July time in Oxfordshire can be brilliant

Varied scenery, a rural landscape, and being home to the intellectual elite epitomize the county of Oxfordshire. It is well known for its rich cultural heritage as many of the Anglo-Saxon rulers, Norman invaders and medieval feuds have left their legacy in this beautiful county. Tourist trails will most often include the breathtaking dreaming spires of Oxford, lush gardens and locations where masterpiece classics such as Downton Abbey have been filmed. But July is the month when all eyes turn to another historic gem. In the charming British county of Oxfordshire, nestled in the valley right at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, there is the medieval market town Henley-on-Thames.

In July it hosts the world-renowned regatta and it is precisely this time of the year when high society flocks in to see their favourite teams as well as to be seen. This warm summer month greets regatta crews and numerous spectators of the show; ladies with hats and fluttering dresses, gentlemen in lounge suits, blazers with flannels and ties, champagne and parties until late at night.

The Henley Regatta has a long tradition - it was first launched as a public attraction with fair and similar amusements in 1839 by the Mayor and citizens. Ever since then it has been held annually, except during the two World Wars. Nowadays the best amateur oarsmen from all around the world come to Henley-on-Thames to compete for the Grand Challenge Cup, its most prestigious trophy. This unique regatta is even said to be on par with Wimbledon and Royal Ascot and, as such, is frequented by the members of the Royal Family.This lovable little town also contributes to the calendar of buoyant summer events with the annual Henley Festival of Music and Arts. It is set on the stretch of the river just between the regatta finish and the beautiful Henley Bridge, another landmark worth visiting. The festival attracts famous entertainers who perform on the floating stage live. That said, it is quite obvious that this romantic town is bursting with action every summer. In the background of these festivities there are numerous historic buildings, timber-framed inns and other par excellence examples of Georgian architecture.

Remember to visit St.Mary the Virgin Church, first built around 1000 and the River & Rowing Museum in Henley. Plan your afternoon tea in one of the many quaint cafés and enjoy home-made scones with jam, or pay a visit to the Thursday market that has been trading since the 13th century. Traditional pubs, stone houses and rolling hills nearby only enhance the beauty of this fantastic place and invite you to step back in time and indulge in the picturesque county of Oxfordshire.