Things to do
around Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton sits on a hill at the northern edge of Oxfordshire, and it's a working town before it's a visitor destination — which is rather the point. Within about two miles you'll find 24 places to eat and drink, 16 shops, five places to stay, four services, three places to visit, three activities and one venue for events and culture. That mix means you can spend a morning here without feeling you're being sold a version of the Cotswolds; the market square carries on much as it always has, and the countryside starts within a few minutes' walk in almost any direction.

A good few hours might begin at Nash's Bakery, where you can pick up something warm before you've properly decided what to do with the day. From there, wander the shops — Coles is a useful first stop, and Albion Gallery is worth a look if you like to see what local makers are producing. Come lunchtime, the Mighty Pie Company does exactly what its name suggests, or you can settle in at Bitter & Twisted for a slower sit-down. Practicalities are close at hand too, with Chipping Norton Health Centre in town should you need it.