Wondering what there is to do in Banbury? Whether you’re visiting for a day, planning a weekend break, or you live locally and want new ideas, this complete guide covers everything to do in Banbury — from historic landmarks and scenic walks to family attractions, food, markets and seasonal events.
Banbury sits on the edge of the Cotswolds and offers a mix of traditional market-town charm, canal-side scenery, green parks and easy access to Oxfordshire countryside, making it a great base for both short visits and longer stays.
Banbury combines history, shopping, countryside and relaxed canal-side walks.
Quick links
- Quick answer: best things to do in Banbury
- Iconic landmarks & history
- Museums & culture
- Oxford Canal & waterside walks
- Parks & nature
- Things to do with kids
- Walks & countryside near Banbury
- Food, markets & local treats
- Seasonal events & what’s on
- Banbury things to do FAQs
Quick answer: best things to do in Banbury
If you only have one day in Banbury:
- See Banbury Cross and walk around Market Place.
- Explore Banbury Museum & the Oxford Canal.
- Relax in People’s Park or Spiceball Country Park.
- Walk the canal towpath towards Tooley’s Boatyard.
- Eat, shop or watch a film at Castle Quay.
Iconic landmarks & Banbury history
Banbury Cross
Banbury Cross is the town’s most famous landmark, linked to the well-known nursery rhyme. While the original medieval cross no longer exists, the Victorian monument remains a central meeting point and a popular photo spot. It sits close to the Market Place and main shopping streets.
Broughton Castle
Just outside Banbury, Broughton Castle is one of Oxfordshire’s most impressive historic houses. Surrounded by a moat, it dates back to the 14th century and is known for its Civil War history and beautiful gardens. A must-visit for history lovers.
Museums & culture
Banbury Museum & Gallery
Located by the Oxford Canal, Banbury Museum & Gallery tells the story of the town from Roman times through to modern Banbury. Exhibits cover the Civil War, canal history, local industry and changing life in Oxfordshire. Entry is usually free, making it ideal for families.
Tooley’s Boatyard
Tooley’s Boatyard is one of the oldest working dry docks on the Oxford Canal. Visitors can see traditional narrowboat maintenance and learn about the importance of canals to Banbury’s growth during the industrial period.
Oxford Canal & waterside walks
The Oxford Canal runs directly through Banbury and offers some of the town’s most peaceful walking routes. The flat towpaths are suitable for all ages and are popular with walkers, runners and cyclists.
A short walk from the town centre brings you to quieter stretches of canal, with narrowboats, wildlife and countryside views. This is one of the best free things to do in Banbury.
If you plan a longer walk or day out along the canal, a lightweight daypack like the POKARLA 40L Foldable Travel Hiking Daypack is useful for carrying water, snacks and a jacket without feeling bulky.
The Oxford Canal is one of Banbury’s most relaxing walking routes.
Parks & nature in Banbury
People’s Park
People’s Park is a Victorian park near the town centre, featuring landscaped gardens, a pond, playgrounds and seasonal planting. It’s ideal for picnics, short walks or a break from shopping.
Spiceball Country Park
Spiceball Country Park offers open green space, riverside paths and access to the canal. It’s popular with dog walkers and joggers and links easily to longer walking routes beyond the town.
Things to do in Banbury with kids
- Banbury Museum – interactive and child-friendly displays.
- Canal walks – flat, safe paths for pushchairs.
- Play areas in People’s Park and Spiceball Park.
- The Light Banbury – cinema, bowling and indoor entertainment.
Walks & countryside near Banbury
Banbury is surrounded by scenic countryside, making it a great base for walks into north Oxfordshire and the edge of the Cotswolds.
- Oxford Canal long-distance paths.
- Banbury Fringe circular walks.
- Adderbury Lakes and surrounding nature reserves.
- Village walks towards Bloxham, Bodicote and Cropredy.
Weather in Oxfordshire can change quickly, so for longer countryside walks a compact waterproof bag such as the Ultra Dry Adventurer Waterproof Bag can help protect your phone and valuables.
Food, markets & local treats
Banbury Market
Banbury has a long market tradition, with regular markets held in the town centre offering fresh food, household goods and seasonal stalls.
Banbury Cake
The traditional Banbury cake is a spiced currant pastry dating back hundreds of years. Many local bakeries and cafes sell them, and they make a great souvenir or afternoon treat.
Seasonal events & what’s on in Banbury
Throughout the year, Banbury hosts markets, fairs, festivals and seasonal events. Popular highlights include Christmas markets, summer events at Castle Quay, and community celebrations in local parks.
Checking local listings and council updates before visiting is the best way to see what’s happening during your stay.
Banbury things to do FAQs
Is Banbury worth visiting?
Yes. Banbury offers historic landmarks, canal walks, parks, museums and easy access to countryside, making it ideal for day trips or relaxed weekends.
What are the best free things to do in Banbury?
Free activities include walking the Oxford Canal, visiting Banbury Museum, exploring People’s Park and Spiceball Country Park, and seeing Banbury Cross.
How long do you need in Banbury?
A day is enough to see the main sights, but a weekend allows time for nearby countryside walks and attractions like Broughton Castle.