Foxholes Nature Reserve: Ancient Woodland and Wildlife Haven

Tranquil ancient woodland and wet meadows famed for spring bluebells, abundant wildlife, and over 200 species of fungi in West Oxfordshire.

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Foxholes Nature Reserve is a 165-acre ancient woodland and wet meadow in West Oxfordshire, gently sloping to the River Evenlode. Renowned for its spectacular spring bluebells, diverse fungi, and abundant birdlife, this tranquil reserve offers year-round natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Visitors can explore well-maintained paths and enjoy sightings of deer, butterflies, and rare bats in a peaceful setting.

A brief summary to Foxholes

Chipping Norton, Foscot, GB
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit in late April or May to witness the woodland carpeted with spectacular bluebells.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching; look out for nuthatch, treecreeper, and various owls.
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for woodland paths and occasional boardwalks.
Explore the circular Wildlife Walk marked by badger waymarkers for a 1.75-mile nature experience.
Autumn is ideal for spotting a wide variety of fungi; consider joining a fungus foray if available.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Chipping Norton, the reserve is approximately a 15-minute drive via local roads. Parking is limited near the reserve entrance at Foscot; visitors should park considerately and be prepared for a short walk on uneven terrain. No parking fees apply.
Public Transport

Take a train to Kingham station, about 6 miles from Foxholes. From Kingham, local taxi services or a 1.5-hour walk along rural paths can reach the reserve. Bus services in the area are infrequent, so planning ahead is advised.
Walking

For those staying in nearby villages such as Shipton-under-Wychwood or Foscot, walking to the reserve is possible via country lanes and footpaths. Expect gentle slopes and some muddy sections, suitable for moderately fit walkers with appropriate footwear.

Foxholes location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Foxholes

Ancient Woodland and Landscape

Foxholes Nature Reserve is a serene 165-acre site located near Foscot, Chipping Norton, in West Oxfordshire. The reserve is a remnant of the ancient Wychwood Forest and features a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, including ancient oak, beech, and ash coppices. The land gently slopes down to the River Evenlode, where wet meadows flourish alongside the woodland, creating a mosaic of habitats. The reserve’s terrain offers a peaceful contrast between shaded woodland and sunlit meadows, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers.

Flora and Seasonal Highlights

Foxholes is famed for its spectacular springtime displays of bluebells carpeting the woodland floor. Early spring brings primroses, violets, and early-purple orchids, while May sees the woodland awash with bluebells. Summer introduces tall foxgloves and a variety of wildflowers such as red campion, bugle, and heath spotted-orchid. The wet meadows beside the river support species like devil’s-bit scabious and marsh speedwell. In autumn, the reserve transforms with vibrant foliage and a remarkable diversity of fungi, with over 200 species recorded, including oyster mushrooms, stinkhorns, and bracket fungi.

Wildlife and Birdlife

The rich habitats support a wide range of wildlife. Bird species commonly seen or heard include nuthatch, treecreeper, woodcock, sparrowhawk, tawny owl, barn owl, and little owl. The reserve is also a haven for butterflies, with 23 species recorded such as white admiral, comma, ringlet, and meadow brown. Reptiles like grass snakes and adders bask in secluded sunny spots, while mammals including rabbits, hares, squirrels, badgers, foxes, and deer (muntjac, roe, and fallow) roam the woods. Foxholes also supports seven bat species, including the rare Bechstein’s bat, which relies on tall trees for foraging.

Conservation and Management Efforts

Conservation at Foxholes focuses on maintaining the delicate balance of habitats. Light grazing preserves the wet meadows by keeping soil fertility low, supporting wildflowers. Coppicing is practiced to enhance structural diversity in the woodland, allowing sunlight to reach the forest floor and promoting biodiversity. The wide rides are kept clear to provide sunny corridors for insects and flora. Volunteers regularly assist with woodland management tasks such as tree thinning and protecting young growth from deer.

Visitor Experience and Activities

Visitors to Foxholes can enjoy tranquil walks along well-maintained paths and boardwalks that wind through the woodland and meadows. The reserve features a circular Wildlife Walk of about 1.75 miles marked by badger waymarkers, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy seasonal highlights. Autumn fungus forays are popular for those interested in the reserve’s fungal diversity. The peaceful setting and abundant wildlife make Foxholes ideal for birdwatching, photography, and nature appreciation.

Setting and Accessibility

Situated near the village of Foscot, Foxholes is accessible year-round and open at all times. The reserve’s gentle slopes and clear paths make it suitable for a range of visitors, though facilities such as toilets are not available on site. Its location within the Cotswolds offers a scenic backdrop of rolling countryside and historic villages, enhancing the visitor experience with a sense of rural tranquility and connection to England’s natural heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bliss Tweed Mill

7.4 km

A striking Victorian tweed mill in Chipping Norton, blending industrial heritage with elegant architecture and scenic Cotswold views.

Blenheim Palace

18.8 km

Explore the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history.

St Martin's Church

19.9 km

Medieval roots, Victorian restoration, and Churchill's final resting place in rural Oxfordshire.

Bridge and footpath to Arlington Row

20.1 km

Uncover the beauty of Bibury's hiking trails leading to Arlington Row, where historic charm meets breathtaking scenery in the Cotswolds.

Arlington Row

20.2 km

Explore the enchanting Arlington Row in Bibury, a historic gem showcasing Cotswold architecture and serene river views for an unforgettable experience.

National Trust - Bibury

20.2 km

Discover the timeless beauty of Bibury, a picturesque village in the Cotswolds known for its enchanting cottages, serene landscapes, and rich history.

National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden

21.0 km

Explore the historical charm and natural beauty of Snowshill Manor and Garden, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds inviting travelers to experience English heritage.

National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden

Broadway Tower

21.1 km

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Broadway Tower, a stunning monument in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Old Campden House

21.2 km

Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.

West Banqueting House

21.2 km

Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.

Chipping Campden

21.2 km

Discover the enchanting beauty of Chipping Campden, a historic market town in the Cotswolds, with stunning architecture and scenic landscapes.

National Trust - Chedworth Roman Villa

21.8 km

Explore the remarkable Chedworth Roman Villa, a historic site showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture and lifestyle in stunning Cotswold scenery.

Chedworth Nature Reserve

21.9 km

Discover the serene beauty of Chedworth Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in Cheltenham offering lush landscapes and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.

Kelmscott Manor

22.0 km

Explore the charm of Kelmscott Manor, a historical museum steeped in the legacy of William Morris and the Arts and Crafts movement in the Cotswolds.

Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve

22.3 km

Explore the scenic beauty and wildlife at Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve, a peaceful retreat in Lechlade-on-Thames that promises tranquility and natural splendor.

Step into a charming miniature world with the Grade II listed Model Village, a detailed 1:9 scale replica capturing Bourton-on-the-Water’s timeless Cotswold charm.

Essential places to dine

The Wild Rabbit

3.0 km

Charming Georgian inn in Kingham offering refined British cuisine, eco-conscious hospitality, and stylish countryside retreats in the heart of the Cotswolds.

The Kingham Plough

3.2 km

A charming Cotswold village inn blending traditional character with modern British cuisine and stylish comfort in the heart of Kingham.

The Chequers, Cotswolds

4.0 km

A stylish Cotswold gastropub in Churchill, serving elevated pub classics in a warm, lively atmosphere with a lovely garden and a strong local following.

The Old Butchers

8.1 km

Historic charm meets exceptional seafood and charcoal-grilled cuisine in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s vibrant dining scene.

The Old Stocks Inn

8.3 km

Charming 17th-century boutique inn with refined British dining, cozy bar, and elegant rooms in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic market square.

Whistlers Restaurant

8.4 km

Whistlers Restaurant offers vibrant modern British dining with fresh ingredients, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming bar in Chipping Norton.

The Croft Restaurant

9.0 km

A charming riverside restaurant in Bourton-on-the-Water serving fresh, locally sourced English cuisine in a welcoming and scenic setting.

The Rose Tree Restaurant

9.1 km

Charming riverside British dining in a historic Cotswold cottage with cozy interiors and scenic garden views.

The Oak Tree Restaurant

12.7 km

Relax and refuel at The Oak Tree Restaurant, a family-friendly dining spot nestled within the scenic Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.

Horse and Groom

14.5 km

Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.

the scenic supper

15.9 km

Experience farm-to-table dining in a stunning Cotswold glasshouse with seasonal menus and panoramic countryside views.

The Halfway at Kineton

17.1 km

A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.

The Old Smokery

17.9 km

A lively Cotswolds hub blending rustic dining, vibrant events, and welcoming atmosphere at Far Peak Camping.

The Mason Arms

18.1 km

Discover The Mason Arms: A delightful pub and hotel in Oxfordshire offering delicious food and cozy accommodations amidst stunning countryside.

The Ox Barn

18.4 km

Experience modern British countryside cuisine in a beautifully restored 19th-century oxen house nestled in the tranquil Cotswold village of Southrop.

A welcoming convenience store in historic Northleach’s Market Place, offering local treats and everyday essentials daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Lamb Inn

4.0 km

Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Oxfordshire’s Cotswolds, blending rustic charm, hearty British cuisine, and cozy guest rooms.

The Fox at Oddington

5.7 km

Historic 16th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic charm with organic cuisine and cozy countryside stays in Lower Oddington.

Sheep on Sheep Street

8.1 km

Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Sheep on Sheep Street, a vibrant inn and pub in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.

The Cotswold Arms

8.6 km

Historic 15th-century pub in Burford blending local ales, homemade food, live music, and a cozy beer garden for all ages.

Kingsbridge

9.1 km

A classic riverside pub in Bourton-on-the-Water offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and warm hospitality in a scenic Cotswold village setting.

The Coach & Horses

11.9 km

A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.

Hollow Bottom

17.2 km

A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.

The Bakers Arms

19.7 km

A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.

The Keepers Arms

20.1 km

Charming Cotswold pub and boutique inn offering warm hospitality, excellent food, and a peaceful village retreat near Cirencester.

Snowshill Arms

20.7 km

Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.

Eight Bells Inn

21.2 km

Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.

THE STUMP

22.2 km

A historic Cotswolds coaching inn blending rustic charm, acclaimed wood-fired pizzas, and cozy rooms for a quintessential English countryside experience.

Marlborough Arms

22.8 km

Discover the heart of British pub culture at Marlborough Arms in Fairford, where good food, great drinks, and warm hospitality await.

Broadway

22.9 km

A welcoming Bournemouth pub serving classic fare, live sports, and a vibrant community atmosphere with inclusive dining options.

The Howard Arms Ilmington

23.3 km

A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Foxholes Nature Reserve: Ancient Woodland and Wildlife Haven

A brief summary to Foxholes

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Public Transport

Walking

Foxholes location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Foxholes

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Foxholes

Ancient Woodland and Landscape

Flora and Seasonal Highlights

Wildlife and Birdlife

Conservation and Management Efforts

Visitor Experience and Activities

Setting and Accessibility

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bliss Tweed Mill

Blenheim Palace

St Martin's Church

Bridge and footpath to Arlington Row

Arlington Row

National Trust - Bibury

National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden

Broadway Tower

Old Campden House

West Banqueting House

Chipping Campden

National Trust - Chedworth Roman Villa

Chedworth Nature Reserve

Kelmscott Manor

Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve

Unmissable attractions to see

The Feathered Nest Country Inn

Daylesford Organic

The Porch House

Cotswolds AONB

National Trust - Chastleton House

Market Square

St Edward's Church

Greystones Farm Nature Reserve

Burford Library

Cotswold Glass and Crafts

Tolsey Museum

Burford

The Dragonfly Maze

Birdland Park & Gardens

The Model Village

Essential places to dine

The Wild Rabbit

The Kingham Plough

The Chequers, Cotswolds

The Old Butchers

The Old Stocks Inn

Whistlers Restaurant

The Croft Restaurant

The Rose Tree Restaurant

The Oak Tree Restaurant

Horse and Groom

the scenic supper

The Halfway at Kineton

The Old Smokery

The Mason Arms

The Ox Barn

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Cotswold Hipster

Ella's Emporium

The Curated Store

The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)

Quirky

Chestnuts Fashion Fix

The Cotswold Shop

Cotswold Perfumery

The Lodestone

Cotswold China & Cookware

Caboodle