Burford & Swinbrook: Gateway to the Cotswolds (definitive event)

Come 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.