Our Villages
Blockley Parish is one of the largest in the Cotswolds, covering around 12 square miles of rolling countryside. We are a collection of distinct communities, each with its own character and history. From the bustling hub of Blockley to the peaceful hamlets of Ditchford and Draycott, our parish offers a blend of heritage, nature, and community spirit.
Below is a guide to the villages and hamlets that make up our parish, along with the local amenities you will find in each.
Blockley
As the largest village in the parish, Blockley is a thriving community with a rich industrial past. Once a centre for the silk industry, its historic mills have since become beautiful homes, giving the village a unique character. It is a conservation area and a well-known location for film and television, including Father Brown.
Amenities:
- Shop & Café: The Blockley Village Shop & Café is community-owned and serves as a central meeting place for residents.
- Schools: Blockley C of E Primary School provides education for local children.
- Village Halls: We have excellent facilities for events and meetings, including St George’s Hall, the Little Village Hall, and the Jubilee Hall.
- Pubs: The village is home to The Great Western Arms, a popular spot for food and drink.
- Hotels: The Crown Inn is a 28 room holtel with a bar and restaurant.
- Worship: The historic Church of St Peter and St Paul stands at the centre of the village.
Paxford
Paxford is a charming village known for its friendly atmosphere and classic Cotswold stone architecture. It sits quietly in the valley but maintains a strong sense of community.
Amenities:
- Village Hall: Paxford Village Hall is a well-maintained venue that hosts regular coffee mornings, meetings, and local events.
- Pub: The Churchill Arms is a celebrated 17th-century inn offering accommodation and dining and is due to reopen later this year after an extensive renovation.
Draycott
Situated between Blockley and Moreton-in-Marsh, Draycott is a peaceful hamlet that was once a separate manor. Today, it is a quiet residential area with a mix of historic cottages and farmhouses.
Amenities:
- Village Hall: The Draycott Mission Hall is available for community use and local gatherings.
Aston Magna
Aston Magna is a tranquil hamlet nestled in the countryside to the east of Blockley. It is largely residential and agricultural, offering a quiet pace of life with easy access to the surrounding footpaths and nature. While it has fewer amenities than its larger neighbours, it remains a close-knit part of our parish community.
Northwick Park
Northwick Park is a historic estate centred around a Grade I listed mansion. Formerly the home of the Spencer-Churchill family, the estate has been transformed into a residential community set within 35 acres of private parkland.
Ditchford
Ditchford is a small, rural hamlet primarily consisting of farmland and open countryside. It has a long history, with evidence of medieval settlements nearby, and today contributes to the agricultural heritage of our parish.