Attractions and Places To See around Duns Tew - Top 20

Duns Tew is rich in history. You can visit the Church of St Mary Magdalene, with parts dating back to the 12th century, or see the historic Duns Tew Manor and the Former Raves Manor House, both featuring 17th-century elements. The village also boasts numerous attractive cottages and farmhouses from the 17th and 18th centuries. For a unique historical perspective, explore the remains of four substantial medieval fishponds northeast of Duns Tew Manor, and look for crop marks indicating prehistoric enclosures visible from the air.

Yes, Duns Tew offers several scenic spots. The village itself is situated on the North Aston fault, providing sweeping views northwards. A prominent viewpoint is Bloxham Grove Windmill, a Grade II listed building from 1865, offering picturesque views. Another unique spot is The Eye-Catcher Folly, a historical site perched on a rolling hill, built by landscape artist William Kent in 1740, which provides a peaceful location to rest and take in the view.

The area around Duns Tew is excellent for outdoor activities, particularly walking, running, and mountain biking. A significant network of public footpaths crisscrosses the countryside, leading through cornfields, hedgerows, and woodlands. You can find various routes for hiking, running, and mountain biking, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. For example, there are moderate running loops from Westcot Barton and Deddington, and hiking routes like the 'Falkland Arms, Great Tew loop from Worton' which is an easy option.

While Duns Tew itself is a tranquil village, there are family-friendly options nearby. The Upper Heyford village and carved tree trunk is a settlement offering access to the Oxfordshire countryside and features a notable carved tree trunk that children might enjoy. The network of public footpaths around Duns Tew also provides opportunities for family walks, especially in spring when woodlands are carpeted with bluebells.

The spring and summer months are ideal for exploring the Duns Tew area. In spring, the woodlands along the public footpaths are carpeted with bluebells, offering a beautiful sight. The verdant Oxfordshire countryside is at its most vibrant during these seasons, making it perfect for walking, hiking, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The paths are generally accessible in all weathers, but sturdy footwear is recommended.

The village of Duns Tew has its own historic pub, The White Horse Pub, an 18th-century building that continues to serve as a public house. For other options, the nearby Upper Heyford village has The Barley Mow pub, which is a good lunch option. These establishments offer a chance to experience local hospitality and refreshments after exploring the area.

Beyond the main attractions, you might enjoy the tranquil stretch of the Oxford Canal Towpath Between Tackley and Lower Heyford. This 3-mile section is known for its peace, serenity, and birdsong, offering a lovely walk away from the bustle. Additionally, the decommissioned RAF base near Upper Heyford, with many of its buildings now listed as scheduled monuments, is popular with local urban explorers for its unique historical atmosphere.

Duns Tew is set within a picturesque rural landscape. The village itself lies on the North Aston fault, creating a varied terrain with claylands to the north and limestone and sand to the south. You'll encounter rolling hills, verdant fields, hedgerows, and woodlands. The area is crisscrossed by public footpaths that lead through these natural settings, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna, including bluebells in spring.

Visitors appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. For instance, the Eye-Catcher Folly is loved for its beautiful setting and the peaceful atmosphere, with a memorial bench inviting visitors to 'sit and paws a while'. The Oxford Canal Towpath is cherished for its tranquility and birdsong. Generally, the charm of the historic villages, the quiet countryside, and the well-maintained walking paths are highly valued.

Yes, Duns Tew and its surroundings feature several architectural landmarks. The Church of St Mary Magdalene is a prime example, with its 12th-century origins, 14th-century additions, and 19th-century restoration by Sir George Gilbert Scott. The village also contains the 17th-century Duns Tew Manor with its dovecote, and the distinctive Former Raves Manor House with its ironstone rubble and stone mullioned windows. The 18th-century The White Horse Pub and the 1874 Duns Tew Village Hall also contribute to the village's rich architectural heritage.

Yes, the area offers several longer routes for walking and cycling. The Oxford Canal Towpath Between Tackley and Lower Heyford provides a pleasant 3-mile stretch for walking, and can be extended. For cycling, there are MTB trails like the 'Middie Aston Lane – North Aston Mill loop from Steeple Aston' which is nearly 30 km long, and other routes up to 34 km, offering moderate challenges through the countryside.