Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours
Address:
North Leigh, Witney, Oxfordshire , OX29 6PZ
The remains of North Leigh Roman Villa are set within a peaceful landscape on the banks of the river Evenlode in Oxfordshire. This ‘courtyard villa’ is considered to be one of the larger villas of Roman Britain. It was at its most extensive in the early 4th century, when it included three bath suites, at least 19 mosaic floors and 11 rooms with underfloor heating.
Today, two ranges of the former courtyard arrangement of the villa are visible. The most important feature of the site is a fine mosaic tile floor dating to the early 4th century.
Read more about the history of North Leigh Roman Villa and download our audio guide to find out more.
During 2020 our volunteers supported our visitors during the pandemic by holding some very successful Covid-safe open days. You can read more about their success here.
On the following days in 2024, between 11am and 5pm, our team of volunteers will be welcoming visitors at the site.
- Saturday and Sunday 24–25 August (Mosaic Building will be closed)
- Saturday and Sunday 7–8 September (Mosiac Building will be closed)
- Saturday and Sunday 21–22 September (Mosaic Building will be closed)
Before You Go
Access: Access to the site is via an uneven farm track, which can become muddy in wet weather and may be unsuitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. There are 5 steps down to reach the mosaic building - these are in good condition with a sturdy bannister.
Opening times: The open air site is accessible all year round. This year we will be embarking on a major conservation project at the site, you can read more about that here. You will also find information on open days.
Parking: There is parking space for several cars in a lay-by on the roadside, directly opposite the farm track down to the villa. There is a walk of approximately 0.5km down a farm track to the site entrance. We advise not leaving valuables in vehicles.
Facilities: There are no facilities onsite. The market town of Woodstock is located approximately 10km away where there are public toilets and plenty of places to eat and shop.
Group visits: Our volunteer team may be able to facilitate group visits to view the mosaics. Booking is essential and is subject to availability, please email freetoenter.sites@english-heritage.org.uk at least 2 weeks prior to the date you wish to visit.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome to the site. Unfortunately on open days dogs will not be permitted in the Mosaic House.
Plan a Great Day Out
Why not complete your day out with a visit to the beautiful, Baroque Abingdon County Hall Museum and enjoy its fine rooftop views?
You could also explore the extensive, picturesque, riverside remains of Minster Lovell Hall - a popular spot for family picnics.
Or why not head up to the extensive earthwork remains of the 11th century castle at Deddington, associated with Odo, Bishop of Bayeux and half-brother of William the Conqueror.