The Wychwoods is the collective name for three quintessential Cotswold stone villages, nestled in the Evenlode Valley, between the Cotswold escarpment and the River Windrush. The name of the ancient Forest of Wychwood has nothing to do with witches, but refers to the Anglo-Saxon name of the tribe of local inhabitants, the Hwicce. Each village is described as being ’under’ the boughs of the forest. The Wychwood Forest was once the hunting ground of our Tudor monarchs, and local men were appointed as foresters and game keepers to preserve the game and woodland.

Inevitably, the forest has shrunk as agriculture has encroached, and Wychwood Forest now occupies closer to only 1240 acres. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and offers a beautiful area for walking with a 37 mile trail, Wild Gardens, and a long barrow from the Neolithic period, as points of interest.

Butler Sherborn have recently been selling just over 100 acres of farm and amenity land at Coldstone Farm, Shipton-under-Wychwood. It has frontage to the River Evenlode and is in the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The land is a mixture of Grade 3 permanent pasture and arable cropping. It generated very strong interest and is currently under offer. (Enquiries to Richard Greasby 01285 883740 richard@butlersherborn.co.uk)

The three villages each have their own charm. Shipton-under-Wychwood has a traditional artisan flour mill, that has been run by the Matthews family for five generations. Much of the grain is grown locally in the Cotswolds, and the mill supplies all major retailers, as well as many artisan bakers across the country. The Lamb Inn has recently been refurbished and offers a number of beautifully appointed rooms, as well as an excellent menu of locally grown produce.

Sheepfold, Shipton under Wychwood is an attractive and spacious five bedroom property, currently available through Butler Sherborn, Burford office at a Guide Price of £1,375,000. (Enquiries to Katy Freeman 01993 822325 katy@butlersherborn.co.uk)

Milton-under- Wychwood has a lovely, large village green, and popular primary school. The Hare is a small, enchanting pub, with a menu and food which never disappoint. For those wishing to source interesting pieces for their homes, C’est Tout Interiors is to be found at the centre of the village on Groves estate. It has an eccletic range of French painted furniture, rustic mirrors and inspired chandeliers and light fittings.

Ascott-under-Wychwood derives it’s name from the old English, ‘east’ and ‘cot’, or cottage. The manor house is built on the site of the bailey of Ascott d’Oilly Castle, and reveals 13th century buttresses. Today it is served by the Great Western railway, with it’s pretty signal box, and it’s community shop run by the local residents. Ascott has two private schools, The Windrush Valley School offering co-education to children from 5-11 years and Ascott-under-Wychwood Pre School for the 2-5 year olds.

https://fwpmatthews.co.uk

http://www.thelambshipton.com/

https://www.windrushvalleyschool.co.uk/

https://www.themiltonhare.co.uk/