BLETCHINGDON

The small village of Bletchingdon lies on a ridge and its high position enables good views to both east and west. Its name is derived from the Old English for 'The hill of a man called Blecci'.

In the centre of the village on the cross-roads there is a terrace of restored 18th century cottages and elsewhere round the green are attractive cottages in the local pale honey-coloured stone. Much of the village is taken up by the grounds of Bletchingdon Park, a square neo-classical Palladian country house.

Close to Bletchingdon Park is the Grade II* listed parish church of St. Giles, originally Norman and with a Early English Gothic chancel and 19th century north aisle. The church has a small portion of a medieval wall painting. The rectory was the home of Christopher Wren when he was a boy. Full details about St. Giles Church can mbe found here.

Near the church is a small area of smart houses and the former stable block and courtyard of Bletchingdon Park which has now been converted into a mews style development.

Bletchingdon is about 2 miles north of Kidlington and 6 miles south-west of Bicester on the B4027.