Burford is a brilliant base for exploring the Cotswolds — honey-stone streets, cosy pubs, and countryside walks on your doorstep. If you’re planning a day trip or a weekend, here’s a practical guide to the best things to do in Burford, plus where to eat, where to stay, and how to get there.
Often called the gateway to the Cotswolds, Burford is one of the most instantly recognisable towns in the region. With its dramatic sloping high street, medieval buildings, and views down to the River Windrush, a visit to Burford delivers that classic Cotswolds feeling from the moment you arrive.
Despite its popularity, Burford still feels like a real working town rather than a museum piece. Independent shops, historic pubs, riverside walks and layers of history make it a rewarding place to explore whether you’re stopping for an hour or staying overnight.
Where Is Burford?
Burford sits on the edge of the Cotswolds, in west Oxfordshire, right where the countryside meets the historic wool towns of the region. Its location makes it an ideal first stop if you’re arriving from Oxford, London or the M40.
The town’s famous High Street slopes steeply down to the River Windrush, creating one of the most photographed scenes in the Cotswolds.
Things to Do When You Visit Burford
Burford packs a lot into a relatively small space, making it perfect for wandering at a relaxed pace.
Walk Burford High Street
Burford’s High Street is the star of the show — wide, steep, and lined with honey-coloured stone buildings that date back centuries. Take your time walking downhill, stopping to browse independent shops, antiques centres, bakeries and delis along the way.
The views from the top of the hill are some of the best in the Cotswolds, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Visit St John the Baptist Church
At the bottom of the High Street you’ll find St John the Baptist Church, Burford, one of the largest parish churches in the Cotswolds. Inside, you’ll discover medieval tombs, beautiful stained glass, and fascinating links to Burford’s role in the English Civil War.
Even if churches aren’t usually on your list, this one is well worth stepping inside.
Walk Along the River Windrush
Cross the bridge at the bottom of town and you’ll reach peaceful riverside paths following the River Windrush. It’s a quieter side of Burford that many visitors miss, offering gentle walks, wildlife spotting, and a welcome break from the bustle of the High Street.
Explore the Tolsey Museum
Housed in a 16th-century building halfway down the High Street, Tolsey Museum gives a compact but engaging insight into Burford’s history, from the wool trade to the Levellers who once occupied the church.
Eating and Drinking in Burford
Burford is a brilliant place to stop for food, whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight. You’ll find:
Traditional inns serving classic pub dishes
Tearooms perfect for coffee and cake
Independent cafés and delis for something lighter
Many of Burford’s pubs date back hundreds of years, making even a simple lunch feel like part of the experience.
Where to Stay in Burford
If you’re planning to visit Burford for more than a few hours, staying overnight lets you enjoy the town once the day-trippers have left. Accommodation options include:
Historic coaching inns on the High Street
Boutique hotels with character
Bed and breakfasts just outside the centre
Burford also works well as a base for exploring nearby villages and the Windrush valley.
Is Burford Worth Visiting?
Yes — Burford is one of those places that fully lives up to its reputation. While it’s undoubtedly popular, its size, scenery and sense of history make it feel substantial rather than overrun.
Burford is ideal for:
First-time visitors to the Cotswolds
Photographers and history lovers
A relaxed half-day stop or overnight stay
Tips for Visiting Burford
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Time needed: 2–3 hours for a wander; longer if staying for lunch
Parking: Several car parks close to the town centre
Footwear: The High Street is steep — comfortable shoes help
Final Thoughts on Visiting Burford
To visit Burford is to experience the Cotswolds at its most dramatic and historic. From the sweeping High Street views to peaceful riverside walks, it’s a town that manages to feel iconic without losing its soul.
Whether it’s your first time in the Cotswolds or a return visit, Burford is one place that almost always earns its spot on the itinerary.
“Even after countless visits, I still love starting at the top of Burford High Street and wandering slowly downhill — there’s something special about reaching the river at the bottom, especially when the town begins to quieten and you can really take it all in.”.
– Chris
Other Useful Articles About Visiting Places In the Cotswolds
