Banbury Tourist Information

Banbury, a historic and lively market town - famous for its nursery rhyme, 'Ride a Cock Horse to Banbury Cross', the original cross was destroyed by the Puritans and was replaced by the present one in Victorian times. The 'fine lady', referred to in the rhyme is thought to be a member of the Finnes (pronounced Fines) family a local family who still own and live at nearby Broughton Castle. It is probable that the ride to the cross would have been part of a May morning ceremony. Banbury is also known for the famous Banbury Cake, first recorded in the 16th century. The cakes are made of flaky pastry, filled with spices and dried fruit and can still be bought in local shops today.

The twisting medieval streets and some fine houses remain, but many of the old buildings and the church were demolished in the 18th century. The present day neo-classical church was built in the 1790's. Banbury today is a bustling market town; the market days are Thursday and Saturday.