Stratford-Upon-Avon is the capital of Shakespeare’s country and the Bard’s birthplace whereas nearby Warwick is the county’s capital, crowned with a magnificent castle. Here in the very heart of the Heart of England you can discover a wealth of history, from heritage houses to fascinating museums. You can also make the most of the glorious country parks, the unspoilt rural countryside or browse through the various craft centres or shops. The list is endless, and with our country cottage holidays the choice is yours.
The Cherwell Valley lies just south of Warwickshire in North Oxfordshire and features the thriving market town of Banbury, famous for its cross, cakes and nursery rhyme.
In south Oxfordshire is Bicester, with its shopping village, and to the north east is Flora Thompson Country and the villages of Fringford, Cottisford and the hamlet of Juniper Hill, immortalised in the book Lark Rise to Candleford.
The Oxford Canal passes through Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and Northamptonshire, covering 78 miles of rural England as it gently winds its way from Coventry to Oxford. It is often referred to as one of the most scenic canals in Britain. Enjoy a pleasant pint in a village pub and watch the boats go by. How very English!