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Often dubbed the gateway to the Cotswolds, one historic Oxfordshire market town has been described among the county's "most picturesque" escapes, and one stroll through its centre makes it easy to see why.

Lined with antique shops, cosy tearooms and traditional pubs, its steep, storybook high street, which tumbles downhill towards a medieval bridge crossing the River Windrush, feels like stepping straight into a postcard. History lovers will gaze in awe at the architecture, ranging from 15th-century houses to elegant Tudor, Georgian and Baroque buildings.

The wealth from its time as a prominent wool town is very much still visible in its beautifully preserved buildings. But don't just take our word for it - one 'local guide' raved over the "fabulous shops and eateries" on Google reviews.

She praised cafes with the "most fantastic array of cakes and treats", antique shops "full of the most quaint and quintessential" items, and independent shops selling "unusual trinkets and home goods".

Her review continued: "When walking and shopping here, remember to look up, it's a fascinating insight into how different ages of architecture just works together..."

A second visitor added: "A truly picturesque village with medieval houses and typical English cottages, nestled in the Cotswolds. Well worth a visit."

Even Burford's name is a nod to its picturesque setting, coming from the Old English burh, meaning hilltown or fortified town.

The St John the Baptist Church lies at the bottom of the hill, and its beauty has made it one of the top ten most visited churches in the country.

Now a Grade 1 listed building, the church is filled with fascinating historical features, including beautifully crafted stained-glass windows, a Victorian tiled floor, and medieval tombs.

One reviewer said: "St John the Baptist Church in Burford is one of the finest parish churches in England and a remarkable example of medieval architecture."

The town is not served by any train routes, but the closest station is Charlbury, approximately 7 miles away.