Highlight • Historical Site
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The Great Coxwell Tithe Barn is a remarkable 13th-century historical site located on the northern edge of the village of Great Coxwell, Oxfordshire, England. Situated at an elevation of 159 metres, this medieval agricultural building stands as a testament to monastic life and architectural prowess, nestled between the towns of Swindon and Faringdon. It is recognized as a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, highlighting its profound significance in English heritage.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the…
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February 5, 2023
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September 7, 2021
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Elevation 160 m
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The Great Coxwell Tithe Barn is a remarkably preserved medieval agricultural building, constructed around 1292 for the Cistercian Beaulieu Abbey. It served as a vital storehouse for crops, wool, and other tithes, which were a tenth of peasants' produce given to the church or landowner. Its existence highlights the significant role monastic granges played in the medieval economy and agricultural practices. It's recognized as a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument due to its exceptional historical and architectural importance.
Yes, the Great Coxwell Tithe Barn serves as an excellent starting point for various walks through the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside. While there isn't one single 'official' trail, many local paths and bridleways connect to the barn, offering gentle routes suitable for hikers and casual strollers. You can explore the surrounding fields and village, often finding circular routes that bring you back to the barn.
The terrain immediately around the barn is generally flat and easy to navigate. The barn itself is at an elevation of 159 meters. Walks in the surrounding countryside typically involve gentle slopes and well-maintained footpaths through fields. It's considered an easy area for walking, suitable for most fitness levels, though some paths may be uneven or muddy after rain.
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the barn's interior and appreciate its architectural features. If you plan to combine your visit with a walk in the surrounding countryside, you could easily spend 2-3 hours or more enjoying the area.
The barn itself has a flat, earthen floor, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs. However, access from the parking area to the barn entrance involves a short, unpaved path which might be uneven. There are no specific accessible facilities on-site, such as adapted restrooms, as there are no amenities directly at the barn.
While there are no structured activities or dedicated children's exhibits, the sheer scale and historical atmosphere of the barn can be fascinating for children. It offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine medieval life. The open space inside is great for exploring, and the surrounding fields provide room for children to run around, making it a good spot for a family outing combined with a walk.
Public transport options to Great Coxwell Tithe Barn are limited. The village of Great Coxwell is quite rural. It's generally recommended to travel by car, as there is convenient on-site parking. If relying on public transport, you would likely need to take a bus to a nearby town like Faringdon or Swindon and then arrange for a taxi or a longer walk to reach the barn.
There are no amenities directly at the barn. However, the nearby village of Great Coxwell may have limited options, and the larger market town of Faringdon, approximately 2 miles away, offers a wider selection of pubs, cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. It's advisable to check in advance for opening times and availability.
For visiting the barn itself, casual clothing is fine. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding walking trails, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes or boots, as paths can be uneven or muddy. Dressing in layers is always a good idea, as the barn is unheated and can feel cool even on a warm day, and weather conditions can change.
Great Coxwell Tithe Barn is a peaceful and often quiet historical site. While it can see more visitors on pleasant weekend afternoons or public holidays, it rarely feels overly crowded due to its open nature and the surrounding space. Arriving earlier in the day can help ensure a more solitary experience if that is preferred.
While the Great Coxwell Tithe Barn is unique in its scale and preservation, Oxfordshire and the surrounding regions are rich in historical sites. You might be interested in other National Trust properties, medieval churches, or even other tithe barns in the wider Cotswolds area, such as Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn, though each has its own distinct character.