Ever wondered about the story behind our name, Sturdy’s Castle? Legend says it was the site of a deadly fight. But if you want to see a genuine Oxford castle—complete with towers, a 900-year-old crypt, and a notoriously haunted past—head into the city!
Oxford Castle & Prison is not your average castle. It’s a journey through 1,000 years of Oxford’s history, from royal fortress to Victorian prison. You can climb the mound for incredible views, hear tales of daring escapes, and learn about the city’s less-than-glamorous side.
Looking for a day trip that offers a bit of everything? Start with a proper pub breakfast right here at Sturdy’s Castle, then head off to see Blenheim Palace, the home of history, adventure, and one seriously famous family.
This palace isn’t just for history buffs; the grounds are packed with things to do. Kids can let loose in the new Adventure Play area, while adults can get lost in the Marlborough Maze or simply enjoy a relaxing walk through the stunning parkland. And don’t forget the incredible recent additions for 2025: the unique Rooftop View experience and the behind-the-scenes ‘Life Below Stairs’ tour, showing you the hidden world of the palace’s staff.
After all that exploring, we’ll have a table (and a pint) waiting for you. Come back and swap stories of your day’s adventures with us!
Looking for the perfect day out? Start with a leisurely morning, then head to Bicester Village for a spot of designer shopping. With more than 150 boutiques and an open-air, village-style setting, it’s a shopping experience unlike any other.
And the best part? It’s just a short 20-minute drive back to us at Sturdy’s Castle. Whether you fancy a hearty dinner or just a relaxing evening by the fire, we’ve got you covered. Finish your day in comfort and style without the fuss of city traffic.
Sitting in its beautiful, mellow Cotswold Hills landscape, Hook Norton is a proudly independent and passionate family business that takes the very best of its handcrafted brewing heritage and combines it with a thoroughly modern approach, to create a range of real ales for today’s drinkers to enjoy.
Hook Norton is one of only 32 family owned breweries and is the finest example of a Victorian Tower Brewery in the country. Of course, the brewery is about so much more than just its fantastic range of award winning beers. We welcome over 25,000 visitors a year to our Visitor Centre and 37 of our pubs are at the heart of many of local communities, serving great drink and food to the region.
