Things to do
around Burford

Burford sits on a hill that drops away towards the River Windrush, and the walk down its wide high street is the reason most people come. The buildings are largely honey-coloured stone, the shopfronts are small and independent, and within about two miles you'll find 27 places to shop, 13 to eat and drink, seven to stay, plus a museum, one activities provider and a handful of practical services. It's a place for browsing rather than ticking off attractions, and it rewards you for slowing down, looking up at the rooflines and stepping through doorways you weren't planning on.

A good few hours might start at the top of the hill and work downwards. Look in at Manfred Schotten for antique sporting kit and club-room curiosities, then The Stone Gallery for jewellery and craft, and give yourself time at Antiques @ The George, where several dealers share one rambling building. The Tolsey Museum, in the old market house, sets out Burford's trading history in a single small collection. When you've had enough of shopfronts, The Priory is a sensible place to sit down with lunch or a drink before the climb back up.