B is for BURFORD

Tracy Spiers take a wander around the streets – and letters – of the Oxfordshire town of Burford

- Tracy Spiers

It is one of England’s most picturesque towns and is known as the Gateway to the Cotswolds. Set on the River Windrush, Burford is beautifully formed, has a unique history, plenty of retail independence, has a plethora of foods to taste, opportunity in terms of activities and events to see and experience, stunning surrounding countryside to explore on foot and is a destination as well as a launch-pad from which to venture out to other Cotswold gems. Taking its name in acrostic form, I will attempt to unpack this town’s characteristics and hopefully entice you to visit this timeless, charming place for yourself.

B for BEAUTIFUL CHARACTER

With its quaint medieval bridge, stunning old stone houses and attractive Tudor and Georgian frontages, Burford definitely scores top marks for its beauty. It is full of character and as one drives into its famous broad High Street, it is as if the modern world is left behind due to the timeless quality of this place. I famously wrote in one feature about Burford that its buildings seem to defy the laws of graffiti. My spell check let me down for what I meant to write was gravity. Many buildings seem to slant at funny angles making those enjoying a quiet cup of coffee to think something stronger might have been added to the caffeine and they weren’t seeing straight. Straight lines don’t exist here which adds to the character.