Burford High Street
A picturesque medieval town, Burford's High Street is a charming cascade of Cotswold stone cottages, independent shops, and historic pubs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Burford High Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque medieval town, Burford's High Street is a charming cascade of Cotswold stone cottages, independent shops, and historic pubs.
"This medieval town is full of charm, with a very stunning high street overlooking the rolling hills of the Cotswolds."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The High Street is steep; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its charming slopes.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging. Arrive early on weekdays to secure a spot closer to the shops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Steep, Picturesque High Street
Burford High Street
A stunning downhill sweep of Cotswold stone cottages, Georgian townhouses, shops, and historic pubs.
Independent Boutiques and Shops
Burford High Street
Discover artisanal bakeries, cheese stores, antique shops, and unique gift stores brimming with character.
St John the Baptist Church
Top of High Street
A magnificent medieval church with impressive architecture and a rich history, a must-see landmark.
Historic Pubs and Cafes
Burford High Street
Enjoy a pint or afternoon tea in charming establishments like The Angel or Huffkins, steeped in history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Burford's High Street
Discover Unique Boutiques and Eateries
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The High Street is steep; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its charming slopes.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging. Arrive early on weekdays to secure a spot closer to the shops.
🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
Don't forget to peek into side lanes for hidden gems and a deeper sense of history.
📸 Look Up for Architecture
Admire the blend of architectural styles by looking up as you stroll along the street.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The High Street is steep; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its charming slopes.
⏰ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging. Arrive early on weekdays to secure a spot closer to the shops.
🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
Don't forget to peek into side lanes for hidden gems and a deeper sense of history.
📸 Look Up for Architecture
Admire the blend of architectural styles by looking up as you stroll along the street.
☕ Indulge in Local Treats
Sample delicious cakes, pastries, and local produce from the many bakeries and cafes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Burford High Street is widely praised as a picturesque and charming destination, often called the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds.' Visitors love the abundance of characterful independent shops, delightful eateries, and the stunning historic architecture. Some find parking challenging and the steep incline requires comfortable footwear, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Another beautiful town in England, the gateway to the Cotswolds. The High street is the main street, filled with shops and cars on both sides of the road. The St John the Baptist Church was beautiful and so were some of the old houses or buildings."
Patrick Xu
"Fabulous shops and eateries along this stretch of road. All utilising a myriad of old buildings with bundles of character. Artisanal bakeries and cheese stores, cafes with the most fantastic array of cakes and treats, antique shops full of the most quaint and quintessential of items and independent shops full of unusual trinkets and home goods. I could have spent a small fortune on all the items that I had my eye on as well as add a few extra kilos on the delicious food. When walking and shopping here, remember to look up, it’s a fascinating insight into how different ages of architecture just works together and peering into side lanes just accentuates that look on the history that the area exudes."
Tracy Matthews
"Had a great visit with lots of lovely shops and cafes. Everyone was friendly and polite and can recommend the all day bakery and the patisserie as just two of the highlights"
Gill Brennan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From London, you can drive to Burford High Street in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to Oxford and then catch a bus to Burford.
Parking is available along the High Street, but it can get very busy, especially on weekends. There are also several car parks nearby. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, you can reach Burford by bus from Oxford and other surrounding towns. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The High Street is generally accessible, but its steep incline may present challenges for some. Many shops and cafes have accessible entrances.
The best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the architecture and browse the shops. Wear comfortable shoes as the street is quite steep.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking down Burford High Street is free and open to the public. Entry to individual shops and attractions may have associated costs.
Most shops on Burford High Street are open from around 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with some variations. Cafes and pubs often have extended hours.
Entry to St John the Baptist Church is generally free, though donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
While there aren't official ticketed tours for the High Street itself, many local guides offer walking tours of Burford that include its historic street.
The Tolsey Museum has a small admission fee. It's worth checking their official website for current prices and opening times.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire High Street offers stunning photo opportunities, especially the view looking down the hill past the cottages. The church also provides a beautiful backdrop. 
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and a softer glow on the stone buildings.
Drone usage is generally restricted in residential and historic areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the street's sweep, while a standard zoom is versatile. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots.
It's polite to ask permission before taking photos inside individual shops, especially if they are busy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Huffkins and Lynwood & Co are highly recommended for their delicious cakes and coffee. Many other cafes also offer delightful treats.
Yes, The Angel and the Highway Inn are popular choices for a traditional pub lunch with a historic atmosphere.
You'll find a variety of options, including traditional British fare, artisanal bakeries, cheese shops, and cafes offering light bites and sweet treats.
Many cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some are increasingly catering to vegan diets. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
Several establishments are aware of dietary needs and offer gluten-free options. Inquire with the cafe or restaurant directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a stop at the Tolsey Museum for a brief, engaging history lesson. For a more active outing, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is a short drive away and is a fantastic option for a full family day.
🚶♀️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at a charming cafe like Huffkins, or share a delicious meal at one of the historic pubs.
🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies
Your taste buds will thank you for exploring the artisanal bakeries, cheese shops, and inviting cafes. Don't miss the chance to try local cakes and pastries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Charm of Burford High Street
Look up as you walk; the facades, window styles, and rooflines offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Peering into the narrow side lanes that branch off the High Street further accentuates this sense of history and discovery. The golden hue of the local stone, especially in the sunlight, adds to the picturesque and inviting atmosphere that draws so many to Burford.
For those interested in history and architecture, Burford High Street is a living museum. The Tolsey Museum, located in a historic building on the street, offers deeper insights into the town's past. Even without visiting the museum, simply observing the buildings provides a rich historical narrative.
Shopping and Dining Delights
Food lovers will be in paradise with numerous cafes and eateries offering tempting delights. From traditional pubs serving hearty meals to charming cafes with an impressive selection of cakes and pastries, there's something to satisfy every palate. Huffkins and Lynwood & Co are frequently mentioned for their excellent coffee and baked goods, while pubs like The Angel and the Highway Inn offer a classic Cotswold dining experience.
Many visitors note the temptation to spend a considerable amount due to the sheer quality and appeal of the items and food available. The friendly and polite nature of the shopkeepers and staff also enhances the overall shopping and dining experience, making it a truly enjoyable part of any visit to Burford.
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