Brief Outline:

Providing a brief outline of Southend Oxfordshire is far from easy. The village has had such a colourful history and life in the village continues to be far from quiet. Some would tell you that this Southend is so special even extra terrestrials visited, creating the famous Southend crop circles.
The history of Southend is intertwined with that of its very close and larger neighbour, Garsington. The name Garsington originates from the old English Gaerse-Dun, meaning 'The Grassy Hill' and is mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Southend's name probably originated later because of its geographical position in relation to Garsington. The pair had always been wealthy farming villages with the magnificent Manor house (which now is home to opera) as testiment to this. It was built in the 17th century by the Wickham family shortly before the area was plundered to pay for the King's armies in the Civil War.
The modern roadtripper will find that Southend has much more to give than just good transport connections. Boasting three pubs, sports facilities, picturesque walks and even 'Aunt Sally' the local variation of skittles only played in the village. With so much to do it is practically a crime not to go to Southend Oxfordshire.
Sadly however, in modern times it is hard to tell where Southend starts and Garsington ends, with Southend seemly said to be 'part' or even a road of Garsington. This has caused Southend to lose its identity somewhat and cause confusion, particularly with tourists. But, those in the know will be able to feel the extra positive atmosphere that Southend has. Locals who live in the little lane marked Southend hold their heads up higher, because they can say, in their hearts, 'I AM from Southend'....

Map:

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Things To Do:

Personal Review:

Sam:
Southend Garsington is certainly special. I visited about five times during 2005-2006 and I have to say I am desperate to go back, its been far too long. The Three Horseshoes pub is whole-heartedly recommended for a relaxing drink after a busy day roadtripping. There are also great facilities in the surrounding area with its close proximity to historic Oxford.