Once world-famous for the blankets that were made there, Witney is a lively market town 13 miles west of Oxford. The water of the River Windrush that runs through it was said to be the secret of the blankets’ legendary quality.

The town has grown significantly over the past ten years with new housing developments built in Cotswold stone to blend in with existing buildings, many of which are Grade II listed.

At its heart is the 13th-century St Mary’s church overlooking Church Green and the remains of the 12th-century country palace of the Bishop of Winchester.

The name Witney is thought to mean ‘Witta’s Island’ and originates from Wittan, which was the council of Saxon kings who met in the area.

The market square, which lies at the junction of the two main streets, contains the Buttercross, a medieval marketing and meeting place where women from neighbouring villages gathered to sell butter and eggs.

The town has a large number of shops, including chain stores and independents, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Off the High Street, there is modern retail area, the Woolgate Centre, where there is a supermarket, electrical and home stores.

Also worth visiting are the Waterloo and Wesley Walk Shopping Arcades.

A new retail park including Debenhams and Marks & Spencer, plus a multi-screen cinema, has recently opened on the former Witney Town football ground at Marriott’s Close.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Cogges Manor Farm Museum: A working Victorian farm. You can see real animals and farm implements. Free parking. Call 01993 772602 or visit the website www.cogges.org.uk for information

Witney and District Museum: Gloucester Court Mews, High Street, tells the story of the town’s history. For opening times, call 01993 775915.

Witney Lakes and Meadows: A delightful area for wildlife and a perfect place to enjoy a walk in the countryside.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Witney Town Council: The Town Hall, Market Square, 01993 704379.

Post office: Market Square.

Windrush Leisure Centre: Witan Way. 25-metre pool, learners’ pool, four-court sports hall, aerobics studio, squash courts and gym, cafe and bar. For information, call 01993 202020 or see the website: www.nexuscommunity.com

Witney Tourist Information Centre: 3 Welch Way, 01993 775802.

Newspapers: The Witney Gazette, every Wednesday, 35p, Oxford Mail, daily, 40p. The Oxford Times, every Thursday, 80p. Websites: www.witneygazette.co.uk / www.theoxfordtimes.co.uk / www.oxfordmail.co.uk