Car Hire Bicester

Bicester offers a surprising blend of old and new, with quiet natural escapes sitting just minutes from high-end shopping and vintage motors. Located in north Oxfordshire, this market town with a population of 37,000 is well placed along the A41 and near the M40, making it a simple drive from London or the Midlands. We passed through Cowley before arriving, and Bicester made for an ideal stop with plenty to do in one afternoon.

The best time to visit is between April and October, when the parks are lush and green and outdoor events fill the calendar. Weather can be changeable, so it’s smart to bring layers and waterproofs, especially if you plan on walking through one of the town’s many open spaces.

Attractions In Bicester

Bicester has more to offer than first meets the eye, and it’s easy to spend a day here without feeling hurried. Between the leafy parks, historic sites and open spaces, there’s plenty of room to slow down and explore.

Garth Park

Garth Park is the heart of Bicester’s green spaces, offering wide lawns, shaded paths and a well-kept play area for children. It’s a great place for families, picnics or simply relaxing under a tree. The nearby ice cream shop closes early in the evening, which we found out the hard way, but that didn’t take away from the park’s appeal. The public toilets come with a small charge, which some might find excessive, though they’re expected to be kept in good condition. This spot is popular with people from Kidlington as well, thanks to its easy layout and community feel. Open daily from 7:30 AM to just after 5 PM, it’s a calm escape right in town.

Pingle Brook Open Space

Pingle Brook Open Space is one of those hidden patches of green that surprises you with its quiet charm. Nestled just off Redcar Road, it’s a favourite among walkers thanks to its proximity to Bicester Village and the calmness it offers. We found the path winding gently beside the brook, perfect for a slow, reflective walk before heading back into town. Although it doesn’t have many built-in facilities, the peace and access to nature more than make up for it. With no closing hours, it’s always open and worth a stop if you need to pause between shops or simply stretch your legs somewhere quieter. It’s a common side trip for those already exploring Banbury who want something active and family-friendly without committing to a full-day schedule.

Rousham House & Gardens

Rousham House & Gardens is one of Bicester’s most peaceful and scenic destinations, with wide open paths, quiet corners and elegant views at every turn. The gardens are beautifully maintained, and the absence of on-site shops or cafés lends them a more tranquil and uninterrupted feel. Visitors often bring a picnic or grab a coffee nearby before entering, and it’s worth wearing comfortable shoes for the walk. The arched entranceway adds to the atmosphere, though larger vehicles may struggle with access. It’s a privately owned garden with some clear rules: no dogs, no children under 15, and a small ticket fee. Open daily from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, it’s ideal for calm afternoons in a thoughtfully designed setting.

Bure Park Nature Reserve

This nature reserve near Lucerne Avenue provides a breath of fresh air right in the middle of suburban Bicester. A gentle river runs through the space, attracting birds and small wildlife, and the paths are well-kept for walkers of all ages. There’s a good mix of open areas and wooded corners, making it easy to tailor the length of your visit. It’s reasonably clean and tidy most of the time, although some locals note the occasional issue with off-lead dogs. Still, for a quick escape into nature without leaving town, Bure Park Nature Reserve holds its own as a low-key but rewarding stop.

Island Pond Wood

Island Pond Wood is a compact but well-tended nature spot on the edge of Launton that’s ideal for short walks or a quick reset in green surroundings. The trail can be extended with a neighbouring field, making it more versatile than it first appears. Parking is on the road, which isn’t always convenient, but the peaceful loop still draws steady visitors. This is a regular place for walkers from Eynsham who enjoy its simple charm and accessible trail. It’s not a large reserve, but it’s cared for with attention, and worth a stop if you’re nearby and want something light and undemanding.

Bicester Street Piano

Bicester’s Street Piano adds a touch of surprise and creativity right in the middle of Sheep Street. It’s an open invitation for anyone to stop and play, and it regularly draws curious passers-by who can’t resist testing a few keys. Whether it’s a polished tune or a spontaneous jumble of notes, the sound gives the street a bit of unexpected character. We found that it often becomes a quick talking point or pause during a shopping trip, and it brings a slightly quirky energy to the town centre. There’s no official opening or closing time—the piano is just there, waiting, and always ready for whoever happens to walk by.

SWB Experience Days

RAF Bicester is one of the most complete examples of a pre-WWII bomber airfield still standing in Britain, and its long history is echoed in the original hangars and expansive layout. It now hosts a mix of motoring and aviation events, blending heritage with modern-day activity in a way few sites manage. Those spending time around Botley often take a short drive here to enjoy the atmosphere and open space. With food stalls, classic vehicles and a relaxed, dog-friendly setup, it offers more than just historical insight—it delivers a genuinely enjoyable day out. The site’s preserved character and event calendar make it a standout in the area.

Langford Stonehenge

Langford Stonehenge is a delightfully strange corner of Bicester that leaves a lasting impression for all the right reasons. Set just off Mallards Way, the arrangement of stones feels oddly purposeful, inviting both reflection and amusement. The peaceful setting is sometimes interrupted by nearby traffic or alarms, but even that contrast seems to suit its quirky nature. It’s become a favourite spot for people wanting something a little different without the crowds. There’s no ticket or schedule—just a quiet, open space that welcomes anyone curious enough to stop and wonder. For those travelling on a budget, it’s one of the more entertaining free stops in town.

RAF Bicester

RAF Bicester is one of the best-preserved examples of a pre-WWII bomber station in the country, and it continues to play a central role in the town’s historic identity. With its network of hangars, runways and period buildings, the site blends military heritage with vintage automotive events that regularly draw large crowds. During one of these gatherings, we noticed how often people from Thame make the trip for the mix of classic cars, food vendors and live music. The airfield is also dog-friendly, adding to the laid-back appeal. Whether you’re here for the history or the spectacle, RAF Bicester offers a fascinating and enjoyable glimpse into the past, all in an open and welcoming setting.

RAF Bicester Water Tower

Standing tall above the nearby rooftops, the RAF Bicester Water Tower remains a clear visual link to the town’s military history. It once supplied essential water reserves to the entire airfield, supporting the daily operations of one of Britain’s key pre-war bases. Though no longer active in its original role, the tower is easily visible from the road and still attracts attention from passers-by curious about its past. As a part of the larger RAF Bicester site, it’s a small but striking reminder of the infrastructure that supported Britain’s aviation history.

Launton Railway Station

Launton Railway Station once served as a vital local link for residents in and around Bicester, connecting the area to the wider region by rail. Though it’s no longer in operation, the site remains a quiet historical marker of the role rail played in shaping rural life. Its closure was part of broader transport changes in the 1960s, but the name still holds a place in local memory. While the station itself is modest and no longer serves passengers, its location near Launton marks an important chapter in the town’s growth and connectivity.

National Trust – Boarstall Tower

Boarstall Tower is a rare medieval gatehouse surrounded by a peaceful moated garden, offering a compact but engaging National Trust experience. The guided tour focuses mainly on the exterior and historical significance, with the interior consisting of a few small rooms and a larger main chamber. Visitors are invited to explore the surrounding grounds at their own pace after the tour, and climbing to the roof reveals sweeping views of the countryside. It’s best suited to adult visitors, as the spaces can be quite tight for groups or families. With early arrival, parking is easy, and the nearby duck decoy offers a little extra to round out the trip. It’s a quiet, worthwhile outing with a relaxed pace.

Car Chase Heroes

Car Chase Heroes is a must for thrill-seekers wanting to test their nerve behind the wheel of some seriously powerful machines. With decades of motorsport experience behind the team, the day runs smoothly from sighting laps to high-speed hot laps—all guided by instructors who know how to get the best out of each driver. It’s a go-to for residents of Kennington looking for something bold and unforgettable. You can choose from a range of supercars, and everything from pacing to safety is handled with clear attention to detail. Whether it’s your first track day or your fifth, the excitement here lives up to the promise.

Bicester Motion – Gate 8

Gate 8 at Bicester Motion is one of the key entry points to this evolving destination for automotive events and heritage. It’s especially active on major calendar days like Alfa Romeo Day, which brings in a crowd of car lovers and curious newcomers alike. Many visitors time their trip to coincide with these larger events, as that’s when the site is at its most vibrant. The atmosphere is friendly, with a good balance of structured programming and relaxed browsing. Whether you’re drawn in by vintage engines or just passing through, it’s worth checking what’s on—the scale and variety can be surprisingly impressive. If you’re staying near Oxford, it makes for a exciting evening with a local twist.