Visit George Washington's ancestral home at Sulgrave Manor
Built by George Washington's ancestry in the 16th century, Sulgrave Manor is in Northamptonshire, around eight miles from Banbury. Open for public tours, school visits and weddings, this atmospheric place is a must for history lovers and is within an easy drive of some of the area's top attractions such as Blenheim Palace and the dreaming spires of Oxford.
Catch the racing at Silverstone Circuit
Formula One favourite Silverstone is around 20 minutes' drive away (in a normal car) and you can catch a race or have a go on the famous track yourself by booking an experience day. Shopaholics are well catered for in this area too with top-end fashion at cheaper prices in Bicester Village, or head to Milton Keynes where centre:mk and intu Milton Keynes form one of the largest covered shopping malls in Europe. Then head to Xscape Milton Keynes which has a Snozone, iFly Indoor Skydiving plus bowling and cinema to keep everyone entertained. Or enjoy this area's fine properties with the National Trust's Canons Ashby Nearby or magnificent Blenheim Palace further afield.
What to do and see in Oxford
Avoid busy city centre parking by catching the Park & Ride and stop off at the Ashmolean and Pitt Rivers museums which have fascinating ancient exhibits and are both free to enter. Have a pint at The Eagle & Child, where Tolkien and CS Lewis discussed their books, and buy a tome at Blackwell's Bookshop with its vast Norrington Room.
Looking for a cheap hotel Near Sulgrave Manor? Travelodge Towcester Silverstone Hotel is a good bet or try Travelodge The Regent Hotel Leamington Spa.