Cornbury Park, Country house in Charlbury, England
Cornbury Park is a two-story stone country house with eleven bays, situated within a 5,000-acre estate containing farmland, woodland, and sections of the ancient Wychwood Forest. The main building and associated structures occupy the working landscape, which includes a managed deer park and cultivated grounds.
The estate appears in the Domesday Book as a royal hunting ground and was redesigned between 1632 and 1677 by architects Nicholas Stone and Hugh May. These modifications gave it the form it retains today.
A Latin inscription 'DEVS NOBIS HÆC OTIA FECIT' adorns the stone facade, reflecting the original owner's gratitude for this peaceful country retreat. The words speak to an old tradition of marking estates with personal reflections about life and leisure.
The estate spans a large area, so visitors should plan time to explore the grounds on foot or through the managed parkland. The Rangers Lodge office coordinates access to activities and can provide information about navigating the property and its seasonal conditions.
The property preserves a living section of the ancient Wychwood Forest and hosts the Wilderness Festival along with equestrian competitions introduced in 2020. These events bring visitors to experience the blend of historic grounds and contemporary outdoor activities.
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