Things To Do
The Historic Market Town of Bicester
The Historic Market Town of Bicester is full of Saxon heritage.
Bicester was originally a small market town in Oxfordshire which has grown into a major tourist attraction and is now one of the fastest growing towns in the UK. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is filled with pretty streets featuring many restaurants, shops and cafes.
Bicester and the surrounding areas are very rich in history. Just outside the town, at a site known as Alchester, archaeologists have excavated a tombstone that commemorated the life of a retired legionary. The stone confirms the presence of II Augustan Legion that was commanded by Vespasian, who was later to become Emperor of the Roman Empire.
The town retains many of its charming 16th century features. It is also where the traditional markets are held every Friday as well as the Farmers’ Markets on the second Thursday of every month, selling local produce from within a 30 mile radius. During the year Bicester hosts many events throughout the town and Garth Park ranging from the Jazz Festival to the Last Night of the Proms.
In the Town itself, Saxon settlements have been unearthed which are dated to early 7th century. Also the town is mentioned in the Doomsday book under the name of Bernecestre.
From Iron age settlements to Roman invasion and forts then Viking attacks, Bicester has a great history for you to explore.