The Woolgate Centre, Witney
Witney’s friendly open-air shopping hub, blending high-street brands, local services and Cotswold charm in the heart of town.
The Woolgate Centre is Witney’s friendly, open-air shopping hub in the heart of this historic Oxfordshire market town. Anchored by Waitrose, Next and H&M, it combines high-street favourites with local services, cafés and a relaxed Cotswold atmosphere. With free short-stay parking, step-free access and a tree-lined pedestrian layout, it’s a practical and pleasant place to shop, grab coffee or run errands while exploring Witney’s independent High Street and Market Square just steps away.
A brief summary to The Woolgate Centre
- Market Square, Witney, OX28 6AP, GB
- +441993778370
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon to avoid the busiest shopping times, especially around lunchtime and late afternoon when the centre and car parks are most crowded.
- Combine your trip with a stroll along Witney’s High Street and Market Square to discover independent shops, cafés and the historic Corn Exchange just steps from The Woolgate Centre.
- Check individual store opening times, as some smaller shops and services may close earlier than the centre’s overall hours, particularly on Sundays and late evenings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By car
From Oxford, follow the A40 west for about 12 miles into Witney; The Woolgate Centre is clearly signposted in the town centre. Free short-stay parking is available in several nearby multi-storey and surface car parks, with Blue Badge bays close to the centre.
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By bus
Regular S1 and S2 buses run from Oxford city centre and Oxford railway station to Witney town centre, stopping within a few minutes’ walk of The Woolgate Centre; journey time is around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic.
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On foot
From Witney railway station, it’s a 15–20 minute walk along level, well-signposted routes into the town centre; from the High Street or Market Square, The Woolgate Centre is just a few minutes’ walk away.
The Woolgate Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Woolgate Centre
A Cotswold Market-Town Heart
Nestled in the centre of Witney, The Woolgate Centre forms the modern retail core of this traditional Oxfordshire market town. Built in the late 1980s, it was designed to serve the town’s growing population while preserving Witney’s character as a working Cotswold market town. The centre links the historic Market Square with the wider High Street, creating a convenient, pedestrian-friendly zone where locals and visitors alike can shop, meet and run everyday errands. Its open-air layout, with wide walkways and Cotswold-style stonework, feels more like a village square than a conventional mall, blending practicality with a distinctly English small-town charm.Shopping and Daily Essentials
Inside The Woolgate Centre, a mix of national chains and essential services makes it a one-stop destination for daily needs. Anchor stores include Waitrose for groceries, Next for clothing and homewares, and H&M for fashion, alongside Superdrug for health and beauty, Specsavers for eyewear and H. Samuel for jewellery. Practical services such as WHSmith with Post Office, Halifax for banking, Timpson for shoe repairs and keys, and Vision Express for opticians are all within easy reach. For tech and communications, Vodafone and O2 offer mobile phones and accessories, while specialty shops like Holland & Barrett, Waterstones, and various gift and card stores cater to more specific tastes.Cafés, Food and Relaxation
The centre is well equipped for refreshment, with several popular cafés and food outlets. Costa Coffee and Caffè Nero provide reliable coffee, pastries and light meals, ideal for a quick break or a relaxed catch-up. For fast, casual dining, Subway offers sandwiches and salads, while Greggs serves up bakery favourites and breakfast options. These spots are popular with shoppers, workers and families, and their outdoor seating areas add to the centre’s relaxed, sociable atmosphere. The presence of a supermarket and multiple cafés also makes The Woolgate a convenient base for a longer visit to Witney, whether for a full day of shopping or as a stopover while exploring the wider Cotswolds.Practicalities and Local Life
The Woolgate Centre is designed for ease of access and convenience. It features step-free, level access throughout, making it suitable for pushchairs, mobility aids and older visitors. Public toilets and family facilities are available nearby, and the surrounding car parks offer generous free parking for several hours, with designated Blue Badge bays. Opening hours are generous on weekdays and Saturdays, with a shorter Sunday schedule that aligns with typical town-centre trading. Because it sits at the junction of the Market Square and the High Street, it’s easy to combine a visit here with browsing Witney’s independent boutiques, cafés, the historic Corn Exchange and the weekly charter market, creating a full day out in a compact, walkable area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
15.5 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
15.7 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
15.9 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Martyrs' Memorial
15.9 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Preservation Trust
15.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
16.0 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Carfax Tower
16.0 km
Historic 12th-century tower at Oxford’s crossroads with panoramic city views and a timeless symbol of civic heritage.
Visit Oxford Tours
16.0 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Tours UK
16.0 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
The painted room
16.0 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
16.0 km
Explore the captivating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where science and history come alive in a stunning architectural setting.
The Story Museum
16.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of storytelling at The Story Museum in Oxford, where imagination comes alive through exhibitions, events, and a charming bookshop.
The Covered Market
16.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Covered Market in Oxford, home to local artisans, gourmet food, and unique shopping.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
16.1 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Oxford Town Hall
16.1 km
Historic Victorian Gothic landmark at Oxford’s heart, blending civic governance, cultural heritage, and vibrant community events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bishop's Palace
0.5 km
Explore the tranquil ruins of Witney’s 12th-century Bishop’s Palace, a medieval gem nestled by Church Green.
Cogges Manor Farm
0.6 km
Explore centuries of rural heritage and vibrant farm life at Cogges Manor Farm, a family-friendly gem in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds.
Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote
3.6 km
Explore the evocative 15th-century ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and its historic dovecote nestled beside the River Windrush in the scenic Oxfordshire Cotswolds.
The Mason Arms
3.7 km
A charming 16th-century farmhouse boutique inn blending rustic English countryside with bohemian style and contemporary art near Oxford and the Cotswolds.
Undiscovered Cotswolds
4.0 km
Discover the hidden villages and timeless charm of the Cotswolds with personalized private tours from Minster Lovell.
Crocodiles of the World
6.9 km
The UK's only crocodile zoo—encounter 130+ crocodiles, alligators, and caimans in a tropical setting.
North Leigh Roman Villa
7.0 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman villas nestled in a tranquil Oxfordshire valley, famed for its mosaics, baths, and ancient rural luxury.
St Martin's Church
10.5 km
Explore St Martin's Church in Bladon, an architectural gem of history and tranquility nestled in the heart of the English countryside.
Blenheim Palace
10.6 km
Explore Blenheim Palace’s grand Baroque architecture, vast Capability Brown parkland, and immersive historic experiences in Oxfordshire’s UNESCO World Heritage gem.
Blenheim Park
10.7 km
Explore Blenheim Park’s vast historic landscape, where heritage monuments and serene gardens meet the idyllic Oxfordshire countryside.
Burford
10.8 km
Discover Burford, the charming medieval gateway to the Cotswolds, with its historic streets, wool trade heritage, and scenic riverside setting.
Tolsey Museum
10.8 km
Discover Burford’s rich heritage in a charming Tudor market building showcasing centuries of local history and culture.
Burford Library
10.8 km
A welcoming community library in historic Burford, offering books, digital access, and a tranquil space for learning and culture.
Cotswold Glass and Crafts
10.8 km
Discover exquisite handmade glass art and creative workshops in the charming market town of Burford, at Cotswold Glass and Crafts.
The Oxfordshire Museum
11.2 km
Discover Oxfordshire’s rich heritage from dinosaurs to Victorians in the historic Fletcher’s House with engaging exhibits and tranquil gardens.
Essential places to dine
The Bear & Ragged Staff
11.7 km
Historic 16th-century coaching inn in Cumnor offering cozy rooms, local British cuisine, and a welcoming village pub atmosphere near Oxford.
The Oak Tree Restaurant
11.9 km
Relax and refuel at The Oak Tree Restaurant, a family-friendly dining spot nestled within the scenic Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.
The White Hart at Fyfield
12.8 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Fyfield blending vaulted halls and oak beams with refined Modern British cuisine and artisan cocktails.
The Perch
13.7 km
A charming thatched pub by Oxford’s Port Meadow, blending historic ambiance with hearty British fare and riverside tranquility.
Pompette
15.0 km
Experience authentic French flavors and warm hospitality in Oxford’s charming Summertown at Pompette, a refined brasserie with seasonal delights.
The Old Bookbinders Ale House
15.1 km
A charming Oxford pub blending traditional ales with authentic French bistro fare in Jericho’s quirky heart.
The Oxford Kitchen
15.1 km
Michelin-starred British fine dining in Oxford’s Summertown, blending seasonal ingredients with elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
Brasserie Blanc
15.2 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets vibrant Oxford dining in Jericho’s warm and inviting Brasserie Blanc.
Branca Bar, Restaurant and Deli
15.2 km
A lively Mediterranean gastropub and deli in Oxford’s Jericho, serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and fresh seasonal dishes in a stylish, family-friendly setting.
The Standard
15.3 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at The Standard in Oxford – a delightful blend of tradition and flavor awaits every visitor.
Lula's Ethiopian and Eritrean Cuisine
15.3 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean flavors in a warm, communal setting at Lula's in the heart of Oxford.
Restaurant 56
15.4 km
Elegant British fine dining in a historic 17th-century coaching inn set within tranquil gardens on the edge of the Cotswolds.
Old Delhi
15.5 km
Explore Old Delhi's rich heritage through stunning architecture, delicious street food, and vibrant markets that reflect India's cultural diversity.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
15.5 km
Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
15.5 km
A Mediterranean culinary retreat in a stunning Victorian glasshouse, blending seasonal dishes with elegant charm in Oxford’s Park Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cotswold Hipster
14.0 km
Handcrafted artisan leather bags and stylish dog accessories blending vintage charm with modern functionality in Chipping Norton.
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
15.1 km
Authentic French artisan patisserie in Oxford’s Summertown, crafting exquisite pastries, breads, and bespoke cakes with premium ingredients.
Rainbow and Spoon Boutique - Ladies Fashion in Oxford
15.3 km
Discover Oxford’s beloved independent boutique offering ethically sourced, unique women’s fashion with a personal touch and timeless style.
John Lewis & Partners
15.8 km
A spacious, three‑floor department store in Oxford’s Westgate Centre, offering fashion, beauty, home, and technology with helpful service and a relaxed atmosphere.
Oliver Bonas
15.8 km
Discover unique fashion and homeware with a joyful British spirit at Oliver Bonas in Oxford’s Westgate Shopping Centre.
Westgate Oxford
15.8 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Oxford’s city centre, blending modern retail with festive charm and cultural events.
Miniso UK
15.9 km
Discover affordable, stylish lifestyle treasures and themed collectibles at Miniso UK in Oxford’s vibrant Westgate Shopping Centre.
Menkind
15.9 km
Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, Oxford’s vibrant treasure trove in the Westgate Centre.
Urban Outfitters
15.9 km
Discover eclectic fashion and unique home décor at Urban Outfitters Oxford Castle Street, where modern style meets historic charm.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
15.9 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
15.9 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
The Shop of Secrets
15.9 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
The Crafters Emporium
15.9 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
The Oxford Gift Shop
15.9 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
MINOX Boutique
16.0 km
Oxford's premier luxury fashion boutique, curating over 50 designer brands with exceptional service and next-day delivery.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cotswold Arms
10.8 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Burford blending local ales, homemade food, live music, and a cozy beer garden for all ages.
The Lamb Inn
11.0 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Oxfordshire’s Cotswolds, blending rustic charm, hearty British cuisine, and cozy guest rooms.
The Rickety Press
15.1 km
A lively Jericho pub blending funky vibes, quality pizzas, inventive burgers, and a welcoming community spirit in the heart of Oxford.
Jude The Obscure
15.3 km
A literary-inspired British pub in Oxford’s Jericho with award-winning food, lively sports viewing, and a dog-friendly heated beer garden.
LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
15.5 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Thirst Bar
15.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Oxford with expert bartenders, heated outdoor terrace, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
The Lighthouse
15.6 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
The Duke Of Cambridge
15.6 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
OXO BAR
15.7 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
15.7 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
Cow & Creek
15.8 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
The Grapes
15.9 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
The Alchemist Oxford
15.9 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
15.9 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Royal Blenheim
15.9 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bridge Nightclub
15.4 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
15.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
15.5 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
ATIK Oxford
15.5 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Fever Oxford
15.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
15.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
ReVA Nightclub
34.2 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
39.5 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
Coco
42.5 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
42.6 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
42.6 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
42.6 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
2 PIGS
42.6 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Under the Prom
42.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
42.8 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly