Bampton

Settlement in Oxfordshire West Oxfordshire

England

Bampton

Bampton is a small village located in the county of Oxfordshire in England. Situated about 20 miles west of Oxford, it lies within the Cherwell Valley and is part of the larger administrative district of West Oxfordshire. With a population of around 2,500 residents, Bampton boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman times.

The village is renowned for its picturesque charm, with its well-preserved thatched cottages, traditional stone buildings, and a quaint village square. It is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Cotswolds" due to its close proximity to this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Bampton is most famous for its association with the popular television series, "Downton Abbey." The village has been featured as the fictional village of Downton in the show, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its historic streets and landmarks, such as St Mary's Church and the Old Grammar School.

Despite its small size, Bampton boasts a strong sense of community and offers various amenities for residents and visitors. These include a primary school, a village hall, a post office, several shops, pubs, and restaurants. The village also hosts several annual events, including the Bampton Charter Fair, a centuries-old tradition that takes place in late October.

Overall, Bampton is a charming village with a rich heritage, stunning countryside surroundings, and a close-knit community. Its connection to "Downton Abbey" has further enhanced its appeal as a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and television fans alike.

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Bampton Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.726298/-1.545856 or Grid Reference SP3103. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

St Mary's Church, Bampton

AJD

Bampton Garden Plants on Buckland Road

Steve Daniels

Aston Road in Bampton

Steve Daniels

Thames floodplain arable land

Pictured from the A4095 Clanfield to Bampton road.

Jonathan Billinger

A4095 towards Bampton

The road crosses Thames floodplain countryside.

Jonathan Billinger

The Morris Clown in Bampton

Bampton has three morris dancing sides. However, they are based in the Horseshoe Inn.

Steve Daniels

The Morris Clown in Bampton

Bampton has three morris dancing sides. However, they are based in the Horseshoe Inn.

Steve Daniels

Bampton High Street

Steve Daniels

Bampton War Memorial, Market Square, Bampton, Oxon

The memorial is in the town centre. It reads "To the Glory of God and in memory of Bampton men who died for their country in the Great War 1914-1918". It records the names of these men, plus those who died in the Second World War (1939-1945). A further name is of a local man who died in Afghanistan in 2009. The memorial was unveiled in September 1920 and cleaned in 1982. The sculptor was Alec Miller. At the top, St. George is depicted slaying the dragon.

P L Chadwick

Bampton Coffee House, 9 High Street, Bampton, Oxon

It describes itself as a coffee house and bistro. It serves light refreshments, and hot and cold drinks. It is located on the corner of Moonraker Lane and High Street. Although officially in the High Street, this area is usually referred to as the Market Square. Next door is a small branch of Budgens, a supermarket.

P L Chadwick

The Morris Clown (1), High Street, Bampton, Oxon

An old coaching inn, which years ago was called the New Inn. It prides itself on not doing food but does carry a wide range of real ales. A combination that is increasingly rare in rural areas. SP3103 : The Morris Clown (2) - sign, High Street, Bampton, Oxon.

P L Chadwick

The Morris Clown (2) - sign, High Street, Bampton, Oxon

The small town of Bampton has a long tradition of Morris dancing which is known to stretch back to the late 18th century, and probably much older. Today there are three groups in the town. One of them, the Bampton Morris Men, was based here but has now gone elsewhere. This former connection may be why the pub's name was changed from the New Inn to its present one. The clown or fool is a common participant in a morris dance. SP3103 : The Morris Clown (1), High Street, Bampton, Oxon.

P L Chadwick