Start our journey from Shotover Country Park, a true Oxfordshire gem. Located on the outskirts of Oxford, this sprawling park offers not only stunning views of the city, but also a variety of hiking and biking trails. As one of the largest public green spaces in the area, Shotover is the perfect place to start our road trip. The park is famous for its rich flora and fauna, as well as for its vantage points that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place for landscape photography enthusiasts, who will find countless opportunities to capture the magic of the English countryside.

The next stop on our tour is Iffley Meadows - charming meadows located on the banks of the River Thames. This place enchants with tranquility and natural beauty, offering visitors the opportunity to stroll among lush vegetation and observe local fauna. Iffley Meadows are especially attractive in spring, when thousands of fritillaries bloom here, creating a beautiful carpet of purple. It's also a great place to birdwatch and enjoy the tranquility of nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We can't leave out Headington Hill Park, which, although smaller than the previous ones, offers equally breathtaking views of the Oxford skyline. This park, which is also an arboretum, impresses with its variety of trees and carefully maintained alleys. It's the perfect place for an afternoon picnic or a relaxing stroll. The park's highest point offers views of Oxford's landmark towers and spires, making it a popular spot for photographers and lovers of city skylines.

When comparing the three locations, it's worth noting that each offers something unique. Shotover Country Park stands out for its vastness and variety of landscapes, Iffley Meadows captivates with its naturalness and tranquility, and Headington Hill Park impresses with its panoramic views of the city. In terms of accessibility, Headington Hill Park is most convenient for those staying in downtown Oxford, while Shotover and Iffley Meadows require a short car ride, which fits perfectly with our road trip concept. All three sites are free of charge, which is a plus for families planning a budget trip. Keep in mind, however, that parking lots at Shotover Country Park may be charged in season (as of 2024).

Continuing our journey, we head toward the National Trust site of Watlington Hill. This place offers some of the most beautiful views in all of Oxfordshire. Watlington Hill, with its distinctive white sign carved into the hillside, is not only a visual attraction, but also a great starting point for hiking. From here there are panoramic views of the Thames Valley and the Chiltern Hills, making the site a paradise for landscape photographers. It's worth noting that parking is charged for non-National Trust members (as of 2024), but the views certainly make up for the cost.

Next, we'll visit Basildon Park, a stunning example of Georgian architecture surrounded by beautiful gardens. This 18th-century estate offers a fascinating journey back in time, allowing visitors to experience the life of the English aristocracy. Basildon Park's gardens are as impressive as the house itself, offering scenic walking paths and viewpoints. It's the perfect place for families who want to combine historical education with outdoor relaxation. It's worth noting that Basildon Park requires an entrance fee, but National Trust members have free admission.

Next on our itinerary is the National Trust's Chastleton House, a charming Jacobean-era mansion that has remained virtually unchanged for more than 400 years. This place offers an extraordinary 'frozen in time' experience, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of 17th century England. Chastleton Gardens, although smaller than Basildon Park, has its own unique charm and is ideal for a leisurely stroll. As with Basildon Park, there is an admission fee, but free for National Trust members.

Comparing the three locations, each offers a unique experience. Watlington Hill stands out for its natural qualities and beautiful views, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. Basildon Park and Chastleton House, on the other hand, offer a deep dive into history, but in different styles - Basildon represents Georgian elegance, while Chastleton takes us back to the harsh world of Jacobean England.

In terms of accessibility, Watlington Hill is the most 'natural' and requires minimal infrastructure, making it ideal for those looking to get in touch with nature. Basildon Park and Chastleton House offer more amenities, such as cafes and restrooms, which may be important for families with children. Admission prices to the estates may be higher than the parking fee at Watlington Hill, but they offer a much richer cultural experience.

It is worth noting that all of these sites are managed by the National Trust, which guarantees a high standard of maintenance and heritage protection. For those planning an extended stay in the region, membership in the National Trust can prove to be a worthwhile investment, providing free entry to many attractions throughout the UK.

Our Oxfordshire trip would not be complete without visiting a few lesser-known but equally fascinating sites. Let's start with the National Trust-owned Ashdown, a charming estate known for its impressive 17th-century house and extensive grounds. Ashdown offers not only the opportunity to explore the historic building, but also beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests. It's an ideal place for those looking for peace and quiet and contact with nature. It is worth noting that the house is open for tours only on select days (as of 2024), but the park grounds are available year-round.

The next point on our itinerary is the National Trust - Chilterns Countryside, an area of outstanding natural beauty. This place offers countless opportunities for hiking and landscape photography. The picturesque Chiltern hills, covered with the region's signature beech forests, create the perfect backdrop for breathtaking panoramas. It's also a great place to observe wildlife, including rare species of butterflies and birds.

We can't leave out the National Trust - Stowe Gardens, one of the most beautiful landscape gardens in England. This place impresses not only with its variety, but also with its remarkable history and architecture. Stowe Gardens, full of classical temples, monuments and bridges, offers an unforgettable experience for lovers of garden art and architecture. It's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and contemplate the beauty of nature combined with human creativity.

At the end of our trip, we will visit the National Trust - Farnborough Hall, a lesser-known but equally charming property. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and landscaped parkland, this 18th-century house offers a tranquil atmosphere and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of English nobility. Note the distinctive carved cornices and impressive interiors, which have retained their original character.

Comparing the four locations, each offers a unique experience. Ashdown stands out for its historic house and beautiful views, Chilterns Countryside impresses with its natural landscapes, Stowe Gardens impresses with its grandeur and variety of gardens, and Farnborough Hall charms with its intimate atmosphere and authenticity.

In terms of accessibility, the Chilterns Countryside is the most 'wild' and ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Stowe Gardens offers the most extensive tourist infrastructure, making it ideal for families with children. Ashdown and Farnborough Hall are less crowded, which can be an advantage for those seeking tranquility and authenticity.

Admission prices vary at these sites, but they are all managed by the National Trust, meaning that members of the organization have free admission. For those planning to explore the region extensively, membership in the National Trust may prove to be a worthwhile investment.

To sum up our road trip through Oxfordshire, it's worth highlighting the incredible variety of attractions the region has to offer. From the wilderness of the Chilterns to the majestic gardens of Stowe to charming estates like Farnborough Hall, each of these places brings something unique to our trip. Oxfordshire is not only home to picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views, but also to a rich history and culture that can be discovered at every turn. Whether you're a nature lover, history lover, or simply looking for inspiring places to photograph, Oxfordshire is sure to meet your needs. Be sure to plan your trip in advance, checking opening hours and any admission fees. Surely this road trip will remain in your memory as an unforgettable adventure full of beautiful sights and fascinating discoveries.