Bletchingdon

Welcome to Bletchingdon: A Historic Village with Timeless Charm

Nestled about 3 miles north of Kidlington and 6 miles southwest of Bicester, Bletchingdon is a charming English village rich in history and natural beauty. Perched on high ground, it sits at the crossroads of the old London-to-Worcester road, offering scenic byways that connect to neighbouring villages like Weston-on-the-Green, Kirtlington, and Hampton Poyle.

A Landscape Shaped by History
Beyond the village centre, Bletchingdon parish encompasses the hamlets of Enslow and Heathfield, each lying about two miles west and east, respectively. These picturesque spots are connected by the Oxford Canal, completed in 1789, which gracefully follows the path of the River Cherwell through Enslow. In 1845, the Oxford and Rugby Railway joined the scene, with a station in Enslow until its closure in 1964.

Architectural Heritage
Originally, Bletchingdon was built around a central green. However, in the 16th century, the north side of the village was transformed when Bletchingdon Park expanded. Today, homes near the park and the village church still echo the 17th- and 18th-century styles. Many of these buildings showcase the classic coursed rubble stone walls and distinctive Stonesfield slate roofs, adding a timeless aesthetic.

One of Bletchingdon’s architectural gems is a row of rubble-stone cottages on the south side of the green. Built in 1794, these cottages were originally thirteen in number. Though condemned in 1952, they were restored in 1954, merging into seven beautifully reconditioned cottages that still stand proudly today.

The Parish Church and Bletchingdon Park
Bletchingdon’s parish church, set within the serene 70-acre expanse of Bletchingdon Park, was historically accessible only by footpath. After a hard-fought battle in 1795, this path was officially declared a public right of way, and today, the church is accessible by road as well, allowing visitors to enjoy its peaceful and storied surroundings with ease.

Whether you’re drawn by its architecture, captivated by its history, or simply enchanted by its natural beauty, Bletchingdon offers a delightful journey into England’s rich past.