Who Lives in Banbury?

Understanding the people and communities around you

Banbury is a small but welcoming town, with a mix of long-time locals and people who’ve moved here from different parts of the UK and the world. It’s not as busy or diverse as big cities like Manchester or London — but it’s a place where newcomers are noticed, and neighbours often smile and say hello.

👵 Long-time locals

Many Banbury residents were born and raised in the area — some have lived here for generations. You’ll meet friendly older people who enjoy chatting in shops or at the bus stop. They often speak with a soft Oxfordshire or West Midlands accent, and are generally open to newcomers who are polite and kind.

🧑‍🔧 Working families

Banbury is home to many British working-class and middle-class families. Some work in logistics, supermarkets, local schools, or nearby businesses like Jacobs Douwe Egberts (coffee factory) or Prodrive (motorsport). Others work in Oxford or London and commute in by train.

🧕 International communities

Over the years, Banbury has quietly grown into a multicultural town, especially in neighbourhoods like Grimsbury. You’ll find communities from:

• South Asia – including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh
  
• Eastern Europe – including Poland, Romania, and Lithuania
  
• North and West Africa – such as Nigeria and Sudan
  
• The Philippines – especially in healthcare and care work
  

🏠 Many immigrants work in health and social care, logistics, or food production, and have built family homes in Banbury over time.

🧑‍⚕️ NHS & care workers

Thanks to Cherwell Hospital and nearby NHS centres, Banbury is also home to many healthcare professionals — including nurses, care assistants, and support staff. Some are British, while many are newly arrived from the Philippines, Africa, and South Asia.

This means you’re not alone — and you may meet others on the same journey as you, either in shared housing, supermarkets, or even in town on a Sunday!

🧑‍🎓 Students & young people

While Banbury isn’t a university town, it’s close to Oxford, Coventry, and Warwick, so you may meet students living at home and commuting to study. There’s also a small Activate Learning campus in town for apprenticeships and adult education.

🧡 What to Expect

• People in Banbury are generally polite and reserved, but warm once you start talking
  
• Don’t be surprised if someone starts a small chat while you’re waiting in line or walking your dog — it’s normal here!
  
• If you smile, say hello, and are patient with the local pace of life — you’ll be welcomed in over time