Tucked just over the Gloucestershire border lies Chipping Norton, one of the Cotswolds' most underexplored yet charming market towns. While visitors often flock to Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, Chipping Norton quietly awaits discovery, known famously as the home of Jeremy Clarkson’s farm but offering so much more beyond that.
For families seeking a memorable day out, Chipping Norton delivers with unique attractions that make the journey into Oxfordshire truly worthwhile. A standout is the Chippy Lido, a 1970s open-air swimming pool revamped in recent years. This lido calls itself “an oasis of calm in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds,” featuring a 25-meter pool, a dedicated toddler pool, a cozy café, and sprawling tree-lined lawns perfect for relaxing days.
Visitors rave about the lido’s welcoming atmosphere. One TripAdvisor reviewer praised the well-maintained pools at just the right temperature and appreciated the friendly staff and neat facilities, calling the experience a “little gem.”
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A short drive from town beckons families to Fairytale Farm, a whimsical destination where children can get up close with animals and explore adventure playgrounds themed around fairies. The farm prides itself on inclusivity, specially designed to cater to children with disabilities. Its centerpiece is Fairytale Dell: a vibrant play area adorned with towering 20-foot mushrooms, interactive games, bridges, and tunnels—a true wonderland for kids under ten.
A delighted parent shared on TripAdvisor how the farm far exceeded expectations, highlighting engaging crafts, interactions like pressing buttons on statues, and even meeting the Fairy Queen. Admission is affordable, starting at £7.99 for adults and children, with free entry for children under two.
For those fascinated by history and ancient mysteries, the nearby Rollright Stones offer a glimpse into the Neolithic and Bronze Age past. This stone circle, managed by the Rollright Trust, permits visitors for a nominal fee—just £1 for adults and 50p for children aged 7-16.
Chipping Norton itself boasts a thriving community with a museum, theatre, lively pubs, shops, and cafes. Despite these offerings, the Cotswolds Tourism Board describes the town as “probably one of the least explored and commercialised areas of the Cotswolds,” a refreshing alternative to the busier tourist hubs and a place with a rich cultural tapestry, famously home to the so-called ‘Chipping Norton set’ of celebrities.
Whether you arrive for the historic sites, family-friendly fun, or just a relaxing day in a true English market town, Chipping Norton promises an authentic and unexpected Cotswolds experience.