Standing at the heart of Witney, the Buttercross was probably, in origin, a simple market cross, although different local traditions suggest that it was the site of an ancient preaching cross, a shrine, or a statue of the Virgin Mary.

The central stone pillar, raised on a bed of steps, is certainly older than the twelve pillars that surround it and may be the remains of the original market cross or shrine.

In 1606 Richard Ashcombe left £50 to build a house or roof 'over and above' the cross and it then became a place where people sold perishable goods, such as butter. William Blake, a draper and wool merchant, added the clock turret in 1683.