Oxfordshire &

ree
The Cotswolds
s
o u r f d ap p
a d o i
nlo ndr
dow and A
#AMBRIDGESHIRE
on e
iPh

Issue 2 - 2011

Annual Publication
The Ultimate County Guide
Historic Houses | Attractions | Museums & Arts
Towns & Districts | Open Air
www.countysignpost.co.uk
 WORCESTER
PORCELAIN MUSEUM
250 YEARS
OF WORLD CLASS
HISTORY
Take a journey through time with our free audio tour
and mix with past Royal Worcester Artists who regularly
work in our galleries. Special ‘Behind the Scenes Visits’
and refreshments are available to groups.

WORCESTER PORCELAIN MUSEUM

Severn Street, Worcester, WR1 2ND Telephone: 01905 21247
Email: info.admin@worcesterporcelainmuseum.org
Online: www.worcesterporcelainmuseum.org
 Go to
you
County Signpost to dow r phoneʼs

CONTENTS
nlo app
Count ad our new store
y Sign ,
post a free
pp !

Welcome to the 2011 edition of the Oxfordshire

& the Cotswolds County Signpost Tourist
Historic Buildings Guide, your indispensable guide to the best
tourist attractions and days out the county has to
offer.

Gardens We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure to

read, both interesting and informative, and that
you will take it away with you, to use again and
again.

Attractions We offer a taster of the visitor attractions and

events within the County, for both locals and
those who wish to visit from afar.

Museums & Arts To be featured in our next edition -

please email the editor.
For a free download please visit
our new map-driven,
The Open Air
online magazine website
2011 Competition www.countysignpost.co.uk
Heritage Motor Centre

win a family ticket to the Museum &

the Sci-Fi at the movies Exhibition -
simply email how many counties are
represented on the County Signpost website

Published by: County Signpost Ltd

Editor: Adam Davison

All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, cor- Please mention
rect at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd does not Signpost when
accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies which visiting any of the
slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd 2011. attractions.
No part of this magazine may be used or
reproduced without the written permission of the
publisher.

County Signpost Ltd

01743 874098
Signpost - page 1 info@countysignpost.co.uk
 County Signpost www.countysignpost.co.uk

THE NATIONAL TRUST

Avoid the frenzy of the high street and see what
the National Trust has to offer. National Trust
places throughout the region offer the chance to
unwind and relax. Great shops and restaurants,
craft fairs, a wealth of history, beautiful gardens
and parklands, workshops, children’s activities
and family trails - all in beautiful settings too. So
come along and enjoy something special.
Stowe Landscape Gardens:
beauty of Stowe has inspired writers, philoso-
phers, artists, politicians and members of the
public from the eighteenth century to the pres-
ent day. The Temple family, owners of Stowe
were one of the pioneers of the ‘landscape gar-
den’, a style that flourished during the eighteenth
century, replacing the formal and structured lay-
out of garden design. Today, situated among the
250 acre landscape, nestled in valleys, along
pathways or lining lakes are over forty temples
and monuments, each built as a representation
Oxford Bridge, copyright NTPL

Discover the Unexpected of the Duke of Buckingham’s personal and

If you travel just a short way out of Oxfordshire
there are some truly impressive National Trust
properties to be discovered. One of the most
spectacular, situated three miles outside of the
historic town of Buckingham is Stowe
Landscape Gardens. The scale, grandeur and
For the visitor that wants to discover more about
political beliefs. From the impressive and impos-
the history behind the temples and the family
ing Temple of Concord and Victory to the intri-
that built them, guided tours will provide a
cate Pebble Alcove, to the Palladian Bridge, one
wealth of information, free of charge.
of only four in the world, each temple has its
own story to tell and it is unlikely that one visit
Make sure that a trip to Stowe includes a stop in
will be enough to take it all in.
the tea-room; for a quick snack or a hearty meal,
the fresh produce is bound to satisfy every
appetite. No visit to a National Trust property is
complete without a browse round the gift shop,
whether buying a gift for a loved one or a treat
for yourself the shop at Stowe has a vast selec-
tion. From plants, to books, to souvenirs of
Stowe there is something for everyone.
Stowe is a garden for all seasons; aconites, blue-
bells and fritillary, to name only a few, are push-
ing their way to the surface as Stowe springs into
the new season. The surrounding deer park plays
host to new born lambs while the lakes in the
gardens welcome ducklings taking their first
swim.
As Summer approaches there is perhaps no bet-
ter place to enjoy a picnic than Stowe. There are
many different and equally magical spots - from
the tranquillity of the lake next to the Temple of
Venus to the stunning views across from the
Palladian Bridge.
Picnic at Palladian Bridge, copyright NTPL
Throughout Autumn, as the leaves turn rich
shades of gold and reds, the landscape changes
on a daily basis and is a riot of colour. As the
leaves begin to fall it is the perfect place for a
brisk walk, followed by a warming treat from the
tea room.
As the colder days take hold, Stowe becomes a
true Winter Wonderland. Marvel at magnificent
views across the frosty landscape and as the
snow falls the gardens are transformed, with
temples and monuments taking on an other-
worldy appearance.
With a full programme of events throughout
2011, including Theatre performances, children’s
activities and an 18th century day there really is
something for everyone to enjoy time and time
again.
For further information about times, events and
admission prices please call 01280 822850 or
visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowegardens.
Admission for National Trust members to
Stowe is free. To benefit from free entry into all
National Trust properties why not join today?
Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for more infor-
mation

Signpost - page 2 Signpost - page 3

 County Signpost
Hidcote Manor Garden,
Hidcote Bartrim, nr Chipping Campden,
Gloucestershire GL55 6LR
01386 438333 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote
Don’t miss one of England’s greatest gardens.
Designed in Arts and Crafts style by horticultur-
ist Lawrence Johnston, it is made up of a series
of ‘rooms’ which each have a unique style.
Nestled in the Cotswolds with sweeping views
across the Vale of Evesham, Hidcote is appeal-
ing all year round. Rare shrubs and trees, out-
standing herbaceous borders and unusual plant
species make this a truly special place to visit.
Whilst you are there, why not enjoy a game of
tennis or croquet, visit the newly transformed
Hidcote © NTPL / Nick Daly
Signpost - page 4
www.countysignpost.co.uk
kitchen garden, join one of our free talks or Newark Park, romantic gardens which will give you fantastic
enjoy a delicious meal using home-grown pro- Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, views towards the Mendips.
duce in our newly refurbished Garden Gloucestershire GL12 7PZ
Restaurant. Hidcote has the largest plant centre 01793 817666 From the property there are countryside walks
in the National Trust where you can buy species www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newarkpark and footpath links to the Cotswold Way. There
from Hidcote – including the famous Hidcote are croquet sets for hire, great spots for taking a
lavender – as well as numerous others. The shop An atmospheric house which truly reflects its picnic and lots of space to roam about. Look out
stocks unique and appealing gifts and practical 450 year history dating back to Tudor times for family events in the summer. Dogs on leads
items too. Furnished with an eclectic mix of old and mod- allowed in the grounds.
ern furniture, it is certainly well worth a visit.
Lodge Park and Sherborne Surrounding the house you will find wild and
Estate, Newark Park © NTPL / Andrew Butler
Lodge Park, Aldsworth, Nr Cheltenham,
Gloucstershire GL54 3PP
01451 844130
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sherborne
This beautiful Cotswold Country estate
contains England’s only surviving and fully-
restored deer course and grandstand.
Surrounded by water meadows and park-
land rich in wildlife, the rare 17th century
grandstand was created in 1634 by John
Crump Dutton who had a deep passion for
gambling, banqueting and entertaining.
There are a variety of walks from the estate
over the rolling Cotswold countryside with
views of the River Windrush. Ancient trees
such as veteran oak, ash, beech and lime
provide important nesting and feeding sites
for birds, bats and insects. Barn owls and
woodpeckers can sometimes be spotted.
Fallow and Roe deer as well as badgers and
foxes are all in evidence on the estate.
Look out for events and guided tours over
the summer, follow the Sculpture Trail to
discover Sherborne through art, or simply
come along and enjoy the beautiful
grounds.
Signpost - page 5
 County Signpost
Snowshill Manor,
Snowshill, nr Broadway,
Gloucestershire WR12 7JU
01386 852410
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshillmanor
This is a real one-off. The manor is packed to
the rafters with 22,000 unusual objects – all laid
out theatrically to their collector’s – Charles
Wade’s – wishes. From tiny toys to Samurai
armour, he was an enthusiastic collector, spend-
ing his whole life – and inherited wealth – amass-
ing this spectacular collection.
Signpost - page 6
The beautifully restored Cotswold stone house is
surrounded by a peaceful hillside garden. It is the
ideal place to come and relax, enjoy a delicious
home-made lunch in the restaurant, take a cream
tea on the terrace, browse in the 2nd hand book-
shop or treat yourself to some local produce
from the gift shop. Explorer tours and children’s
trails are also available.
Snowshill Manor © NTPL / Mike Williams
Chedworth Roman Villa,
Yanworth, nr Cheltenham,
Gloucestershire GL54 3LJ
01242 890256
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth
The remains of one of the largest Roman villas
in the country provide a fascinating insight into
4th century Roman Britain. The site was discov-
ered in 1864 on the Earl of Eldon’s estate by a
local gamekeeper and then excavated by his
estate workers. What remains is fabulous – more
than a mile of walls, beautiful mosaics*, two
bathhouses, hypocausts, a water shrine and
latrine.
Highlights from the villa are:
•Taking the plunge. The Romans really did know
a thing or two about bathing, heating and
plumbing. You can admire their work in the Bath
Houses where there are two kinds of baths: one
hot and sauna-like and the other a cold plunge
bath.
•A gift from the gods. The natural spring that
feeds the villa’s water shrine never dries up and
still runs in the 4th century stone channel. This
miraculous supply is no doubt the reason the
Villa is built here.
Chedworth Roman Villa © NTPL / Paul Harris
•The latrines show how good the Romans were
at mod cons. These flushing toilets consist of a
wooden bench with a row of holes in it over a
sewer. The flush came from a stone water chan-
nel which carried through fresh running water.
•Anyone for snails? Amazingly, some very large
snails which were introduced by the Romans are
still in existence. They would have been fed on
milk and then cooked and eaten as a delicacy –
but are now fully protected!
Apart from Roman delights, Chedworth also
offers the chance to explore the stunning
grounds enjoying beautiful views over the
Cotswolds. Enjoy a picnic in the ruins, visit the
shop, or take some light snacks and tea in our
shop or tea tent.
*PLEASE NOTE: The Roman mosaics in the
dining room at the Villa will not be available to
view in 2011 as work to create conservation
shelters over them will be taking place. When
this work is completed in March 2012. the new
building will have walkways above the mosaics
allowing visitors to look down on them as well as
interactive displays about life in Roman Britain.
The project is set to go ahead thanks to a
£700,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Signpost - page 7
 County Signpost

STONOR
Set in a hidden fold of the Chilterns, four miles
from Henley, Stonor has been the home of the
Stonor family for 850 years and a centre of
Catholicism throughout.
The house appears as an E-shaped Tudor manor
house behind a warm red brick façade with
Georgian windows. Behind the Georgian exteri-
or is a much older collection of buildings, which
have never been completely rebuilt, including a
hall dating back to medieval times and now used
as the Tea Room. The 17th century library has a
magnificent vaulted ceiling. The main public
rooms, restored in the 18th and early 19th cen-
turies from a 14th century hall contain fine fur-
niture, bronzes, silhouettes, Italian pictures and
drawings and a growing collection of contempo-
rary ceramics.

Also open to view is the roof space and priest
hole occupied by St. Edmund Campion, Jesuit
and martyr, and his companions in the 1580’s. It
was here that he supervised the printing of his
book Decem Rationes (The Ten Reasons for
Being a Catholic).
The Chapel, the most ancient of the Stonor
buildings, is dedicated to the Blessed Trinity, and
remains open today, as it has for more than 850
years, for the celebration of Mass. The Chapel
was built on the site of a pagan place of worship
and adopted by Christianity in the late 13th or
early 14th Century. The brick tower was added
in 1416-1417 built by Flemish brickmakers who
had settled in the Chilterns. The bricks (200,000
in total) were made by Michael Warwick of
Crocker End, Nettlebed and is one of the earli-
est post Roman uses of brick in Southern
England.
The walled garden rises up behind the ancient
house; the garden is divided between the original
pleasure garden directly behind the house with
17th century terraces and two ponds and the old
kitchen garden replanted in the 1980s with won-
derful herbaceous borders. With the recent
warm weather, the irises are now blooming and
as summer progresses old fashioned roses,
peonies and lavenders will flower on the seven-
teenth century terraces in June, flanked by
ancient yew trees and clipped box hedges by the
lily ponds. Climbing the terrace stages one finds
a long mixed border, ending with a Japanese gar-
den house built by the 5th Lord Camoys after his
visit to Kyoto in 1906. The jasmine and rose
bower offers spectacular views of the house and
deer park.
John Steane said in his book 'Oxfordshire': –
“If I had to suggest to a visitor who had only
one day to sample the beauties of Oxfordshire,
I would suggest a visit to Stonor and a walk
through its delectable park.”
Telephone 01491 638587
www.stonor.com

Signpost - page 8 Signpost - page 9

 County Signpost
BERKELEY CASTLE
Home of the Berkeley Family
for 900 years.
Berkeley Castle has been lived in by the same
family for over 900 years. It is where history has
been made. Where Edward II was murdered,
where the Barons of the West gathered before
Signpost - page 10
Magna Carta and where Queen Elizabeth I
hunted and played bowls.
The most remarkable thing about the Castle is
that for nine centuries, the building, the Berkeley
family, the archives (which go back to the 12th
Century), the contents, the estate and the town
have all survived together.
www.countysignpost.co.uk
Its place in history is significant, not just because
it is still intact, but because the Berkeley family
and their home have played an important part in
the power struggles of so many centuries.
Built for War
The Castle is one of the March Castles, built to
keep out the Welsh.
It has all the trappings to match: trip steps
designed to make the enemy stumble during an
assault, arrow slits, murder holes, enormous
barred doors, slots where the portcullis once fell,
and worn stones where sentries stood guard.
It is also a fairytale Castle with its warm pink
stone that glows in soft sunset light. Outside, the
battlements drop some 60' to the Great Lawn
below; but inside the Inner Courtyard, the build-
ing is on a human scale, with uneven battle-
ments, small towers, doors and windows of
every shape and size. The surrounding land
would have been flooded for defence.
Where History is a Home
The Family are one of only three families in
England who can trace their ancestry from
father to son back to Saxon times. English histo-
ry has been lived out within these walls - and by
this family. The Castle is the oldest building in
the country to be inhabited by the same family
who built it.
For centuries, the Berkeleys were close to the
throne, able administrators and fighters who
supported their king or queen (as long as they
could), backed the winning side, and married
well. The Castle, naturally enough, is full of sto-
ries.
The Archives housed in the Castle date back
from the earliest part of the 12th Century and
number around 20,000 documents, 6,000 of
which relate to the mediaeval period. The latter
are mainly manorial records which relate to
every county in England, excepting two only.
Signpost - page 11
 County Signpost
Berkeley Treasures
The Contents of The Castle are items that have
been chosen, collected and treasured by mem-
bers of the Berkeley family throughout the cen-
turies, and many reflect the history of the place.
They include Francis Drake's cabin chest, Queen
Elizabeth I's bedspread, and the banner that the
4th Earl of Berkeley took with him to the Battle
of Culloden. Many of the unusual tapestries,
paintings, ceramics and silverware, have their
own story to tell.
The Estate
The Estate consists of 6,000 acres, and includes
one of the best examples of a mediaeval deer
park in the country, 18 tenant farms, a stretch of
the River Severn and the land on which the
famous Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at
Slimbridge is situated.
Berkeley town itself goes back in time as far as
the Castle, and evidence suggests that there was
a large Saxon settlement and possibly, a Roman
Villa.
Signpost - page 12
www.countysignpost.co.uk
CHAVENAGE HOUSE
Gloucestershire. He was persuaded against his
better judgement to vote for Charles I’s
impeachment and subsequent execution. Soon
after the King was beheaded, Col. Stephens died
and it is said that his ghostly form was seen
leaving Chavenage in a carriage driven by a head-
less coachman wearing the Royal vestments.
These days, the property is very much a family
home and even though it is open to the public
on a part-time basis.
In recent years the house and its surroundings
Berkeley Castle is available to hire for weddings have been used as a film/TV location on many
and special occasions
This wonderful welcoming occasions including Agatha Christie’s Poirot
Elizabethan home, offers story ‘The Mysterious Affair at Styles’ and is
Telephone 01453 810332 something different. being seen as Candleford Manor in the BBC’s
www.berkeley-castle.com ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’.
Visit Chavenage House near Tetbury and enjoy
guided tours by the owner or his family. Learn
of the two families that have occupied the house
since the reign of Elizabeth I. Hear of the
legends and stories (especially the ghosts) –
Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Cotswold
countryside.
The name Chavenage dates back to Anglo-
Saxon times, from the Norman Conquest until
the Reformation it was monastic land. After the
dissolution of the Monasteries, Henry VIII gave
the property to the Seymour family. In 1551
Chavenage was purchased by the Stephens
family who resided there for over 10 generations.
Open May-September Thursdays and Sundays
The house and surrounding farm were pur-
2-5pm. Also Easter Sunday & Monday and bank
chased by the present owner David Lowsley-
Holiday Mondays.
Williams’ grandfather in 1891.
Telephone 01666 502329
The main historical interest centres on the
www.chavenage.com
English Civil War, when the house was owned by
Col. Nathaniel Stephens MP for
Signpost - page 13
 County Signpost
BROUGHTON CASTLE
"Broughton Castle ... about the most beautiful
castle in all England ... for sheer loveliness of the
combination of water, woods and picturesque
buildings."
A generous tribute from historian Sir Charles
Oman in 1898, and one continued by the noted
diarist James Lees-Milne in a 1989 entry"It is still
the most romantic house imaginable. English to
the core, as Henry James says. ... Perfection,
what with moat, gatehouse, church, and gor-
geous orange and buff stone".
A more recent accolade came in 2003 in
England's Thousand Best Houses by Sir Simon
Signpost - page 14
Jenkins. The author gives only twenty of the
thousand houses five stars — and Broughton
Castle is proud to be one of them.
The garden at Broughton
Castle
The walled garden on the south side of the cas-
tle, known as the Ladies' Garden was established
in the 1880s on the site of the 16th century
kitchens.
The fleur de lys beds are planted with 'Rose
Heritage' and Rose 'Gruss an Aachen'. The
hedge against the castle is of Rose 'Felicia'. The
www.countysignpost.co.uk
other beds contain many old roses and herba-
ceous plants, together with shrubs such as
philadelphus and deutzia. The tree in the Ladies'
garden is crataegus laevigata.
On the west side of the Ladies' garden wall is a
mixed border, with pink the predominant
colour. The roses in this border include 'Fantin-
Latour', 'Fritz Nobis', 'Frau Dagmar Hastrup',
'Margaret Hilling', and climbing roses 'Albertine'
and 'Purity'.
The rose over the arch, looking through into the
ladies garden is R. 'Goldfinch'.
The border nearer the gatehouse has a blue yel-
low and grey theme and includes roses 'Maigold',
'Golden Wings' and 'Windrush', together with
berberis, potentillas, hypericum and campanulas.
The existing planting is based on advice given by
Lanning Roper in 1970, the work being carried
out by the then gardener Bert Dancer. In the
1980s, the planting was developed by Randal
Anderson, like Lanning Roper also of American
origin. The garden is now maintained and devel-
oped by one gardener , Chris Hopkins, working
on his own.
Telephone 01295 276070
www.broughtoncastle.com
Signpost - page 15
 County Signpost
SUDELEY CASTLE
Sudeley Castle, located near Winchcombe,
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, is described as
'the most romantic Castle in England', and has a
host of enticing features and entertainments
making it the ideal family day out. Now the
home of Lord and Lady Ashcombe and the
Dent Brocklehursts, Sudeley Castle nestles in the
Cotswolds Hills and boasts over 1200 acres of
landscaped gardens. A day ticket includes entry
to the gardens, medieval ruins, exhibitions,
pheasantry and play area, all of which create a
great day out for all the family.
Connoisseur Tours of the splendid private
apartments are available three days a week (see
Sudeley Castle’s website for details), taking in the
Stone Drawing Room, Library and Billiard
Room, and masterworks by Rubens, Van Dyck
and Lorraine. Redesigned in the 19th century by
Signpost - page 16
Emma Dent and later by Lady Ashcombe,
there’s an elaborate Tudor knot garden,
Victorian topiary yew hedges and wildflowers,
anemones and snakes head fritillaries in long
grass, carpets of blue squill under silver pear
trees, magnolias and cherry trees. The centre-
piece Queen’s Garden is in the original parterre,
where cleomes, echinacea and agapanthus
flowerbeds thrive. Ancient roses include
Damascus, Provence, Ispahan, Othello, Falstaff,
William Shakespeare, Celeste, and Great
Maiden's Blush. The gardening team hold 'Rose
Week' each year, with the opportunity to talk to
the gardeners about the principles used at
Sudeley.
A grand family day out should also take in the
Banqueting Hall ruins, flanked by sycamores and
cascades of thyme, and including the original
www.countysignpost.co.uk
fireplace and an old stone chair. The Mulberry
Garden at the Dungeon Tower has banks of
cowslip and primroses. The White Garden is
where Katherine Parr would have walked with
Lady Jane Grey and two topiary figures draped
in ivy and roses represent them. Around the
Chapel are white Passion Flower, white roses
and tulips, tobacco and petunias.
The Secret Garden has 1000 tulips, along with
heliotropes, penstemons and sage, while the
Victorian Kitchen Garden by the arched gate-
house is a vegetable patch of rare plants. A fam-
ily attraction and a conservation centre, it pro-
duces Onions, Asparagus, purple Beans, Peas
and tayberries. By a canal stocked with koi carp,
the Tithe Barn has wild hollyhocks, cardoons,
hydrangeas and wisteria, and in its rear, beech,
oak, ferns, hostas, foxgloves, primroses and
cyclamen. Finally, the Wildflower Walk And
Meadow offer groves of crab-apples, almonds
and apricots, as well as oxeye daisies, camassias,
sweet rocket and cranesbill, butterflies,
caterpillars and birds.
It leads on to the Pheasantry –
another must-see accessible to
ticket holders, and an organic
part of this captivating family
attraction. It hosts 15 rare species
from around the globe, notably
Indian peafowl and red jungle-
fowl, as well as Blue Eared,
Cheer, Golden, Lady Amherst’s,
Mikado, Reeves’, Swinhoe’s, True
Silver and Yellow Golden pheas-
ants, not to mention Himalayan
Monals, Javanese Green Peafowl,
Satyr and Temminck Tragopans,
and Siamese Firebacks. Twitchers
will tell you it’s worth the ticket
alone. But there’s still a vast
amount to see and do on this
variegated family day out.
A children’s play area is nestled in the trees and
features a huge wooden fort, slide and fabulous
zip wire. The family picnic area and lawn makes
the perfect place to stop whilst the kids have fun.
Numerous exhibitions include Katherine Parr’s
Keepsakes and a new exhibition for 2009 focus-
ing on Henry VIII and his visit to Sudeley in
1535.
Six Wives At Sudeley focuses on Sudeley Castle’s
royal connections, with an exhibition of Tudor
costumes from “The Six Wives of Henry VIII”
TV series. The Emma Dent Collection ranges
from diaries, needlework and jewellery, to auto-
graphs of Victorian authors, artists and states-
men. Threads Of Time looks at the Dents’ and
Brocklehursts’ textile firms and features a 17th
century Stumpwork casket with seven secret
drawers, Whitework, costumes, furnishings, silk
wall hangings and woven tapestries.
Telephone 01242 602308
www.sudeleycastle.co.uk
Signpost - page 17
 County Signpost www.countysignpost.co.uk

SULGRAVE MANOR ment made for the Manor’s ownership – it is

held in trust for the peoples of the United States
and the United Kingdom. For the peoples, not
the governments, not large organisations. It has
survived without government or large organisa-
tional funding for nearly a century through
unremitting efforts to earn its own living.
Tours through three hundred years of history
are led by friendly and informative guides who
will introduce visitors to what many consider to
be a gem amongst historic houses. Set in a his-
torical garden, the Manor is surrounded by stun-
ning countryside. For younger visitors there are
trails and challenges and a Children’s Tour on
Saturdays.
Open: April-October Weekends from 12 noon.
May-October Tues-Thurs from 2pm (August
only from noon).Last entry 4pm. Also Family
Holiday Mondays including US Holidays:
Presidents’ Day and Labor Day; extended open-
ing during School Half Terms; Easter,
Independence Day, Apple Weekend, Christmas.
Open all year for pre-booked Groups except
Christmas/New Year.
Sulgrave, near Banbury OX17 2SD
Telephone 01295 760205
www.sulgravemanor.org.uk

Sulgrave Manor, once home to the ancestors of
George Washington, is a superb example of a
small manor house from the time of
Shakespeare with a charming eighteenth century
wing.
Sulgrave Manor is a small manor-house, built by
a Lancashireman born at Warton about 1500.
The Manor was established in 1539 by Lawrence
Washington who emigrated from the north of
England and his great-great grandson, John,
emigrated to Virginia in 1657. John’s great
grandson, George, grew up as a loyal subject of
King George II and became the leader of the
first nation to break free from the British
Empire.
The shabby farmhouse that was bought in 1914
was smaller than the house that Lawrence
Washington built.
Sulgrave Manor shares with no other historic
house the distinction of its symbolic role,
expressed at its opening to the public in 1921 by
the Marquess of Cambridge, the King’s brother-
in-law, as “a centre from which sentiments of
friendship and goodwill between the British and
American peoples will for ever radiate.” This
role received concrete expression in the arrange-

Signpost - page 18 Signpost - page 19

 BOURTON HOUSE
GARDEN
A Brief History
Since Saxon times, the stone built village of
Bourton-on-the-Hill has hugged the Cotswold
escarpment. Built on monastic lands, Bourton
House with its Brewhouse, Stables and Coach
House have created a courtyard since the late
16th century.
The Tithe barn preserves the dedication stone of
1570 with the initials RP for the then owner
Richard Palmer. It has been classified as a Grade
I listed building.
The house itself was rebuilt as a foursquare
Jacobean house by the eminent lawyer, Sir
Nicholas Overbury in 1598. At the beginning of
the 18th century, the unfashionable house was
once again rebuilt on the earlier footprint by
Signpost - page 20
Bourton House Garden from the raised walk
Alexander Popham, the grandson of a
Cromwellian general. The house was taken down
to its lower ground floor, the whimsical towers
retained, the slits replaced by generous Georgian
sash windows. The architect remains unknown.
This setting has remained unchanged for three
hundred years.
The lands originally belonging to the manor
were sold in 1851 by Sir James Buller East MP,
to the neighbouring Sezincote estate. Today the
house is surrounded by its immediate 3 acre gar-
den and a seven acre walled pasture, now given
over to specimen trees and sculpture.
In 1953 the house and land were sold at auction
and there followed a quick succession of
www.countysignpost.co.uk
Knot Garden
owners, 6 to be exact, until 1983 when the house
was acquired by Richard and Monique Paice.
The ornamental garden with its 18th century
raised walk overlooking rolling hills; its original
kitchen garden and orchard have been trans-
formed in the past 25 years and this achievement
was recognised when Bourton House Garden
received the prestigious HHA/Christie's
GARDEN OF THE YEAR (2006) award.
Bourton House Garden is an award-winning
three acre garden surrounding an 18th century
Manor House and Grade I listed 16th century
Tithe Barn. The garden features wide
herbaceous borders with stunning plant and
colour combinations; imaginative topiary
including a knot garden, parterre and topiary
walk; water features including a raised 18th
century basket pond from the Great Exhibition
of 1851; an unusual shade house and many
creatively planted pots. The unusual, rare and
exotic make Bourton House Garden a
plantsman’s delight!
Bourton House Garden opened to the public for
the first time on a single Sunday in 1987 in aid of
the National Garden Scheme. Twenty years
later, the garden received the prestigious
HHA/Christie’s ‘Garden of the Year’ Award, a
tribute to the dedication of everyone involved in
its creation over the years.
In 2010, Bourton House Garden came under
new ownership but remains open for the
enjoyment of garden visitors, many of whom
return year after year! The garden continues to
evolve in the capable hands of long-serving
Head Gardener Paul Nicholls and his assistant
Jacky Rae.
2011 season
Open to the public every Wednesday, Thursday
and Friday from April to end of October
10am to 5pm
Admission £6
Groups are welcome Monday to Friday
April to October
Advance booking is essential
Tea/Coffee and delicious home-made cakes are
available in the Tithe Barn from June to
September
Charity Open Days:
Tuesday 26th July for The RNLI –
saving lives at sea
Sunday 14th August for National Garden
Scheme (NGS)
Telephone:01386 700754
Email: info@bourtonhouse.com
www.bourtonhouse.com
Signpost - page 21
 County Signpost
WATERPERRY GARDENS
Waterperry Gardens are steeped in history, with
the famous, purely herbaceous border dating
back to the 1930’s when Beatrix Havergal estab-
lished her Ladies Horticultural School. Running
more than 200 feet along the length of the old
kitchen garden wall, the south facing border pro-
vides interest from early May to late September,
using early, mid-season and late-flowering herba-
ceous plants and climbers.
New design elements have been incorporated
into the 8 acre gardens over the years, including
the colour border, showing how to use flowers,
stems, autumn foliage and fruit in design. A
formal knot garden reflects planting through the
ages from Tudor to modern times and there’s
also a herb border and spectacular white and
lavender wisteria arch. The Mary Rose Gardens
Signpost - page 22
show how roses can be used in design and
there’s a waterlily canal, herbaceous nursery
stock beds from which all our cuttings are taken
for the plants sold in the walled garden plant
centre; island beds designed by nurseryman Alan
Bloom; an alpine garden and riverside walk.
As well as an art gallery, gift barn, small rural life
museum and teashop, the garden shop sells a full
range of garden sundries, gifts and books.
There’s a full programme of Arts, Crafts and
Gardening Courses running each year and annu-
al events – from outdoor theatre to horticultur-
ally themed events and special trails for children.
Telephone 01844 339254
Email office@waterperrygardens.co.uk
Website: www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
www.countysignpost.co.uk
ROUSHAM
HOUSE AND GARDEN
Rousham and its landscape garden should be a
place of pilgrimage for students of the work of
William Kent (1685-1748). Rousham represents
the first phase of English landscape design and
remains almost as Kent left it, one of the few
gardens of this date to have escaped alteration,
with many features which delighted eighteenth
century visitors to Rousham still in situ, such as
the ponds and cascades in Venus’s Vale, the Cold
Bath, and seven arched Praeneste, Townsend’s
Building, the Temple of the Mill, and, on the Rousham Gardens are open every day of the
skyline, a sham ruin known as the ‘Eyecatcher’. year from 10 am. Last admission is at 4.30 pm
and the gardens close at 6 pm (or at dusk, if ear-
The house, built in 1635 by Sir Robert Dormer, lier). Tickets for the garden are £5 per person.
is still in the ownership of the same family. Kent
added the wings and the stable block. The south Rousham House is only open by prior arrange-
front is almost as Kent left it, but for the replace- ment. The cost is £10 per person, with a mimi-
ment of the octagonal glazing with plain glass. mum fee of £100. Please contact Charles
This was unfortunately carried out by the archi- Cottrell-Dormer to book a tour.
tect St. Aubyn when he added the north side of
the house in 1876. Kent made alterations to the Children under 15 will not be admitted unless by
interior of the house, which retains some 17th prior arrangement. No dogs are allowed in the
century panelling and the original staircases, fur- gardens.
niture, pictures and bronzes.
Refreshments
Don’t miss the walled garden with its herbacious
borders, small parterre, pigeon house and There is no tea-room at Rousham. However, you
espalier apple trees. A fine herd of rare Long- are welcome to bring your own picnic lunch or
Horn cattle are to be seen in the park. When you tea.
visit Rousham you will find it uncommercial and
unspoilt with no tea room and no shop. Bring a Telephone 01869 347 110
picnic, wear comfortable shoes and it is yours for www.rousham.org
the day.
Rousham is also available for wedding recep-
tions, photographic shoots and events such as
car club rallies. No children under 15. No dogs.
Signpost - page 23
 County Signpost www.countysignpost.co.uk

TRULL HOUSE KINGSTON BAGPUIZE HOUSE

In 1995, with her husband Francis, Virginia
Grant began work on the restoration of the gar-
dens. Since 2003 two areas of woodland have
been restored and in February visitors to the gar-
dens can enjoy large areas of naturalized snow-
drops. Planting of new trees and shrubs contin-
ues both to replace specimens lost and also to
extend the range of plants the visitor can enjoy.

The tea room in the basement of the house

The family home of Virginia Grant and her
children Elizabeth and Alexander, Kingston
Bagpuize House is open to the public on select-
ed days and for group visits throughout the year
on weekdays by appointment. Licenced for civil
ceremonies. The house and grounds are also
available for wedding receptions, corporate and
charity events and filming.
serves homemade teas on all open days as well as
morning coffee and lunches to groups by
appointment. Plants are available for sale in the
Herb Garden.
Telephone 01865 820259
www.kingstonbagpuizehouse.org.uk

Originally built in the 1660’s the house was

Trull House, built in 1843, is set amidst 8 acres
of gardens in glorious Cotswold countryside.
The gardens were laid out at the beginning of
the last century and comprise many varieties of
garden compartments. The features include a
sunken lily pond, rockery, wild garden, walled
gardens, expansive lawns and mature trees and
shrubs.
• The Garden was featured in 'Country Living'
June 2003
• Plants (all home grown), as well as cut flowers
and vegetables from the garden are available for
sale
• Teas (homemade cakes etc) are available each
day the garden is open and for groups
• Displayed in the garden are magnificent
Burrelli pots from New Zealand (totally frost
proof) which are available for sale
Telephone 01285 841255
www.trullhouse.co.uk
remodelled in the early 1700’s in brick with
stone quoins and surrounds to the large
Georgian style windows. There is an elegant
symmetry to all sides of the house.
The most prominent feature inside Kingston
Bagpuize House is the cantilevered staircase in
Scots pine and oak dating from the 18th centu-
ry remodeling. The well proportioned panelled
rooms have some good furniture and pictures.
The gardens as seen today were principally
influenced by Miss Marlie Raphael the owner
from 1939 until 1976. She added to the exist-
ing formal gardens by creating the Woodland
Garden and Shrub Border, planting many
unusual species of to trees, shrubs, perennials
and bulbs including snowdrops give year round
interest and colour. A raised terrace walk leads
to an 18th century pavilion with views both
across the lawns to the house and over the gar-
dens.

Signpost - page 24 Signpost - page 25

 County Signpost
BIRDLAND -
PARK & GARDENS
Birdland is a natural setting of woodland, river
and gardens, which is inhabited by over 500
birds, with the only group of King Penguins in
England, Wales and Ireland. Over 50 aviaries
and a Desert House and you will also see a dis-
play of fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects.
There is the Penguin Café, indoor and outdoor
Picnic areas, an indoor and outdoor play areas,
Gift Shop and much more.
Another 2.5 acres have recently been added to
the site and a nature trail area has been devel-
oped called ‘Marshmouth Reserve’ which is
Signpost - page 26
www.countysignpost.co.uk
Egg and the Life of Birds, seating and soft play New for 2011 Encounter Zone where you will
area. There is also ‘Trigg Hall’ the new meet all kinds of creatures for an experience to
Conference/classroom/lecture theatre facility . remember.
This versatile space seats up to 60 delegates the-
atre style, or for smaller groups the boardroom Arrange ‘Keeper for the Day’ or ‘Feed a
setting offers a more personal environment. Penguin’
Ideal for meetings, interviews, seminars or pre-
sentations. Newsletter ‘Pelican Notes’ available form the
website.
Family Ticket, Season Ticket, Bird Adoption and
Educational sheets are available. www.birdland.co.uk
Telephone 01451 820480
open now, but will be opened officially on 14th
May 2011 by ‘Countryfiles’ Adam Henson. The
area is a maze of paths and copses with marsh-
land and ponds and views over the Windrush
River that will develop over the next few years.
This will be a chance for you to immerse your-
self it a small area of the Cotswold countryside
where you can see many species from a dragon-
fly to a kingfisher.
The refurbishment of the tropical house to
‘Discovery Zone’ is nearly finished, which now
offers a dry area to explain the Life Cycle of the
Signpost - page 27
 County Signpost
DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE
175 years after it was incorporated by Act of
Parliament in 1835, the Great Western remains
Britain's best loved railway. It was built on a
heroic scale by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, with
a broad gauge, beautiful bridges and sumptuous
stations. It served some of the most scenic areas
of England and Wales and called itself The
Holiday Line. It invented the Cornish Riviera as
a tourist destination. In the 20th century the
GWR’s Cheltenham Flyer was the world’s fastest
train. Its locomotive policy in the first half of
the 20th century was an object lesson in the ben-
efits of standardisation and evolutionary design.
With the end of steam on the horizon by the
1940s, the GWR had built a fleet of diesel rail-
cars and experimented with gas turbine locomo-
tives.
Today Didcot Railway Centre encapsulates the
long history of the GWR. The replica of the
1840 broad gauge locomotive Fire Fly offers an
experience of travel at the beginning of the rail-
way era. The collection of more than 20 stan-
Signpost - page 28
www.countysignpost.co.uk
dard gauge locomotives from the 1890s to the
1940s include many of the standard classes typ-
ified by tapered boilers, copper-capped chimneys
and Brunswick green paintwork. They are com-
pleted by Didcot’s preserved fleet of chocolate
and cream carriages. On a steamday you are
guaranteed a ride in vintage carriages from the
1930s or 1940s.
But Didcot is much more than a train ride. The
original engine shed, built 1932, is an exhibition
hall which displays locomotives in their authen-
tic surroundings. As the only complete GWR
locomotive depot that has survived, Didcot also
has a coal stage and turntable in working order.
Within the railway centre, buildings have been
brought from around the GWR system and re-
erected. These included two signal boxes, one of
which is regularly opened with staff to explain The railway centre also includes a comprehen- 2010 saw Didcot Railway Centre gain full
how semaphore signalling works. There is a pic- sive museum of small relics from the GWR. accreditation as a working museum, after many
nic area where you can sit and watch the trains These include the colourful posters which deco- years of working towards this; having been
go past. rated stations, an amazing variety of silverware, recognised by the Museums, Libraries and
glass and crockery used in restaurant cars in the Archives council (MLA), as meeting the national
age of elegant dining, and the everyday items standard for UK museums.
crafted in brass or steel and marked with the
magic initials GWR. 2011 will see celebrations to mark the 50th
anniversary of the founding of the Great
An interactive Science, Learning and Railways Western Society; as well as the unveiling of the
exhibition in two railway coaches explains the steam rail motor, with a new shed to go with it,
theory of steam locomotion to young and not so along with the much anticipated appearance of
young visitors. The original air raid shelter from King class locomotive, King Edward II, back to
1940 has been restored as an experience of that full steaming health, for the first time since being
dark era when the railways helped to ensure vic- withdrawn by British Railways in 1962.
tory, but emerged so run down that nationalisa-
tion was inevitable. In 1948 the GWR became The entrance to Didcot Railway Centre is at
part of British Railways, but the brand is so Didcot Parkway railway station on the London
potent that the privatised train operating compa- to Bristol main line. For information about
ny has re-adopted the name Great Western. events, please refer to the website,
www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
Whether you want to be entertained, educated or or telephone 01235 817200.
to admire engineering excellence, a visit to
Didcot Railway Centre is a great experience.
The 175th Gala - 30th April 2010
Signpost - page 29
 County Signpost www.countysignpost.co.uk

CHINNOR AND PRINCES The railway has wheelchair access, but not on

RISBOROUGH RAILWAY
DMU trains, Disabled toilet facilities.

Light refreshments are available on Chinnor

Station and most trains include a licensed buffet.
Souvenirs of your visit can be purchased in the
gift shop.

Open Times:
Trains run from late Mar to late Oct every
Sunday, also all Bank Holidays and every week-
end in December.
Train Times: 10.15, 11.45, 1.15, 2.45 and 4.15
except December
Talking telephone 01844 353535 for precise days
and events.
Location:
Chinnor station is situated in Station Road just
off the B4009. The M40 J6 is 3 miles away and
Princes Risborough is 4 miles further along the
B4009. Once in Chinnor follow the brown
tourist signs to the railway.
Contact:
Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway Co.,
Station Approach, Station Road, Chinnor, Oxon
OX39 4ER
Talking Timetable: 01844 353535
Party Bookings: 07979 055366
E-mail: enquiries@chinnorrailway.co.uk
Website: www.chinnorrailway.co.uk
Ticket Price:
Adults £9, Children (3-15) £4.50, Concessions
£8 and Family £22.50 (Prices may vary on spe-
cial event days.

The railway is a friendly country branch line in
the style of the former Great Western Railway,
providing heritage train rides for both families
and enthusiasts alike.
The line runs for 3.5 miles along the foot of the
Chiltern Hills, parallel to the historic Icknield
Way passing through attractive countryside and
red kites can often be seen circling overhead.
Most trains are steam hauled and operate every
Sunday and Bank Holidays departing from
Chinnor station. The railway is open from
Mothers Day to Halloween and generally tickets
give unlimited travel on the day of purchase. The
railway also runs its popular Santa and Mince Pie
specials during December and it is advisable to
pre-book for Santa!
It also offers superb cream teas on many of the
Sunday afternoon steam hauled trains which
George Pembroke of Steam Railway wrote ‘The
cream tea is the best on-train catering item
offered on normal service, and is highly recom-
mended’. For Cream teas availability and
advance booking please telephone 07979
055366.
The Railway offers 'Steam Driver Experience
Days' when members of the public can learn
how to control a steam locomotive on the
Icknield Line. Telephone 07784 189322 for
more details.

Signpost - page 30 Signpost - page 31

 County Signpost
HERITAGE
MOTOR
CENTRE
Fun for all the family.
The Heritage Motor Centre houses informative
and interactive exhibitions charting the history
of British motoring from the 1890s to present
day.
Walk the 'Time Road' and discover how motor-
ing and family life has changed through the
decades with period music and memorable
events including the introduction of double yel-
low lines.
Travel through 'Making British Cars' and see
how influential the motor industry has been over
the years and where it is heading in the future.
Get 'Under The Skin' and unravel the mystery of
how cars work with interactive exhibits.
Experience how suspension has improved over
time and compare the difference between rack
and pin and power steering.
Free guided tours operate twice a day and there
is an onsite café serving hot and cold meals and
snacks. Outdoor activities include Land Rover
Signpost - page 32
4x4 Experience, and children’s Miniature
Roadway (each with separate charge), nature
path, children's playground and picnic site.
Check the website for school holiday activities
and special weekend events.
New for 2011 Sci-fi at the
Movies Exhibition
19 February – 4 September
A unique opportunity to see original artefacts,
replica models and costumes from your
favourite Sci-Fi movies! Including Star Wars,
E.T. Harry Potter, Predator, and many more.
This exciting exhibition, from a private collec-
tion will not only showcase some of the most
popular and iconic superheroes and villains
complete with weaponry and costumes, but will
also take you on a journey of discovery provid-
ing an amazing insight into film history, charac-
ter profiles and little known film trivia.
Telephone: 01926 641188
Email: Enquiries@heritage-motor-centre.co.uk
Website: www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk
www.countysignpost.co.uk
DEAN HERITAGE
CENTRE
If you’re in the Forest of Dean you should look
at combining food with a visit to the Dean
After your meal or
snack why not go in
Heritage Centre at Soudley. Because it is tucked and look around? As
in a quiet valley in the Forest, they have a captive a family you can go
market but luckily it is a very good place to be downstairs (or in the
captive. You can enter the Cafe without having lift if you have a
to buy an admission ticket and there is plenty of pushchair) and
choice from all day breakfasts to locally sourced together explore the
bangers and mash, teas are served in a mug and Centre itself through
the portions are generous and tasty. Together a mixture of indoor
you can to sit and eat (high chairs are available) galleries and outdoor
while you look out he across the lake with its exhibits, the latter
water birds providing plenty of entertainment. found on a walk
around the lake.
While moving through the galleries focusing on
the Royal Forest’s history, you will find activities
for children, from brass rubbing to dressing up
clothes in the recreated old school room. The
site’s atmosphere is rustic and feels remote from
the hustle and bustle of the modern world and
is open throughout the year except between 24th
– 26th December: allow an hour for the exhibits
inside.
Telephone: 01594 822170
www.deanheritagecentre.com
Images © Rupert Marlow Photography
Signpost - page 33
HOOK NORTON BREWERY
VISITOR CENTRE
The Visitors Centre is housed in the original
maltings that were bought by John Harris in
1849 and where he commenced brewing.
Tours start from the Visitors Centre and last
approximately 2 hours. They consist of a trip
around the Brewery, museum and village muse-
um, followed by beer sampling. On leaving you
will receive a badged glass as a memento of your
visit.
Brewery Tours & Brewery
Museum
Tours start from the Visitors Centre and last
approximately 2 hours. They consist of a trip
around the Brewery, museum and village muse-
um, followed by beer sampling. On leaving you
will receive a Badged glass as a memento of your
visit.
Regretfully the Brewery itself is not suitable for
people with walking difficulties or children
under 12. However, the shop and reception area
is able to cater for both.
The brewer’s craft is rooted in antiquity and
many of its secrets are on view for all to see at
Signpost - page 34
the Hook Norton Visitors’ Centre and brewery
museum. Anyone wandering through this aston-
ishing display quickly realises that traditional
methods have survived for sound, practical rea-
sons. You can also witness the steam engine on
the ground floor of the brewery itself.
The Shire Horses at Work in
the Brewery
The shire horse drawn dray at Hook Norton
Brewery ceased deliveries in 1950, but was revi-
talised in 1985, mainly for public relation pur-
poses. The shire horses now only deliver locally
within 5 miles of the brewery, but attend many
public functions such as fetes, pub openings and
on the odd occasion, weddings and the Royal
Windsor Horse Show. It should be noted that
out of all of the breweries that own horse drawn
drays, only two still actually deliver their prod-
ucts by dray and shire horse. At present the
Brewery has three shire horses (Consul, Major
and Nelson), who are looked after by their two
draymen Roger Hughes and Philip White.
Telephone 01608 737210
www.hooknortonbrewery.co.uk
www.countysignpost.co.uk
ROVES FARM
A great family day out, come Additional indoor daily activities include snip-
rain or shine! ping, sticking and decorating during Kids Craft,
and Meet and Feed the animals.
There are lots of indoor and outdoor facilities to Children’s Birthday Parties at Roves Farm are
entertain everyone, from the very young to the always a huge hit, with a large list of activities on
older generation. Roves Farm is a 166 hectare offer, leaving ythe house intact and mess free!
working, mixed, open farm situated 3 miles East Other Group Visits, Social Parties and Barn
of Swindon. Dances are also very popular.
The Free Tractor Rides around Roves Farm, Every Friday during School Term Time we hold
which also have wheelchair spaces, provide visi- Teddy Bear’s Picnic. Additionally, there is a large
tors with the opportunity to see the 60 acres of range of Weekly Themed Activities every School
wild flower meadows, woodlands and willows, Holiday. Including, The Three Little Pigs, Easter
and usually stop for a fun, interactive activity Bunny, Scarecrow Week, The Very Hungry
along the way. Children can also become a prop- Caterpillar, Robin Hood, The Bear Hunt,
er farmer on the pedal and electric tractors in the Sunflower Week and Pumpkin Week. Father
barns. Christmas and the Nativity Plays with Live
Animals are always a massive hit in December.
Roves Farm has a large range of Farm Animals
including, Sheep, Donkeys, Shetland Ponies, Roves Farm is open 10:30am – 5pm from 13th
Highland Cattle, Goats and Pigs! There are
always lots of little piglets running around, along
February to 31st October 2010, daily during
school holidays, bank holidays, June and July, but
with lambs or baby goats to bottle feed. The free is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays at all other
range poultry are always interesting to watch too! times. Please see www.rovesfarm.co.uk for
And for those that like a cuddle, Pets Corner is
full of rabbits, guinea pigs and chicks for the
more details and for Christmas Open Days.
young and old to hold and stroke!
Outdoor activities:
Adventure Play Area (including sandpit, slides,
swings and climbing ropes), 2 Acre Willow Maze
with a quiz sheet, Family Walk with a children’s
activity sheet past the animal paddocks, Willow
Village Picnic Area and Animal Racing during
weekends and school holidays.
Undercover activities:
The Indoor Adventure Play Area (including a
ball pond and wavy slide!), Bouncy Castle, Huge
Climbing Bale Stack with Tunnels, Under 5’s
Soft Play and Indoor Sandpit.
Signpost - page 35
 COURT BARN MUSEUM
Court Barn Museum, celebrates the skill and
imagination of designers and makers who have
worked in Chipping Campden and the north
Cotswolds since the start of the 20th century.
The story begins in 1902 when C.R Ashbee, the
radical Arts & Crafts designer best known for his
elegant silverwork, moved his London East End
workshops here. It was part of his romanticism
to think that craft would be at home in the
country, he wanted to give his craftsmen a
healthier life.
Based in an old Silk Mill, his Guild of Handicraft
included 40 workers skilled in everything from
furniture to jewellery, and for a while the
enterprise thrived. Ashbee and the Guild had an
impact on the town, digging a swimming pool,
reviving the brass band, and starting the
Campden School of Arts and Crafts.
But his dream did not last long. Deprived of its
economic lifeblood the Guild was a commercial
failure and disbanded in 1908. The permanent
exhibition at the Museum starts with this story
but then turns it round, showing how designers
Signpost - page 36
© GoHT
and makers have since flourished in the
Cotswolds.
Objects on display include engravings of
Campden by the visionary architect FL Griggs.
There are also books bound by Katharine
Adams for the London printer Emery Walker,
who wanted to see her recognised as the finest
artist binder in England.
Also on display is a silver tea set designed in
1964 by Robert Welch and made for Heals,
London. Welch set up a studio and workshop in
the Silk Mill in 1955. Throughout his career, he
liked to move back and forth between industrial
production and one-off, hand-made silver-
smithing. The family company is still based in
Campden.
Throughout the year the Museum runs an excit-
ing programme of exhibitions, events, work-
shops and lectures.
Telephone 01386 841951
www.courtbarn.org.uk
GLOUCESTER
WATERWAYS MUSEUM
Compliment your visit with a 45 minute boat trip
with commentary along the Gloucester &
Sharpness canal aboard Queen Boadicea II
‘Dunkirk Little Ship’, or book one of our longer
themed cruises on board King Arthur. King
Arthur is also available for private hire on the
canal or river Severn.
The Museum gift shop is a real treasure trove,
stocking books, maps, model boats, prints and
painted ware plus general giftware. Coots
cafe/bar is adjacent to the museum offering a
wide selection of refreshments.
Telephone 01452 318201
gloucester@thewaterwaystrust.org.uk
www.gloucesterwaterwaysmuseum.org.uk
Visit Gloucester Waterways Museum and dis-
cover the fascinating history of Britain’s most
inland port.
The Gloucester Waterways Museum is housed in
an original Grade II listed Victorian warehouse.
Interactive displays and archive films across
extensive galleries illustrate the fascinating sto-
ries of our waterways. Discover facts about the
ingenious engineering involved in the waterways
system, transport and trade, working and living
on the canals. Visit the painted ware gallery on
level 3.
On the museum quayside visitors can see and
climb aboard a range of historic boats, including
the impressive steam dredger.
Signpost - page 37
 COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK
AND GARDENS
www.countysignpost.co.uk

with its exuberant planting, free flying birds

and a pair of very shy sloths!

Walk with free-roaming lemurs in the Walk-

through Madagascar enclosure.

The Park is open daily from 10am and many

families will spend a full day enjoying the
relaxed atmosphere, picnicking or eating in
the large self-service Oak Tree Restaurant,
riding on the train and playing in the adven-
ture playground. Facilities are good with
wheelchair access to all the enclosures, free
parking, award winning toilet blocks and gift
shop.
Telephone 01993 823006 Sifaka
email: feedback@cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Burford, Oxfordshire the perfect setting for tropical birds, penguins

The Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of and smaller mammals including the ever-popular
Oxfordshire’s major attractions and one of the meerkats. Here you will find the Tropical House
most beautiful wildlife parks in the country. Set
in 140 acres of landscaped parkland with a
Listed Georgian Gothic style Manor House at its
centre it has a diverse animal collection many of
which are rare and endangered in the wild. The
Park plays an active role in numerous important
captive breeding programmes.

Visitors walk through the grounds to see Asiatic

lions, a trio of young White Rhinos, Bactrian
camels, giraffes, wolverines, Giant Anteaters and
many more.

The Walled Garden, once the kitchen garden for

the Manor House has been transformed with
displays of exotic plants, tender perennials and is

Lemurs
Signpost - page 38 Signpost - page 39

NATURE IN ART
A good food stop, especially if you or any mem-
bers of your family have an interest in art, is
Nature in Art at Twigworth, north of
Gloucester.
The coffee shop area looks out over the garden
with plenty of sculptures to see and then visit
after you have eaten. Part of the seating area is
in a conservatory so you have a light and airy feel
for your coffee and cake or meal. Food ranges
from Jacket potatoes to quiches and soups, so it
is simple but filling and you can be assured a
Signpost - page 40
friendly service - the cookies are definitely worth
sampling with a hot drink!
There are books to browse through too if you
want to make your visit more leisurely.
After you have eaten you can discover the vari-
ous rooms in the 1700’s Georgian Mansion,
which houses art featuring many different types
of animals, birds, insects etc in pictures and
sculptures. Some are abstract, others life studies,
but plenty to look at and enjoy for children and
adults.
As a year round attraction you and the family can
enjoy it throughout the year as it only closes
between December 24th – 26th and on
Mondays.
Telephone 01452 731422
www.nature-in-art.org.uk
Images © Rupert Marlow Photography
CORINIUM MUSEUM
The award winning Corinium Museum
is the must-see visitor attraction of the
Cotswolds.
You can leave the 21st century behind
you and discover the treasures of the
Cotswolds as you explore its history at
this multi award winning Museum.
The museum is home to one of the
largest collections of Romano-British
antiquities extensively from Corinium,
Roman Britain's second largest city.
You can admire the work of
Prehistoric metal smiths, experience
life as a Roman and take a peek © Cotswold District Council
through the window of a Roman town talks offering an opportunity to look at objects
house and marvel at the many stunning from the Museum’s reserve collections. From art
mosaics. and architecture, to archaeology and local histo-
ry, there’s something for everybody to enjoy. For
You will also come face to face with the Anglo more details please look at their website or pick
Saxons of Lechlade and see them reunited with up their exhibition and events leaflet.
their astonishing buried treasures. And you will
be amazed by the Medieval sculpture, Civil War On site is also the excellent Cirencester Visitor
coin hoards and experience the elegance of Information Centre which has information on
Georgian Cirencester. the area including local attractions, events and
travel. It also has a fantastic range of gifts main-
The museum is an inspiring and interactive expe- ly focusing on the Romans and the Cotswolds.
rience for all the family. It features fun comput- There is also a lovely café next door called Jacks
er interactives and hands on activities that bring which serves morning coffee, light lunches and
history to life. The museum caters for visitors of afternoon tea.
all ages and along side the permanent trails and
activities, in the holidays there are special drop in Telephone: 01285 655 611
activities and trails with prizes for the young. www.coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk
The museum also has a fantastic events and
exhibitons programme and the temporary exhi-
bition space can be enjoyed as part of your visit
or viewed for free seperately
The museum coordinates a vibrant evening lec-
ture programme delivered by guest speakers who
are leaders in their field of study. Day Schools
offer an in-depth look at a special subject area.
Alternatively there are afternoon talks by popu-
lar local speakers and short lunchtime treasure
© Cotswold District Council
Signpost - page 41
 County Signpost
JOHN MOORE
COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM
The John Moore Countryside Museum focuses
on rural Gloucestershire and its wildlife and
being set on the main street through the town
means you can easily uncover a good place to
eat.
You can stop at the nearby 1471 Delicatessen
(named after the Battle of Tewkesbury) or walk
round the corner to the Abbey, which has a small
cafe run by volunteers.
The Bell Hotel does good teas and coffees as
well as some unusual bar snacks. After you have
eaten head back to the museum in its 15th
Century building. Make sure your kids have
Signpost - page 42
© Rupert Marlow Photography
washed their hands because they can stroke a
fox, mole, otter and hedgehog (although they are
examples of taxidermy rather than live inhabi-
tants) with further birds and animals to be dis-
covered over the next two floors.
To help families explore there are quizzes for
children with Moore the Mole providing you
with a score at the end. A trip around the muse-
um should be about an hour.
Telephone 01684 297174
www.johnmooremuseum.org
www.countysignpost.co.uk
COTSWOLD
MOTOR MUSEUM
Another museum set in a beautiful setting Just around the corner, just a minute’s walk, is
blessed with many food options is the the Windrush Garden Cafe, which can give you
Cotswolds Motor Museum in Bourton-on-the- everything from an Eccles cake to a full meal. It
Water. is popular so if it is full you have the whole High
Street to explore including tea rooms, pubs,
This picture perfect village is a popular destina- pizzerias etc.
tion so caters well for tourists. Although the
museum doesn’t offer refreshments at the The museum is open all year except for January
moment they are developing an area next to the and February and allow an hour to visit.
stream for light snacks.
Telephone 01451 821255
Inside your children will discover Brum, the lit- www.cotswoldmotormuseum.co.uk
tle car that starred in his own TV show, but there
are lots more finds to make together, with deliv-
ery vans, sports cars and even a Formula 1 rac-
ing car to see. As well as the cars there are plen-
ty of motoring items and toys dotted throughout
the museum with one area devoted to displaying
the vintage Toy collection.
Images © Rupert Marlow Photography
Signpost - page 43

Trees of the world in one
amazing place
Westonbirt - The National Arboretum, in the
South Cotswolds, is one of the most magical and
important tree gardens in the world. With over
600 acres of picturesque historic landscape, 17
miles of paths to explore, and 16,000 trees -
some of the oldest, rarest and largest of their
kind in the UK.
Spring Blooms…
The rich combination of woodland plants and
wildflowers brings a vibrant beauty in spring.
Breathe in the fresh air whilst you appreciate
magnolias in March, or rhododendrons and
bluebells in May and June. See the website for
regular updates on 'what's looking good',
The leafy glades of summer…
Westonbirt is great for those long summer days.
Take a relaxing walk, have a picnic, or set the
kids free to find our hidden dens or follow a
trail. Flower lovers will find beautiful hydrangeas
in bloom and Indian Bean Tree at its most
dramatic.
World famous autumn colours…
The National Japanese Maple Collection and the
array of colourful autumn trees mean that
Westonbirt is an amazing place to visit from
October to November. See the website for
weekly autumn colour updates.
A winter wonderland…
Winter is truly magical at Westonbirt. Conifers
provide a sculptured backdrop to the deciduous
trees and smaller shrubs, whilst unexpected
Signpost - page 44
WESTONBIRT,
THE NATIONAL
ARBORETUM
colour can be found from flaming red barked
dogwood and scarlet willows.
Refreshments available on site
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum has a
choice of places to eat on site including: The
Maples Restaurant, The Courtyard Cafe and a
Picnic Area.
Maples Restaurant
The restaurant is situated in a beautiful building
next to the main carpark. There are indoor and
outdoor eating areas which overlook the beauti-
ful view of the downs. You can enjoy one of the
delicious hot lunchtime meals which are made
using local ingredients or taste some of the
homemade cakes available all day. Drinks and
snacks are served all day from 10am-5pm.
To contact Maples Restaurant please ring 01666
880558
Courtyard Café
The Courtyard cafe is located next to the Forest
Shop and sells a selection of tasty snacks and hot
and cold drinks. Seating is all outside with some
tables and benches being under cover. The cafe
is open daily from March to December. 10am-
5pm.
Picnic Area
Enjoy a picnic amongst the trees, using the
picnic benches and tables close to the main
parking area.
Other food facilities
There is a microwave available in Maples
Restaurant for heating baby food and milk.
Retail Opening times
There are two great shops at Westonbirt, the Open every day of the year
Plant Centre and The Forest Shop. Open: 9am weekdays, 8am weekends Close: 8pm
summer, 5pm winter, or dusk if earlier
The Forest Shop
When visiting the Arboretum, why not stop by Standard admission prices
the Forest Shop where you'll find something for 2011 prices:
all of the family. With the aim of supporting Adult £6-10
local suppliers, you'll find everything from Concession £5-9
regional pickles and preserves, to hand-crafted Child £2-4
wooden bowls & boxes. For the kids, there is a Children under 5 admitted free
whole nature corner full of books, toys and
educational items. Group rate available for 10+ people booking in
advance.
Whether you are looking for a gift, or wanting to Membership available.
take a memory home of your visit, you'll always
find something unique at the forest shop. Telephone 01666 880220
www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt
The Plant Centre
The Plant Centre at Westonbirt is proud to have
a reputation for stocking a wide range of top
quality plants, some of which are rare or unusu-
al. The speciality is quite naturally Acers, but
there is more to the Plant Centre than these
special plants. Inside the Plant Centre shop there
is a wide range of Johnsons and Franchi seeds,
greetings cards, books, garden essentials and
bird products. The friendly staff are always
pleased to help customers choose the right plant
for their needs.
Walking in Old Arboretum © Rob Cousins
Signpost - page 45
 County Signpost
THE CHILTERNS
Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty
The Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty (AONB) stretches from the River
Thames in Oxfordshire up through
Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire to Hitchin in
Hertfordshire. It is a beautiful area, full of
rolling chalk hills, beech woodland, clear chalk
streams and a wealth of wildlife. It was desig-
nated as an AONB in 1965, in recognition that
its landscape is amongst the finest in the coun-
try. It is one of 47 AONBs in the UK which,
together with National Parks, represent our
most scenic countryside.
The Chiltern Hills have been well-known for
centuries, though not always for the best rea-
sons. In medieval times the heavily-wooded hills
and secluded valleys were the hangout of fugi-
tives escaping the law and the area acquired a
Signpost - page 46
www.countysignpost.co.uk
Whiteleaf Woods © Peter Goodearl
many other attractions. There is even a section
Lovers of wildlife may already know that the on some of the famous people from the past
View of Fingest Valley © John Morris
Chilterns is one of the best places in the UK to who have lived in the area.
bad reputation. However, as nearby London
see the red kite, a stunning bird of prey regular-
grew some of its prosperous citizens began
seeking country estates and a number of great
ly seen soaring above the hills. Once heavily per-
secuted, it became extinct in England in the 19th
houses and parks were created in the Chilterns,
century. Twenty years ago the Chilterns was cho-
gradually improving its respectability. Nowadays
sen as the location for a reintroduction project,
you can visit many of these properties plus a
and since then the kites have thrived here, grow-
wealth of other historic treasures in the area.
ing to thousands in number.
There are lots of ways to enjoy the Chilterns,
There is something to enjoy in every season,
and most will keep you and your wallet healthy!
from stunning bluebell woods in April and May
With over 2000km of footpaths criss-crossing
to hillsides dotted with wildflowers in the sum-
the area, plus the Ridgeway and Thames Path
mer and vistas of red and gold as the woods turn
National Trails, the opportunities to go for sce-
in autumn. Even winter has its attractions, as the
nic walks are endless. You can do a gentle walk
upper reaches of the chalk streams begin to flow
in a valley, visiting attractive villages or strolling
and the red kites are out in full force.
through a river meadow. Those who want some-
thing more active could tackle a longer walk
For lots of information on where to go and
along the Chilterns ridge, admiring the stunning
what to see in the Chilterns AONB, visit
views and getting refreshment in one of the
www.chilternsaonb.org. You can download walk-
many pubs in the area. If you enjoy cycling
ing and cycling leaflets and find out about coun-
there is a good network of off road routes and
tryside sites, local National Trust properties and
quiet country lanes. Red Kite © Gerry Whitlow
Signpost - page 47
DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE
Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 7NJ 01235 817200
info@didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

Recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway with wonderfully restored steam
locomotives.
Featuring the original 1932 built GWR four road shed, in full working condition. With other
original GWR buildings and structures, including the coaling stage with 75,000 gallon water
tank atop. (both working) Also a country station, signal box, and transfer shed.

20 former GWR steam locomotives, including a working (on special occasions) replica broad
gauge (7 ft) locomotive, dating from 1840.
Learn about machines that changed the world, in the interactive Science, Learning and
Railways Exhibition

Over 40 mostly GWR coaches. Over 50 mostly GWR wagons. Four cranes. Carriage and
wagon works.

Working turntable, with demonstrations on steam days.

Special events include Day Out With Thomas. Regular steam days during the year. Open
every weekend, and daily most school holidays. Telephone or refer to website for details.

GWR small relics museum. Café. Shop. Picnic area.

Recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway

Registered Charity No 272616

L AKEVIEW
H OLIDAYS

Perfect for your holiday in the heart of the Cotswolds. A

small development of four lakeside properties finished to
high specification, overlooking the large lawn running
down to the lake.

• 8 acres of stunning ornamental gardens

• Quality plant centre

Lakeview Holidays, Whelford Pools Fisheries

• Teashop • Gallery • Museum.

Whelford Road, Fairford, Gloucestershire GL7 4DT

Tel 1: 01285 713649 Tel 2: 01285 711339
Inspirational gardens, quality plants, sumptuous food

www.lakeviewholidays.co.uk
and great ideas for the home and garden.

www.whelfordpools.co.uk Waterperry Gardens, Waterperry, Near Wheatley, Oxfordshire OX33 1JZ

Tel 01844 339254. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

Signpost - page 48