The Banbury Weekender

  Save money and time! Navigate Banbury's complex parking system with our local guide. Finding parking in Banbury is the first great challenge for any visitor or shopper. The rules change between the Old Town and the newer Castle Quay developments, and nobody wants a surprise parking ticket. We’ve compiled the definitive guide to all major car parks, breaking down the costs, times, and best strategies for finding free parking near the town centre. 1. The Cheapest (Long Stay) Options For anything over two hours, these council car parks are your most cost-effective option. They are slightly further from the central shops but save money for a day trip. Car Park Distance to Town Centre Key Tip Spiceball Leisure Centre 5 min walk Best for all-day trips and near the train station. Bolton Road 8 min walk Often less busy than the town centre ones. 2. The Quickest (Short Stay) Spots Need to rush into town for one hour? These are closest to the shops but can be expensive for long visits. Car...

With a run time of under an hour, it's designed for short attention spans. Taking young children to the theatre is always a gamble. Will they sit still? Is it too scary? And most importantly, is it worth the ticket price? This December, The Mill Arts Centre in Banbury is hosting a special production of The Nutcracker by the Let's All Dance Ballet Company . Unlike the three-hour marathons you get in London, this version is designed specifically for families. As part of our Ultimate Christmas in Banbury Guide , here is everything local parents need to know before booking.

  The Oxford Canal in Banbury is the perfect escape from the Christmas chaos. You know that confusing time between Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve? The "Twixmas" period where you’ve eaten too much cheese, the kids are climbing the walls, and you desperately need fresh air. If you are looking for a walk that is flat, family-friendly, and ends with a pub, the towpath route from Banbury to Bodicote is the local favorite. Here is everything you need to know, including where to park and—crucially—how muddy it really gets.

It’s officially December in Banbury. The lights are on in the Market Place , the mulled wine is flowing at The Reindeer , and panic-buying has officially started at Castle Quay . If you’re looking for the best places to see Santa, late-night shopping hours, or just a festive pint by a fire, we’ve rounded up everything happening in Banburyshire for the rest of December 2025. Here is your essential guide to Christmas in Banbury.