Why a Countryside Getaway in Oxfordshire is the Perfect Winter Reset

If you’re reading this, you have discovered the very first Kingfisher Barn blog post, and I hope you enjoy! It’s a little bit about the magic of Winter and the perks of off season travelling, with a tad valentines inspo thrown in! But firstly, congratulations on surviving January!! If that isn’t enough reason to book yourself a holiday…

 

Why a Countryside Getaway in Oxfordshire is the Perfect Winter Reset

January can feel like a long, grey exhale after the buzz of Christmas. The festivities are well and truly over, your normal routine’s back in full swing, and many of us are left craving a bit of space, quiet and fresh air. That’s exactly why this time of year is one of the best times to escape to the countryside.

A peaceful countryside getaway in Oxfordshire offers the chance to slow down, recharge and start the year feeling refreshed.

 

The Magic of a Quiet Winter Break

Unlike the busier spring and summer months, this time of year brings a gentler pace. Paths are quieter, pubs are cosier, and the countryside feels like it belongs to you.

Staying somewhere rural allows you to:

• Enjoy uninterrupted walks along the River Thames, the neighbouring countryside and Abingdon’s delightful parks
• Wake up to birdsong, open views and country walks from your front door
• Take time to rest, read and reset
• Escape busy cities without travelling far (you can reach us from central London in an hour and a half)
• Explore the picturesque local villages and historic market towns

For many guests, a quiet winter break is less about ticking off attractions and more about reconnecting — with nature, with loved ones, or simply with themselves. Wrap up warm, take a flask, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors without the hustle.

 

Cosy Evenings and Comfortable Stays

After a day of discovery, the evening is all about comfort. A warm, welcoming place to return to makes all the difference.

At Kingfisher Barn, guests love:

• Our comfortable, thoughtfully designed minimalist rooms that are just as peaceful as our rural surroundings
• The natural surroundings away from busy roads, but the convenience of still being in walking distance of the town of Abingdon
• The choice of self-catering cottages or B&B stays
• A relaxed atmosphere that feels like a true escape

Whether you’re curling up with a book, planning tomorrow’s walk or simply enjoying the quiet, winter evenings here are made for slowing down.

 

A Perfect Base to Explore Oxfordshire

If you did want to throw a little city culture in while in the area, it is also a wonderful time to sightsee without the crowds. Oxford, Abingdon and surrounding villages are calmer, making museums, shops and cafés far more enjoyable.

It’s the ideal time for:

• Exploring Oxford’s historic streets at a relaxed pace, not to mention it’s way easier to get the perfect shot for your socials with less people around, I took these whilst on a walking tour in December…
• Enjoying long lunches in cosy local pubs, and believe me Abingdon has plenty to choose from! The Brewery Tap being a personal favourite of mine (scroll down to see one of their their epic homemade pies!)
• Visiting attractions without queues – with Oxfordshire being one of the most popular UK destinations, visiting in what most would call the “off season” let’s you see it in a different light (and with a whole lot less queuing!)

And with fewer visitors around, you’ll often find the experience feels more personal and authentic.

 

Romantic Getaways in Oxfordshire: Celebrate Love This February

February is the month of love — a time to celebrate romance, connection, and creating memories. Not only with the one you love but all your nearest and dearest, I’m not sure if we’re past saying galentines in 2026? But we are certainly here for our besties and letting them know they’re loved! So, if you’re looking for a cosy escape, as a couple or for the whole group chat, Kingfisher Barn in Oxfordshire offers the perfect base for a weekend getaway (romance optional…).

 

Why Choose a Countryside Escape for Romance?

A countryside break is the ultimate antidote to everyday distractions. Instead of busy streets or crowded hotels, you’ll find peaceful, uninterrupted time together enjoying unhurried strolls, slow lunches and a tranquil place to unwind together.

The calm and natural beauty of Oxfordshire makes February feel even more magical, with stunning sunsets and the chance to reconnect away from the city. Imagine spending the evening relaxing after a day exploring, enjoying a glass of wine while watching the sun set over the Oxfordshire countryside. That’s what makes a winter escape here so unforgettable.

Whether you’re planning a special weekend or a surprise midweek break, Kingfisher Barn provides the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and countryside serenity.

👉 Book your Winter country escape today and make this February one to remember!

 

To help you plan your visit, here’s some local events happening in Feb:

• Katy Rose Bennett & Isca at the Cornerstone Arts Centre, 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE
  Katy Rose Bennett is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, composer and arranger. She has been creating her earthy, intimate folk music for over 20 years. Oxford-based vocal group Isca are known for their rich blend of acapella harmony in unique reimagining’s of pop, rock and folk hits.
• Reginald D Hunter at the Cornerstone Arts Centre, 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE
  Join star comedian Reginald D Hunter with a couple of side-splitting guests for this special night of hilarity!
• Hase Waits at the Unicorn Theatre Checker Walk Abingdon, OX1 4JF
  Hase Waits are an innovative folk music group that are on a mission to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity through their enchanting blend of traditional instrumental music.
• Varna International Ballet – Cinderella at the New Theatre Oxford
• Twilight in Concert – The Film with Live Band at the New Theatre Oxford
• 2:22 A Ghost Story at the New Theatre Oxford
• Here & Now – The Steps Musical at the New Theatre Oxford
• Oxford Date Night Scavenger Hunt starting at Rochester House, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP, UK
  Embark on an Oxford scavenger hunt adventure through the Dreaming Spires! Explore iconic spots like Radcliffe Camera and Ashmolean Museum on a self-guided walking tour.
• Snow drops at Waterperry Gardens – Near Wheatley, Oxfordshire OX33 1JZ
  Waterperry boasts beautiful displays of double and single-flowered snowdrops all around the 20 acres of gardens and is the perfect excuse for a walk.