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 This
former blanket-making town is an attractive place to visit, and one still
in touch with its roots. The water of the River Windrush is reputed to
be the secret of the blankets’ legendary quality.
Now the river adds to the attractiveness of this busy market town. Witney
has increased greatly in size over recent years, but, along with other
parts of West Oxfordshire, still has one of the lowest crime rates in
the country.
Church Green to the south leads to the 12th-century remains of the country
palace of the Bishop of Winchester.
This is testimony to the town’s importance from Saxon times to the
restoration. Dominating Church Green is the mainly 13th-century parish
church of St Mary, with its handsome central tower and spire.
The name ‘Witney’ is thought to mean “Witta’s Island”.
The Wittan was the council of Saxon kings which met in the area.
The look of the town is enhanced by the fact that so many properties are
Grade II listed, and the new-build properties blend in well with the Cotswold
stone of older houses.
The market square, which lies at the junction of the two main streets,
contains the Buttercross, a medieval marketing and meeting place where
women from neighbouring villages gathered to sell butter and eggs.
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Cogges
Manor Farm Museum: A working Victorian farm. You can see real animals
and farm implements. Open 10.30am to 5.30pm from Tuesday to Friday and
Bank Holiday Mondays; noon to 5.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Closed
Mondays. Early closing at 4pm in December. Free parking. Call 01993 772602.
