Upper Heyford

What does Upper Heyford offer?

Discover the charm of Upper Heyford, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Cherwell, UK. This quaint settlement is steeped in history and boasts an array of beautiful, traditional Cotswold stone homes and buildings. Surrounded by the lush, rolling countryside of Oxfordshire, Upper Heyford offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along the serene River Cherwell, explore the local woodlands, or simply relax and soak up the tranquillity of rural England. In addition to its natural beauty, Upper Heyford has a rich history that is sure to captivate any visitor. The village is home to the notable St. Mary's Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. Wander through the nearby farmlands and you'll come across the remnants of the former RAF Upper Heyford airbase, which played a significant role during the Cold War. With a welcoming community, an abundance of scenic walking paths, and a fascinating heritage, Upper Heyford is a hidden gem in the Cherwell district that promises an unforgettable visit.

Top attractions in Upper Heyford

1. Upper Heyford Heritage Centre: Dive into the rich history of this former Royal Air Force station, which played a significant role during World War II and the Cold War. Explore fascinating exhibits, vintage aircraft, and artefacts, and immerse yourself in the stories of the brave individuals who served here.

2. Heyford Park Nature Reserve: Enjoy a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings of this beautiful nature reserve. Home to an array of wildlife and native plants, the reserve offers a serene retreat for nature lovers of all ages.

3. St Mary's Church: Dating back to the 13th century, this stunning Grade II* listed church boasts beautiful architecture and a rich history. Take a moment to admire its exquisite stained-glass windows and intricate stone carvings, or attend one of the regular services held within its hallowed walls.

4. Heyford Park Circuit: For those seeking excitement, the Heyford Park Circuit promises an adrenaline-fuelled experience. Take to the track in a high-performance vehicle and put your driving skills to the test, or simply enjoy the thrill of watching others race around this challenging course.

5. Upper Heyford Public Footpaths: Traverse the picturesque countryside on one of Upper Heyford's public footpaths. These well-maintained routes offer a delightful way to explore the area's natural beauty, with several paths providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best areas to live in Upper Heyford

1. Mill Lane: A picturesque and serene location, Mill Lane offers a perfect blend of rural charm and modern convenience. With its well-maintained properties and lush green surroundings, this is an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle.

2. Somerton Road: Boasting a range of beautiful period homes and newer builds, Somerton Road is a highly sought-after area in Upper Heyford. The road provides easy access to local amenities and transport links, making it a convenient and attractive option for families and professionals alike.

3. High Street: As the heart of the village, High Street is home to a variety of lovely properties and local businesses. With its charming character and close-knit community atmosphere, High Street is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in village life.

4. Lower Heyford Road: For those craving a tranquil and rural setting, Lower Heyford Road is an ideal choice. With its stunning countryside views and spacious properties, residents can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle amidst the beauty of the Oxfordshire countryside.

5. Portway: A quiet and well-maintained residential area, Portway offers a range of attractive properties suitable for families, couples, and retirees. With easy access to local parks and nature reserves, this area provides a delightful environment for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits.

6. The Green: As the name suggests, The Green is a lush and verdant location in Upper Heyford, showcasing a range of charming properties overlooking the village green. With its close proximity to local amenities and friendly community, The Green is an appealing option for anyone seeking a quintessential village lifestyle.

7. Heyford Park: A unique and modern development, Heyford Park is set within the historical RAF Upper Heyford site. Offering a variety of contemporary homes and excellent leisure facilities, this area is an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and well-connected location.

8. Camp Road: With a variety of charming properties and easy access to local amenities, Camp Road offers a delightful mix of countryside living and modern convenience. This peaceful and friendly area is an excellent choice for families and individuals looking for a comfortable and inviting neighbourhood.

Best things about living in Upper Heyford

1. Rich Historical Heritage: Upper Heyford is steeped in history, with origins dating back to the Roman era. The village boasts a variety of well-preserved historical structures, including the 12th-century St. Mary's Church and the remnants of the Royal Air Force (RAF) base, which played a pivotal role in World War II and the Cold War.

2. Scenic Countryside and Outdoor Activities: Surrounded by the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, Upper Heyford offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents can enjoy walking, cycling, and horse riding along the numerous footpaths and bridleways, including the Oxford Canal towpath and the Heyford Valley Nature Reserve.

3. Strong Sense of Community: The village of Upper Heyford fosters a close-knit community atmosphere, with residents coming together for various events and activities throughout the year. The village hall, local clubs, and societies provide excellent opportunities to socialise and engage with fellow villagers.

4. Proximity to Major Cities and Transport Links: Upper Heyford enjoys excellent connectivity to major cities, including Oxford and Birmingham, thanks to its proximity to the M40 motorway and nearby train stations in Bicester and Lower Heyford. This prime location offers residents the convenience of city amenities while maintaining the tranquillity of rural living.

5. Local Amenities and Education: Upper Heyford benefits from a range of local amenities, including a village shop, post office, and a well-regarded primary school. The nearby town of Bicester provides additional shopping and leisure facilities, while the prestigious University of Oxford is easily accessible for higher education opportunities.

Drawbacks to living in Upper Heyford

1. Limited Amenities: Upper Heyford is a small village, and as such, it has limited amenities compared to larger towns or cities. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns for shopping, entertainment, and dining options, which can be inconvenient for those without access to a car.

2. Public Transport: The village has limited public transport connections, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to commute or travel to other areas. This can lead to a feeling of isolation for some residents and an increased reliance on cars, contributing to environmental concerns.

3. Rural Lifestyle: While the rural setting of Upper Heyford provides a peaceful and picturesque environment, it may not be suitable for those who crave the excitement and buzz of city life. The slower pace and lack of nightlife options might not appeal to everyone.

4. Employment Opportunities: The employment opportunities within the village are quite limited, with many residents needing to commute to nearby towns and cities for work. This can lead to increased travel costs and time spent on commuting, impacting work-life balance and overall quality of life.

5. Limited Educational Options: Upper Heyford has few educational facilities within the village, meaning families with children may need to travel to nearby towns for school. This can be a drawback for families looking for a convenient, all-in-one community to call home.

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