Things To Do
in Bicester
Bicester is a historic market town located in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom. It is well-known for its designer outlet shopping center, Bicester Village, which attracts visitors from around the world. The town also boasts charming architecture, including the medieval St. Edburg's Church and the impressive Bicester Heritage, a former RAF base with a collection of vintage cars and aircraft.
Bicester is conveniently located near major transportation links, making it a popular destination for both tourists and residents alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bicester Village, a luxury shopping destination. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at one of the quaint cafes nearby.
Spend your afternoon at Garth Park, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy a picnic. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the local art gallery.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional British cuisine. Take a leisurely walk through the charming town center to experience the local nightlife.
Begin your exploration at the Bicester Heritage, a unique automotive destination. Learn about the history of vintage cars and enjoy a guided tour.
Visit the Bicester Museum to delve deeper into the town's history. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase local heritage.
Enjoy the ambiance of a local pub or bistro for dinner. Experience the friendly atmosphere and possibly catch live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Bicester has a charming mix of historical and modern architecture.
- The town is well-connected, with easy access to Oxford and London via train.
- Bicester Village offers a unique shopping experience with many designer outlets.
- There are plenty of parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
- The community is friendly and provides a welcoming atmosphere.
- Bicester can be quite crowded, especially during weekends due to shopping tourism.
- Housing prices have increased, making it potentially unaffordable for some residents.
- Public transport options can be limited outside of peak hours.
- Job opportunities may be fewer compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may lack nightlife and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Bicester
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the luxury shopping outlets and enjoy a day of retail therapy in this famous designer shopping destination.
Visit the historic former Royal Air Force base, now transformed into a center for classic car enthusiasts and vintage vehicle displays.
Enjoy a round of golf in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside at this well-regarded golf course.
Experience the thrill of silent flight and take in stunning views of the countryside from a glider at this popular gliding center.
Immerse yourself in nature and take a tranquil stroll through this peaceful nature reserve, home to a variety of wildlife and scenic walking trails.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bicester with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bicester
Visit one of these nice places.
A luxury shopping destination with beautiful architecture and gardens that offer great photo opportunities.
A popular park with a lake and green spaces, perfect for capturing natural beauty and leisurely strolls.
A historic church with exquisite architecture and stunning views of the town from its tower.
Food in Bicester
Bicester Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pork sausage with a well-seasoned blend of herbs and spices, usually served with mashed potatoes and gravy. One can find this dish at local pubs like The Jersey Arms.
Must-Try!
A tangy and creamy blue cheese with a distinctive flavor. The cheese is a must-try and can be found at cheese shops like The Cheese Merchant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bicester better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An annual food festival featuring a wide array of street food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to international cuisine. The festival is held in the scenic grounds of Bicester Village, attracting both locals and tourists.
The heart of Bicester's street food scene, where local vendors offer a variety of delectable treats such as artisanal chocolates, freshly baked pastries, and international street food. It's a great place to explore a diverse range of culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bicester, it is important to respect queuing (waiting in line) and take your turn in an orderly manner, whether it's at a bus stop, in a shop, or at a ticket counter.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Bicester. It is customary to say 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions with others, whether it's in shops, restaurants, or public spaces.
Bicester is a culturally diverse town, and it's important to show respect and sensitivity towards people of different racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. Engaging in open-minded and inclusive behaviors is crucial.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bicester with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bicester
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Bicester, United Kingdom, is generally considered a discretionary gesture for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A typical practice is to leave a gratuity of 10-15% of the total bill if the service has been satisfactory.
In Bicester, United Kingdom, cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted forms of payment. Contactless payment methods are also common, and many businesses have adapted to digital transactions. It is important to note that some smaller establishments may have a minimum spend requirement for card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bicester.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Bicester as the weather is mild and colorful spring blooms can be seen in gardens and parks. Expect occasional rain showers and cool evenings.
Ideal time for outdoor activities with longer days, and warmer temperatures. Bicester can get crowded with tourists during this season, especially around popular attractions.
A good time to visit as the weather is still pleasant and the autumn foliage creates beautiful scenery. Expect some rainfall and cooler temperatures towards the end of the season.
The Christmas season brings a festive atmosphere to Bicester with holiday markets and events. The weather is cold with occasional snowfall, and some attractions may have reduced operating hours.
Bicester at Night
Hiking in Bicester
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with walking trails, suitable for family hikes and enjoying nature.
A large area of woodland and open countryside, offering a variety of trails and stunning views.
A local hill with walking paths and views over Bicester, great for short hikes.
A wetland reserve with a network of walking routes, ideal for birdwatching and leisurely hikes.
A peaceful woodland area with several paths for hiking and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bicester through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bicester by plane.
Located approximately 40 miles southeast of Bicester, it is the busiest airport in the UK, serving millions of international passengers annually.
Situated about 60 miles southeast of Bicester, Gatwick is the second-largest airport in London, offering extensive international flights.
Located around 50 miles northwest of Bicester, Birmingham Airport serves numerous international destinations and is one of the UK's major airports.
Approximately 50 miles east of Bicester, Luton Airport is known for its low-cost flight offerings and international connections.
Located about 70 miles southeast of Bicester, it primarily serves business travelers with quick access to central London and various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Bicester, encompassing individuals who identify as ethnically White British.
This group includes individuals from South Asian backgrounds, such as Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi communities.
Individuals who identify as White but not specifically as British, including those from other European and non-European countries.
People who identify with two or more ethnic groups.
This group includes individuals from African and Caribbean backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals from a variety of ethnic backgrounds not specified in the other categories.
The Soul of Bicester
Discover the essence of Bicester through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Bicester, with many local clubs and teams catering to different age groups and skill levels.
Rugby has a strong presence in Bicester, with local clubs that encourage participation from youth to adults, fostering teamwork and community spirit.
Cricket is widely played in Bicester, with a vibrant local league and opportunities for players of all ages to participate.
Tennis is a popular recreational activity in Bicester, with several courts available and clubs that host tournaments and coaching sessions.
Running is popular in Bicester, with many parks and scenic routes available for joggers, and community running events organized throughout the year.
Cycling has gained popularity in Bicester, with numerous cycling clubs and events that promote fitness and provide a social atmosphere.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bicester.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bicester boasts a plethora of restaurants and cafes that cater specifically to vegetarian diets, offering creative and flavorful meat-free dishes.
For those following a vegan diet, numerous establishments in Bicester provide an extensive selection of plant-based dishes and treats, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Individuals requiring gluten-free choices will find a range of eateries and food vendors in Bicester that prioritize providing delicious gluten-free options, from baked goods to hearty mains.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bicester with these cultural adventures.