Round Hill

Heritage Site in Oxfordshire Oxford

England

Round Hill

Autumnal trees along the A40 Trees turning yellow along the A40 near Oxford. — Autumnal trees along the A40 Credit: Pebble

Round Hill is a historic site located in Oxfordshire, England. Situated near the village of Stanton St. John, it is a prominent landmark with a rich heritage. The hill itself stands at an elevation of 192 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The earliest records of Round Hill date back to the Iron Age, with evidence of ancient settlements and earthworks found on the site. It is believed to have been a significant defensive site during this period, serving as a hillfort or enclosure for the local community.

In addition to its archaeological importance, Round Hill has also played a role in more recent history. During World War II, the hill was utilized as a lookout point by the Royal Observer Corps, who were responsible for monitoring enemy aircraft activity. Remnants of their observation post can still be seen today.

The site is also known for its diverse flora and fauna. The hill is home to a variety of plant species, including wildflowers, grasses, and trees. It attracts a wide range of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Due to its historical and ecological significance, Round Hill has been designated as a heritage site. It is regularly visited by locals and tourists alike, who come to appreciate its natural beauty and explore its fascinating past. The site offers walking trails and informative signage to guide visitors through its history and natural wonders.

In summary, Round Hill is a captivating heritage site in Oxfordshire, boasting a long history dating back to the Iron Age. With its archaeological remains, wartime significance, and abundant wildlife, it is a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts.

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Round Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.772/-1.283 or Grid Reference SP4908. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Autumnal trees along the A40

Trees turning yellow along the A40 near Oxford.

Pebble

Wolvercote Tunnel north entrance

Wolvercote Tunnel passes under Wolvercote Roundabout in the north of Oxford. The ex LNWR Bletchley to Oxford railway passes through the tunnel. When the line became less used, it made a perfect roosting place for bats. On reconstruction of the line for the Chiltern Railways new services to Oxford, the tunnel was refurbished and equipped with 'Bat Lights' which are triggered by the passing of trains. This is to persuade the nocturnal animals to remain at roost when a train passes and not fly off and possibly get injured in the process. The 'Bat lights' are fitted along the tunnel walls and on posts at the entrances to the tunnel, as seen here.

Bob Walters

The Trout Inn, Wolvercote

The old stones of the picturesquely situated Trout Inn seen here bathed in late evening sunlight. The pub is situated immediately adjacent to a branch of the Thames as it flows past Oxford through the village of Wolvercote, though a weir under the bridge next to the pub prevents this arm being navigable. The pub's own website here Link

Dating mostly from the C17th, it is EH Grade II listed Link

Rob Farrow

Trout at The Trout

Why the pub is called what it is! The Trout Inn (see SP4809 : The Trout Inn, Wolvercote) is immediately adjacent to a branch of the River Thames (or Isis as it is known in this locality). There were eight good sized Brown Trout swimming in the river beside the outside seating area - this is one of them.

Rob Farrow

Little Godstow Bridge & Weir, Wolvercote

Little Godstow Bridge is situated immediately to the south of SP4809 : The Trout Inn, Wolvercote and carries the lane to Wolvercote over a branch of the River Thames (or Isis) with a weir built into its arches dropping the river level by about 4' (1.2m) I would estimate. A navigable arm of the Thames flows under a second bridge (Godstow Bridge) immediately south of this one. The bridge, which is mediæval in origin, but was reconstructed in 1892 is EH Grade II listed Link

Rob Farrow

Trout Inn Footbridge, Wolvercote

This graceful Chinese-style wooden footbridge spans an arm of the River Thames from the patio of SP4809 : The Trout Inn, Wolvercote across to a tiny islet created by the two branches of the Thames (or Isis) here. It dates from the late C19th/early C20th and is EH Grade II listed Link

Rob Farrow

A34 Oxford bypass crossing the railway

Roy Hughes

Wolvercote Common near Oxford

Roy Hughes

Barn, Binsey

AJD

Bridge, Lane to Binsey Church

AJD

St Margaret's Church, Binsey

AJD

Wolvercote Common

Bridge over the brook.

Wayland Smith

Memorial Stone

John Thompson stone, in Burgess Field, Oxford.

Wayland Smith

Horses in Thames amused by dinghy sailors

Commoners' horses graze on Port Meadow, dinghy from Medley sailing club the other side of the Thames.

David Sankey

Binsey Lane

A country lane from Osney to Binsey. There's something not quite right about those trees to the left: diseased, or badly pruned? The metal gates to the right are the access to an electricity substation.

Stephen Craven