Boarstall Tower

Boarstall Tower is a moated gatehouse built in 1312 by John de Haudlo, the only part left standing of a fortified manor house near Bicester. The house was garrisoned by both sides in turn during the Civil War, withstood an attack by Sir Thomas Fairfax in 1645 and surrendered to him the following year; it was pulled down in 1778, leaving the Grade I listed tower alone with its moat and gardens. Ernest Cook later gave it to the National Trust. The tower is currently closed throughout the year, opening only for a single afternoon during the village fete, so check the Trust's page before setting out. When it does open, a large spiral staircase climbs through the building, and reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the well-kept gardens. The Trust recommends good footwear for the stairs, which are not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or anyone with limited mobility. There is a small grass car park with an accessible temporary toilet, and only assistance dogs are allowed within the tower.