Best attractions and places to see around Wick Rissington include a variety of historical sites, charming villages, and natural features within the Cotswold Hills of Gloucestershire. This area is characterized by traditional architecture and a tranquil atmosphere. The village itself features a wide green and the historic St. Laurence Church, dating back to the 12th century. Nearby, visitors can explore picturesque settlements and scenic river paths.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
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In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.
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In the middle of a small green area within the village, a cross rises atop a tall stone shaft. However, as hikers notice upon approach, this is by no means a small sacred monument in the sense of the wayside crosses common in some regions. Rather, this monument, like those found in many villages, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of war and tyranny.
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Visit on non peak days/months and times it will be much more enjoyable
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Famous for its honey-coloured traditional Cotswold stone buildings, Bourton-on-the-Water is often referred to as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'. The River Windrush runs through the middle of the town with five stone bridges crossing it. The bridges were built between 1654 and 1911.
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Lower Slaughter is a beautifully quaint village with the Little Eye stream running through the middle of it. The village mill with original water wheel sits proudly on one side of the stream.
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Great start & finish point. Lots of places to have a coffee, a cup of tea or something stronger and plenty of choice if you want something to eat too. Not an expert but the shopping looks interesting as well. Worth a visit.
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Within the village of Wick Rissington, you can explore the historic St. Laurence Church, a Grade I Listed building dating back to the 12th century, notable for its unique architecture and connection to composer Gustav Holst. The church also features 16th-century wooden panels and restored Norman font. Don't miss the wide and long Village Green, flanked by 17th and 18th-century Cotswold stone houses, and the early 20th-century Victorian Drinking Fountain located on the green.
For nature enthusiasts, the Village Pond (often called the Duck Pond) on the village green is a charming spot to observe ducks. A short distance away, the Greystones Farm Nature Reserve offers rare tree species, ancient hedgerows, wildflower meadows, and a lake teeming with wildlife. It also features waymarked trails for exploration.
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Bourton-on-the-Water village is known for its charming bridges over the River Windrush, and visitors often enjoy the Model Village and the Dragonfly Maze. The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter, houses a museum, shop, and riverside cafe, offering an engaging historical experience. Greystones Farm Nature Reserve also provides family-friendly trails and facilities.
The area around Wick Rissington is excellent for walking. The Oxfordshire Way Footpath runs through the village, offering long-distance walking opportunities. For more structured routes, you can find various hiking trails, including easy loops like the 'The Porch House – Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross loop' (5.4 km) or more challenging options such as the 'River Eye in The Cotswolds – Lower Slaughter loop' (21 km). Explore more options on the Hiking around Wick Rissington guide.
Absolutely. The region offers diverse cycling routes. You can find easy routes like the 'Lower Slaughter – River Windrush loop' (13.5 km) or moderate ones such as the 'View from Bourton Hill – Bourton-on-the-Water loop' (32.6 km). For road cycling, there are routes like the 'Windrush Village Road – St Peter's Church, Windrush loop' (32 km). Discover more routes on the Cycling around Wick Rissington guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Wick Rissington guide.
Lower Slaughter is a picturesque village situated on the River Eye. It's renowned for its traditional Cotswold architecture and the former 19th-century watermill, which now houses a museum, shop, and a cozy riverside cafe at The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter. The village offers a unique charm, making it a popular spot for visitors.
Bourton-on-the-Water village is often called the 'Venice of the Cotswolds' due to its delightful arched bridges spanning the River Windrush. It's an archetypal Cotswold village, featuring pretty cottages and honey-coloured brick houses, offering a charming and scenic experience for visitors.
Yes, nearby you can find other significant historical sites. Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross, located in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold's market square, is a medieval monument that served as a reminder for honest trade. The Old Mill in Lower Slaughter also has a rich history, with its site dating back to at least 1086.
Visitors frequently praise the unique charm and picturesque beauty of the villages like Lower Slaughter and Bourton-on-the-Water. The historical significance of sites like The Old Mill and the tranquil natural settings of places like Greystones Farm Nature Reserve are also highly appreciated. The area is known for its blend of history, charming architecture, and scenic river paths.
Wick Rissington itself is often described as an 'unspoilt Cotswold village,' offering a tranquil atmosphere away from the busier tourist hubs. While popular spots like Bourton-on-the-Water can attract crowds, exploring the village green, St. Laurence Church, and the local footpaths within Wick Rissington can provide a more peaceful experience. Greystones Farm Nature Reserve is also noted for having a nice cafe away from tourist crowds.
While Wick Rissington is nestled in a valley, Wick Hill House, high on the hill above the village, offers spectacular views over the valley towards Bourton-on-the-Water. Additionally, the charming setting of Bourton-on-the-Water with its river and bridges provides many picturesque scenes.


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