Foxholes Nature Reserve: A Tranquil Woodland Haven in Oxfordshire

Ancient woodland sanctuary famed for spring bluebells, diverse fungi, abundant wildlife, and tranquil riverside meadows in Oxfordshire.

4.1

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Foxholes Nature Reserve is a serene 165-acre woodland and wet meadow managed by BBOWT, located near Foscot, Chipping Norton. Known for its spectacular spring bluebells, diverse fungi, and abundant birdlife, the reserve slopes gently down to the River Evenlode. Visitors can explore ancient woodland remnants, enjoy seasonal wildflowers, and observe a variety of wildlife including deer, bats, and butterflies throughout the year.

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 to early May to witness the spectacular bluebell carpets in full bloom.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching; look out for nuthatch, treecreeper, and various owl species.
Wear sturdy footwear as some paths may be uneven or muddy, especially near the river.
Autumn is ideal for spotting a wide variety of fungi; consider joining a guided fungus foray if available.
There are no visitor facilities such as toilets on site, so plan accordingly.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Chipping Norton, the reserve is approximately a 15-minute journey via local roads. Parking is limited near the entrance at Foscot; visitors should arrive early during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
Bus

Local bus services run from Chipping Norton to nearby villages; from there, expect a 30-40 minute walk on rural paths to the reserve entrance. Bus frequency is limited on weekends and public holidays. Tickets cost approximately £3-£5 one way.
Walking

For those staying in Shipton-under-Wychwood or nearby villages, walking routes to Foxholes range from 2 to 5 miles on country lanes and woodland paths. Terrain is uneven with some inclines, suitable for moderately fit walkers.

Foxholes location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Foxholes

Ancient Woodland and Rich Flora

Foxholes Nature Reserve is a remarkable 165-acre site nestled in West Oxfordshire, renowned for its ancient woodland that was once part of the historic Wychwood Forest. The reserve’s landscape gently descends to the River Evenlode, offering a mix of wet meadows and woodlands. In spring, the woodland floor bursts into life with carpets of vibrant bluebells, primroses, violets, and early-purple orchids. The flora diversity extends to include red campion, bugle, foxglove, heath spotted-orchid, pyramid orchid, and herb-paris, creating a colorful tapestry throughout the seasons.

Fungi and Seasonal Changes

Foxholes is especially famous for its fungi diversity, with over 200 species recorded in late summer and autumn. Visitors can find fascinating varieties such as beechwood sickener, oyster mushrooms, stinkhorns, milkcaps, tawny grisettes, false death caps, russulas, and bracket fungi. The autumn months transform the reserve into a spectacle of fungi and rich fall colors, enhancing its natural beauty and ecological importance.

Wildlife Abundance and Birdlife

The reserve supports a wide range of wildlife. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like nuthatch, treecreeper, sparrowhawk, kingfisher, woodcock, tawny owl, barn owl, and little owl. The wet meadows and woodland edges provide habitats for butterflies including white admiral, holly blue, comma, meadow brown, ringlet, and speckled wood. Additionally, grass snakes, adders, and lizards bask in sunny spots, while mammals such as rabbits, hares, squirrels, badgers, foxes, muntjac deer, roe deer, and fallow deer roam the area.

Conservation and Habitat Management

Conservation efforts at Foxholes focus on maintaining the delicate balance of habitats. Light grazing preserves the wet meadows by keeping soil fertility low, which benefits wildflowers. Coppicing is practiced to allow dappled sunlight to reach the woodland floor, promoting biodiversity and creating suitable conditions for birds and insects. The wide rides within the reserve are regularly cleared to prevent scrub encroachment, ensuring sunny corridors for flora and fauna. Volunteers often assist with these management tasks, contributing to the reserve’s ecological health.

Visitor Experience and Trails

Visitors to Foxholes can enjoy a peaceful walk along well-maintained paths, including a circular Wildlife Walk of approximately 1.75 miles marked by badger waymarkers. The reserve is open year-round, providing opportunities to experience its changing seasonal highlights—from spring bluebells to autumn fungi. The tranquil setting offers excellent birdwatching, wildlife observation, and photography opportunities in a relatively undisturbed natural environment.

Ecological Significance and Bat Habitat

Foxholes also serves as an important habitat for bats, with surveys identifying seven species including the rare Bechstein's bat. The presence of tall trees and a rich insect population supports these nocturnal mammals, highlighting the reserve’s role in preserving diverse wildlife. This ancient woodland’s ecological complexity makes it a vital conservation area within Oxfordshire'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.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Bridge Nightclub

28.8 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

28.8 km

Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.

Kiss Bar

28.8 km

An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.

ATIK Oxford

28.8 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

29.1 km

Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.

Plush Oxford

29.2 km

Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.

ReVA Nightclub

30.2 km

Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

Coco

30.9 km

Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.

2 PIGS

30.9 km

A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.

The 21 Club

30.9 km

Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.

MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham

31.0 km

Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.

Popworld - Cheltenham

31.0 km

Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.

Under the Prom

31.2 km

Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.

Home and Botanic Nightclub

31.2 km

Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.

Thirteen Degrees

31.2 km

Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Foxholes with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Foxholes Nature Reserve: A Tranquil Woodland Haven in Oxfordshire

A brief summary to Foxholes

Local tips

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

Getting There

Car

Bus

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 Rich Flora

Fungi and Seasonal Changes

Wildlife Abundance and Birdlife

Conservation and Habitat Management

Visitor Experience and Trails

Ecological Significance and Bat Habitat

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