King Alfred is said to have stayed in Woodstock in the 9th century, when the town was just a clearing in the great Wychwood Forest that stretched from the Cotswolds to London. And even before the Norman Conquest, Kings built lodges in Woodstock. It became a borough in the 13th century. While in town, be sure to visit the church of St. Mary Magdalen and also Chaucer’s house on Park Street where the poet once lived.

It's chief industry is now based on tourism because of the popularity of Blenheim Palace, but it once was known for its glove makers. Be sure to stop in at the County Museum while in town; besides the display inside, the building itself is from the 17th century and is quite beautiful.