as the most beautiful village in England.
Read my guide to Bibury: 10+ Charming Things to do in the Prettiest Village in the Cotswolds, home to the most photographed street in England.
Then there is Northleach in the West, a hidden gem tucked into a picturesque valley with an ancient market place, a museum and a remarkable wool church.
Just a short distance in the East, you’ll find the market towns of Witney, and Woodstock, home to the resplendent Blenheim Palace.
TIP: You can visit Blenheim Palace along with other Cotswold villages on this day trip from London.
Visit Minster Lovell Hall, a set of delightful 15th century ruins in the picturesque setting of the River Windrush. A tranquil spot, ideal for afternoon picnics.
TIP: Minster Lovell Hall is owned and managed by English Heritage. Become a member today and enjoy free and unlimited access to over 400 historic properties. Here’s Why and How + my discount code >> English Heritage Membership benefits.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Take a trip to the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, about 3 km (2 miles) south of Burford. An expanse of 160 acres of glorious parkland on a historic estate with the Victorian manor house as a handsome backdrop. Home to rhinos, zebras, giraffes, lions and so much more.
Visitors can enjoy strolling through the walled garden that contains a tropical house and an enclosure for Humboldt penguins. Walk through the Reptile House, and the Invertebrate House. There’s a Farmyard Barn, a narrow gauge railway and an Adventure Playground which would make a young child’s day!
Weather in Burford and the Best Time to Visit
Burford can be enjoyed at any time of year, though the experience changes with the seasons. Summers are generally mild and partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from around 15–27°C, while winters can be long, grey, and cold, dipping to 1°C.
The most popular time to visit is June through late August, when the town and surrounding countryside are at their sunniest and liveliest. I personally love travelling off-season — my visits in April, May, October, or November often brought sunny days, fewer crowds, and a peaceful pace for exploring Burford and nearby Cotswold villages.
Keep an eye on the forecast if you want to enjoy the countryside walks, but even a bit of rain won’t slow you down — a trusty pair of Wellingtons can take you anywhere.
Tip: Always carry a light jacket — England is famous for its “four seasons in a day”!
How Much Time is Needed in Burford?
How long you spend in Burford depends on how deeply you want to explore. On my visit, I took a full day to wander at leisure.
Depending on your itinerary for Burford, you can spend as little as three hours or make it a six-hour day so you can explore unhurriedly.
At a minimum, you’ll need at least two to three hours to explore the High Street from the top of the hill to the medieval bridge, take in the beautiful architecture, walk down Sheep Street, visit the St John the Baptist Church and the Warwick Almhouses.
If you want to do the offbeat circular walk, which can take another two to three hours, then you are looking at spending most of a day here.
Therefore, if you have the time, Burford is best for a day visit. Otherwise, two to three hours is adequate to experience the best of this picturesque Cotswold town in Oxfordshire.
Ultimately…
Burford is one of those rare Cotswold towns that stays with you long after you leave. From its sloping High Street and charming tearooms to the quiet riverside walks and hidden historic corners, every step tells a story. Spending a full day here allowed me to explore at a gentle pace, linger in the little shops, and soak up the calm rhythm of village life.
Whether you’re wandering the medieval streets, discovering historic buildings, or simply pausing by the River Windrush, Burford offers a timeless escape — perfect for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or just a peaceful moment away from the bustle of city life.
Have a great time exploring Burford.
Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx
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FAQs
Burford is believed to date back to at least the 9th century, making it over a thousand years old.
The famous street in Burford is Sheep Street, known for its historic charm, picturesque buildings, and vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, the River Windrush flows through Burford.
Yes, there are walking paths along the River Windrush, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Burford is a town, often referred to as a “gateway” to the Cotswolds.
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