Long Hanborough

What gives Long Hanborough genuine character is its history. At the turn of the 19th century, it was the site of a remarkable food riot led by women, evidence that rural communities had their own struggles and resistance movements during that turbulent period.

Most visitors come for the proximity to Blenheim Palace, where Winston Churchill was born. You can walk to the palace grounds from the village centre, which is far more pleasant than driving and dealing with car parks. The landscape around here really rewards exploring on foot, with views across the Evenlode Valley that capture the rolling Cotswolds terrain in its straightforward way.

The Bell Inn anchors village life and serves as a good stopping point. It's been thoughtfully modernised while retaining its character as a traditional pub, serving food and drink with those valley views available from the outdoor seating. It's a comfortable place to rest after a day at the palace or walking the local countryside.

If you're planning to visit Blenheim but want something quieter than nearby Woodstock, Long Hanborough fits the bill. Witney is about five miles away if you need more amenities or independent shops beyond what the village itself offers.