Here comes the sun! Oxford Property Consulting looks at what’s on in Oxfordshire this summer!
After a long winter and a rather grey and damp spring, we are well overdue some sunshine!
From its honey-stone Cotswold villages to the medieval University city at its heart, Oxfordshire is a beautiful county to behold over the summer. Luckily for residents, our county also has plenty of events and activities on offer to enjoy while the sun is out.
Whether you’re a foodie, a nature fan or looking to spend quality time with the kids during the holidays, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
In our latest blog, we’ve compiled a list of our top six things to do that make Oxfordshire the place to be this summer.
Clementine’s On The Lawn at Blenheim Palace
The famous Blenheim Orangery may be closed for restoration until the autumn but fear not – Clementine’s on the Lawn offers a unique luxury dining experience.
The grand glass marquee seats 180 guests with panoramic views of historic Blenheim Palace and the beautiful south lawn.
The restaurant will be open all summer long between 10am to 5pm serving lunch, Afternoon Tea, summer cocktails and roasts on Sundays.
Plus, between May and September, a live singer will perform on selected dates.
Waterperry Gardens Summer Sculpture Trail
Waterperry Gardens is a hidden gem set in 20 acres of beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, just a stone’s throw from Wheatley.
Previously home to the Waterperry Horticultural School, it now boasts extensive ornamental gardens, a shop, a tearoom, a garden centre and museum.
This year it’s offering an exciting sculpture trail which promises to be fun for the whole family throughout the summer holidays.
Children will be provided with a compass, cryptic clues and directions to follow the trail with a special prize on completion!
The sculpture trail is open every day of the week from 10am to 5.30pm between July 15th and 3rd September.
Uffington White Horse Show
Celebrate the August bank holiday weekend in style at the White Horse Show in Uffington.
The Uffington White Horse is an ancient chalk figure that adorns the rolling hills of the North Wessex Downs.
The White Horse Show, named after the figure, is an annual event that showcases a wide range of craft, food and local produce stalls as well as activities and displays for all ages.
Animal lovers will be able to enjoy equestrian events, falconry and exotic animal displays.
For those who marvel at machines, there will also be a roaring Battle of Britain Memorial Flight in the skies as well as classic car, motorbike and steam engine displays.
Hook Norton Fine Ales Festival
Quench your thirst with a lovely local beer at the Hook Norton Fine Ales Festival!
Hook Norton Brewery is a North Oxfordshire brewery renowned for its premium ranges of cask ales, lagers and ciders.
Its annual Beer Festival showcases the best local and regional beers as well as live music, barbecues and shire horse displays.
The festival will take place on 15th July between 12pm and 11pm. Tickets start from £7.50 and under 18s go free.
Connected Planet at Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Oxford University Museum of Natural History is putting on a unique exhibition exploring the importance of biodiversity across three different environments – land, sea and air.
The exhibit will allow you to explore different ecosystems and the dynamic connection between them.
The exhibition is free to enter and open every day of the week from now until 20th August.
Various workshops will be taking place across the summer as part of the exhibition including a special foraging and natural colour dye workshop that can be pre-booked through the museum website.
Punting on the Cherwell
Punting is perhaps one of Oxford’s greatest traditions, so we had to include it on this list!
Whether you want to try your hand at punting yourself or take a guided trip, we guarantee unparalleled views of the city’s historic sights and the beautiful countryside as well as an enormous amount of fun.
Rent a punt at Magdalen Bridge in the city centre or, if you’re starting in north Oxford, make a trip to the Cherwell Boathouse before taking to the water for a tranquil river cruise.