This friendly, independent chemist opened as an apothecary in Burford in 1734; today, it offers 21st century expertise alongside 100-year-old traditional remedies!
Reavley in Burford, England’s oldest pharmacy, is not just a pop-in chemist; it also provides free, confidential advice in a private consultation room, seven days a week. All staff are highly trained and ready to offer support.
Alongside that 21st century expertise, there’s a unique experience to be had. This is a shop lined with Victorian drawers from an age when opium was a popular prescription. In fact, the Reavley family still has records of prescriptions dating back to 1899.
Traditional remedies are on sale, made on site, such as the mild antiseptic boric acid ointment (for minor cuts and bruises); Bengue’s Balsam (lanolin, menthol, wintergreen and beeswax for minor sprains and aches; or, with hot water, its steam can relieve a blocked nose); plus the exclusive Reavley’s Cream, dating to the early 1930s, a special moisturiser.