Britania Gate

You won't be able to pass through the gate itself—it's restricted to official personnel only—but standing here gives you a real sense of what makes this area different from typical Cotswolds villages. The skies above are regularly busy with large transport aircraft coming and going, a constant reminder of the base's operational importance and the modern strategic role this corner of Oxfordshire plays.

The town of Carterton grew up largely because of the RAF presence and serves as a practical hub with shops and everyday services. If you want more to explore, Witney is just a short drive away and offers the character of a proper market town, complete with independent retailers, restaurants, and a church worth your time. For something closer to the traditional Cotswolds feel, Burford is further along and delivers medieval architecture along its high street, plus some pleasant walks down by the river.

This location gives you access to a less visited perspective on the Cotswolds—one shaped by modern history rather than just rolling countryside. It's a good spot to understand how strategic military investment has genuinely influenced the communities and landscape of this part of Oxfordshire.