Faringdon City Guide

About Faringdon – History and Culture

Faringdon is a historic market town nestled in the Vale of White Horse, Oxfordshire, with roots stretching back to Saxon times. Its name, derived from 'Ferendone' (fern-covered hill), appears in the Domesday Book. Throughout the Middle Ages, Faringdon flourished as a wool trading center, and its prosperity is reflected in the grand All Saints Church with its soaring spire. The town's market, granted a charter in 1218, continues every Tuesday and Saturday, offering local produce and crafts.

The 20th century brought a unique landmark: Faringdon Folly, a 100-foot tower built in 1935 by Lord Berners, a composer, writer, and eccentric. The folly is the last significant one constructed in England. Lord Berners also adorned the town with unexpected splashes of color, painting pigeons to amuse his guests. Today, Faringdon balances its rich heritage with a vibrant community spirit, hosting cultural events and preserving historic buildings like the Elizabethan almshouses and the Old Town Hall.

Modern Faringdon is a hub for families and professionals seeking a blend of rural charm and connectivity. Its culture is rooted in local traditions—from the annual Faringdon Feast to the Faringdon Fancy Dress tradition. The town's literary connections include Lord Berners and the poet John Betjeman, who admired the folly. With a strong sense of community, Faringdon offers a warm welcome to visitors and newcomers alike.

• All Saints Church – 15th-century church with medieval brasses
• Faringdon Folly – iconic 100ft tower with panoramic views
• Faringdon House – 18th-century mansion, private residence
• The Old Town Hall – 17th-century market building
• Faringdon Almshouses – Elizabethan charity housing
• St. Mary's Church (Little Coxwell) – Norman chapel
• Market Square – site of weekly markets since 1218
• Faringdon Community Centre – modern cultural venue

Did You Know? – Facts about Faringdon

Faringdon is a small town with a big personality, boasting quirks that range from its famous painted pigeon story to its claim as one of the last places in England to build a folly. Its identity blends deep history with a forward-looking community. The town has been a settlement for over a thousand years, yet it embraces modern living with excellent schools, local businesses, and active community groups.

• Faringdon Folly is 100 feet tall and has 95 steps to the top.
• The town was a 'rotten borough' before the Reform Act 1832, with a tiny electorate.
• Lord Berners once dyed the pigeons his estate to match the colours of his house.
• Faringdon has more than 20 listed buildings in the town centre.
• The Faringdon Branch Railway line closed in 1964, but the old station building remains as a private home.
• Faringdon's annual Scarecrow Festival attracts visitors from across the county.
• The town is a designated 'Walkers are Welcome' community.
• Faringdon is part of the Vale of White Horse district, named after the famous Uffington White Horse.
• The local newspaper is the 'Faringdon and Vale of White Horse Advertiser'.
• Faringdon has a thriving youth theatre and a town band.
• The town's war memorial was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.
• Faringdon sits on the edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
• The poet John Betjeman was a frequent visitor to Faringdon House.
• Faringdon’s market has been running for over 800 years continuously.
• In 2021, Faringdon was named one of the best places to live in the UK by The Sunday Times.

Geography and Climate of Faringdon

Faringdon lies in the southeast of England, in Oxfordshire, on the edge of the Vale of White Horse. The town is framed by gentle hills and open farmland, with the River Thames flowing about 5 miles to the east. It sits near the border with Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, making it a gateway to the Cotswolds. The landscape is typical of lowland England: undulating fields, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages.

The climate is temperate maritime, with mild summers and cool winters. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with occasional snow in winter. Average summer highs reach around 22°C, while winter lows hover near 1°C. The town's elevation (around 100m above sea level) gives it slightly cooler temperatures than the Thames Valley. Faringdon experiences about 700mm of rain annually, with the wettest months from October to January. The area is known for its green landscapes and clear skies, making it ideal for walking and outdoor activities.

• Location: 51.6°N latitude, 1.6°W longitude
• Elevation: approx. 100m (330ft) above sea level
• Climate: Cfb (Oceanic) with gentle seasons
• Average summer temp: 22°C (72°F)
• Average winter temp: 1-7°C (34-45°F)
• Annual rainfall: ~700mm (27.5 inches)
• Nearest river: Thames (5 miles east)
• Landscape: Vale of White Horse – chalk and limestone hills

Things to Do in Faringdon

Faringdon offers a blend of historic exploration, outdoor activity, and local flavour. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, the town has something to offer. The compact town centre is easily walkable, and the surrounding countryside invites longer rambles. From climbing the folly to shopping at the market, here are the top ways to enjoy Faringdon.

Food & Dining

Faringdon's dining scene is rooted in traditional British pubs, cosy cafes, and a few international options. The town is famous for its local butchers and bakeries, providing ingredients for a classic picnic. Pubs like The Bell and The Crown serve hearty meals with local ale, while The Faringdon Hotel offers a more refined dining experience. For something unique, try the Faringdon Folly's tearoom for cream teas with a view.

In recent years, the town has seen a rise in artisan food outlets, including a microbrewery and a deli. The weekly market is a great place to sample local cheeses, meats, and baked goods. For fine dining, nearby country pubs like The White Horse in Woolstone or The Star at Sparsholt offer Michelin-recommended meals. Faringdon is also within easy reach of Oxford's diverse restaurant scene.

• The Bell – traditional pub with cask ales and classic food
• The Crown – gastropub with seasonal menu
• Faringdon Folly Tea Room – iconic setting for scones
• Simla – Indian cuisine in the town centre
• Riverside Cafe – light bites by the Thames
• Faringdon Market – fresh produce and street food
• Old Bakery Cafe – artisan coffee and pastries
• The Chequers – family-friendly pub with garden
• La Luna – Italian restaurant in nearby Stanford in the Vale

Festivals & Events

Faringdon hosts a lively calendar of events that reflect its community spirit. The annual Faringdon Feast (or 'Faringdon Fancy') dates back centuries and includes a procession, fair, and entertainment. The Scarecrow Festival in May sees locals create imaginative scarecrows displayed around the town, with a prize for the best. Christmas in Faringdon features a lantern parade, carols, and a festive market.

Other notable events include the Faringdon Folly Open Day (usually March), which allows visitors to climb the tower for free. The town also takes part in national events like the Big Lunch and the Faringdon Summer Music Festival, which brings live bands to the park. Throughout the year, the community centre hosts craft fairs, film nights, and theatre productions.

• Faringdon Feast – July/August, with traditional fair
• Scarecrow Festival – May, town-wide competition
• Christmas Lantern Parade – December
• Folly Open Day – March, free entry
• Summer Music Festival – July, park concerts
• Art and Craft Fair – multiple dates
• Faringdon Farmers Market – monthly
• Heritage Open Days – September, historic buildings open
• Remembrance Day Parade – November at the war memorial

Cultural Attractions

Faringdon's cultural offerings centre on its history and creative community. The Faringdon Folly Trust runs the tower and a small exhibition about Lord Berners. All Saints Church is a treasure trove of history, with medieval stone carvings, a 15th-century roof, and a ring of eight bells. The town has a small museum (the Faringdon Heritage Centre) located in the Old Town Hall, detailing local history from the Iron Age to the present day.

The town also has a lively arts scene, with the Faringdon Community Theatre putting on shows throughout the year. The library hosts author talks and workshops. For a dose of culture further afield, the nearby Buscot Park (National Trust) features a grand house and art collection, and the historic town of Swindon offers museums and the Swindon Art Gallery.

• Faringdon Folly – exhibit on Lord Berners' life
• All Saints Church – architecture and history
• Faringdon Heritage Centre – local history museum
• Community Theatre – plays and concerts
• Buscot Park – stately home with art gallery
• Swindon Museum and Art Gallery – 20th-century British art
• White Horse Hill – prehistoric hill figure and fort
• Great Coxwell Tithe Barn – medieval barn

Outdoor Activities

The countryside around Faringdon is a paradise for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The Faringdon Folly tower marks a network of footpaths that cross the Vale of White Horse. The Thames Path National Trail passes within 5 miles, offering riverside walks to Lechlade and Oxford. Closer to town, the Faringdon Recreation Ground has a playground, skate park, and playing fields.

Cycling routes connect Faringdon to nearby villages, including the quiet lanes to Little Coxwell and Great Coxwell, where the famous tithe barn is located. The area is popular with horseback riders, with many bridleways. For a more adventurous outing, the Cotswold Water Park is a 20-minute drive away, offering sailing, windsurfing, and birdwatching. The town also has a golf club, Faringdon Golf Club, with a 9-hole course.

• Faringdon Folly Circular Walk – 2-mile route with views
• Thames Path – riverside walking to Lechlade
• Faringdon Recreation Ground – sports facilities
• Great Coxwell Tithe Barn – historic barn and walk
• White Horse Hill – hiking to the Uffington White Horse
• Cotswold Water Park – water sports and wildlife
• Faringdon Golf Club – 9-hole parkland course
• Cycle Route 47 – regional cycle network
• Stanford Paddock – nature reserve with bird hides

Economy and Key Industries

Faringdon's economy is primarily based on retail, services, and tourism, with a significant number of residents commuting to larger employment centres like Swindon, Oxford, and London. The town itself is a service hub for surrounding villages, with supermarkets, banks, and professional services. Local employment is also supported by the construction sector, agriculture in the surrounding area, and the growing digital/creative industries.

The town benefits from its location on the A420, connecting it to the M4 corridor, which has attracted distribution and light manufacturing to nearby industrial estates. Swindon is a major employment centre with Honda (manufacturing), Nationwide (finance), and numerous tech firms. Oxford offers opportunities in education, health, and research. Many Faringdon residents also work in the tourism sector, especially those involved in the upkeep of historic sites and hospitality.

Small business is thriving in Faringdon, with a range of independent shops, cafes, and tradespeople. The town supports a local business network, and the Faringdon and District Chamber of Commerce actively promotes commerce. Key sectors include agriculture (arable farming), retail (market and shops), professional services (law, accounting), and tourism (historic attractions). The average resident works in a professional or managerial role, with the local unemployment rate below the national average.

• Retail: Supermarkets, grocery stores, independent shops
• Tourism: Faringdon Folly, local pubs, accommodation
• Agriculture: Arable crops, livestock, farm shops
• Construction: Housebuilding, renovation
• Education: Schools and childcare providers
• Professional services: Solicitors, accountants, estate agents
• Healthcare: GP surgeries, dental practices, care homes
• Digital/creative: Freelancers, small tech firms
• Manufacturing: Light industry in nearby Swindon
• Transport and distribution: Logistics due to A420 and M4 proximity

Where to Live in Faringdon

Faringdon offers a variety of residential options, from historic town centre properties to modern suburban developments. The town centre is characterised by Georgian and Victorian terraces, some converted into flats, with amenities within walking distance. Popular residential areas include the 'New Town' part (Victorian terraces around Park Road) and the post-war estates on the eastern edge (e.g., Townsend Road).

For those seeking larger homes, the 'Folly View' development on the north side of town offers contemporary four-bedroom houses. The villages surrounding Faringdon, such as Little Coxwell, Great Coxwell, and Stanford in the Vale, offer a more rural lifestyle with period cottages and larger plots. Commuters often choose the edge-of-town locations for easy access to the A420.

Faringdon is family-friendly, with good primary and secondary schools, and a low crime rate. The town has a mix of social housing and private ownership, with property prices reflecting its desirability (averaging around £400,000 for a detached house). Rental demand is strong, with a two-bedroom house costing approximately £900 per month. The town's appeal lies in its community feel, historic charm, and access to countryside.

• Faringdon town centre – period houses, flats, close to shops
• Park Road area – Victorian terraces, family homes
• Folly View estate – modern detached houses, 2010s
• Little Coxwell – exclusive rural hamlet with period homes
• Great Coxwell – village near tithe barn, community feel
• Stanford in the Vale – larger village with amenities
• Shellingford – countryside location, ribbon development
• Fernham – small hamlet, quiet and secluded

Formalities and Visas in Faringdon

For those moving to Faringdon from outside the UK, immigration processes are managed by the UK Home Office. Most migrants require a visa before arrival, unless they are from the European Union (as part of the EU Settlement Scheme) or other designated countries. The most common routes are the Skilled Worker visa, Family visa (for partners of UK residents), and the Student visa (for those enrolling in courses). There is also a Global Talent visa for professionals in the arts, science, or technology.

The UK's points-based system awards visas for skills, salary, and English language ability. Applicants must apply online, provide biometric data, and attend an appointment at a visa application centre. Processing times vary from 3 weeks to several months. It is essential to check the latest requirements on the official UK government website (gov.uk). For those already in the UK, extensions or Indefinite Leave to Remain may be options.

After securing a visa, newcomers must register with a GP (doctor) and open a bank account. Council tax registration is also needed once a property is rented or bought. The local Faringdon community is welcoming, and there are integration programmes and language classes available through the Oxfordshire Adult Learning service. It is advisable to seek legal advice for complex cases, and local solicitors in Faringdon can assist with immigration matters.

• Check UK visa requirements at gov.uk
• Skilled Worker visa: job offer required with minimum salary
• Family visa: for partners, children, or dependents
• Student visa: for courses, must maintain finances
• EU Settlement Scheme: settled or pre-settled status
• Global Talent visa: for exceptional talent
• Youth Mobility Scheme: for age 18-30 from certain countries
• Apply online; biometrics at local centre
• Processing time: typically 3-8 weeks
• Register with GP immediately after arrival
• Open a UK bank account (Monzo, HSBC, etc.)
• Register for National Insurance number
• Council tax: register with Vale of White Horse District Council

Working in Faringdon

The job market in Faringdon is shaped by its small-town character, with many residents employed in retail, education, and health. However, a significant proportion commutes to nearby cities. The largest local employer is the Vale of White Horse District Council (based in Abingdon), followed by retail chains like Tesco and Sainsbury's. The town also has a number of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in sectors such as construction, professional services, and creative industries.

Working culture in Faringdon reflects the British norm: a 35-40 hour week, with standard holidays of 28 days (including public holidays). Many businesses operate Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, though retail and hospitality involve shift work. The town has a flexible job market with part-time positions common in customer service. For higher-level roles, networking through local business groups is beneficial. The average salary in Faringdon is around £35,000 per year, slightly above the UK average but lower than London levels.

Self-employment is popular in Faringdon, with many residents working as tradespeople, consultants, or artists. The town has a small business centre offering co-working spaces. For job seekers, the Jobcentre Plus in Faringdon provides support, and online platforms like Indeed and Reed list local vacancies. The proximity to Swindon (15 minutes by car) dramatically expands opportunities in finance, engineering, and technology.

• Major local employers: Tesco, Sainsbury's, GP surgeries, schools
• Commuting: Swindon (15 mins), Oxford (30 mins), Bristol (1 hr), London (1.5 hrs by train from Swindon)
• Average salary: £35,000-£40,000
• Work week: Monday-Friday, 37.5 hours typical
• Holiday entitlement: 28 days including bank holidays
• Self-employment: common in trades, creative, consulting
• Co-working: Faringdon Business Centre
• Jobcentre: available for support
• Recruitment agencies: Swindon-based agencies
• Networking: Faringdon Chamber of Commerce events
• Part-time roles: retail, hospitality, care
• Remote work: growing trend due to internet connectivity

Studying in Faringdon

Faringdon offers excellent educational opportunities for all ages. The town has three primary schools: Faringdon Infant School, Faringdon Junior School (both on the same site), and a Church of England primary (Faringdon CofE Primary). For secondary education, Faringdon Community College is a well-regarded academy with a sixth form, offering A-levels and vocational courses. The college also provides adult education classes in the evening.

For higher education, students typically travel to nearby universities: Oxford Brookes University, University of Oxford, and the University of the West of England (Bristol) are popular choices. Swindon has a campus of New College Swindon for further education. Faringdon itself has a library with study spaces and free Wi-Fi. International students find a welcoming environment, with many families from EU and Commonwealth countries settled in the area.

Private and independent schools are accessible within a 15-mile radius, including St Hugh's School in Carswell (prep school) and the prestigious Abingdon School (boys, 11-18). For early years, there are several nurseries and childminders. The local authority, Oxfordshire County Council, oversees school admissions. Student life in Faringdon is enriched by community events, sports clubs, and youth groups like the Scouts and Guides.

• Faringdon Infant School (ages 5-7)
• Faringdon Junior School (ages 7-11)
• Faringdon CofE Primary (ages 4-11)
• Faringdon Community College (ages 11-18, good Ofsted)
• Sixth form offering A-levels and vocational
• Adult education classes at college
• New College Swindon (further education, 20 min away)
• University of Oxford (30 min via train from Swindon)
• Oxford Brookes University (bus or car)
• St Hugh's School (prep school, private)
• Abingdon School (independent, selective)
• Nurseries: several in town
• Youth groups: Scouts, Guides, drama, music
• Faringdon Library: free study facilities

Finance and Banks in Faringdon

Faringdon has a good range of banking services for a town of its size. High street banks represented include Barclays (branch on Market Place), Lloyds Bank, and NatWest. There are also building societies like Nationwide (via local agencies) and the Faringdon Building Society – a mutual that offers savings and mortgages. For day-to-day banking, most people use digital banks like Monzo, Starling, or Chase for better app features. Cashpoints are available at the banks and in the Co-op supermarket.

Opening a bank account requires proof of identity (passport), proof of address (utility bill or council tax), and sometimes a reference from an employer. For international arrivals, many banks offer basic accounts. The UK banking system is highly regulated, with protection up to £85,000 per person per institution via the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Digital payments are widely used; contactless and mobile payments are accepted almost everywhere.

Taxes: Income tax is deducted at source (PAYE). Self-assessment is needed if self-employed or with untaxed income. Council tax varies depending on property band (typically bands D-G). In Faringdon, a Band D property pays around £2,000 per year. VAT is included in the price of goods. The local Currency is British Pound (£). There are no foreign exchange restrictions. For investments, local advisors are available in Swindon or via independent financial advisors (IFAs) in Faringdon.

• Barclays branch: Market Place, with cash machine
• Lloyds Bank: town centre, limited hours
• NatWest: branch in Faringdon
• Faringdon Building Society: savings and mortgages
• Digital banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut popular
• Opening account: passport, proof of address
• FSCS protection up to £85,000
• Cashpoints: several in town (free)
• Currency: British Pound (GBP)
• Taxes: income tax via PAYE, council tax
• VAT: 20% standard, included in prices
• Financial advisors: available in Swindon and locally
• Online banking widely used

Health Care in Faringdon

Faringdon is well served by primary healthcare. The town has two GP surgeries: Faringdon Medical Centre and the Faringdon Health Centre. Both offer general practice services, minor surgery, and chronic disease management. The medical centre is also home to a pharmacy. For dental care, there are multiple NHS and private dentists in town, including Faringdon Dental Practice and Market Place Dental.

For hospital care, the nearest major hospital is the Great Western Hospital in Swindon (20 minutes by car), which provides A&E, maternity, and specialist services. The John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford (30-40 minutes) is a major teaching hospital for more complex cases. There are also community hospitals in Abingdon and Witney. Ambulance services are provided by South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. In emergencies, dial 999.

Health insurance is optional but recommended for private treatment. Many residents are covered by employer-sponsored plans. The NHS provides free healthcare to UK residents and visitors from certain countries. New arrivals should register with a GP immediately. For minor ailments, pharmacies in Faringdon offer advice and over-the-counter medicines. The town also has opticians (Specsavers) and a chiropody service.

• Faringdon Medical Centre (GP) – list of doctors
• Faringdon Health Centre (GP) – NHS
• Faringdon Dental Practice (NHS and private)
• Market Place Dental (private)
• Pharmacy: on site at medical centre and Boots
• Great Western Hospital, Swindon (A&E)
• John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford (trauma)
• Abingdon Community Hospital
• Dial 999 for emergencies
• NHS free at point of use for residents
• Private health insurance: Bupa, AXA, etc.
• Opticians: Specsavers, Faringdon
• Mental health support: via GP or IAPT
• Chirobody and physiotherapy available locally

Accommodation in Faringdon

Faringdon offers a range of accommodation to suit different needs and budgets. Short-term visitors can choose from a few hotels, such as The Faringdon Hotel (a coaching inn) and The Bell Hotel, or bed and breakfasts like the Crudwell B&B and local farm stays. There are also self-catering cottages in the surrounding villages. For longer stays, serviced apartments are available through agencies like Travelodge (though not in town).

Buying a home in Faringdon involves typical UK conveyancing. Property prices average around £400,000 for a detached house, £300,000 for a semi, and £200,000 for a flat (2024). The market is competitive, particularly for period homes. Rental market: a two-bedroom house costs around £900-£1,100 per month. Social housing is available through the Vale of White Horse Council. New developments like the Folly View estate have increased housing stock.

• Short stay: The Faringdon Hotel (3-star), The Bell (pub with rooms)
• B&Bs: Manor Farm B&B, Crudwell B&B (nearby)
• Self-catering: cottages in Little Coxwell, Stanford
• Long-term rental: 2-bed house £900-£1,100 pcm
• Buying: detached house average £400,000
• Semi-detached: £300,000
• Flats: £200,000 (conversions or new-build)
• Council housing: apply via Home-Link Oxfordshire
• Property agents: Connells, Davis & Co, Peter Ball

Planning Your Move to Faringdon

Moving to Faringdon requires careful planning, especially if coming from abroad. Start by arranging your visa (if needed) and securing a National Insurance number. Set up a bank account and arrange for a place to stay. Bring important documents: passport, birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, and education certificates. It's advisable to ship personal belongings via a removals company; many international firms operate to the UK.

Once in Faringdon, register with a GP, enroll children in school, and get a local SIM card. The town has good mobile coverage (EE, O2, Vodafone) and broadband (superfast available). You will also need to register to vote. Learn about the local culture: the British are reserved but polite. Join community groups to meet people. For logistics, the Post Office on Market Place handles mail and currency exchange.

• Check UK visa requirements (gov.uk)
• Apply for National Insurance number (call 0800 141 2075)
• Open a UK bank account before arrival if possible
• Arrange short-term accommodation (hotel or Airbnb)
• Bring essential documents in a file
• Ship belongings via international removals (e.g., Pickfords)
• Register with a GP immediately upon arrival
• Enroll children in school (apply through Oxfordshire Council)
• Get a UK mobile SIM (free trial or pay-as-you-go)
• Set up broadband (BT, Virgin, Sky, etc.)
• Register to vote (local elections)
• Learn driving rules: drive on left; exchange foreign license
• Join local Facebook groups (e.g., 'Faringdon Community')

Leisure in Faringdon

Evenings and weekends in Faringdon are lively for a small town. The nightlife centres on its pubs, such as The Crown, The Bell, and The Red Lion, which often host live music and quiz nights. There is a monthly comedy club at the Community Centre. For a quieter evening, the town has a cinema club (showing films at the Town Hall) and a thriving amateurs dramatic society. The Faringdon Wine Bar offers a more sophisticated setting.

Shopping is a pleasure with independent stores: there are bookshops, art galleries, and antique centres. The weekly market is perfect for fresh goods. The town also has a leisure centre (Faringdon Leisure Centre) with a swimming pool, gym, and sports courts. For nightlife beyond Faringdon, Swindon offers nightclubs, theatre, and restaurants, while Oxford is famous for its pubs and student vibe. Many residents also enjoy evening walks along the Thames Path.

• The Crown – traditional pub with live music
• The Bell Hotel – pub and dining
• Red Lion – community pub
• Wine Bar – Faringdon Wine Bar (Market Place)
• Comedy Club – monthly at Community Centre
• Cinema Club – screenings at Town Hall
• Faringdon Leisure Centre – pool, gym, classes
• Bowling Club – outdoors, seasonal
• Tennis courts – at Recreation Ground
• Independent shops – bookshop, gift shops, antiques

Transportation Options in Faringdon

Faringdon's transport network is road-based, as the town lost its railway station in 1964. The A420 trunk road runs through the town, connecting Oxford and Swindon. Bus services are provided by Stagecoach and Thames Travel, with routes to Swindon (S6/X30) and Oxford (X20). Services are frequent during the day but limited in the evenings and Sundays. The town has a small bus station on Gloucester Street.

For longer journeys, Swindon railway station offers direct trains to London Paddington (55 minutes), Bristol (40 minutes), and the South West. Oxford station provides services to London, Birmingham, and the North. Airports: Heathrow (1 hour 15 minutes via M4), Bristol Airport (1.5 hours), and Birmingham Airport (1.5 hours). Taxis are available in Faringdon (e.g., A2B Taxis). Cycling is popular, with quiet lanes and cycle routes (National Route 47). Car ownership is common.

• A420: main road to Swindon (west) and Oxford (east)
• Bus to Swindon: S6/X30, every 30 min (weekday)
• Bus to Oxford: X20, every hour
• Faringdon bus station: Gloucester Street
• Swindon station: 15 min drive, direct rail links
• Oxford station: 30 min drive
• Heathrow: 1 hr 15 min by car (M4)
• Local taxis: A2B Taxis, A-Line Taxis
• Cycling: National