Things to Do in Banbury

Free or low-cost ways to enjoy your time off

Banbury may be a smaller town, but it’s full of charm, history, and quiet surprises. Whether you’ve got a few hours after work or a full weekend to explore, there are plenty of ways to relax, learn something new, or just enjoy the fresh air — often for free.

🌳 1. Walk along the Oxford Canal

One of Banbury’s prettiest features is the canal running through town. You can follow the towpath for a peaceful walk or jog, passing colourful boats, ducks, and cosy pubs.

💡 Great for a phone-free break or catching up with a colleague

🛍️ 2. Visit Banbury Market

📍 Thursdays and Saturdays, Banbury Town Centre
Banbury’s market days are lively, with stalls selling everything from fruit and veg to clothing and phone accessories. It’s also a great way to hear local accents and get to know your neighbours.

✅ Friendly atmosphere
✅ Bargains on fresh food

🕰️ 3. Explore Banbury Cross & Fine Lady Statue

📍 Horsefair, Banbury
This famous local landmark appears in an old English nursery rhyme:
“Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross…”

It’s a quick stop, but it’s part of the town’s history — and a perfect photo op for friends and family abroad.

🏰 4. Banbury Museum & Gallery

📍 Castle Quay, next to the canal
🆓 Free entry
This small but engaging museum shares Banbury’s role in British history — from civil wars to canal building — and regularly features art exhibitions and community events.

🎨 Perfect for a rainy day off!

☕ 5. Castle Quay Shopping Centre

📍 In the heart of Banbury
More than just shops — you’ll find cafés, a cinema, soft play for kids, and occasional free events. It’s also the site of the new leisure centre and Lock29, a food and drink hub with local vendors.

🌼 6. People’s Park

📍 Warwick Road, near town centre
A peaceful green park with flower beds, play areas, and shaded benches. Great for a quiet lunch break, reading, or a walk on your day off.

🐴 7. Day trips nearby

With Banbury’s good transport links, you can easily take a short train ride or drive to:

• Oxford – beautiful university town (20–25 mins by train)
  
• Stratford-upon-Avon – Shakespeare’s birthplace
  
• Cotswolds villages – for traditional stone houses and countryside views