There are a lot of things to do in Bicester as Bicester is a town that has a rich history but it also has a high level of contemporary features making it an extremely alluring place for both residents and visitors. 

Within this article, we will guide you through some of the top things to do in Bicester allowing you to see that Bicester is a beautiful town with a lot of diverse things to do within it. 

Bicester, UK: Where Heritage Meets Modernity

Bicester began its life as a simple market town. Lying on the junction of two Roman Roads, the name ‘Bicester’ is possibly derived from its Roman History, coming from the Latin for ‘two forts’ or from a personal name ‘Beorna’ which means ‘Fort of the Warrior’. Although it is not known which is correct, there is a Roman fortress at Alchester, just two miles south of the town, so it is highly likely that the name has Roman origins. 

Although it began its life as a simple market town, Bicester has seen rapid expansion over the generations with modern attractions becoming a part of the town. This modernity is continued with its exceptional transport links to Oxford and Cambridge, along with rail links to London and Birmingham. 

Bicester is an enchanting town which has struck the perfect balance between its rich history and embracing the modern world. 

Top Things To Do in Bicester

Its expansion and embracing of the modern world has led to there being many things to do in Bicester. There are a wide range of attractions which cater to many different people, from cultural enthusiasts, shopaholics, food lovers and so much more. 

Here we will take you through some of the top things to do in Bicester. 

Indulge in Retail Therapy at Bicester Village

Bicester has become quite synonymous with its luxury retail park, Bicester Village. If you have never had the joy of going, Bicester Village is a designer outlet park which has 150 fashion and lifestyle boutiques, all offering their goods at a price you will love.  

Only a short walk from Bicester town centre, Bicester Village also has its own train station so it is easy to visit whether you live in Bicester or are simply visiting. 

Delve into History at Bicester Heritage

Bicester Heritage is a hub for historical motoring excellence, with over 45 specialist businesses located within it. Based at the former RAF base, RAF Bicester, Bicester Heritage has 444 acres in which it can promote skills and expertise, employment, shared business incubation and aggregate growth. 

Along with all the motoring excellence on display, there is also a beer brewery and a gin distillery. The Wriggly Monkey Brewery has a shop that you can visit every day of the week and its Tap Room is open Friday to Sunday. 

So if you are a motoring enthusiast or enjoy a beer, Bicester Heritage should be on your list of things to do in Bicester. 

Reconnect with Nature at Garth Park

If you are more about tranquil green space, Bicester has the beautiful Garth Park. Officially opened in the 1950s, Garth Park is the parkland and formal gardens surrounding Garth House, a former hunting lodge which itself was built in the 1840s. 

Within the park, there is the Savoir Fare cafe which serves hand-baked breads, artisan coffee and loose-leaf teas. If you are up for something more adrenaline-pumping (or if you want something to entertain the kids), Garth Park also has a skate park which was built in 2019. 

Savour Culinary Delights at Local Eateries

Along with Savoir Fare in Garth Park, there are many other cafes, bakeries and restaurants that will charm you with their culinary delights. 

If you are in need of a delicious cup of coffee, there is the as-mentioned Savoir Fare and FLTR Coffee, which is located in Langford Village Shopping Centre. They serve delicious coffee and teas but also have many events on throughout the year. 

If you are in need of something more substantial than a cup of coffee, the Copper Kitchen is a lovely restaurant located in the centre of Bicester and it offers a bistro dining experience. Then there is Farmshop, which specialises in rustic British food. Paying respect to the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside that surrounds it, Farmshop has cobblestone floors, barn doors and exposed beams. 

In Bicester, you are bound to find something delicious to eat or drink, no matter what you fancy. 

Explore the Richness of St Edburg’s Church

If you want to delve deeper into Bicester’s history, then visiting St Edburg’s Church should be top of your list of things to do.  

St Edburg’s Church has stood for over 900 years and it is the oldest and only Grade 1 building in Bicester. It has a lot of events coming up throughout the year, including an annual Christmas Tree Festival, but it also has services every Sunday and Wednesday.  

Unwind at the Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa

Bicester is also home to a wonderfully relaxing retreat, Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa. It has a great number of health and fitness options available but it is also okay to just come and have an indulgent spa day. 

There are a variety of treatments available such as massage, facials and body treatments. 

And, of course, if you enjoy a spot of golf, you will be in heaven. 

Top Activities & Attractions In Bicester

There are so many diverse things to do in Bicester. A market town filled with so much charm, you will quickly find that it is a place that can cater to multiple interests from historical ventures to modern-day pleasures. 

Make the most of this beautiful town by enjoying some of the wonders it has on offer.