· GB

Bicester

Bicester, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Bicester, located in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to visitors of all interests. Known for its picturesque countryside setting and historic arch…

#Bicester#Oxfordshire#United Kingdom#Historic town#Shopping destination
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Practical info

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Currency
£ | GBP | Pound Sterling
Population
Information not available.
Average weather
Bicester
Jan
cold
7°1°
Feb
cold
8°1°
Mar
cloud
11°2°
Apr
cloud
14°4°
May
sun
18°7°
Jun
sun
21°10°
Jul
sun
23°12°
Aug
sun
23°12°
Sep
cloud
20°10°
Oct
cloud
15°7°
Nov
rain
10°4°
Dec
cold
8°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Bicester.

What people love

Bicester, located in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, is a charming town known for its historical sites, picturesque countryside, and vibrant shopping scene. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Bicester:

  1. Bicester Village: Bicester is home to Bicester Village, a luxury shopping outlet that attracts visitors from all over the world. You can find high-end designer brands at discounted prices, making it a paradise for fashion lovers and bargain hunters.

  2. Historic Sites: Bicester boasts a rich history, with several historic sites worth exploring. You can visit St Edburg's Church, a beautiful medieval church, and the Bicester Heritage, a historic motoring and aviation center.

  3. Beautiful Countryside: The surrounding countryside of Bicester is stunning, with rolling hills, picturesque villages, and peaceful walking trails. It's a great destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

  4. Convenient Location: Bicester is conveniently located close to Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Cotswolds, making it a great base for exploring the wider region. You can easily take day trips to nearby attractions and landmarks.

  5. Food and Drink: Bicester offers a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional British pubs to gourmet restaurants. You can sample local delicacies and enjoy a culinary adventure during your stay.

Overall, traveling to Bicester offers a mix of shopping, history, nature, and gastronomy, making it a well-rounded destination for visitors seeking a quintessentially British experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Bicester in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom may include:

  1. Limited public transportation options: Bicester is a relatively small town and may not have as extensive public transportation options compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around without a car.

  2. Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Bicester is more known for its shopping outlets rather than its nightlife or entertainment scene. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife or cultural attractions, you may find Bicester lacking in these areas.

  3. Weather: Like much of the United Kingdom, the weather in Bicester can be unpredictable and often rainy. If you prefer consistent sunny weather for your travels, Bicester may not be the ideal destination.

  4. Limited dining options: While Bicester has some restaurants and cafes, the dining scene may not be as diverse or extensive as in larger cities. You may find fewer options for international cuisine or fine dining experiences.

  5. Tourist crowds: Bicester Village, a popular shopping destination in the area, can attract large crowds of tourists, especially during peak seasons. This may result in crowded streets and stores, making the experience less enjoyable for some travelers.

Please note that these are general considerations and may not apply to every traveler. It's always a good idea to research further and consider your own preferences before traveling to Bicester.

Bicester is a historic market town located in Oxfordshire, England. Its history stretches back over a thousand years, with evidence of settlement dating to the Saxon period. Below is a detailed history of Bicester, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Early History

  • Saxon Era: The name 'Bicester' is believed to be derived from the Old English "Beorna's ceaster," indicating a Roman settlement. Archaeological evidence suggests that there was a settlement in the area as early as the Saxon period.

Medieval Period

  • Domesday Book: Bicester is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as 'Berencestra', indicating its existence as an established community.
  • Norman Influence: The town grew around St. Edburg's Church, which was founded in the 11th century and became a focal point. The church is named after Saint Edburg, an Anglo-Saxon princess and abbess.
  • Bicester Priory: In 1182, a priory was established by Gilbert Basset, a significant religious site until its dissolution in 1536 during the Reformation.

Post-Medieval Period

  • Market Charter: In 1239, King Henry III granted Bicester a market charter, which facilitated its development as a market town.
  • Civil War: During the English Civil War in the 17th century, Bicester was the site of minor skirmishes due to its strategic location. It was occupied by both Royalist and Parliamentarian forces at different times.

18th and 19th Centuries

  • Agricultural Market: The town continued to thrive as an agricultural market and coaching town, benefiting from its location on the main road network.
  • Industrial Revolution: The arrival of the railway in the 19th century further spurred economic growth, connecting Bicester to larger cities like London and Birmingham.

20th Century

  • Military Significance: During World War II, Bicester played a role as a military town, with several camps and depots established in the vicinity, including Bicester Garrison.
  • Post-War Development: After the war, Bicester underwent significant housing development to accommodate the growing population.

Recent Developments

  • Bicester Village: In the late 20th century, Bicester Village, a designer outlet shopping centre, opened and has since become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.
  • Eco Town Initiative: In the 21st century, Bicester has been part of the eco-town initiative, focusing on sustainable development and housing projects.

Important Landmarks

  • St. Edburg's Church: A historic church with origins dating back to the 11th century.
  • Bicester Village: A well-known designer outlet shopping centre that attracts millions of visitors annually.
  • Bicester Heritage: A former RAF base turned into a hub for historic motoring and aviation, preserving numerous historic buildings and aviation history.

Historical Figures

  • Saint Edburg: An Anglo-Saxon princess and abbess, after whom the main church in Bicester is named.
  • Gilbert Basset: Founder of the Bicester Priory in the 12th century.

Bicester's strategic location and rich history have made it an integral part of Oxfordshire's heritage, evolving from a Saxon settlement to a bustling modern town.