Aston Rowant

What does Aston Rowant offer?

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of South Oxfordshire, Aston Rowant is a charming village that offers an idyllic escape from the bustling city life. Boasting a rich history and an abundance of natural beauty, this quaint rural retreat is an ideal destination for those seeking a serene and tranquil getaway. The village is surrounded by lush woodlands, magnificent hills, and stunning landscapes, providing ample opportunities for leisurely walks, invigorating hikes, and delightful picnics amidst nature. Aston Rowant is also renowned for its exceptional wildlife reserve situated at the foot of the Chiltern Hills. The Aston Rowant National Nature Reserve is a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an enchanting spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. The reserve is not only home to the iconic red kites but also provides a habitat for rare butterfly species and a colourful array of wildflowers. In addition to the natural wonders, the village itself is steeped in history, featuring an array of charming thatched cottages and a lovely 12th-century church. With its warm and friendly community, Aston Rowant is the perfect place to immerse oneself in the quintessential English countryside experience.

Top attractions in Aston Rowant

1. Aston Rowant National Nature Reserve: This remarkable reserve boasts a diverse range of wildlife, flora, and fauna. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Chilterns, explore the rich chalk grasslands, and spot rare butterflies and birds that call this sanctuary home.

2. The Ridgeway National Trail: Stretching over 87 miles, this ancient pathway offers breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into Britain's history. The Aston Rowant section of the trail provides an opportunity for leisurely strolls, challenging hikes, and even horse riding or cycling.

3. The Bull and Butcher Pub: Situated in the heart of Aston Rowant, this traditional country pub offers a warm atmosphere, delicious home-cooked meals, and a fine selection of ales. The perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the countryside.

4. St. Peter & St. Paul's Church: A beautiful Grade II* listed building dating back to the 12th century, this historic church features striking architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. The churchyard is also home to ancient yew trees, some believed to be over 1000 years old.

5. Lower Icknield Way: This prehistoric route, also known as Grim's Dyke, runs through Aston Rowant and offers a fascinating insight into ancient Britain. With archaeological evidence of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age, this historical treasure provides a unique experience for history enthusiasts.

Best areas to live in Aston Rowant

1. Chiltern View: With panoramic views of the surrounding Chiltern Hills, this area offers a perfect blend of tranquillity and natural beauty. The well-maintained homes here are surrounded by lush gardens, making Chiltern View an idyllic place to live.

2. Old Turnpike: This historic road offers a mix of charming period properties and modern family homes. With easy access to local amenities, Old Turnpike is an excellent choice for families and professionals alike.

3. Ridgeway Close: Nestled close to the Ridgeway National Trail, this quiet cul-de-sac boasts a selection of spacious, detached properties with sizeable gardens. Enjoy the benefits of country living while still being within walking distance of local amenities.

4. Church Lane: Steeped in history, Church Lane is home to a number of stunning period properties. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, this area truly captures the rural charm of Aston Rowant.

5. Hillview Crescent: Offering a range of modern, semi-detached homes, Hillview Crescent is ideal for young families and first-time buyers. With excellent transport links and access to nearby schools, this area is both convenient and comfortable.

6. Oakley Road: Situated in the heart of the village, Oakley Road offers a diverse range of properties, from charming cottages to spacious family homes. With easy access to local shops and schools, Oakley Road is perfect for those seeking a balance of convenience and rural charm.

7. Glebe Close: This exclusive development, located on the outskirts of Aston Rowant, features a collection of luxurious, modern homes. With sizeable gardens and a peaceful atmosphere, Glebe Close is perfect for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle in a serene setting.

8. The Green: At the heart of Aston Rowant, The Green is a sought-after location for families and professionals alike. Featuring characterful period properties and easy access to local amenities, The Green is a prime location to enjoy life in this charming village.

9. Copse View: This picturesque area, situated close to Aston Rowant Nature Reserve, features a selection of attractive, detached properties with ample garden space. Copse View is ideal for those who value both natural beauty and modern living.

10. Meadowcroft: A delightful area with a mix of semi-detached and detached homes, Meadowcroft offers a peaceful setting with easy access to nearby towns and cities. Ideal for families, this area provides a friendly, community atmosphere.

Best things about living in Aston Rowant

1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Aston Rowant boasts a picturesque landscape with the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty right on its doorstep. Enjoy scenic walks, cycling routes, or simply take in the serene surroundings that this quaint village has to offer.

2. Aston Rowant National Nature Reserve: This beautiful nature reserve provides an ideal spot for birdwatching, wildlife spotting and peaceful walks. The reserve is home to rare species of flora and fauna, and is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

3. Accessible Transport Links: Although Aston Rowant is a quiet village, it benefits from excellent transport links. The M40 motorway is easily accessible, offering convenient connections to London, Birmingham and other major cities. In addition, the nearby towns of High Wycombe and Princes Risborough provide train services to London Marylebone within an hour's journey.

4. Tight-Knit Community: The small size of Aston Rowant fosters a strong sense of community among its residents. With a local village hall, cricket club, and various community events throughout the year, there are plenty of opportunities to meet your neighbours, make new friends, and become involved in village life.

5. Idyllic Rural Lifestyle: Embrace the tranquillity and charm of country living in Aston Rowant. Despite its proximity to urban areas, the village retains its rural character, with historic thatched cottages, beautiful gardens, and traditional pubs serving locally-sourced food and drink.

Drawbacks to living in Aston Rowant

1. Limited Amenities: Aston Rowant is a small, rural village, which means that residents may have to travel to nearby towns for a wider range of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. This can be inconvenient for those without personal transport or those who prefer the hustle and bustle of city life.

2. Public Transport: Due to its rural location, Aston Rowant has limited public transport options. This can make travel to neighbouring towns and cities more challenging, particularly for those who rely on public transport for their daily commute or social activities.

3. Employment Opportunities: The village itself has limited employment opportunities, which may require residents to commute to nearby towns or cities for work. This can result in longer travel times and potentially higher costs of living, as individuals need to factor in transportation expenses.

4. Limited Housing Options: Aston Rowant comprises mostly of detached and semi-detached properties, with a limited number of flats or apartments. This can make it difficult for first-time homebuyers, young professionals, or those looking to downsize to find suitable housing within the village.

5. Lack of Entertainment and Nightlife: Aston Rowant offers a quiet, countryside lifestyle, which may not appeal to everyone. Those seeking vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and varied entertainment options may find the village too quiet and may need to travel to nearby towns or cities for such experiences.

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