
What we’re about
If you have ever been out in walking groups and have come across fascinating historical clues or links in the landscape or architecture and wanted to know more about them, then this is the group for you!
History and Heritage Walks offers walks with insights into the historical places around the county of Oxfordshire and further afield. These walks will take us from the ancient streets and colleges of the City of Oxford to beautiful small towns, historic villages, rivers, fields and woodlands, sharing fascinating facts and inspiring stories on our way. These will be walks with a difference!
Jane Richardson, keen historian and experienced tour guide, has come on board and will be leading many of the walks. If this appeals to you please join our group and sign up when you see walks announced.
Meetup fees are £12 per person, payable by bank transfer WHEN BOOKING - details are posted on each event page. (If this method is a problem for you please private message the walk leader beforehand). When booking please make sure that you are DEFINITELY ABLE to make the trip; unmet fees will still be liable.
HISTORY AND HERITAGE WALKS LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Waiver of liability
You agree when you sign up for this group or any of the events that you have read and understood the following:
If you join us for an event please understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. You agree not to hold the Organiser or any other members responsible for any injuries, mishaps, or any other situation that may happen at a planned event. You are responsible to research the event to know whether it is suitable for you to attend.
History and Heritage Walks does not provide liability insurance for the protection of individuals who may participate in any of the events planned by the Organiser.
This release extends and applies to, and also covers and includes, all unknown, unforeseen, unanticipated and unsuspected injuries, damages, loss and liability.
Your attendance on an event signifies that you have read and accept the terms of this liability waiver. By signing up for this group or event you understand that you are attending all events AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Photographs: We encourage members to take photos at events (except in places where photos may not be allowed) and to share them on each event page for the encouragement of the group. Some photos may include group members. Please indicate to the group leader if you don't wish to be part of anyone's photos. By sharing your photographs to this site you consent to them being used for any publicity purposes.
Upcoming events
1
- £12.00

Burford & Swinbrook: Gateway to the Cotswolds (definitive event)
St \John Baptist Church, Church Green, Burford, GBCome and explore the beautiful Cotswold town of Burford, known as the Gateway to the Cotswolds!
NB - this is now a live event, having canvassed the group's opinions. Any previous response does not commit you to attend, but please follow the normal group rule, and only sign up (with bank transfer) when you are certain you can make it.
Discover how Burford developed and became prosperous through its wool trade and quarries of golden limestone which were used to build nearby Oxford. Admire the amazing variety of architecture on the High Street which has more listed buildings than any other High Street in the UK. From wonderfully preserved 14th Century houses to coaching Inns, from an ancient toll booth to the oldest pharmacy in England, from the old Priory to the 16th century Grammar School. Burford has it all, and the Christmas lights make it even more magical at this time of year!
See the magnificent Church of St John the Baptist with its impressive yew trees and unusual “roll tombs.” Hear the harrowing tale of the 17th century Levellers who fought for popular sovereignty, equality and religious tolerance but were eventually defeated at Burford Church.
After a few minutes relaxing by the gentle River Windrush we will make a 5 minute car journey to see Swinbrook Church.
Swinbrook was once the home of the six Mitford sisters, the daughters of the 2nd Baron Redesdale. Many of the family are buried in the churchyard.
Learn the fascinating story of these unique and scandalous sisters who were known as the “mad mad Mitfords” and were recently depicted in the TV drama “Outrageous”.
If ground conditions permit we will also visit the site of a deserted Medieval village and the Church of St Oswald with its remarkable wall paintings and 18th century box pews. NB: Stout walking shoes are strongly advised for this walk!
We will then return to Burford where the walk will finish. If you wish you can then choose to stay for lunch in one of the many local pubs in the town or nearby.GETTING THERE: Meeting point will be at the gate of St John's Church, Church Lane, Burford OX18 4RY. https://what3words.com/ejects.breakfast.defers
Car drivers: Park in the FREE car park (signposted) 150 yards away in Church Lane. NB: Please indicate in your comments whether you are willing to drive passengers (and how many) approx 3 miles to Swinbrook and back. Responses will determine the maximum numbers of the group.
Public transport: Burford is served by the Stagecoach S2 service from Oxford to Cheltenham (every 2 hours - from Oxford at 08.50), stopping on the A40 at the top of the village. Alternatively it's 2 bus journeys: the S1 bus to Witney Market Square, arriving by 10.05am to connect with the 234 service to Burford (Stagecoach).BOOKING: PLEASE NOTE - PLEASE RSVP ONLY IF YOU'RE DEFINITELY COMING.
NB: Payment is by Bank Transfer WHEN BOOKING - £12 to:
Miss J E Richardson
Sort Code 40 09 44
AC no 90231797
Please include your name in the payment reference.
If you cancel I'm afraid this amount is non refundable unless the walk is cancelled so please sign up only if you are certain you will make the event and can pay when booking.6 attendees
Past events
16

