A British television drama stalwart for more than 14 years, Midsomer Murders has thousands of international fans charmed by its location, tongue-in-cheek humour and easy to watch character.

Contrary to popular belief, Midsomer is situated a short distance outside of London and is easily reached for a relaxing short break. So if you watch Midsomer Murders and think “that place looks lovely, I wonder where it is” – you’re in the right place.

Fans of the popular books and TV series know it as the home of traditional pubs, village greens and Sunday afternoon cricket. They also know of the improbable number of murders committed in dastardly yet creative ways, solved by the unflappable and pragmatic DCI Barnaby. But that’s the fictional Midsomer County.

The real Midsomer Murders locations are spread across South Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire where towns and villages have names every bit as wonderful as their fictional counterparts.

Fancy walking in the footsteps of the hero; enjoying a beer in the local pub or posing for photographs beside the church? Use these pages to plan a short break with where to stay, what to see and what’s on.

We've included two self-drive tours to ensure you see the most featured and picturesque locations that will seem oh-so familiar. They include stately homes, parish churches, town and viilage buildings and more than a few hostelries. We even have the option of guided Midsomer Murders tours, where you can sit back and enjoy the view as a knowledgable guide tells you everything you need to know. No need for map reading or sat-nav systems and you miss nothing.

Next time you find yourself admiring the setting as Baranaby struts around solving another 'whodunnit' make a plan to treat yourself. Take a short break in South Oxfordshire and spend time visiting genuine Midsomer Murders locations. With regular filming schedules you may even end up in the right place at the right time.