Britons don’t have to spend hundreds of pounds to travel as there are many wonderful places to explore right on their doorstep.
Chipping Norton is a beautiful market town in Oxfordshire, England situated in the famous Cotswolds. The market town is the epitome of English charm with honey-coloured cottages, medieval buildings and rolling hills that add to its rustic charm.
The idyllic town is worth exploring because it is quiet and relatively unknown despite its beauty. The Cotswold Tourism Board describes the town as “probably one of the least explored and commercialised areas of the Cotswolds.”
While Chipping Norton may be a hidden gem for tourists it is very popular among celebrities due to its secluded location and has recently been in the spotlight as it is the location for Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat farm.
Anyone who travels to this countryside town can visit the Diddly Squat Shop for themselves and sample jams, chutneys, coffee and any other goods produced on the farm or by local businesses.
It was recently reported that Taylor Swift was renting a cottage near the town with her boyfriend Travis Kelce while touring the UK. The property was reportedly located right next to where Victoria and David Beckham live.
Former Prime Minister David Cameron is also known to live near the town and, in 2023, he chose Chipping Norton as part of his peerage title.
Once you make your way to this peaceful town, it is easy to see why it’s so popular with celebrities – there is plenty to do and it is the perfect place for anyone wanting a quintessential English countryside holiday.
Anyone who visits Chipping Norton should first make their way to the local farmers’ market which the town is named after as ‘Chipping’ comes from the Old English word ‘ceapen’ which means ‘market’.
This incredible market sells all the traditional foods the Cotswolds is known for such as cheeses, jams, ciders, gins and other goodies that will make your mouth water.
Chipping Norton is also fantastic for anyone wanting to relax by a pool as the town has a lido. The traditional outdoor swimming pool is heated and has a nearby cafe and a large tree-lined lawn which often has yoga plus other fitness activities.
Those who love history will love the town as one of the most prominent buildings is the Bliss Tweed Mill, a bizarre but beautiful building first built in 1897 and known for its massive chimney while still looking like a traditional English mansion.
There is also the Almshouses, which are a row of adorable cottages first built in 1640 for local widows. The buildings are located behind St Mary’s Church built in the 15th century, making it the perfect place to take some photographs.
Chipping Norton also has the Rollright Stones nearby – an ancient stone circle located in the countryside which dates back to the Bronze Age and is often the location for local summer and winter festivals.
Once sunset arrives, visitors should consider taking a hot air balloon ride if they are not afraid of heights as it is a unique way to see more of the beautiful Cotswold countryside and have the ultimate airborne adventure.
Chipping Norton has plenty to offer and is the best place to visit for anyone wanting a traditional Cotswolds holiday without the crowds.