oxford must visit places

Things to do in Oxford: 24 Must-See Oxford Attractions

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The city of dreaming spires, Oxford is a beautiful city packed with places to see. Looking for the best things to do in Oxford? Here’s where to start.

We might be biased, but Oxford is one of our favourite places in the UK – not least because we spent three years at university there. 

Personal bias aside, there are few places in the UK or Europe that can rival the city’s beautiful architecture and important history.

Whether you are visiting Oxford for the first or fiftieth time, there’s always something new to discover – some secret spot to find.

Check out the best things to do in Oxford – well-known spots and hidden treasures. Ready to explore? Let’s go.

PS – Only in Oxford for a short time? Read my guide to 24 Hours in Oxford.

What Are The Best Things to do in Oxford? Our Top Five Picks

The bodleian library.

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest and biggest libraries in Britain.

The library (which is actually a series of interconnected libraries dotted throughout Oxford that are collectively referred to as the Bodleian Libraries) has an impressive history – some of its buildings have been libraries since the Middle Ages.

All very well and good, but it’s the library’s architecture that is really going to blow you away. From the gorgeous domed Radcliffe Camera to the fortress-like Old Bodleian Library, the “Bod” boasts some of the most striking buildings in Oxford.

If you only have time to visit two, make them the Radcliffe Camera and the Old Library.

The Bod’s interiors are no less impressive – it’s a working library so large sections of the library are off-limits unless you book onto a tour , which we highly recommend.

Even if you don’t – pay to enter The Divinity School, not only is it one of the Bodleian’s most ornately-decorated rooms, it also pops up in the Harry Potter films.

🦉 Check out these guided tour of Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford or read my guide to self-guided tour of Harry Potter locations .

The Radcliffe Camera

The building that launched a million camera clicks. The Radcliffe Camera is an iconic piece of Oxford architecture and sits at the heart of the city of dreaming spires. Ask anyone for the top places to go in Oxford and it will be there, right at the top of the list.

The Rad Cam, as its fondly nicknamed, was built in the 18th century – so it’s actually pretty modern by Oxford standards. Today, it functions as one of the main reading rooms of the Bodleian Library as well as the home of several of the library’s collections.

As with other parts of the Bodleian, it’s a functional library and off-limits unless you book onto a tour.

Want to see the very best of Oxford’s landmarks? Book onto a walking tour like this one to ensure you don’t miss a spot.

The Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean is Oxford’s flagship museum and one of the top Oxford sights. Widely recognised as the first modern museum in the world, the Ashmolean has been the university’s historical and archaeological collections since 1683.

Though it’s no longer in its original building (it’s grown way too big for them), The Ashmolean remains a fascinating walk through the history of different cultures from around the world.

The eclectic collection spans a broad range of artefacts and exhibits. Want to see larger-than-life casts of Greek and Roman sculptures? They’ve got you covered. How about ceramics and textiles from the Middle East? Same.

The Ashmolean underwent a huge renovation in 2009. The tart-up did it a world of good – collections are thoughtfully and interestingly presented.

Allot at least a few hours to explore. Plus, when you’re finished, spend some time in their rooftop cafe – one of the best cafes in Oxford .

Read More: The Best Museums in Oxford

Punting on the Cherwell

Going punting, with a picnic in tow and perhaps a cheeky concoction of Pimms and Lemonade, is one of the best things to do in Oxford (during the summer months).

Two rivers run through Oxford – the Isis (Thames) and the Cherwell. You can go punting on both—punting is that slightly weird form of boating where you propel the boat with a metal pole—on both.

We recommend the Cherwell for several reasons. First of all, it’s way prettier than the Isis —and obviously, that’s a very important thing.

➥ Book this student-guided punting tour on the Cherwell .

Secondly, if you punt away from the city centre, you slowly leave the crowds behind until it’s just you, your crew and the (sometimes scary) swans that will happily steal your lunch.

Start at Magdalen Bridge, punt upriver to the Victoria Arms in Marston to disembark for a leisurely lunch before floating downstream to where you began. Perfection.

➥ If punting sounds too scary, hop on a sightseeing boat tour like this one to explore Oxford from the water. 

The Pitt Rivers Museum

The Pitt Rivers Museum is one of Oxford’s quirkier and most interesting museums.

Centred around the collection of Augustus Henry Lane-Fox Pitt Rivers, the museum opened in 1887 to showcase its anthropological treasures from around the world.

The Pitt Rivers features over half a million artifacts, which together tell the story of the history of man.

Don’t judge a book by its cover – this really is one of the top things to do in Oxford. Walking around the well-presented exhibits, which are ordered by type and by date, is a peek into faraway cultures.

Admission is free but there is a suggested donation of £5.

Oxford Sightseeing Spots – Must-Visit Oxford University Colleges

Christ church college.

If you only have time to visit one of the University of Oxford’s 38 colleges while you are in town, add Christ Church to your Oxford to do list.

Christ Church’s important history and beautiful architecture make a visit hands down one of the best places to visit in Oxford.

The college was founded almost 500 years ago, by Cardinal Wolsey – until he fell from favour and the college was pinched by King Henry VIII (he of divorced, beheaded, died fame… ).

Over the years, this connection with the Royal family continued. Christ Church was even the seat of King Charles I’s royal parliament during the brief four year period when Oxford was England’s capital during the Civil War.

Fast forward to the present day and you’ll find one of Oxford’s most magnificent colleges and definitely the only one to have its own cathedral.

Start with the vast Tom Quad, flanked by the Christopher Wren-designed Tom Tower then make your way to the dining room – one of Oxford’s unforgettable Harry Potter filming locations.

➥ Take this tour of Oxford University with Christ Church option .

Magdalen College

There aren’t many Oxford colleges that can say they have their own deer park within their grounds… but then Magdalen isn’t like many other Oxford colleges.

First up, Magdalen (pronounced maudlin ) is one of the richest colleges within the university (perhaps that explains the deer park).

Secondly, it’s just so very beautiful that you shouldn’t miss it on your list of places to visit in Oxford.

Like many Oxford colleges, you have to pay to enter. Once you do, take a peek at the cloisters, chapel and hall and, of course, take a turn around the deer park. It would be rude not to.

Keble College

Find yourself getting a bit desensitised to all that handsome sandstone? It’s OK, we’ve all been there.

Enter the Victorian Gothic masterpiece that is Keble College.

We are flabbergasted that Keble doesn’t make it onto many lists of Oxford tourist attractions – there are several reasons why you should add it to your Oxford sightseeing itinerary.

Keble’s crazy architecture – largely redbrick with contrasting white, black and golden patterns – was always meant to make a statement. Think it’s safe to say the architect William Butterfield definitely succeeded in that mission.

What’s more, Keble has a chapel striking enough to stop you in your tracks. Once inside, don’t miss the world-famous Light of the World painting by Holman Hunt – it’s secreted in a small room to the side of the chapel.

As if that’s not enough, the college’s hall is the longest in Oxford – not to mention its most impressive – it makes Christ Church’s look teeny by comparison!

Cool Things to See in Oxford

Sheldonian theatre.

Situated next to the Old Bodleian Library, you’re bound to notice the Sheldonian Theatre – it’s the Neoclassical style D-shaped building that projects out onto Broad Street. Wondering what it is?

The Sheldonian is the official ceremonial hall of Oxford University. As the place where you matriculate (are formally enrolled at the university) and graduate, it holds a special place in students’ hearts.

The Sheldonian was the first significant architectural project of Christopher Wren (who then went on to design some of the most important landmarks in London after the Great Fire – including St Paul’s Cathedral).

If you have time, book a Sheldonian tour , which explores the University’s history and gives you a chance to see the theatre’s interior – dominated by the ceiling fresco “Truth descending on the arts and sciences to expel ignorance from the university”.

University Church of St Mary’s

St Mary’s Church forms one side of Radcliffe Square – clustered by All Soul’s College, Brasenose College, the Old Bodleian and the Radcliffe Camera – it’s one of the top places to see in Oxford.

While the church itself is worth a visit, we’ll let you in on a little secret – the tower should be on your itinerary of things to see in Oxford. For a small fee, you can climb to the top of St Mary’s Tower for the best views of the city.

Now, we won’t lie… climbing to the top of medieval churches strikes fear into our hearts, favourite thing to do and this one is no exception. The steep winding stairs that take you to the top of the tower are vaguely terrifying, particularly on the way down.

That said, the views are absolutely spectacular – you can walk around all four sides for four completely different but equally mesmerising panoramas.

Worth the terror and the sore legs? Totally.

The Bridge of Sighs

Another of Oxford’s sights, the Bridge of Sighs may look vaguely familiar. That’s because it supposedly looks a bit like the famous bridge of the same name in Venice.

The bridge connects two parts of Hertford College – but really much of its appeal is its quirky appearance.

PS, the entrance to the Turf Tavern – one of Oxford’s oldest and prettiest pubs – is tucked down the alley to the left of the bridge if you’re walking away from the Bodleian Library.

➥ Take this tour of that makes a stop at the Bridge of Sighs .

Oxford Castle & Prison

Had enough of historical sites yet? Tough luck if the answer’s yes.

The Oxford Castle & Prison is a medieval Norman castle that’s been transformed into a historical site, hotel and entertainment complex in one.

It’s not as bizarre as it sounds – the hotel (Malmaison) has pimped up the former cells into comfortable rooms, while the bars and eateries are worth a pit stop.

More interested in the actual castle than its contemporary fripperies? You can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building – which includes a 900-year-old crypt.

Ignoring the fact that the tours are led by costumed characters (shudder) and it’s actually an interesting way to learn about a side of Oxford that has nothing to do with the university.

➥ Book a guided tour of Oxford Castle and Prison .

Cool Things to do in Oxford – Exploring Cultural Oxford

The oxford university museum of natural history.

Housed in the same building as the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Oxford Museum of Natural History is one of the more surprising things to do in Oxford.

The building is impressive enough – its light-filled interior is one of my favourites. Add to that a large collection of zoological and geological specimens and you’ve got an Oxford sightseeing must.

You can’t help but notice the huge dinosaur skeletons that dominate the museum’s collection. Fossils and replicas give you an up-close-and-personal look at the different species on display.

Other highlights include the Oxford Dodo – one of the few of its kind in the world and said to be the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s character in Alice in Wonderland.

Modern Art Oxford

We’ll level with you – we personally think the exhibitions in Modern Art Oxford can be a bit hit and miss. But that’s standard for small galleries who show innovative exhibitions.

Don’t let it put you off. This small gallery is one of the more unusual things to do in Oxford but is well worth a visit.

Where else can you see exhibitions that aren’t afraid to challenge you or question the status quo – and for free too? When it’s good, it’s really good.

Hunt Out Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations

Harry Potter geeks (us included) will want to check out the famous filming locations dotted across Oxford.

Even if you’re a little more lukewarm about Harry Potter (we’re not sure – can we even be friends?), visiting the filming locations is still an interesting way of seeing different parts of Oxford you might have found otherwise.

The atmospheric New College Cloisters are the perfect example – most people have no reason to hunt them out.

However, when we did (they double up as the spot where Mad Eye Moody turns Draco into a ferret), we found one of Oxford’s hidden treasures and a new favourite spot.

🦉 Check out these highly recommended tours of Harry Potter locations .

Discover Literary Oxford

Given its strong literary heritage, it’s perhaps no surprise that Oxford has more than its fair share of literary spots. Book-lovers can lose themselves in a world of finding the real life inspirations and locations from their favourite books.

Take Alice in Wonderland for example – Lewis Carroll (real name Charles Dodgson) was a scholar at Christ Church. Influences as diverse as the Dodo in the Oxford Museum of Natural History and the door into Christ Church’s cathedral garden find their way into the famous books.

Not forgetting the fantastical Narnia series, written by the well-known Fellow of Magdalen College, C.S Lewis.

Although there are traces of Narnia throughout Oxford, the best-known is the wooden door in the alley that runs down the side of St Mary’s Church.

Look closely and you’ll see that the door is flanked by two fauns, and has a lion on its centrepiece. It’s said to be the wardrobe door the book’s characters step through to reach Narnia…

📚 Take a this private C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien walking tour of Oxford .

Unusual things to do in Oxford

Visit the story museum.

When it comes to quirky Oxford things to do, The Story Museum is an often overlooked spot. This family-friendly spot celebrates the art of stories and story-telling, and the positive effects this has on people’s lives.

Head through the Whispering Wood and the Enchanted Library as stories from the city are told in an immersive and engaging way.

You can also hop onto the magical Story Craft, which allows you to fly through thousands of years of Oxford history – delving deeper into ancient myths and famous literature.

Take a Spooky Ghost Tour

Ready to get spooked? Maybe it’s just us, but we think that one of the best ways to explore a city is to take a creepy ghost tour at night – this one is led by author of Haunted Oxford , Rob Walters.

You’ll begin your journey on the corner of Turl Street – a spot that was once the city ditch and witness to terrible murders and persecution. But that’s only the beginning of your ghost-chasing evening.

From there, your guide will lead you through the creepiest parts of the city, passing sites such as the University and Bridge of Sighs as you go.

👻 Book the official “Haunted Oxford” ghost tour .

Best Things to do in Oxford – Food & Drink

Afternoon tea at the grand cafe.

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British pastime – one that Oxford happens to do very well. The Grand Cafe is the place for afternoon tea in Oxford.

It stands on the site of England’s oldest coffee house – times and tastes may have changed but The Grand will always dish up fluffy, hot scones, huge slabs of cake and the requisite teas and coffees.

A cream tea, with two (very large) scones, accompanied by lashings of jam and clotted cream (which should be applied to the scone in that order) and a hot beverage of your choice is £10.95. 

An afternoon tea, which features the above, with an additional selection of finger sandwiches and petit fours is just under £20. Go hungry.

Read More: Unmissable Afternoon Teas in Oxford

Explore Oxford’s Cool Cocktail Bars

It would be a huge mistake to visit the city and not spend some time in Oxford’s brilliant cocktail bars .

In particular, Jericho , in the north of the city is a good place to find a cocktail bar or two.

Raoul’s has a reputation for serving up the best. Nearby, The Duke of Cambridge is a brilliant choice (they also just so happen to have a brilliant happy hour).

Freud’s boasts the most impressive setting – it’s located in an old Neoclassical-style church, but cocktails are a bit lacklustre compared to its nearby competitors.

When it comes to cocktails with a view, it should come as no surprise that Oxford has a few contenders – The Varsity Club looks straight out over central Oxford, while The Alchemist offers a different view from atop the Westgate Centre.

Still not enough? Strike out along Cowley Road for more options.

Read more: The Best Cocktail Bars in Oxford

The Eagle & Child

Any Tolkien or C.S Lewis fans in the house? You’ll want to add The Eagle & Child to your things to see and do in the Oxford itinerary.

What may look like a relatively standard pub at first glance has an intriguing history.

It’s best known as the former meeting place of “The Inklings”, a group of writers that included –  you guessed it – Tolkien and Lewis.

The group met here on a weekly basis to discuss and critique each other’s work – maybe if you sit in the same spot, a little of their literary genius will rub off on you…

Oxford Historic Pub Crawl

Whether tucked away on hidden alleys or sat in plain view – Oxford has more than its fair share of historic pubs . We’re yet to find another British city with so many gorgeous old boozers and a mini pub crawl between them is a fun thing to do in Oxford (for adults).

Start with one of the oldest – The Bear Inn. Hidden in the maze of streets between Christchurch and the High Street, there’s been a pub in this spot since 1242 – though its current incarnation dates from the 17th century.

Move on to our favourite, The Turf Tavern, thought to have opened in the 15th century. It’s a bit hard to find, but when you do, you will find a quaint old building that’s straight out of the history books and some of Oxford’s best pints.

From there, it’s a short hop to The Lamb & Flag. Perched across the road from The Eagle & Child, the Inklings also used The Lamb & Flag as one of their meeting spots.

It’s also rumoured that Thomas Hardy wrote much of Jude the Obscure sitting in the pub. Cheers to that.

Read More: Historic Pubs and Cool Drinking Dens in Oxford

The Covered Market

The 18th-century Covered Market sits in the heart of Oxford. Over 40 traders have stalls and shops within the market – pop in for a browse and you’re never sure what you’ll come out with.

The best way to explore is to just have a wander around, but there are a couple of places you shouldn’t miss while you’re there.

Coffee lovers should make a beeline for Colombia Coffee Roasters, an independent coffee shop who sources their beans from their own family farm in Colombia.

Hop into Ben’s Cookies next door for one (or three) of their indulgently gooey and delicious cookies or iScream for a tasty gelato.

Read More: The Best Cafes in Oxford

Best Places to Visit in Oxford – Parks and Green Spaces

Christ church meadow.

Those wondering what to see in Oxford will be delighted to find out that the city has a surprising number of green spaces – including Christ Church Meadow.

Sandwiched between the River Isis (the stretch of the river Thames that runs through Oxford), the river Cherwell and Christ Church College, the Meadow is one of the best places to visit in Oxford on a warm summer’s day.

Rowers heave boats onto the river from the boat houses that line the Isis – plump yourself down on the grass and watch as they skull their way along the river, or have a picnic under the shade of a tree – just watch out for the cows.

Port Meadow (and a Few Gorgeous Pubs)

Much beloved by locals but largely overlooked by tourists, Port Meadow is an extensive meadow in the north of Oxford, above the Jericho area of town.

The meadow is part of an ancient patch of grazing land that dates back over 4,000 years. You’ll still find cows and horses roaming free on the meadow today.

While it’s nice enough for a stroll or a picnic on the banks of the Thames, it doesn’t hurt that the meadow leads to two of Oxford’s prettiest pubs – The Perch and The Trout.

The Perch – a 17th-century country inn – is closer and a lovely spot for a quiet drink or two.

It’s a bit of a walk to The Trout but the walk takes you through bucolic scenes that have remained largely unchanged for millennia.

What’s more, the pub serves great food AND has peacocks roaming freely in its gardens.

Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

Oxford’s Botanic Gardens is the oldest botanic garden in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. They’re the peaceful escape in the heart of the city – bursting with over 6,000 plant species that are organised into a series of collections.

It’s educational, but the real joy is simply appreciating the dramatic plantings, which somehow look good at any time of the year.

The glasshouses are our favourite part of the garden – a stroll through them transports you to different parts of the world, where tropical palms grow taller than houses, or where desert cacti burst into rare blooms.

Any fans of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy should also keep an eye out for a bench overlooking the Isis, which is said to be the place where the main characters Lyra and Will return year after year in their respective worlds.

Fans have etched tribute messages into the bench – you will know it when you see it.  

There we are – the top things to do in Oxford. Are you ready to explore?

Things to do in Oxford: Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Oxford makes the perfect day trip from London – but we always advise to spend more time there if you can. We suggest three days to explore the city at a leisurely pace.
• Don’t bother with the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus. The city centre is surprisingly small and very walkable. So many of the best things to do in Oxford are clustered in a small area that taking the bus just isn’t worth it.
• There are millions of tours of Oxford and not all of them are created equal. We’ve used GetYourGuide for tours in the past as they are very reliable. The tours offered by the Bodleian Library, the Sheldonian and The Ashmolean are all very interesting.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. We mean it. Those cobbles will destroy your feet if you venture out in heels.
• We’ve only covered central Oxford as this is what most visitors focus on – but there’s a lot more to discover down the Cowley and Iffley Roads if you have a little more time.

Oxford Attractions: Map

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The 24 best things to do in Oxford right now

From leafy quads and world-class museums to a thriving arts and music scene, these are the best things to do in Oxford

The world-class  museums . The scenic waterways and parks. The hallowed halls and libraries and corridors where Nobel Prize-winners, prime ministers and literary giants spent their formative years. Oxford is chock-full of brilliant things to see and do, and best of all, many of them are free to visit. Sure, several of the most famous attractions – from punting and choir services to galleries filled with ancient treasures – have something to do with the city’s storied university. But alongside all the Oxbridge buzz, you’ll find a rich industrial past, meandering rivers crying out to be explored by kayak or paddleboard, and a strong arts and music scene that brings a little edge to this most conservative of cities. Read on for the best.

RECOMMENDED: 🏛️ The best   museums in Oxford 🍴 The best restaurants in Oxford 🏨 The   best hotels in Oxford

This guide was recently updated by  Lauren Corona , a writer based in Oxford.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Things to see in Oxford

1.  Tour the collections at the Ashmolean Museum

What is it? Britain’s oldest public museum, home to a collection that spans continents and cultures.

Why Go? A redevelopment turned this magnificent, neo-classical but once-stuffy museum into a modern, light-filled space packed with treasures. Choose a theme and delve into the history of Chinese porcelain, medieval musical instruments or European art. You’ll find works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Pissarro and Turner here, along with Samurai armour, a Stradvari violin, Japanese netsuke and everything in between.

Don’t Miss: The Ashmolean’s rooftop bar and restaurant offer a slick menu, great service and a bird’s eye view of the city.

2.  Go behind-the-scenes on a University of Oxford tour

What is it? A behind-the-scenes tour of the university’s colleges, quads and libraries led by those who know it best – its students and alumni. Why go? Didn’t make the cut for the UK’s most prestigious university? Don’t worry, you can still see its hallowed halls, hushed quads and candle-lit chapels on this walking tour that explores its history, ceremonies and weird traditions as well as offering a personal account of what it’s like to study here.

3.  Marvel at baroque country pile Blenheim Palace

What is it? A massive country house with landscaped formal gardens and extensive parkland. It was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is now home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough as well as regular festivals and events. Why go? Escape the city and get a glimpse of how the other half lives in this baroque pile in the Oxfordshire countryside. Although strictly speaking, it’s not a palace, its size and splendour are such that it could easily be. Tour the ostentatious State Rooms, see where Churchill was born, walk the parklands, lose yourself in the yew maze, and check out Ai Weiwei’s monumental Gilded Cage.

Don’t miss: Take the ‘Upstairs Tour’ for an exclusive peek at the private apartments of the Marlborough family and see where Charlie Chaplin, Bill Clinton and Sylvester Stallone once stayed.

4.  Expand your brain at Pitt Rivers Museum

What is it? Oxford’s world-famous museum of archaeology and ethnography where you can discover everything from reindeer knickers and mummified cats to blowpipes and Japanese libation sticks. Why go? It takes a minute for your eyes to adjust to the half light of the enormous tiered galleries of the Pitt Rivers Museum but once they do, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. A vast and otherworldly collection of treasures from around the world packed into glass cases and dominated by a giant totem pole, it’s an armchair traveller’s delight and the place to find out about tribal rituals, ancient ceremonies and cultural beliefs across the globe.

Don’t miss : There’s so much to see here it’s hard to take it all in, but the body art and ornament section explores the history of beautification from head shaping and tooth sharpening to piercing and tattooing.

5.  Check out a Divine Schism show

What is it? Divine Schism  is an independent music promoter that puts on gigs at a range of music venues across Oxford.

Why go? Want to get a taste of the Oxford music scene that nurtured bands like Radiohead and Foals? This is where to head. You'll find local bands playing with up-and-coming acts from across the globe in small venues with a great atmosphere. There's something for a range of music fans, with everything from indie pop to folk to punk on the menu. You'll often find multiple shows a week to choose from. 

6.  Cruise down the river

What is it? A river trip past Oxford’s boathouses and meadows into bucolic English countryside. The same scenery, as it happens, that inspired ‘Alice in Wonderland’. Why go? Like its academic rival Cambridge, Oxford is encircled by pastoral scenery. You could strap on your walking boots, or you could kick back and relax on board a boat that plies the same river Lewis Carroll and Alice Liddell once floated down while befriending white rabbits, red queens and sleepy dormice.

7.  Picnic on Port Meadow

What is it? Said to be Oxford’s oldest monument, this huge meadow is edged by the Thames and a popular outdoor haunt.

Why Go? Need some big sky views? Head for Port Meadow, an ancient grassland grazed by ponies and cattle and loved by walkers, picnickers, birders and photographers. Pick up a picnic in Jericho along the way, bring a blanket and sit back and relax.

Don’t Miss: It’s all good and well getting some fresh air here but you’ll need to freshen up with a drink in The Perch, an ancient thatched inn by the river with a gorgeous garden.

8.  Eat brunch at Green Routes

What is it? A cute café with a vegetarian (mostly vegan) menu and excellent coffee from local coffee roastery Routes. 

Why go? Green Routes has a cracking brunch and lunch menu that's plant-based but won't disappoint meat eaters. With whitewashed walls and tons of plants, it's a trendy spot on the already trendy Magdalen Road. Here, you're just off vibrant Cowley Road, which lined with independent shops and great places to eat and drink, so the neighbourhood is well worth checking out too. 

Don't miss: The Number 39 Bap is ridiculously good, as are the pancakes. 

9.  Get spell-bound on a Harry Potter locations tour

What is it?  A small-group tour of the spellbinding Oxford locations used in the shooting of the Harry Potter films.  Why go?  Know right where the sorting hat would put you? Run into the wall at King’s Cross station? Need to know more? Tour Oxford’s streets and colleges to see the inspiration behind Hogwarts' great hall and Knockturn Alley and visit the real life Divinity School which was used as a backdrop for the Hogwarts infirmary and classroom scenes. Geek out with a Potter-mania quiz along the way and learn how life in Hogwarts compares to university life today.

10.  Grab a pint at the Tap Social Taproom

What is it? A local brewery with a penchant for social justice, employing prisoners and prison-leavers, with a trendy taproom in Botley just outside of central Oxford.

Why go? Located a 30-minute walk or short bus ride from the station, in the Botley area of Oxford, Tap Social is a great chance to get away from the bustle of Oxford's busier parts and get the local experience. There's great beer on tap, both from Tap Social itself and other small breweries. You can grab top-notch pizza on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and make sure you check for its weekly events, from movie nights to  comedy and live music. 

Don't miss: T he Market Tap, a smaller Tap Social taproom in Oxford's iconic covered market, if you don't want to venture too far out of the city centre. 

11.  See the city from the water

What is it? An Oxford rite of passage, and a great way to see the city from a different perspective. 

Why Go? Meandering along the river past college buildings and manicured parks is the quintessential way to see Oxford – especially if someone else is doing the punting. Sit back, relax, watch out for stray branches, and make sure you’re the one holding the Pimms and not the pole.

Don’t Miss: Steer clear of the main river where you’ll have to share the water with rowing eights, paddleboarders and fishermen, and stick to the backwaters instead. The best bet is to head up the Cherwell to the Victoria Arms for a pint and a picnic.

12.  Get spooked on a theatrical ghost trail

What is it? An interactive, dramatic and ghoulish tour of Oxford's history with some spooky shenanigans thrown in.   Why go? Possibly one of the most entertaining ways to while away an evening in Oxford, this walking tour is led by costumed actors who lay bare the city’s gruesome past and brutal murders, and conjure up the many spectres that haunt its streets. Hear stories of fallen cavalry and how Dead Man’s Walk got its name before ending up at one of Oxford's most famous pubs.

13.  Travel the world with Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

What is it? The UK’s oldest botanic garden and its 130 acres of woodland, which between them, house species from across the globe. Why go? Established 400 years ago to grow plants for medicinal research, Oxford’s botanic gardens and giant glasshouses contain more than 6,000 types of plant including specimens used to treat cancer and heart complaints as well as carnivorous plants and tropical wonders.

Don’t miss: The Harcourt Arboretum, a ten-minute drive away, to see spring magnolias, rhododendrons and bluebells in full glory, or the autumnal glow of acers and redwoods.

14.  See an indie film at Ultimate Picture Palace

What is it? An old-school, independent cinema beloved by residents of East Oxford showing a mix of indie, classic and mainstream films. Why go? Forget the corporate blandness of cinema chains and go instead to the Ultimate Picture Palace to watch either the latest Hollywood-does-indie film or a brilliant black-and-white classic. Sundays were made for this.

15.  Attend candle-lit Evensong at Magdalen College

What is it? A 40-minute choral service that gives a sneak peek of college life as well as a chance to hear magnificent music.

Why Go? You don’t need to be religious or even musical to appreciate Evensong in an Oxford college chapel. The hushed atmosphere, classical architecture and solemn sense of purpose make an impression long before the first chord is struck. Once the organ gets going and the voices rise, you’ll find the hairs on your neck rising as you’re transported to a hgher spiritual ground.

Don’t Miss: Although many of the Oxford colleges allow members of the public to join Evensong services, Magdalen is known as one of the best.

16.  Tour Oxford’s backwaters by kayak

What is it? A four-hour backwater tour of the city.

Why go? Gliding along the Cherwell and Isis (as the Thames is known locally) you’ll get a totally different perspective on Oxford, sneaking around the back of college walls, peering into leafy greens and getting an engaging lowdown on the history of the city, its bathing places and riverine escapes as you go. The tours are suitable for complete beginners and offer the chance to leave the traffic and tourists behind and see views of the city and its colleges that many locals know nothing about.

17.  Take a tour of The Oxford Artisan Distillery

What is it? Oxford’s first (legal) distillery with a suitably quirky edge, a link to medieval farming and an eye on the future.

Why go? To sip the award-winning spirits of course – vodka, gin and rye whiskey made from heritage grains rescued from a medieval thatched roof and now farmed locally. Follow their journey from seed to still to bottle, hear about ancient methods of farming, see the handmade custom stills Nautilus and Nemo, and savour how it all comes together in silky-smooth spirits with distinctive flavours.

Don’t miss: The distillery’s garden bar sits at the highest point in hilly South Park. Come for a weekend drink and walk the park for views down over the city. 

18.  Follow in Alice’s footsteps at Christ Church

What is it? Oxford’s largest and grandest college, inspiration for Hogwarts and home of Oxford’s cathedral.

Why go? If the magnificent buildings aren’t enough to draw you in, the history of Christ Church should entice you whether you’re a fan of politics, philosophy, science or literature. A quick look at the alumni list reads like a who’s who of world leaders, writers and thinkers. Most of all, though, it’s the connection to ‘Alice in Wonderland’ and ‘Harry Potter’ that are worth exploring.

Don’t miss: Visit the Great Hall to see the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s rabbit hole (a hidden door used by the dean when late for dinner), Alice’s elongated neck (the long-necked firedogs) and portrait of Henry VIII (which inspired the Queen of Hearts).

19.  Discover your favourite characters at The Story Museum

What is it? A magical museum celebrating storytelling from around the world as well as offering the perfect introduction to Oxford’s literary history.

Why go? To walk through a wardrobe door into Narnia, travel between story worlds, rediscover your favourite book characters and explore an enchanted library where you can wander between shelves and find yourself inside a story. Hands-on, family fun that will transport you into your favourite tales and introduce you to plenty more.

Don’t miss: The museum hosts loads of interesting talks, events and performances, as well as regular workshops, a comic club and adult-only nights of fairy tales for grown-ups.  

20.  Delve into history at Oxford Castle and Prison

What is it? Oxford’s historic castle and prison spans 1,000 years of history and tales of murder, romance, escape and execution.

Why go? It was a grisly lot being a prisoner in Oxford. Between the corrupt warders, plagues of vermin and merciless treatment, it’s no wonder escape attempts were regular. Learn about it all, and the history of the city’s Norman castle, or join a ghost hunt to flush out some of the prison’s former inmates.

Don’t miss: Nip around the side of the prison for a drink in the former visitor’s room, now the bar of a plush Malmaison hotel.

21.  Take in some contemporary art at Modern Art Oxford

What is it? One of the UK’s leading contemporary art galleries showing a range of bold, temporary exhibitions by international heavyweights.

Why Go? Small enough for a quick visit but ambitious enough to pull in big names in the art world such as Anish Kapoor and Tracey Emin, MAO rarely disappoints. Its progressive programming and extensive range of workshops and participatory or educational events brings great art to the public in the most accessible ways.

Don’t Miss: The gallery runs a series of workshops alongside its shows, many aimed at children and families. Check out their events guide to see how you can get involved.

22.  Catch a gig at Jericho Tavern

What is it? The pub/music venue where Radiohead first performed a gig, and a mini-mecca for fans of alternative ’90s bands. Why go? Oxford is home to many great pubs, but the Jericho Tavern is one of the most famous – thanks largely to its connection to various bands who took their baby steps in the late 80s/early 90s. Radiohead performed here under the (not-so-good) name of ‘On a Friday’ and Supergrass were signed shortly after gracing the Jericho Tavern stage.

23.  Satisfy your sweet tooth at G&D’s ice-cream cafés

What is it? An Oxford institution, these three independent cafés serve the city’s best ice cream, bagels and brownies. Why go? Proudly independent, locally based and making all deliveries by bike, G&D’s has the feel-good factor as well as scrumptious handmade bakes and ice creams that have earned it generations of loyal followers. Along with sweet treats, you’ll need to be game for cow-themed competitions and hopefully, in time, a return to late-night openings to rival any kebab van.

24.  Follow in the footsteps of Inspector Morse

What is it?  A tour of the Oxford locations – pubs, colleges and streets – familiar to any fan of the Colin Dexter detective series Morse , Lewis and Endeavour . Why go? If neither Hogwarts nor Narnia wet your whistle, then this might be the ticket for you. This tour will take you around the areas Inspector Morse frequented when trying to puzzle his way out of a case. Post-walk pint of ale optional, but probably a must.

More great things to do in Oxford

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Oxford

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Oxford is one of the oldest and most celebrated university towns in Europe, and for centuries has rivaled Cambridge for academic pre-eminence in England. Its untrammeled spirit of exploration, numerous delightful gardens, courtyards, and university parks - together with the hectic bustle of its pedestrian zone and excellent cultural facilities - all help create a very special atmosphere.

Oxford has plenty of tourist attractions, including Carfax Tower , offering superb views over the city, and the historic Covered Market with its excellent shopping. For a truly unique vacation experience, some university colleges now offer accommodation options, including bed and breakfast.

Harry Potter fans may be interested to learn that various Oxford landmarks appeared in the movies, including Christ Church College, where the dining room was closely copied for the Hogwarts Great Hall. And for something a little quirkier, check out the (in)famous Headington Shark , a shark sculpture stuck headfirst in the roof of a humble terraced house.

To learn more about these and other great places to visit in this lovely part of England, be sure to read through our list of the top attractions and things to do in Oxford.

See also: Where to Stay in Oxford

1. Explore Historic Oxford City Center

2. visit the university church of st. mary the virgin, 3. christ church cathedral, 4. christ church college, 5. magdalen college, 6. radcliffe square & the bodleian library, 7. sheldonian theatre, 8. visit england's oldest museum: the ashmolean museum, 9. history of science museum, 10. martyrs' memorial, 11. shopping in cornmarket street, 12. oxford castle & prison, 13. oxford university museum of natural history, 14. take a trip to blenheim palace, 15. enjoy a drive to abingdon-on-thames, where to stay in oxford for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in oxford.

Although the center of Oxford is not large, plenty of time should be allowed for a visit since there are so many things to do here. The city's four principal streets meet at the intersection known as Carfax , a good starting point for your exploration. Here, you'll find the 14th-century Carfax Tower , a relic of St. Martin's Church (now destroyed), which has great views over the city.

Also worth visiting are the Town Hall, St. Aldate's Church (1318), and Pembroke College, founded in 1624 but with origins dating back to 1446. The nearby Modern Art Oxford , a visual art gallery focusing on exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, regularly offers talks, music, and movies.

Oxford's splendid High Street is lined with numerous magnificent buildings, including many of the colleges the city is so famous for. In fact, it's so pretty, it was famously described by American writer Nathaniel Hawthorne as "the finest street in England."

Address: High Street, Oxford

While sightseeing in the city center, be sure to include the University Church – the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin (or simply St. Mary's) – on your Oxford itinerary. A highlight of your visit should be climbing its finely decorated tower. Built around 1280, this vantage point offers excellent views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Also of interest is the choir. Rebuilt in 1462, it faces the nave and Lady Chapel, dating from 1490, and the stalls, dating from 1466. Another notable feature is the porch you will have walked through when entering the church. Look carefully, and you'll still see marks made by bullets from the guns of Oliver Cromwell's troops during the English Civil War.

Official site: www.universitychurch.ox.ac.uk

Although the present building dates from the 12th century, Christ Church acquired cathedral status in 1546. The most striking feature in the interior is the double arcading of the nave, creating an impression of much greater height.

In the 14th century, the church was extended to the north, and the choir was created in 1500 with fan vaulting overhanging keystones. In the south transept is the Thomas Becket window (1320) and five glass windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones and made by William Morris in 1871.

Also of note are the St. Frideswide window (1858) and three 14th-century tombs of Lady Montacute, Prior Sutton, and John de Nowers, as well as the remains of the Frideswide's shrine (1289). The grave of philosopher George Berkeley (1681-1735), who gave his name to the town of Berkeley in California, is also located at the cathedral.

Location: St. Aldates, Oxford

Official site: www.chch.ox.ac.uk/cathedral

Christ Church, one of the largest of Oxford's colleges, was founded in 1525 by Cardinal Wolsey and re-founded after his fall by Henry VIII. Tom Tower , added by Christopher Wren in 1682, contains a huge seven-ton bell known as Great Tom, which peals 101 times every evening at 9:05pm (once for each member of the original college).

The main quadrangle, with its charming fountain, is known as Tom Quad and is the largest courtyard in Oxford. The lower tower, with its fine staircase and fan vaulting, leads up to the hall , an elegant dining room with a magnificent wooden ceiling completed in 1529. Portraits of Henry VIII and distinguished members of the college – including William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania – adorn the walls.

Beyond the Deanery, where Charles I lived from 1642 to 1646, is Kill-Canon , a passage so chilly that it was feared canons would catch their death of cold. Kill-Canon leads to Peckwater Quad, with its library containing drawings and mementos of Cardinal Wolsey.

Art lovers will also want to visit Christ Church Picture Gallery . This fine gallery is home to an important collection of 300 Old Masters and 2,000 drawings.

Location: St. Aldate's, Oxford

Official site: www.chch.ox.ac.uk

Magdalen College was founded in 1458 on a site outside the town walls. Its lovely Magdalen Tower was built in 1482, while the Muniment Tower is the entrance to the chapel where evensong is sung by the college's renowned choir.

There are state apartments with early-16th-century tapestries in the Founder's Tower, and underneath, a passage leads into the cloisters with grotesque figures known as "hieroglyphs." Magdalen College also offers bed-and-breakfast accommodation when rooms are available.

Beyond the college stretches a deer park called the Grove and a bridge leading over the River Cherwell into the Water Walks. Opposite the entrance to the college is the University of Oxford Botanic Garden , founded in 1621 and one of the oldest in England.

Plants from all over the world can be found here, including the Magdalen Rose Garden . This attractive garden was a gift from the Albert and Mary Lasker Foundation of New York to commemorate the development of penicillin, in which Oxford played a considerable part. Also worth a visit is the satellite Harcourt Arboretum .

Address: Rose Lane, Oxford

Official site: www.magd.ox.ac.uk

Located in the city center, Radcliffe Square is home to many of the city's most important college buildings. Here, you'll find the Old Schools Quadrangle (1613) and the Radcliffe Camera (1737), a rotunda that originally housed the Radcliffe Library.

The 16-sided room on the ground floor is now a reading room for the Bodleian Library , the university library and the country's first public library, founded in 1598. A copy of every book published in Britain is deposited here, including some two million volumes and 40,000 manuscripts. From the library, you can also explore the magnificent Divinity School .

Address: Broad Street, Oxford

Official site: www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk

Constructed in 1664, the Sheldonian Theatre was Sir Christopher Wren's second major building. Of special interest here is the historic venue's spectacular ceiling fresco. Restored in 2008, the fresco – which depicts "Truth" removing "Ignorance" from the University – consists of 32 panels originally painted in the 1600s. Guided tours (as well as self-guided tours) are available.

In addition to being used for concerts and lectures – as well as the occasional theatrical performance – it's still used for the university's annual Commemoration.

Official site: www.sheldonian.ox.ac.uk

The Ashmolean Museum – formerly known as the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology – was founded in 1683. Not only is it the oldest museum in the country, it's also the most important of the four university museums. The Neoclassical building houses a magnificent collection of art and antiquities, including classical sculpture, Far Eastern art, Greek and Roman pottery, and a valuable collection of jewelry.

Other Oxford museums that should be added to travel itineraries include the Pitt Rivers Museum, with its fascinating anthropological and archaeological collection, and the Museum of Oxford , a local history museum that deals with both the city and the university's rich pasts.

For something a little different, visit the fun Story Museum . This attraction is especially popular for its literary-themed events, including the popular Alice Days celebrating the first ever telling of Oxford-educated Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland .

Address: Beaumont Street, Oxford

Official site: www.ashmolean.org

The History of Science Museum – housed in the Old Ashmolean Building, the world's first purpose-built museum building – is a fascinating facility that specializes in the study of the history of science and the development of western culture and collecting.

The museum includes the blackboard that Albert Einstein used during his Oxford lectures of 1931, and a fascinating display showing the development of clocks.

Other nearby attractions include the Holywell Music Room (1748), reputedly the oldest concert hall in the world, and Kettell Hall (1620), with its beautiful chapel and fine woodcarvings.

Official site: www.hsm.ox.ac.uk

A cross in St. Giles Street marks the spot where the reformers Latimer, Ridley, and Cranmer were burned at the stake between 1555-56, an event commemorated by the Martyrs' Memorial (1841). The nearby Rhodes House , headquarters of the Rhodes Trust founded in honor of South African statesman Cecil Rhodes, is also worth checking out.

Also close by is the Oxford University Museum of Natural History . Built in 1855, it contains a number of interesting collections, including geological, mineralogical, and zoological sections, as well as work by Darwin, Burchell, and Hope.

There's also a pleasant walk along the Cherwell past Parson's Pleasure to a path called Mesopotamia, which leads to Magdalen Bridge.

Location: St. Giles, Oxford

Pedestrian-friendly Cornmarket Street, commonly known as the "Corn," is Oxford's busiest shopping street. Along with its many big-brand shops and department stores, it's also home to the historic Golden Cross arcade, popular for its craft and jewelry shops, and the Covered Market . Dating from 1774, the market houses an eclectic mix of food retailers.

Also of interest is the former Crew Inn . Here, Shakespeare is said to have stayed on his journey between Stratford and London. It's also where you'll find St. Michael's Church , notable for its early Norman tower.

Address: Cornmarket Street, Oxford

Oxford Castle has been a place of incarceration since 1071, continuing until the closure of Her Majesty's Prison Oxford in 1996. Today, visitors can learn about the real people and events from the site's turbulent past through fascinating displays and re-enactments.

Other highlights include the chance to climb the Saxon St. George's Tower , Oxford's oldest building, and enjoy its stunning 360-degree views. Afterwards, descend deep underground into the 900-year-old crypt.

Other areas to explore include the confines of the 18th-century Debtors' Tower and the 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle. Guided tours and numerous fun themed events are available.

Address: 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford

Official site: www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk

One of the top free things to do in Oxford, a visit to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History (OUMNH) is certainly time well spent. Opened in the mid 1800s to showcase the university's growing natural history collection, it's located on Parks Road adjacent to another must-visit attraction: the Pitt Rivers Museum .

In addition to its displays and exhibits focusing on the university's rich science and learning traditions, you'll see samples collected by university alumni that date back hundreds of years. Also on display are samples from the university's mineralogy, medicine, zoology, and anatomy collections.

Two cafés are located on-site, and a special treat if you're traveling in summer is to enjoy your snacks and beverages outdoors on the museum's lovely lawn. Be sure to keep an eye out for the migrating swallows that have been stopping over on the museum roof since nesting boxes were installed in the 1940s.

Address: Parks Road, Oxford

Official site: www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk

Located in Woodstock, just eight miles northwest of Oxford, is Blenheim Palace. Seat of the dukes of Marlborough and the Spencer-Churchill family, it is also famous as the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

This magnificent 200-roomed palace was built between 1701 and 1724 for John Churchill, first Duke of Marlborough, with the financial support of Queen Anne. It's recorded that the Queen wished to express her thanks to the Duke for his victory in 1704 over the French at the Battle of Blenheim, an event commemorated on the ceiling of the Great Hall.

In addition to visiting the splendid main building with its Neoclassical columned entrance hall and quadrantal annexes with crowned corner-towers and colonnades, be sure to explore the adjoining wings. Here, you'll find a number of large courtyards, as well as the vast main courtyard.

Another highlight is the chance to explore the magnificent gardens, with their French Rococo borders, and the Capability-Brown-designed parklands. Other outdoor attractions include Italian gardens and herb gardens, a butterfly house, and a maze.

Location: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

Official site: www.blenheimpalace.com

An easy drive just six miles south of Oxford, Abingdon is a charming town on the banks of the River Thames. A large number of interesting houses and churches are found here, including the old two-story county hall, built in 1678 and now home to the Abingdon County Hall Museum .

Also of note is the beautiful St. Helen's Church, with its graceful spire, double aisles, and elaborately painted paneling (1390), as well as Christ's Hospital, founded in 1553.

Parts of the once influential Benedictine abbey (AD 675) can still be explored, including later features such as the Checker Hall (13th century), the Long Gallery (about 1500), and the abbey doorway (1450).

Abingdon has several leisure and recreation facilities, including the White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre, Tilley Park, and the Southern Town Park. Each year in October, the town center is closed for the Ock Street Michaelmas Fair , the longest street fair in Europe.

Address: Market Place, Abingdon, Oxfordshire

Official site: www.abingdon.gov.uk/partners/abingdon-county-hall-museum

We recommend these popular hotels in Oxford with easy access to the famous colleges and other top attractions:

• Old Bank Hotel : This luxury boutique hotel is set in a Georgian building in a great central location and features understated elegance and marble bathrooms.
• Vanbrugh House Hotel : A popular mid-range hotel, Vanbrugh House features individually decorated rooms, private gardens, plus complimentary breakfast and snacks.
• Remont Oxford Hotel : Affordable rates, a short bus ride to town, colorful room accents, and a hearty free English breakfast are just a few of the reasons why this hotel is highly rated.
• Premier Inn Oxford Hotel This budget hotel is an easy drive to Oxford city center and features modern decor and family rooms.

• (1) Somerville
• (3) Regents Park
• (4) St John's
• (5) Trinity
• (6) Mansfield
• (7) Balliol
• (8) Waldham
• (9) Manchester
• (10) St Cross
• (11) St Catherine's
• (12) Ruskin
• (13) Worcester
• (14) Nuffield
• (15) St Peter's
• (17) Lincoln
• (18) Brasenose
• (19) Exeter
• (20) Hertford
• (21) New College
• (22) All Souls
• (23) Queen's
• (24) University
• (25) Magdalen
• (26) Wayneflete
• (27) Pembroke
• (28) Corpus Christi
• (29) Merton
• (30) St Hilda's
• (31) Frewin Hall
• (32) Union Soc Rooms
• (33) Sheldonian Theater
• (34) Clarendon Building
• (35) Bodleian Library
• (36) Radcliffe Camera
• (37) Carfax Tower
• (38) Peckwater Quad
• University Museum
• Rhodes House
• Ashmolean Museum
• St Michael's Church
• Christ Church
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Botanic Gardens

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VisitBritain/Jess Barfield

Why we love Oxford

Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires. And Oxford is crammed with them. A seat of scholars for 800 years, it houses Britain’s oldest university, botanical gardens, and pubs. It has more quadrangles, Gothic spires and listed buildings than you can shake a gown at. Add cobbled lanes, canals and the odd punt along its rivers and it becomes a real heart-breaker. 

Although bursting with museums, libraries and galleries, there’s more to this gem than its beauty and towering intellect. Harry Potter fans can spot film locations, shoppers will love its nearby bargains, foodies will drool over its lip-smacking choice. And if that isn’t enough, it sits on the doorstep to the Chilterns, the Cotswolds and the baroque country pile of Blenheim Palace.

Bodleian Libraries/Stu Heppell

Every book ever written at Bodleian Library 

Take a guided tour of the country’s second largest library , which holds a copy of every single book ever published in England since 1662.

Vintage chic

An Aladdin’s cave of treasures, Unicorn is a centre of Oxford’s quirky vintage scene. It’s rammed to the rafters with vintage clothes, accessories and shoes from 1950s tea dresses to sequinned waistcoats.

VisitBritain/Marina Comes

Blenheim Palace

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. One of the most popular attractions in the Cotswolds, you can take an upstairs or downstairs tour and wander around its famous maze.

Gloucester Green Market

In the heart of Oxford, this eclectic open-air market takes place every day from Wednesday to Saturday – combining locally-made produce with street food from all over the world. Look out for clothes, crafts, second-hand curios, and cuisine from authentic Indian curries, Ethiopian stews, traditional British pies and much more.

Photos by John Cairns

Oxford River Cruises

No trip to Oxford is complete without a cruise on the River Thames , which passes through the city on its journey to London and beyond. Take your pick from sightseeing trips, sunset cocktail voyages, and gourmet sailings galore – featuring afternoon tea, decadent lunches and picnic hampers. With its electric-powered boats, Oxford River Cruises is a sustainable choice too.

Things to do in Oxford

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University of Oxford

Soak up the atmosphere as you walk around the Dreaming Spires of historic Oxford University, one of the world’s top universities.

VisitOxford

Oxford Castle

Walk through 1000 years of history in Oxford Castle and Prison, climbing the Tower, one of Oxford’s oldest buildings and descending into the crypt deep below.

Photo: Philip J.A Benton

Pitt Rivers Museum

One of Britain’s best museums is the quirky Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford with artefacts from all over the world.

Experience Oxfordshire

Bicester Village

Want designer clothes at a discount? Head to Oxfordshire’s Bicester Village, one of Britain’s favourite shopping destinations for bargains.

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Ashmolean Museum

Dating back to 1683, the Ashmolean is packed to the rafters with art, natural history and photography.

Oxford Alumni Harry Potter Tour

Discover the Oxford landmarks that starred in the ‘Philosopher’s Stone’ and ‘Goblet of Fire’ films.

Inspector Morse Tour of Oxford

Explore key Oxford filming locations from the TV series of Morse, Endeavour and Lewis.

VisitBritain/Jon Attenborough

Bodleian Library

Take a fascinating guided tour of the Divinity School, Old Quadrangle and Duke Humphrey’s Library.

Radcliffe Camera

This library has inspired novelists, artists and film-makers alike, and features around 600,000 books.

Go Ape Wendover

Swing and leap your way through thrilling high-ropes bridges, treetop walkways and soar down zip lines.

Oxford Kayak Tours

Dip your paddle into the River Cherwell, to discover pristine countryside and wildlife-rich waters.

Junkyard Golf Club

Come for the golf, stay for the party - a riotous mash-up of crazy golf, drinks and pumped-up tunes.

Junkyard Golf Oxford

Oxford Ghost Tours

From headless bishops to haunted pubs, these tours have just the right balance of history and hilarity.

The Ultimate Picture Palace

Welcome to one of the UK’s oldest cinemas, which specialises in arthouse and independent films.

Ultimate Picture Palace/Ian Wallman

Modern Art Oxford

Immerse yourself in stellar contemporary art from all over the world at this vibrant gallery.

Oxford Atelier/Modern Art Oxford

The Oxford Artisan Distillery Tour

Learn the secrets of heritage grain spirits on these behind-the-scenes tours.

Chiltern Valley Winery and Brewery

Discover a world of fine English wines, small-batch ales and exceptional hospitality.

Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery

Take your pick from authentic Indian curries, Ethiopian stews, traditional British pies and much more…

Harry Potter Tour - Experience Oxfordshire

So spectacular are these landmarks and locations, that even non-Potter fans will be spellbound.

The Jolly Farmers

Real ales, cosy interiors and a resident bassett hound – what more could you wish for?

Oxford Pride

For over 20 years, this loud-and-proud festival has celebrated the city’s LGBTQIA+ community.

Oxford Music Festival

Classical concerts, virtuoso recitals and dance shows – with cash prizes for the stand-out performers.

Oxford Literary Festival

Catch lively debates, workshops and seminars involving hundreds of different speakers from around the globe.

C S Lewis Nature Reserve

The ponds are busy with dragonflies, while the towering treetops bristle with birds and squirrels.

Ross Mackenzie/CS Lewis Nature Reserve

Take your pick from sightseeing trips, sunset voyages, and gourmet sailings on the River Thames.

Car Chase Heroes

Always wanted to get behind the wheel of a Porsche 911? Well, now’s your chance…

Alamy Stock Photo

Enjoy Happy Hour cocktails from 11pm, and a banging playlist of pop and dance music.

Westgate Oxford

Browse some of Britain’s best-loved fashion, beauty and food brands, such as John Lewis and Primark.

Discover antiques emporiums, craft shops, art galleries and fashion stores – plus delis and cafés galore.

Blackwell’s

Looking for your next favourite author? The staff are all book lovers, so ask for their recommendations.

Oxford Walking Tours

Take your pick from a vast range of themed experiences, with both private and small-group options.

Chiltern Hills Cycling

Whether you love smooth road cycling or gnarly downhill trails, set your sights on the Chiltern Hills.

Featured things to do

footprints_and_photographs

One of the city’s most beautiful spots

Located just opposite Magdalen College, you can dart in here and escape the bustle of the High Street and hide among the newly sprouting trees and blooms.

jlo_conductor

Take a punt

Hop onto a relaxing punt down the River Cherwell. Discover the inspiration behind Lewis Carol’s Alice in Wonderland, and enjoy a picnic aboard this hand-crafted beauty.

oxfordcastle

Head into history

For those who dare - check out tours of the castle and 900-year crypt. Learn about the ghost of Matilda, Henry I’s daughter, or a headless King Charles I.

An evening at a museum

The Ashmolean dusts off the old image of artefacts and adds a new twist, and find out just how a camel sculpture escaped the Nazis.

Places to stay in Oxford

City centre.

Be among the oldest university in the English speaking world, checkout the architecture, the bookshops and cool bars, and The Malmaison - a former Victorian prison that you can stay in.

An affluent part of Oxford with red-brick Victorian houses and tree-lined streets. It’s peaceful nature, and you’re budget will go further here. Explore the canal network here.

Is diverse, full of life and has lots of diverse restaurants and bars, and is the home of Oxford’s street art. It’s close to Magdalen College and the Oxford Botanic Gardens are here too. It also has a summertime carnival. 

For literary types and lovers of small pastel painted houses and independent cafes, this is your place. Situated in the north, you’ll find some cracking restaurants and cocktail bars. Both the Ashmolean Museum and the Museum of Natural History are here.

Explore nearby

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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Lush rolling pastures, pretty stone villages and rambling rivers - the Cotswolds has it all.

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Cotswolds, England

Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

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Getting to Oxford

Oxford is located in South East England, in the county of Oxfordshire. Heathrow is the closest international airport to Oxford and is 45 miles (72 kilometres) away, a journey which takes just over an hour by car. The train from Heathrow to Oxford takes up to two and a half hours via central London. Oxford is approximately 60 miles (97 kilometres) from London. The average train time from Central London to Oxford is 1 one hour.

Travelling by coach from London to Oxford takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. From London Heathrow and Gatwick airports, you can hop on The Airline coach service , which runs 24 hours a day. National Express services from Stansted Airport also serve Oxford, taking just under two hours.

Getting around

Oxford is easily accessible from every corner of Britain, with London to Oxford train services taking around 60 minutes from London Paddington. Experience Oxfordshire has a range of maps and guides to help you plan your visit to Oxford. Enjoy a Bus Tour of Oxford .

Hire punts , pedalos and rowing boats to explore Oxford’s River Cherwell.

Oxford’s main attractions are best explored by foot, a walk from the train station to the city centre is just 15 minutes. Head into nature outside the city with a host of walking routes on offer.

The Oxford Bus Company provides frequent and affordable travel across the city, as well as Stagecoach which also operates routes to the stately home at Blenheim Palace. Five Park and Ride locations exist to keep the city centre car free.

If ever a city was made for cycling, it would be here. Oxford is home to several dockless bike hire operators, where you can access cycles via a free downloadable app by scanning a QR code.  Bainton Bikes  also provides cycle hire and self-guided tours. You can access  a cycle route planner  too.

Want to know more?

Check out Experience Oxfordshire for top insider tips and travel inspiration.

Must-see attractions in Oxford

Christ Church

With its compelling combination of majestic architecture, literary heritage and double identity as (parts of) Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, Christ Church…

Bodleian Library

At least five kings, dozens of prime ministers and Nobel laureates, and luminaries such as Oscar Wilde, CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien have studied in Oxford's…

Ashmolean Museum

Britain’s oldest public museum, Oxford’s wonderful Ashmolean Museum is surpassed only by the British Museum in London. It was established in 1683, when…

Magdalen College

Guarding access to a breathtaking expanse of private lawns, woodlands, river walks and even its own deer park, Magdalen ('mawd-lin'), founded in 1458, is…

Pitt Rivers Museum

If exploring an enormous room full of eccentric and unexpected artefacts sounds like your idea of the perfect afternoon, welcome to the amulets-to-zithers…

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Housed in a glorious Victorian Gothic building, with cast-iron columns, flower-carved capitals and a soaring glass roof, this museum makes a superb…

Radcliffe Camera

Surely Oxford’s most photographed landmark, the sandy-gold Radcliffe Camera is a beautiful, light-filled, circular, columned library. Built between 1737…

Merton College

Founded in 1264, peaceful and elegant Merton is one of Oxford’s three original colleges. Like the other two, Balliol and University, it considers itself…

New College

New College isn’t really that new. Established in 1379 as Oxford’s first undergraduate college, it’s a glorious Perpendicular Gothic ensemble. Treasures…

Oxford Castle and Prison

Little now remains of Oxford Castle, which was built for William the Conqueror in 1071, and largely destroyed after the English Civil War because the…

All Souls College

One of Oxford’s wealthiest and most tranquil colleges, All Souls was founded as a centre of prayer and learning in 1438. Much of its facade dates from…

Brasenose College

Small, select and elegant, Brasenose College was founded in 1509. A Brasenose Hall, belonging to Oxford University, already stood here by 1262, however,…

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

The ornate 14th-century spire of Oxford’s university church is arguably the dreamiest of the city’s legendary ‘dreaming spires’. Otherwise, this is famous…

Museum of the History of Science

Students of science will swoon at this fascinating museum, stuffed to the ceilings with awesome astrolabes, astonishing orreries and early electrical…

Trinity College

Founded in 1555, this small college boasts a lovely 17th-century garden quad, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Its exquisite chapel, a masterpiece of…

Exeter College

Founded in 1314, Exeter is known for its elaborate 17th-century dining hall, which celebrated its 400th birthday in 2018, and ornate Victorian Gothic…

Queen's College

Known for its musical excellence, this college is steeped in esteem and heritage. Although founded in 1341, its main claims to architectural fame are the…

Modern Art Oxford

Showcasing stimulating temporary exhibitions in its bright white airy galleries, and graced with a spacious cafe and a good shop, this excellent museum is…

Bridge of Sighs

As you stroll along New College Lane, look up at the steeped Bridge of Sighs linking the two halves of Hertford College. Completed in 1914, it's sometimes…

Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, entered from the quad, doubles, uniquely, as the college chapel and the city’s cathedral. From the 8th century onwards, this site…

Botanic Garden

Stretching beside the River Cherwell, Oxford's small, peaceful botanic garden was founded in 1621 for the study of medicinal plants. The oldest of its…

Port Meadow

Although archeologists have identified traces of Bronze and Iron Age settlements bulging from this marshy Thameside meadow, northwest of Jericho, it has…

Story Museum

Conceived in celebration of Oxford’s unparalleled storytelling heritage, the Story Museum sprawls its way through a courtyard complex that includes…

Weston Library

Opened as the New Bodleian Library by King George VI in 1946, and renamed following a modernist overhaul in 2015, the Weston Library remains an extension…

Christ Church Picture Gallery

Long one of Oxford’s wealthiest colleges, Christ Church has amassed an exceptional art collection. Drawn from the 14th century onwards, it’s displayed in…

Christ Church Meadow

Christ Church Meadow, a lush expanse bordered by the Cherwell and Thames (or Isis) rivers, stretches away south and east of Christ Church. It's ideal for…

Church of St Margaret of Antioch

Binsey’s small 12th-century church stands half a mile west of the Thames (and The Perch pub), in a splendid rural setting that’s only slightly marred by…

Sheldonian Theatre

Built from 1663 onwards to provide an appropriately grand setting for the university’s degree ceremonies – a function it still performs – this monumental…

Oxford Union

Famed worldwide as a debating society, and also known for attracting prominent international speakers, Oxford’s legendary Union is largely off-limits to…

Balliol College

Dating its foundation to ‘about’ 1263, Balliol College claims to be the oldest college in Oxford, though its current buildings are largely 19th-century…

St Edmund Hall

Founded at some point before 1317, St Edmund Hall is the sole survivor of Oxford’s original medieval halls, the teaching institutions that preceded the…

St Mary’s Passage

With a doorway sporting a lion’s head knocker, flanked by two golden fawns, this tiny alley is often said to have inspired elements of CS Lewis’ magical…

Carfax Tower

All that remains of St Martin's Church, demolished in 1896, this 13th-century landmark looms over what has been a crossroads for 1000 years. Climb the 99…

Godstow Nunnery

The ruined chapel is all that remains of Godstow Nunnery, on the Thames’ west bank 3 miles northwest of Oxford, near The Trout pub. Founded in 1145 by…

Tolkien’s Resting Place

Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkien (1892–1973) is buried with his wife Edith at Wolvercote Cemetery, 2.5 miles north of Oxford city centre. Their…

St Peter's College

As Oxford colleges go, St Peter's is modest in age, size and decoration. Founded in 1929, it comprises a handful of architecturally contrasting buildings…

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Must-Visit Attractions in Oxford

From the glorious Bodleian Library to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford is jam-packed with fantastic things to see and do. It has incredible architecture, superb art and a storied past dating back to Anglo-Saxon times – here, you can follow in the footsteps of Prime Ministers, poets and, of course, Harry Potter. Planning a trip to the City of Dreaming Spires, but have no idea where to start? We’ve whittled down the very best things to do in the beautiful city of Oxford.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Tour the Bodleian Library

The Bodleian is the historic heart of the University of Oxford. It’s the institute’s main research library and one of the oldest in Europe, dating back over 400 years. It sits in Radcliffe Square and houses ancient manuscripts, rare books, printed ephemera and maps. Take a guided tour for a deep dive into the drama of its 17th-century rooms, originally used to maintain order in the University but also used by King Charles I during the English Civil War.

Smell the roses at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden

The oldest of its kind in England, Oxford’s small botanic garden was founded in 1621 for the study of medicinal plants, and remains a department of the university today. It is run more for research purposes than for display, but it’s in a tranquil and colourful spot beside the River Cherwell. Wander around vibrant greenhouses and open beds with ‘Plants that Changed the World’ including potatoes and pineapples. A riverside van sells coffee and snacks.

Peek inside Oxford Castle & Prison

Step back in time with a unique guided tour around Oxford’s historic castle, dating back 1000 years. Costumed characters reveal the interesting history behind the building, plus you have the chance to climb the Saxon St George’s Tower for a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, as well as explore the ancient crypt and prison. If you’re lucky, there will be an event taking place inside the castle walls – like the Jericho Comedy Festival or a Shakespeare performance.

Visit the Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Here, you can see specimens from all over the world, including a 150-year-old Japanese spider crab, a stunning example of neogothic architecture and a meteorite that fell from space 4.5 billion years ago. But it’s the dinosaurs that really draw the crowds. As well as a towering T-Rex skeleton – ‘Stan’, the second most complete ever found – you’ll see pieces of Megalosaurus, which, in 1677, was the first dinosaur ever mentioned in a written text.

Stay in Keble College

Keble is one of the largest colleges at the University of Oxford, housing 800 students during term time and has been around since 1870. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to go to Oxford – or perhaps Hogwarts – now you have the chance to stay over here. Choose from a variety of traditional rooms with college green views. Breakfast is included and served in the magnificent gothic dining hall.

Ponder curiosities in the Pitt Rivers Museum

This quirky museum is a real feast for the eyes, with over half a million objects and artefacts from around the world displayed inside. From Japanese Noh masks and Hawaiian feather cloaks to gruesome shrunken heads, there is so much to discover here. Highlights include a leather Roman shoe, dating back at least 1,500 years, and a pair of women’s knickers from Siberia made from reindeer skin.

Admire the view from University Church of St Mary the Virgin

With its distinctive decorated spire and beautiful architecture, St Mary’s is one of Oxford’s most-loved buildings. A church has stood on this site since Anglo-Saxon times, and was adopted as the first university building in the very early days of Oxford University. Take a trip up to the top of the 13th-century tower for unbeatable views across the heart of the city. While entering the church is free, there is a fee to climb the tower.

Peruse the Ashmolean Museum

Explore half a million years of art and archaeology, spread out of five fascinating floors. The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology is the world’s second university museum and Britain’s first ever public museum. Its first building was erected between 1678 and 1683. Exploring it makes for a fantastic free day out. From Egyptian mummies to Uccello’s masterpiece, The Hunt in the Forest , you won’t run out of things to see.

Stroll through University Parks

Spread out of 70 acres, University Parks is a green oasis right in the heart of the city. With a great choice of walks, a wide collection of trees and plenty of open-space, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying a relaxed picnic and watching the world go by. Chances are you’ll be able to catch a game of cricket, lacrosse, football or even Quidditch – yes, you read that right! The Harry Potter sport is actually played in real life.

Pop into Modern Art Oxford

Proving not all the best attractions in Oxford are thousands of years old, this modern art museum shows stimulating temporary exhibitions in its bright white, airy galleries. Discover a carefully curated programme of workshops, films, performances and revolving art residencies. There’s an excellent shop and a lovely cafe bar serving a menu using locally sourced ingredients, decent coffee and delicious homemade cakes.

Walk to a pub through Port Meadow

You wouldn’t expect to find a large stretch of ancient open meadow land in the city, but that’s precisely the charm of this tranquil slice of Oxford countryside. Take a walk through the wildflowers, past grazing horses and cattle, before stopping for a pint at the ever-popular, 17th-century pub , the Perch. They do an excellent Sunday lunch with varied vegan options too.

Shop inside the Covered Market

Opened to the public in 1774, the Covered Market has been a hub of Oxford life ever since. Inside this striking building, you’ll find a fantastic mix of permanent stalls and shops selling fresh fruit and veg to artisan cheese and hand-crafted jewellery. Take a wander around and soak up the lively atmosphere of this world-famous market . It’s open every day with shorter trading hours on Sunday.

Snap a photo at the Bridge of Sighs

Officially named Hertford Bridge, but more commonly referred to as the Bridge of Sighs, this decorative skyway joins two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. It picked up its nickname due to the supposed similarity to the famous Bridge of Sighs in Venice, and is now a much-loved Oxford landmark. Grab your phone and take a selfie – the best time is early morning or late afternoon before its swamped with tourists.

Marvel at the great Christ Church

The compelling combination of majestic architecture, literary heritage and a double identity as (parts of) Harry Potter’s Hogwarts, Christ Church is an unmissable tourist attraction. Founded in 1525, it sits with Oxford’s busy town centre on one side, and the peaceful, green Christ Church Meadow on the other. A highlight here is the Renaissance Great Hall, the college’s jaw-dropping dining room, with its hammer-beam roof and portraits of past scholars.

Go punting on the River Cherwell

You can’t visit Oxford without giving punting a try. Hire a boat from the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, pack a picnic and go for a punt down the scenic River Cherwell. Essentially, you use an extraordinarily long oar to push against the river bed and propel yourself forwards. It’s a quintessentially Oxford, timeless way to spend an afternoon – especially when the sun is shining.

Catch a show at the Sheldonian Theatre

This Grade I-listed building, the first major design by world-famous architect Sir Christopher Wren, is where it all happens for Oxford University students. Inside these hallowed walls, students are admitted to the university and receive their degree. The theatre also regularly holds classical music concerts, so treat yourself to tickets to experience the grandeur of the place for yourself.

Buy a paperback at Blackwell’s Bookshop

The Oxford branch of Blackwell’s isn’t your typical bookshop . An integral part of University life, Blackwell’s is the biggest academic and specialist bookseller in the UK, stocking hundreds of thousands of titles. The famous Norrington Room boasts a whopping three miles (5km) of shelving, earning a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest single room selling books.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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10 reasons you should visit cambridge over oxford in england, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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Top 10 Things to Do in Oxford and Oxfordshire

A trip to Oxfordshire wouldn’t be complete without seeing these  top 10 attractions . Start your sightseeing in Oxfordshire now with these popular spots!

Go shopping at Bicester Village

Shop ’til you drop at Bicester Village – a luxury shopping destination home to more than 160 world-famous brands, from Swarovski to Saint Laurent, offering year-round savings on the recommended retail price. It’s the ultimate shopping experience!

Explore the beautiful Blenheim Palace

Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family and the birth place of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting stunning Baroque architecture and over 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland to explore.

Learn about the world-renowned University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is made up of 38 independent colleges, including the magnificent Christ Church, and their historic buildings can be found all over the city. See famous University buildings such as the Radcliffe Camera and Sheldonian Theatre on an Oxford Official Walking Tour – the best way to see the city.

Visit the famous Ashmolean Museum

Visit the world’s oldest public museum, the Ashmolean Museum . Home to important collections of art and artefacts ranging from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art, there is something for everyone. Also don’t miss Oxford University’s gardens, libraries and museums .

Step back in time at Oxford Castle & Prison

Immerse yourself in 1,000 years of history at Oxford Castle & Prison . Step back in time with their costumed guided tours, descend into the atmospheric crypt of St George’s Chapel and climb St George’s Tower to enjoy 360° panoramic views of the city’s dreaming spires.

Explore Oxford's Waterways

No visit to Oxford is complete without visiting the city’s waterways – the mighty  River Thames , which flows through to London, the River Cherwell  and the historic  Oxford Canal , now over 200 years old. There is so much to do on the river, from walks with incredible riverside views to punting at Cherwell Boathouse and boat cruises with Salter’s Steamers or Oxford River Cruises .

Book an Oxford Official Walking Tour

Explore Oxford on foot with a skilled and knowledgeable guide from Oxford Official Walking Tours . See famous filming locations used in Harry Potter, Inspector Morse, and the University’s most famous buildings: the Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, Sheldonian Theatre, and the Bodleian Library.

Discover the historic Cogges Manor Farm

Discover traditional Cotswolds life at  Cogges Manor Farm , a 17th Century farmstead with museum and café, featured as Yew Tree Farm in Downton Abbey. Explore over 17 acres of naturally beautiful grounds, the walled garden, picnic orchard, moated islands and river Windrush walk and meet their friendly animals!

Go shopping at Westgate Oxford

Make shopping inspirational, exciting and fun at Westgate Oxford shopping centre – the major retail and lifestyle destination in the centre of Oxford is home to prestigious global brands plus eclectic restaurants, a five-screen boutique cinema and sophisticated rooftop bars and dining. For healthy Vietnamese food, head to   Pho on the rooftop terrace.

Visit the unique Bicester Heritage

Bicester Heritage  is the UK’s first business campus dedicated to historic motoring excellence and an established national centre for the industry. It’s based at the best-reserved WW2 RAF Bomber Station in the UK, in Bicester in the north of Oxfordshire.

More great things to do

The Oxford Artisan Distillery

City Sightseeing Oxford Open-Top Bus Tours

Crocodiles of the World

Waterperry Gardens

Kelmscott Manor

Fairytale Farm

Finest Hour Experiences

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra

Sheldonian Theatre

The Oxfordshire Museum

The Sky Wave Distilling Co.

Bicester Heritage

The Henley Distillery

River & Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames

Christ Church

Didcot Railway Centre

New Theatre Oxford

Museum of Oxford

Junkyard Golf Club

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Explore Oxfordshire: Top 35 Must-Visit Places in Oxford

The places to see in Oxford, England, are almost endless, especially considering the relatively small area of the city – the good thing is that most free things to do in Oxford are pretty cool. Strolling through Oxford will give you the feeling you’re into a walk-in museum – everywhere you look, at every turn, there is a gorgeous university that is over 8 centuries old!

Table of Contents

Top 10 Things to Do in Oxford

1. bodleian library.

As you step close to the building, you’ll really feel a magical vibe, as if you were stepping into a Hogwarts library! The Bodleian library is one of the oldest in the world and it is so mesmerizing that you’d really want to spend hours just admiring the architecture. And indeed, most of the top 10 things to do in Oxford are just like that – pretty and not just on the outside! However, if you’d like to enjoy the vast collection of the library, you’d need to literally take an oath – it used to be just an oral one, but with time, it turned into a written one. This oath is, as follows:

I hereby undertake not to remove from the Library, nor to mark, deface, or injure in any way, any volume, document or other object belonging to it or in its custody; not to bring into the Library, or kindle therein, any fire or flame, and not to smoke in the Library; and I promise to obey all rules of the Library.

2. Radcliffe Camera

It’s not just the Italians that are good at building duomos (domes)! The Radcliffe Camera in Oxford has one of the largest domes in the country and it is just as pretty as the Italian ones. You can only visit it with a guided tour, but even seeing it from the outside, you’ll really appreciate it as one of the best things to do in Oxford.

3. Christ Church & College

We can’t talk about top 10 things to do in Oxford and not mention the stunning Christ Church! It’s quite a large complex, and the nearby meadow would be perfect for a picnic on a sunny day. The Tom Tower of Christ Church was actually even designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the most renowned architect in England. Christ Church is such a popular university, that among its alumni are over a dozen prime ministers, archbishops and even Lewis Carroll!

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If you’re a Harry Potter fan – the Great Hall was a huge inspiration for the dining hall in the movies! And not just that – it even inspired similar halls in Harvard and Cornell. If you’re looking for more curious Harry Potter sights, check out my post on nerdy things to see in London . You can also explore all of the Harry Potter sights in Christ Church via a guided tour !

4. Bridge of Sighs

It’s not just Venice that has a Bridge of Sighs – Oxford does too (and even Cambridge, to be precise)! If you’re a student of Hertford, chances are that you’ll be crossing it every day <3 However, it was never intended for this Bridge of Sighs to be similar to the one in Venice. In fact, it’s actually more similar to Rialto in Venice than the Venetian Bridge of Sighs! You’ll find this best thing to do in Oxford right at the heart of the city – next to the Bodleian Library.

5. The Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre absolutely made me want to be a student again! This gorgeous building is only open for special events – concerts and graduation ceremonies. If you’re an Oxford student, you’ll visit it twice – for the acceptance ceremony and for your graduation one.

The theatre was, too, built by Sir Christopher Wren. It got its name from the Archbishop of Canterbury – Gilbert Sheldon, chancellor of the university and sponsor of the building.

6. Merton College Chapel

The Merton College Chapel is one of the best things to do in Oxford that you shouldn’t skip! It’s a Gothic 13th century church that is pretty inside an out, so step inside and you won’t regret it <3

7. Magdalen College

In my opinion, after Christ Church, the Magdalen College has the prettiest buildings in the city! When looking for places to see in Oxford and it popped up, I was really excited to see it in person when scrolling through all the pretty pictures. No wonder it’s also one of the wealthiest universities in Oxford – the financial endowment for 2018 was £273.2 million!

8. Ashmolean Museum

We can’t skip the world’s first university museum in the top 10 things to see in Oxford! It has a few floors with different curious exhibitions. On the lower ground floor, you’ll find textiles, money, reading and writing historical objects, while the ground floor holds pieces from many different ancient cultures – Greece, Egypt, China. If you’re looking to explore the Mediterranean – go to the first floor, and Western cultural pieces from Japan and China are on the second floor. The Ashmolean museum’s opened a contemporary art floor – the third floor, in 2011.

The museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm and the admission is free !

9. University Church of St Mary the Virgin

This Gothic church with a baroque porch is proclaimed by historians as one of the most beautiful in all of England. And no wonder – it is a truly breathtaking place to visit in Oxford! You can even climb the tower for just £4 and enjoy the spectacular view from above <3 The steps are just 127, so not that many, especially as compared to Florence’s towers with steep 300+ steps.

10. University College

This is actually the oldest college of the University of Oxford! Some of its most prominent alumni include Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking! 🙂 If you’re curious to know more, check out these fun facts about Oxford university .

Fun Things to Do in Oxford

11. the round tower of balliol college.

The lovely Balliol College has one of the cutest towers I’ve ever seen – as I call it, the Rapunzel tower 🙂 It’s right at the heart of the city, so you wouldn’t be able to miss it even if you wanted to. It’s also close to a parking space in the middle of the street.

12. Treasure Hunt Oxford

I must admit I’m an absolute sucker for treasure hunts! I’ve been on a few and I have even organised tiny ones for friends. One of the loveliest things you can experience in the city is Treasure Hunt Oxford . It’s self-guided, so you won’t need to worry about social distance and you can do it on your own pace. You won’t just have fun, but you’ll learn a lot about the city too – an afternoon well spent!

13. Punting on the River Cherwell

If you’re visiting Oxford in the summer (or late spring/early autumn), punting on the river is one of the most fun things to do in Oxford! The punts (or small boats) fit up to 6 people and cost about £18-20 per hour or £90-100 per day. You can find more information on this boathouse’s website .

14. Museum of Modern Art Oxford

Okay, I’ll admit it – I’m not much into modern art. But this is what makes it all the more fun for me – as I don’t understand it at all, some of the pieces and installations are pretty odd and fun for me! However, the Museum of Modern Art in Oxford holds different talks, movie screenings and even music events, which makes it a very cool thing to visit in Oxford.

15. Oxford University Museum of Natural History

If you’re visiting the city with kids, they will absolutely appreciate this as one of the most fun things to do in Oxford! I, myself, am a huge fan of natural history museums (especially the huge one in London!). This Oxford museum is free , so you should absolutely take a stroll if you have time – you’ll find curious exhibitions of bacteria, fossil reconstructions, birds and even woodland management.

16. Pitt Rivers Museum

Well, while you’re inside the Museum of Natural History in Oxford – go to the building on the East, as you can only access the Pitt Rivers Museum through the Natural History one. However, it’s a very cool thing to do in Oxford – you will see shrunken heads, figurines from around the world, Japanese Noh masks and many other curious artefacts. Admission is free !

17. The Covered Market

If you love the London markets (the Greenwich one is definitely my favorite!), you must absolutely visit the Covered Market in Oxford! Over 50 traders have chosen it as their main place of business. You’ll find many different items – from clothes, to food (iScream! haha), shoes, souvenirs and handmade items <3

18. Oxford Castle Unlocked

The Oxford Castle is naturally one of the oldest buildings in the city – it’s over 1,000 years old! If you couldn’t climb the tower of Saint Mary’s, you can absolutely climb the Saxon St. George’s Tower in the castle! Another spectacular view of the city from above. And it’s not just the tower that will convince you this is a very fun thing to do in Oxford – you can visit the underground crypt, the prison and even learn a bit more about the inmates.

19. Lewis Carroll’s local favorites

For those of you that don’t remember – the Lewis Carroll’s real name was Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (who was another Christ Church alumni!) One of Charles’ favorite things to do was to row a boat on the Thames, while entertaining his boss’s children by telling them stories. And this is how he got to know the cute little girl named Alice, that inspired his famous “Alice in Wonderland” ! You can find Alice’s Shop in Oxford (where the girl supposedly bought candy when she was little) which is full of cute souvenirs from related to the books.

There are many many locations that refer to our favorite Alice, if you’re curious, follow this to read the ultimate guide to Alice in Wonderland in Oxford !

20. The Headington Shark

Source: Giuseppe Morlando, Flickr

This is the one fun thing to do in Oxford that I am super sad that I missed, as I found out about it about a month after my visit! It’s a 7-meter long shark which has landed on a house… or maybe it tried to eat it? Who knows! Find this amazing sight at Number 2, New High Street in Oxford.

Free Things to Do in Oxford

Most museums at Oxford are free – the Ashmolean museum, the Natural History museum, the Pitt Rivers museum, and most of the top things to see in Oxford can also be enjoyed from the outside. However, here are some more ideas for free things to do in Oxford:

21. Footprint tours – free walking tours

Out of all the free things to do in Oxford, the Footprint walking tours are definitely some of the most fun! But what is it that makes them different? Well, your guide will be an Oxford student, how cool is that?? If you’d like to save a spot in such a tour or to get the audio guide version, follow this link for Footprint tours .

22. Museum of the History of Science

If you’re looking for a very curious free thing to do in Oxford, the Museum of the History of Science is your best bet! Here are some of the most fascinating things you can find there: blackboard used by Albert Einstein, Lewis Carroll’s photo equipment, Wimshurst twin plate electrostatic machine and X-ray material and even original penicillin culture and specimen!!

Although the museum is free, donations are always encouraged, especially if you enjoy it 🙂

23. Museum of Oxford

A great thing about this free thing to do in Oxford is that it’s almost never full! The Museum of Oxford has one main goal – to tell the story of the people that live/lived in the city. Compared to the other Oxford attractions, this museum is pretty small as it is located in the town hall.

Please remember to check the opening times before your visit, as the museum is currently under some major reconstructions!

24. University Parks – South Park

If you’d like to enjoy a lovely walk around nature, a picnic, or even a fitness trial – don’t skip South Park in Oxford! If you have some extra pounds to spare, you can even enjoy a hot air balloon during the summer months (just look for Adventure Balloons), but if you’re keen on keeping it free – go for the “dreaming spires” for another lovely view of the city of Oxford.

25. Port Meadow

Welcome to the land that has never been plowed! It is said that this is Oxford’s “oldest monument”, and a few artefacts dating as far back as the Stone Age have been found here. Other than it’s fascinating history, it’s another perfect sight for a walk around nature and enjoy the Thames.

26. University of Oxford Botanic Gardens

Spend an afternoon at the Oxford Botanic Gardens – the perfect free thing to do in Oxford! You can explore the glasshouses where you’ll find a rainforest and carnivorous plants, the orchard in the lower garden or the lovely walled garden.

The botanic gardens also have a “Arboretum” – a section dedicated just for trees which is especially beautiful in the summer, when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. The arboretum is home to a few animals as well – peacocks, bunnies and cute little foxes!

Where to Park in Oxford

There are a few parking spots in Oxford where you can leave your car and enjoy a walk around the city center and the most important areas. However, the paid car parks on the street in the center are very limited in terms of time – only about 1 or 2 hours, which won’t be enough for you at all.

If you’re doing Oxford as a day trip from London, I recommend choosing Glouchester Green car park or the Worchester​ one. Both are in the city center, but there is no time limit when using them.

Things to Do in Oxfordshire

Now that we’ve exhausted the list of places to visit in Oxford, let’s see what you can explore nearby!

Bibury is an absolute MUST if you’re visiting Oxford! It’s less than an hour away from Oxford (opposite direction of London), and we decided to combine the two for the perfect day trip from London. It’s not a very popular destination, and even though you will surely see tourists around, you’ll also find it very quiet with even few cars passing by.

Bibury has been described as one of the most picturesque villages in all of Europe and it is indeed so charming, it will take your breath away! Explore the Arlington row with the cotswolds, Bibury trout farm, and Arlington mill museum.

28. The Cotswolds

Besides Bibury (which is not the absolute typical cotswolds destination), here are some other great ideas for places to visit near Oxford:

• Woodstock – this is actually the birthplace of Winston Churchill! Visit his hometown and enjoy the spectacular Georgian town in Oxfordshire.
• Northleach – in addition to the actual cotswolds, there is also an old prison where nowadays you can grab a cafe in!
• Churchill – among its most spectacular attractions is a beautiful Victorian fountain
• Barnsley – this is one of the smallest (but maybe cutest!) cotswold villages. But still – it has a church, a pub (duh!) and a luxury hotel!

You can also explore the cotswolds via a guided tour from London !

29. The Blenheim Palace (Woodstock)

Source: Tim Armstrong, Flickr

If you’re in Woodstock to enjoy the cotswolds, you must absolutely visit the palace too! This place to visit near Oxford offers some breathtaking sights – it even has a maze! The formal and pleasure gardens, the butterfly house, the miniature train are all things you can see just on the outside, while the inside offers all you can want in a palace – lavishness and luxury. Walk in Churchill’s footsteps and don’t look back! Find out more in their official website .

30. Fly over the Cotswolds with Finest Hour Experiences (Bicester)

If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing Oxfordshire from above – this is your perfect chance! You can even learn to fly in the open cockpit of the lovely biplane. The prices aren’t THAT bad – about £200 for 20 minutes (depending on what you’re looking for), but the experience is absolutely unforgettable. Find out more at the Finest Hour Experiences website.

31. River & Rowing Museum (Henley-on-Thames)

With its unique and one-of-a-kind collection, the River & Rowing museum is a lovely place to visit near Oxford. The Wind in the Willows “cave” is the most fascinating of its items, but if you’re visiting Henley-on-Thames with children, there is a designated area where they can play, dress up and enjoy creating art. Check out the museum’s website for more!

32. The Stonor Park & House (Henley-on-Thames)

Visit one of the oldest family homes that is still inhabited today! The park itself is pretty large – it has 3 main gardens: the Italianate Pleasure Garden, the old Kitchen Garden and the Arboretum (tree garden). You will also find wildlife (among which even deer!), a chapel and history of the Stonor family.

33. Hook Norton Brewery (Chipping Norton)

If you have enjoyed the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam , you will love the Hook Norton Brewery! It’s a traditional preserved Victorian brewery where you can even  brew your own beer in its designated micro-brewery. Take a tour, explore it and try some of the most delicious beer – Hooky Mild, Hooky, Lion, Old Hooky or the Double Stout. This is certainly a hidden gem place to visit near Oxford, don’t you think?

34. The Broughton Castle (Banbury)

Source: gareth.j0nes, Flickr

The Broughton Castle is actually a huge fortified manor and it’s over 700 years old. Its rooms will remind you more of a palace than a castle – lavish, pretty and lots of artwork and paintings around. The garden of the castle is not that large, but it is mesmerizing in the spring!

35. The Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway (Chinnor)

As compared to most of the things to do in Oxfordshire, this attraction is very new – it opened in 2018! Volunteers collected over £750,000 over 25 years in order to revive the heritage railway. Enjoy the 12 km round-trip steam ride or sign up to solve a supper murder mystery!! There are lots and lots of different activities, so plan your visit very well beforehand, in order to catch the specific date. See all of their activities and dates here .

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27 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Oxford, England

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When it comes to cities in England, few capture the imagination quite like Oxford.

Centuries-old libraries, historic pubs, and painfully beautiful architecture combine to create the perfect postcard of a city… and an urgent desire to look up mature student applications. 

But there’s a lot more to do in Oxford than just cosplay student and throw shade at Cambridge. 

From stalking magical film locations to hopping museums until your legs cry for mercy, this post will capture the wide variety of unique and fun things to do in Oxford, England. I hope you’re ready to go full nerd on this one.

Save this list of Things to Do in Oxford for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Take a unique Oxford walking tour

When I say that Oxford is a HAVEN for nerdy walking tours, I really do mean it. Over the years, not only has this gorgeous city cultivated some of the most famous minds in English history, it has also been used as a filming location for countless productions.

… Which of course means there are plenty of cool ways to bring the city to life through a tour, whether you’re interested in Harry Potter, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien or… pubs.

Here are some interesting and unique walking tours you can book for your Oxford trip:

• Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Morse, Lewis and Endeavour Walking Tour
• C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Walking Tour
• Book of Dust Series Walking Tour
• “Uncomfortable” Oxford Walking Tour (That Highlights Colonialism, Inequality, Race, Gender, and Other Important Themes)
• Oxford Historical Pub Tour

2. Go punting

Punting along the River Cherwell may well be one of the most quintessential of Oxford activities, best of all when you can hire a student to do all the hard work for you, like in this special guided punting tour.

What is punting exactly? Long story short, it’s a whimsical mode of transport that involves a flat-bottomed boat that navigates shallow waters, steered only by a long pole and nice, strong arms.

You can of course attempt this feat on your own, but there’s no shame in outsourcing the arm-work so you can sit back and enjoy the views.

3. Enjoy an afternoon tea river cruise

If punting doesn’t sound like your ideal way to explore Oxford’s waterways, let me introduce you to a much more delicious alternative: a 1.5h afternoon tea river cruise that shows you the most picturesque corners of Oxford while stuffing you with scones!

Or if you’re looking to splurge, you can book this three course river cruise for dinner instead.

4. Prance down Oxford’s prettiest pastel street

Holywell Street is easily the prettiest street in Oxford, at least if you love seeing houses painted in soft pastel shades!

This street is located right near New College and around the corner from the Bodleian Library, so it’s easy to pop down during a day trip to Oxford.

There are some gorgeous old sandstone buildings as well as the pastel houses, and it just makes a great spot for some Instagram snaps in between visiting other Oxford attractions.

Fun fact : J. R. R. Tolkien lived at 99 Holywell Street between 1950 and 1953!

5. Visit the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera

Any list of cool things to see in Oxford has to include the Bodleian Library as it’s one of the most famous (and beautiful) libraries in the world.

A number of buildings make up the Bodleian Library, including another well-known icon: the round neo-classical Radcliffe Camera building which serves as a swanky reading room.

But the most exciting function of the library has little to do with reading, but rather film production. Interior parts of the Bodleian Library have been used many a time over the years for various famous productions, including ones that likely shaped your childhood.

For instance, the Divinity School was once used as the Hogwarts hospital wing in Harry Potter, while Duke Humfrey’s library played the dutiful role of (you guessed it) Hogwarts Library. Fans of the books and/or TV series A Discovery of Witches will also be interested to visit the Bodleian!

So, if you want to go full nerd, one of the best things to do at Oxford is pay the Bodleian Library (and all its buildings) a visit.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  It is free to visit Blackwell Hall and any exhibitions at the Bodleian Library. To enter the Divinity School you need to pay £2.50 per person and it’s best to book your time slot online beforehand. You can only visit the interior of The Bodleian Old Library and Radcliffe Camera on a  guided library tour , which takes half an hour and costs £9 per person.

6. Admire the views from St Mary the Virgin Church

Love dreamy photo opps? Well, another one of the best things to do in Oxford is get up high to see the beautiful ‘dreaming spires’ and the best place to do this is at St Mary the Virgin Church.

This church is located right in the heart of where Oxford grew up as a university city and its tall spire is also one of the most beautiful in England, with epic views that will instantly make you giddy.

PS: If you grew up loving the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis then you will also want to go down the side alley called St Mary’s Passage to see the wooden door bearing a lion and flanked by fauns which is thought to have inspired him when writing about the wardrobe in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe .

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  It’s free to enter the church but you will need to pay £5 if you want to climb the tower.

7. Walk underneath the Bridge of Sighs

Better known as the famous Oxford ‘Bridge of Sighs’, Hertford Bridge is a gorgeous stone construction that connects two sections of Hertford College.

There are a number of stories behind why it’s called the “Bridge of Sighs,” although the most obvious is that it does resemble the more famous Bridge of Sighs in Venice. It’s also theorised that students often walk across the bridge sighing after receiving their exam results!

No matter the name, it’s a popular sight in Oxford for photos, especially because it has appeared in many movies like “X-Men: First Class.” So, be sure to stop by for a look at this iconic Oxford must-see!

8. Frolic through the Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

When you need a break from all the high-minded university attractions in Oxford, head to the gorgeous Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum!

Located opposite Magdalen College and sitting next to the River Cherwell, this is the oldest botanic garden in the UK, first founded in 1621. Today it is a lovely place to relax and see rare plants from all over the world, including inside some stunning glasshouses.

And, like so many parts of Oxford, there are some literary locations to find amongst the different sections of the garden, including a Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland as well as Lyra and Will’s bench from the His Dark Materials book/TV series.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  The Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum are open every day from 10am until 5pm (last entry at 4pm) and tickets cost 6.30 GBP for adults. Children under 16 can visit for free if accompanied by an adult.

9. Relive your childhood at the Story Museum

Whether you’re visiting with kids in tow or are just a child at heart, visiting the Story Museum is another one of the top fun things to do in Oxford.

The Story Museum is a unique interactive experience that focuses on all kinds of stories, from comic books and novels to TV and film.

There are some really whimsical exhibitions here where stories come alive in a whispering wood, and anyone who’s a fan of Narnia or Alice in Wonderland will be able to reminisce on these beloved classics.

This is an excellent Oxford attraction to visit with kids, but even adults will find it fascinating, particularly if you’re into folklore or mythology. Past temporary exhibits have included props and costumes from the BBC production of His Dark Materials.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  The Story Museum is open every day from 9.30am until 5.30pm (until 4.30pm on Thursday and Friday). Tickets cost 12 GBP for the main galleries but check  the website  for prices for special exhibits or events.

10. Visit the Oxford University Natural History Museum

Of course, there are many excellent educational activities in Oxford, it’s a university city after all, but one of the most interesting of these is the university’s Natural History Museum.

This fascinating museum is filled with animal (including dinosaur) skeletons and other cool specimens on display in glass cases, plus the entire building is also a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture.

In the beautiful main exhibition hall, there’s a glass roof supported by cast iron pillars and arcades running around the two floors above. You can also see statues of famous scientists, including Aristotle and Darwin.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is open every day from 10am until 5pm (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day). It’s free to visit!

11. Marvel at the Pitt Rivers Museum

Next door to the Natural History Museum is the Pitt Rivers Museum, another breathtaking Oxford attraction, and well worth a visit if you’re in the area.

The Pitt Rivers Museum focuses on archaeology and anthropology, with more than 500,000 items from all around the world showing human history through the ages. Everything is on display in one big room filled with glass display cases of all sorts of fascinating objects.

The most famous item on display here is the Haida house post, an 11.36 metre-high totem pole from Graham Island, BC, Canada. Don’t miss it!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  The Pitt Rivers Museum is free to visit. It’s open on Mondays from midday until 5pm and Tuesday to Sunday (plus Bank Holiday Mondays) from 10am until 5pm.

12. Have a pint at the Turf Tavern

There are a number of excellent pubs in Oxford for when you need a break from sightseeing, but if it’s an iconic drinking hole you’re after, look no further than the Turf Tavern.

Located near the Bodleian Library and Bridge of Sighs, the Turf Tavern has been around since the 13th century and has always been popular with Oxford students, including some very notable names.

Famous frequenters of this pub include Richard Burton, Tony Blair, C. S. Lewis, Margaret Thatcher, Stephen Hawking and Bill Clinton, while the former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke supposedly set a Guinness World Record here in 1954. His supreme feat? Drinking a yard glass of ale in 11 seconds! Maybe you could beat his record?

13. Pretend you’re at Hogwarts at Christ Church College

One of the top things to do in Oxford for Harry Potter or Alice in Wonderland fans is to visit Christ Church College.

Christ Church is one of the largest of Oxford’s colleges, the only college with its own cathedral and one of the most popular for visitors to explore. Why? Well, not only does it boast droolworthy interiors, it also happens to have been a Hogwarts filming location for the first two Harry Potter films, with a dining hall said to have inspired the Great Hall itself.

If that’s not enough, Alice in Wonderland author Lewis Carroll attended Christ Church College as well and there are a number of sections which are said to have inspired his writing, particularly the stunning gardens.

Other must-see sights here include the largest quadrangle in Oxford and the famous bell tower called Tom Tower which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren – the same icon who designed St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  You absolutely need to  book  your timed ticket in advance online to enter Christ Church College. There may also be certain parts off-limits to visitors (as it’s a working college and cathedral) so make sure you check carefully before making your booking.

14. Explore the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology is the oldest public museum in the United Kingdom as well as the second oldest university museum in the world, and a really interesting destination to visit.

It was created when Elias Ashmole donated his cabinet of curiosities to the university in 1677. This original collection consisted of antique coins, books, engravings, geological specimens, and zoological specimens, which have been added to over the years with more art and archaeology.

A visit here is a must while you’re in Oxford and want to see a little bit of everything, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to modern art. There’s also a lovely rooftop restaurant where you can have some refreshments while enjoying the views over Oxford.

15. See a show at the Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre is another architectural marvel that was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, although this time he created something that looked like a Roman theatre rather than the more Gothic styles seen throughout Oxford.

All of Oxford University’s graduation and degree ceremonies are held here, but it’s also used for music concerts and lectures when there aren’t official university events on.

While it would be particularly cool to see a performance here, you can also visit for a guided tour if you just want to see the interior and learn more about the building.

Make sure you pay attention to the stunning ceiling fresco by Robert Streater, which is meant to illustrate “truth descending on the arts and sciences to expel ignorance from the university”.

16. Explore New College

Another one of the beautiful university colleges worth exploring at Oxford is New College, which has also had its share of screentime in film and television.

Despite its name, New College is actually one of the oldest university colleges in Oxford, founded by William of Wykeham in 1379. At the time of construction, it was the largest of all the other colleges and even today it’s considered to be one of the most beautiful colleges in the city.

Since it was built to encompass part of the old city walls it does look a bit like a castle, and the gardens surrounding it are particularly gorgeous.

As for geekier street cred, shots of New College stood in for the fictional Jordan College in the BBC series His Dark Materials and parts of the college were also used to depict Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  It costs 8 GBP for adult tickets to visit New College. Check the  website  for their opening hours as times vary throughout the year.

17. Go back in time at Oxford Castle and Prison

Make sure you check out Oxford Castle if you’re looking for things to do in Oxford that aren’t related to the university!

This partly ruined Norman castle was constructed by William the Conqueror on top of an older wooden castle and later served as the city’s prison. Today it’s a Grade I listed monument, a museum and a hotel, so you can even stay ‘in the castle’ while you’re visiting Oxford.

If you’re not staying at the Malmaison Oxford it is very fun to visit the castle museum and explore sights like the underground crypt. Costumed actors add to the experience and it’s a great way to learn more about the history of Oxford aside from the university attractions.

18. Browse Blackwell’s Bookshop

Any bookworm heading to Oxford will want to visit the famous (and huge) Blackwell’s Bookshop, which also holds a Guinness World Record for the biggest bookselling room in the world!

Blackwell’s was originally founded here in Oxford in 1879 and is now a well-known British academic book chain, but the original shop is the most fascinating. The Guinness Record holding room is the Norrington Room, which was extended into the basement to make more space as the bookshop became more popular.

Today this room contains five whole kilometres of shelving, with more than 150,000 books to browse through! You could easily spend the whole day here, but don’t forget the other things there are to see in Oxford too!

19. Admire pretty Magdalen College

Admittedly, all the colleges at Oxford are beautiful but another particularly pretty one to visit is Magdalen College, which is pronounced like ‘Mawdlin’, as in “mawdlin this pronunciation through a silly example”.

This college is one of the wealthiest in Oxford, with a famous bell tower and choir that sings from the top of the tower at 6am every May Morning (May Day), which would be incredible to hear if you timed your trip for it. Otherwise, for the other 364 days of the year, you can attend daily Evensong services in the chapel.

The grounds of Magdalen College are also stunning, with a lovely walk known as Addison’s Walk which goes all around a flood meadow, as well as an entire deer park with fallow deer grazing.

20. Experience the Covered Market

For one of the more magical things to do in Oxford (which is saying a lot), I can highly recommend a visit the Oxford’s Covered Market.

Known as one of the oldest continually operating markets in the country, it makes a great spot for grabbing some grub or perhaps indulging in some retail therapy.

Once upon a time, is function was primarily as a produce market, but these days you’ll find lots of lovely boutique stalls alongside the traditional flower, meat, fish and vegetable grocers. Plus plenty of delicious places to grab a bite.

There are many excellent food stalls from around the world here, as well as ones selling British cuisine like the special Oxford sausage. Make sure you visit on an empty stomach if you want to really enjoy all the cakes, smoothies, chocolate, pizza and other dishes available.

Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

21. Nerd out at the History of Science Museum

The History of Science Museum is the oldest surviving purpose-built museum in the world and is filled with fascinating objects used in the sciences from antiquity until modern times.

Housed inside the original Ashmolean Museum building, here you’ll find hundreds of objects from all the different branches of science on display; from mathematics and astronomy to navigation, chemistry, medicine and surveying.

Even if you’re not particularly sciencey, this is a fascinating spot to lurk and admire all the old clocks, prints, sundials, instruments, books and other items, including a blackboard that Einstein wrote on when he was giving a lecture at the university!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  The History of Science Museum is open Tuesday – Sunday from midday until 5pm and is free to visit, but donations are always welcome.

22. Wander through Jericho

One of the best free things to do in Oxford is to wander through the neighbourhood known as Jericho, which is located north of the city centre.

Jericho used to be an industrial area of Oxford, and was once home to the city’s Red Light District, but is now a really hip and happening area filled with pubs, bars, restaurants and shops. Many of the buildings are really colourful and if you wander along the canal you’ll see plenty of cool barges moored or sailing along.

This is one of the best parts of Oxford for nightlife and entertainment, make sure you also check out the arthouse cinema known as the Phoenix Picturehouse for something a little different.

23. See the unique wall decorations at Bear Inn

If you’re looking for more quirky stuff to do in Oxford, head to the Bear Inn for a drink or meal and to marvel at one of the weirdest wall decorations you’ll ever see in a pub!

In the 1950s, the landlord of the Bear Inn started an unusual tradition of swapping a snipped necktie from patrons in exchange for a beer, and today there are more than 4,500 of these neckties lining the walls of the pub.

You can’t get a beer in exchange for a tie anymore, unfortunately, but it’s a very neat spot to have a drink and see where each tie around the wall came from, as they all have labels to tell you about their origin.

24. Find Tolkien’s grave at Wolvercote Cemetery

Many fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit make the pilgrimage to Oxford, as this is where author J. R. R. Tolkien lived and worked for many years, as well as where he is now buried.

The grave of both Tolkien and his wife Edith is located in Wolvercote Cemetery, which is located a bit further north of Jericho. Their gravestone is also marked with the names Beren and Lúthien, who were two characters from Tolkien’s work with an epic love story, and he always referred to Edith as his Lúthien.

Aside from seeing this romantic memorial, Wolvercote Cemetery is really beautiful and quite unusual in that it accepts the burial of people from many different faiths.

25. Join a tasting tour at Oxford Artisan Distillery

I’ve mentioned some great bars in Oxford if you want a pint of beer, but if you prefer drinking spirits then you should visit the Oxford Artisan Distillery.

This is the first distillery in the city and they distill a variety of different drinks, including gin, whiskey, vodka and liqueurs. You can just visit the shop to purchase whatever takes your fancy or join one of their guided tours to see behind the scenes how they distill drinks from local grains.

26. Do a dreamy day tour of the Cotswolds

One of my favourite places to visit in England is a dreamy area known as the Cotswolds, famed for its storybook villages made of buttery limestone and postcard-perfect photo opps along every winding turn.

And while a day trip from London to see the Cotswolds is a bit too ambitious for my liking, Oxford makes a much closer base, giving you more time to ooh and ahh your way around all the most beautiful Cotswold towns and villages that the area has to offer.

The best way to explore the Cotswolds is definitely by car, because some of the most charming villages aren’t well served by public transport. Don’t worry though – there are plenty of day tours from Oxford that you can book which make this easy, even if you’re not planning on renting a car.

Click here to check prices and availability.

27. Venture out to Blenheim Palace

While not in Oxford proper, one of the most beautiful stately homes in England can be found a short bus ride away, so I had to include it!

Blenheim Palace is the only country house in England to bear the title of Palace, without belonging to a royal or a bishop and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it’s most famous for being the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, it’s simply stunning to visit here and wander through the opulent rooms pretending you’re a princess.

There’s also a magnificent English landscape garden surrounding the palace, complete with butterfly house and at Christmas, a pretty epic market and light show are held here as well!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  Check the  website  ahead of your visit for opening information, as the palace is occasionally closed for private events and opening times vary throughout the year. Tickets aren’t cheap, at 35.50 GBP for adults but they are valid for a year so you can visit more than once.

Did I Miss Any of Your Favourite Fun Things to Do in Oxford?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more Oxford activities to the list!

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• 17 of the Best Attractions You Must Visit in Oxford

Oxford is famed for its architectural beauty.

You should also read…

• 18 Great Ways to Enjoy the Summer in Oxford
• The Definitive Guide to Succeeding in Oxbridge Interviews

The legendary ‘ivory towers’ and ‘dreaming spires’ that epitomise this stunning city have often been portrayed in literature and film, and when you attend an Oxford Royale Architecture summer course , you’ll have the privilege of getting to know them for yourself.

In this article, we whet your appetite by introducing you to some of Oxford’s best-loved buildings.

1. Christ Church

Perhaps controversially, this is the only one of the Oxford colleges we’re going to include on this list, because otherwise it will turn into a just another list of Oxford colleges! Virtually all Oxford’s beautiful colleges are renowned for their stunning architecture, but Christ Church – founded in 1524 – is perhaps the most famous owing to its numerous appearances in popular film and television. The sight of ‘Tom Tower’, as its impressive entranceway is known, will be familiar to anyone who has seen the likes of The Golden Compass and Brideshead Revisited on the big screen, while its incredible dining hall has been immortalised as none other than the Hogwarts Great Hall in the much-loved series of Harry Potter films.

While it’s stood in for one of the world’s most famous eating halls, Christ Church – in which the cathedral that makes Oxford a city is located – is also noted for being the alma mater of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, also known as Lewis Carroll, who penned the childhood favourite Alice in Wonderland.

2. The Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera can only be described as Oxford’s most iconic building. Dominating the small cobbled square in which it’s found, this large, circular building was designed by James Gibbs and built in 1737-1749. Built in the English Palladian style, it forms part of the Bodleian Library complex. It houses mainly English, History and Theology books, and because it’s a working library, only students and scholars are admitted.

3. The Bodleian Library

While the Radcliffe Camera is off-limits to tourists, the nearby Bodleian Library buildings can be seen on one of its guided tours , and there’s an excellent gift shop too. The Bodleian – known colloquially as ‘The Bod’ – is the nerve centre of this vast library, which is a legal deposit library, meaning it’s entitled to a copy of every book ever published in the UK and Ireland. What you see above the ground constitutes only a small fraction of its overall holdings, which are housed in vast underground networks that few will ever be lucky enough to see. As you walk past the main entrance, you’ll see some huge wooden doors, which are adorned by the crests of all the Oxford colleges.

4. The Bridge of Sighs

Although it’s not really a building as such, no discussion of Oxford’s architecture would feel complete without some mention of the Bridge of Sighs. Completed in 1914, the Bridge of Sighs lies right opposite the entrance to the Bodleian Library, and connects two part of Hertford College (once the college of Brideshead Revisited author Evelyn Waugh). Famous for its similarity to the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, though not actually modelled on it, this one is a little more ornate and provides a popular photo opportunity for tourists, who pose on New College Lane beneath it.

5. The University Church

The University Church of St Mary the Virgin is flanked on one side by the High Street, and on the other by the cobbled Radcliffe Square. Though the building itself is worth exploring, the view from its lofty heights is the primary basis of its appeal. For a small fee, you can climb to the top of the spire and enjoy a 360 degree view over Oxford’s famous ‘dreaming spires’. There’s also a popular organic cafe, the Vaults and Garden, accessed via Radcliffe Square.

6. The Sheldonian Theatre

This unusually-shaped building was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and lies adjacent to the Bodleian Library. The building gets its name from the then-chancellor, the Archbishop of Canterbury Gilbert Sheldon. For most of the year it’s used as a concert venue, and in 2008 it was famously the venue of a speech by the Dalai Lama. However, at the start of the academic year it’s the scene of what’s called the Matriculation Ceremony: the centuries-old process all new Oxford students must go through in order to become an official member of the university. It also marks the end of a student’s academic career, as it’s where graduation ceremonies are held on special days throughout the year. Freshers and graduates have been passing through its doors since it was opened in 1669, making it one of Oxford’s most famous and prestigious venues.

7. The Ashmolean Museum

Famed for being the world’s oldest university museum, the Ashmolean Museum can be found on the corner of Beaumont Street and St Giles, and it’s free to go in. Its imposing Neo-Classical facade, part of the building designed by Charles Cockerell and dating from 1841-45, forms an appropriate entranceway to a collection that houses numerous priceless antiquities and works of art from around the world. Among the treasures you’ll find within are the lantern said to have been used by Guy Fawkes during the Gunpowder Plot, and the Arabic costume of Lawrence of Arabia.

8. The Museum of Natural History/Pitt Rivers Museum

On Parks Road you’ll find Oxford’s Museum of Natural History, Oxford’s answer to London’s more famous Natural History Museum. It’s part of the university and houses a superb collection of zoological and geological specimens, including fossils, stuffed animals, skeletons and geodes. It’s perhaps most famous for its dodo specimen, which comes all the way from the extinct bird’s home, the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. The imposing Gothic-style building housing all this was completed in 1861 by the Irish architects Thomas Newenham Deane and Benjamin Woodward. Newenham Deane’s son was to add the adjoining Pitt Rivers Museum to his father’s work a couple of decades later. The Pitt Rivers Museum is accessed only through the Museum of Natural History, and is noted for its original Victorian cases packed with anthropological curiosities from all over the world – including the revered shrunken heads from South America.

9. The Holywell Music Room

Said to be the oldest purpose-built music room in Europe, the Holywell Music Room was built in 1748 by the Vice-Principal of St Edmund Hall, Dr Thomas Camplin. Situated on Holywell Street, it’s part of nearby Wadham College, and has been the setting for performances from countless famous musical figures, most notably the composer Haydn. There are numerous free concerts held here throughout the year, making it a popular destination with fans of classical music.

10. Blackwell’s Bookshop

Blackwell’s Bookshop is as much an Oxford institution as some of the revered buildings we’ve already mentioned. The flagship Oxford store – now just one of dozens of branches across the country – began life as a shop measuring just 12ft square. These days it still looks tiny from the outside, but go in via either of its two entrances and you’ll soon discover that it opens out into an Aladdin’s Cave filled to the brim with books on every subject. Since its expansion into neighbouring shops, it’s now spread across several floors, and with a vast basement that goes down several more levels, it’s a building that constantly surprises with nooks and crannies. It’s very easy to get lost in it, and it’s even easier to come out clutching a stack of book purchases bigger than one can realistically carry.

11. Oxford Castle

With most of the focus in Oxford being on the university, it’s easy to forget that its history goes back further than the institution that dominates it. A reminder of this lies in the form of Oxford Castle, a partly-ruined Norman castle dating from the 11th century. It replaces an earlier moated motte and bailey castle on the same site. The castle was mostly destroyed in the English Civil War, and what was left of it became a prison, which occupied these buildings and then a set of new ones built from 1785 onwards. This was in use until 1996, when it was transformed into a luxury hotel.

12. The Examination Schools

An object of dread for many an Oxford student, the university’s Examination Schools have entrances on both the High Street at the front and cobbled Merton Street to the rear, the latter the scene every year of wildly jubilant celebration by stressed-out Oxford students who’ve just completed a gruelling run of Finals exams. As the name suggests, the Examination Schools are where the university’s formal exams take place, but during term time its purpose-built rooms are also used, in addition to lecture theatres in university departments across the city, for everyday lectures. The building itself was designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1882. These days, it’s a focal point for tourists, who aren’t allowed in but come to watch begowned Oxford students going in and out of their exams in May and June.

13. The Turf Tavern

With foundations dating from the 13th century, the famous Turf Tavern is a quaint old pub accessed by a narrow alleyway next to the Bridge of Sighs. Its outdoor seating area is as popular in the winter as it is in the summer, as it has a number of outdoor fires on which punters can toast marshmallows. If you only visit one pub during your time in Oxford, make it this one.

14. Carfax Tower

On the crossroads between the High Street, St Aldate’s, Cornmarket Street and Queen Street lies Carfax Tower, right in the heart of the city. In fact, many consider this to be the true centre of the city, and it’s the spot from which distances to other towns and cities are measured. The unusual name derives from the French word ‘carrefour’ – not just the name of the famous French supermarket chain, but the word for ‘crossroads’. It’s noted for its clock, which is a replica of the original church clock of 1676, featuring little figures who chime the bells every quarter of an hour. You can also climb to the top for another great view of Oxford’s dreaming spires.

15. The Grand Cafe

The Grand Cafe on Oxford’s High Street conjures up an atmosphere of old-world opulence. Popular with tourists and students alike, it’s known and loved for its elegant high teas during the day and sumptuous cocktails in the evening. Interestingly, the Grand Cafe was originally the site of England’s first coffeehouse, set up in 1652. Another coffeehouse, the Queen’s Lane Coffee House, lies exactly opposite, and was established just two years later.

16. Saxon Tower

The Saxon Tower of St Michael at the North Gate lies just off busy Cornmarket Street. So-called because this was the site of the northern gate in the days when Oxford had city walls, the church dates to around 1000-1050, while the tower is Oxford’s oldest building, dating from 1040. On display in the church tower is the cell door of the Oxford Martyrs, who were imprisoned in the adjoining Bocardo Prison before being burnt at the stake just outside the city walls, in what is now Broad Street.

17. The Ultimate Picture Palace

Oxford’s first purpose-built cinema was opened in 1911, and retains much of its traditional charm to this day, despite a long period of disuse after its owner was called up for active service during the war. Situated on Jeune Street in Cowley, it still uses old-fashioned raffle ticket-style cinema tickets and you queue up outside to get in. It’s a far cry from the Odeons that dominate the film scene in the city centre, and it’s as nostalgic a cinema experience as anybody could wish for.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this brief introduction to the rich tapestry of Oxford’s historic buildings. There is something of interest everywhere you look in this stunning city, and if you’ve been inspired to visit Oxford, why not join us this summer at our Oxford Summer School .

Image credits: banner ; Radcliffe Camera ; Bridge of Sighs ; Sheldonian , museums ; Blackwell’s ; Examination Schools ; Carfax Tower ; Saxon Tower . 

22 Fun Things to Do in Oxford In A Weekend

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: January 30, 2024

Oxford University City, known as the City of Dreaming Spires, is a must-visit place in the UK. Oxford is one of England’s most famous cities and is home to one of the world’s most prestigious university complexes and the oldest university in the English-speaking world.

There are many great things to see in Oxford besides the university colleges. With an ancient castle, world-class museums, a botanic garden, and filming locations for the Harry Potter films, there are many incredible Oxford attractions to explore.

One of the most popular things to do in Oxford is hop aboard a traditional Oxford punt and cruise along the River Cherwell as it winds through the city’s leafy green spaces.

Afterwards, stop off at one of the many first-class restaurants in Oxford or enjoy a cocktail (or two) at one of Oxford’s rooftop bars.

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Table of Contents

A History of Oxford

Oxford University is one of the oldest universities in the world and comprises 38 independent colleges, which visitors can find all over the city.

The first Oxford colleges opened their doors in the 13th century. Still, it wasn’t until the 1870s that women were allowed to study and take exams, and it wasn’t until 1920 that they were allowed to join the university formally, and then, only specific colleges!

The most well-known college is Christ Church, which has seen many famous figures pass through its doors, including J.R.R. Tolkien, Oscar Wilde, Indira Gandi, Winston Churchill, Edwin Hubble and the World Wide Web inventor Sir Tim Berners-Lee.

Whichever Oxford college you choose to see, you will be in for a treat.

Oxford Open Doors is an annual weekend event in September. Places not usually open to the public offer free entry to celebrate Oxford’s heritage and culture.

Getting to Oxford from London

Oxford is about 60 miles from London. It is easy to get to by car, coach or train from all directions.

Parking in central Oxford is difficult, so arriving by public transport is a great option.

Use  Thornhill Park and Ride OX3 8DP  and take the stress out of searching for a city centre parking space. It costs £12 to park for up to 72 hours (2022). (Ticket machines are by the terminal building).

Head to bus stop B and hop aboard the number 400 bus to the city centre. Disembark at the High Street / Cornmarket Steet junction, and from there, you can reach all of Oxford’s historic landmarks.

Please note that once you board the bus, you will need to pay for a separate bus ticket in addition to the parking fee.

By Train – Oxford train station is a 10-minute walk to the central shopping area. Trains from London Marylebone or Paddington take approximately one hour to reach Oxford.

Guided Tours from London to Oxford

How long do you need in oxford.

Three days in Oxford will allow you to see all of the attractions in the city centre with plenty of spare time to visit an Oxford attraction outside of the city – see ideas at the end of this post.

Two days in Oxford will give you ample time to visit all of its historic landmarks at your leisure.

If you can only spend one day in Oxford, you will still be able to see a lot of the city, but it will mean going at a fast pace. I suggest you join an organised Oxford walking tour to familiarise yourself with Oxford’s most famous landmarks.

If you only have one day in Oxford, my top picks are Christ Church College , Balliol College, and the Bodleian Libraries complex. Limiting the number of attractions in Oxford that you see will give you time to include a lunch stop and maybe a visit to Oxford’s famous Turf Tavern.

How to get around Oxford

Oxford is one of England’s most walkable cities, so I have grouped Oxford’s landmark attractions according to their location. The Official Oxford Tourist Board Walking Tour can be booked here .

Oxford students often run free walking tours that include all the juicy bits about life at Oxford. While it is a free tour, if you have enjoyed it, they will ask for a small donation (beer money) at the end; the amount is up to you.

Another fun way to see Oxford is to use Oxford’s Hop On Hop Off Bus , which is a quicker way of getting to see the best of Oxford if you are pressed for time.

And, of course, Oxford is called a cycling city for a good reason. You will see bikes chained up outside colleges all around the city, and this is one quick way to get around Oxford and its surrounding areas.

Why not hop on a bike tour and explore Oxford for yourself?

Best Oxford City Bike Tours

Accommodation in oxford.

On my 2-night trip to Oxford, I stayed at Vanbrugh House Hotel , a boutique heritage hotel in the city centre.

It has some great independent eateries on the same street and a great coffee shop next door! The hotel was perfectly placed, within walking distance of all the best attractions in Oxford.

For other places to stay in Oxford, please follow this link to Booking.com Oxford Hotels.

Best Attractions in Oxford

Visit the colleges of oxford university, starting with christ church.

Of all the colleges that make up Oxford University, Christ Church is probably the best known to visitors and should be first on your list of must-see attractions in Oxford.

It sits close to Oxford Castle and is one of the most prominent and grandest colleges. It also houses Oxford Cathedral and backs onto the beautiful Christ Church Meadow (the location of many messy end-of-year graduation ceremonies!)

One of the highlights of a visit to Christ Church is the grand dining hall, with its original masterpieces by Da Vinci.

And, if you are a fan of Harry Potter, you may also recognise the Bodley staircase, where Professor McGonagall greeted the new students to Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Tom Tower, built by Sir Christopher Wren, is also a famous landmark in Oxford.

His architectural masterpieces included St Paul’s Cathedral and smaller hidden gems in London, such as St Dunstan in the East .

The college hasn’t always been so liberal in opening its doors. It only accepted men into its enclaves until the rules changed in 1980. After that, women were allowed to apply to be students at Christ Church College.

That being said, the call role call is pretty impressive for the men who pass through its doors. It lists kings, politicians, and literary greats, including C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, among its fellowship.

Did you know?

Hogwarts Dining Hall was actually modelled after the Great Hall at Christ Church Oxford

Lewis Carroll was also a student at Christ Church. If you are a fan of Alice in Wonderland, there is a shop by Christ Church dedicated to the character.

A lovely cafe is next door with a view across the road to Christ Church College.

Go Punting On The River Cherwell

Punting on the River Cherwell in Oxford is one of the fun things to do in Oxford.

If gliding along the river with the sun on your face and the wind in your hair sounds like a good idea, there are several places where you can hop aboard a punt.

Magdalen Bridge is a 10-minute walk from Christ Church through Merton Field, home to Oxford Punting .

You can hire a punt, rowing boat, or pedalo here. Or why not take it easy and hire a ‘punt chauffeur’ to do the hard work for you?

Further away from Oxford’s central hub of attractions is Cherwell Boathouse , located in a beautiful riverside setting.

The 2 AA Rosette Cherwell Restaurant offers fine dining in the original Victorian boathouse.

Wander around the University of Oxford Botanic Garden

This is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world and, indeed, the oldest botanic garden in the UK.

The Oxford Botanic Garden was founded as a physics garden in 1621 to grow plants for medicinal research. Located next to Magdalen Bridge, it is a lovely place to visit – a quiet oasis to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre,

If you visit the gardens, look for sculptures depicting a crow from His Dark Materials and the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland, a nod to literary characters.

Castle District – Go Back In Time at Oxford Castle and Prison

Dating back over 1000 years, Oxford Castle is one of the oldest attractions in Oxford.

You can climb to the top of St George’s Tower for panoramic views of Oxford’s surrounding area. Or you can go underground to the candle-lit crypt and enter the 18th-century prison cells.

Outside, climb to the top of Castle Mound for skyline views. A small fee to climb the hill is payable at the gate. Honestly, you could miss this, as the views aren’t great.

Castle Quarter houses several chain restaurants and a unique place to stay in Oxford, the Malmaison Hotel . The hotel rooms are located in the converted castle prison!

Why not visit Oxford Castle on the city’s Hop On Hop Off Bus

Back yourself a bargain at Westgate Shopping Centre

Westgate Shopping Centre is very close to Oxford Castle. If you love shopping, you will find many high-street chains and designer labels at Oxford’s main shopping centre.

My main lure at Westgate was the range of Westgate rooftop restaurants with views over the city. If you are looking for things to do in Oxford at night, it’s good to come here to eat and see the city illuminated.

Climb the Carfax Tower

A five-minute walk from Oxford Castle is the Carfax Tower. This medieval stone tower dates back to the 12th century and is one of Oxford’s famous buildings to visit.

Visitors can climb the 99 steps to the top of the 23-metre bell tower for views over Oxford’s historic buildings and out to the countryside. There is a small entry fee of £3 (2022)

No building in Oxford is allowed to be built higher than the Carfax Tower

Shop at the historic Oxford Covered Market

Just across from Carfax Tower is the covered market. The marketplace dates back to the 18th century and is home to food vendors, craft sellers, and the usual ‘stuff’ you find at markets.

While it is part of Oxford’s unique history, it would not be very high on my list of things to do in Oxford.

Broad Meadow Area – Balliol College

Balliol College is arguably the oldest college in Oxford, founded in 1263.

It has stood on a single site (where it is now) longer than any other college in the English-speaking world.

Balliol is a stunning landmark in Broad Meadow, an area packed with restaurants, shops and the equally famous Bodleian Library complex.

It was founded in the 13th century but could easily be mistaken for a modern-day film set with its turreted roofs and whitewashed facade. The college welcomes visitors who wish to tour the buildings and beautiful gardens.

There is a small £3 entrance fee, and I recommend visiting this college. It was one of my favourite places to visit in Oxford.

Did you Know?

Past students of Balliol College include five Nobel laureates, four Prime Ministers, including Boris Johnson, and numerous philosophical and literary figures

Trinity College

Most people around the world have heard of Trinity College Oxford. This 16th-century college is another impressive place to visit and is next door to Balliol College. Check opening times here .

Trinity and Balliol Colleges are rivals and come together every summer for a tortoise race. Each college owns a tortoise and races them against each another – the winning tortoise is the victor for his (or her) college!

Visit the Bodleian Libraries

Opposite Trinity College is a complex of buildings known as the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe and the second-largest in Britain after the British Library.

Bodleian is not one single space; instead, it comprises several buildings, including Duke Humfrey’s Library and the Divinity School.

To get inside these spectacular buildings, daily ticketed tours of all or parts of the Bodleian Libraries can be booked online for guaranteed access.

On the day of my visit, all the tours had been sold, and I could only enter the Divinity School; even so, it was terrific.

The tours range from 30 to 90 minutes; however, the latter gives you underground access to the iconic Radcliffe Camera.

See where Harry Potter was filmed at the Divinity School

The Divinity School is a 15th-century medieval building used for lectures and discussions.

The intricate stone-carved ceiling is the main draw for visitors. It features 455 sculptural plaques representing coats of arms, initials, animals, and botanical elements.

Families that funded the construction of the Divinity School had their initials carved into the ceiling design, giving them eternal recognition.

At the end of the hall, you can see a Gothic wooden door leading to the Sheldonian Theatre.

This was added in the 17th century by Sir Christopher Wren to allow students to don their robes in the Divinity School and then proceed to graduate in the Sheldonian Theatre.

The Bodleian Library was used in the Harry Potter films. The elaborate fan-vaulted Divinity School became Hogwart’s infirmary and the medieval Duke Humfrey’s Library was used as the Hogwart’s library.

Book a Harry Potter Walking Tour with access to the Divinity School here

Attend an event at the Sheldonian Theatre

Listed as one of Oxford’s architectural jewels, The Sheldonian Theatre was built in the mid-17th century and designed by Sir Christopher Wren, of St Paul’s fame.

It is used for lectures, recitals and ceremonies for the matriculation and graduation of Oxford students.

The word matriculation means the formal process of entering a university, or of becoming eligible to enter by fulfilling certain academic requirements such as a matriculation examination

Tour the iconic circular Radcliffe Camera Library

Radcliffe Camera, or Rad Cam, as students call it, is one of the most photographed buildings in Oxford.

The iconic 18th-century circular building once contained the Radcliffe Science Library; today, it is the main reading room of the Bodleian Libraries.

Visitors must pre-book tours to look inside the Radcliffe Camera and enter the Bodleian Library. Book in advance as this is one of the best things to do in Oxford, and tickets sell out quickly.

Radcliffe Camera is linked to Old Bodleian Library by an underground passage called the Gladstone Link.

Walk beneath the Bridge of Sighs Oxford

Within a stone’s throw of Radcliffe Camera is Hertford Bridge, more commonly referred to as the Bridge of Sighs, a nod to the similarity of the landmark bridge in Venice .

The bridge is a walkway between two parts of Hertford College and crosses above New College Lane.

It’s a popular place in Oxford to take photographs, but that’s not all you can do here.

If you walk a little under the bridge with Rad Cam behind you, look for a narrow alley called St Helen’s Passage on your left-hand side.

Wander along the passage and will arrive at one of Oxford’s most famous pubs, The Turf Tavern, centuries-old and with an exciting history. Many famous people have frequented it, and it is an Oxford landmark for students and visitors.

Spot the ancient 200-year-old giant oak tree behind the Bridge of Sighs, that was featured during a duel between Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

The University Church of St Mary the Virgin is by the Radcliffe Camera. It is at the heart of spiritual life at Oxford University and welcomes all faiths.

Step inside and be wowed by the beautiful stained glass windows and interesting memorials dating from different centuries. Access to the church is free.

For a look at the Radcliffe Camera from a different perspective, visitors can climb to the top of the 13th-century church tower for a small fee. Booking is advisable .

Enjoy high tea at The Grand Cafe Oxford

Just across the road from St Mary’s Church is an Oxford institution, The Grand Cafe, one of the best places for afternoon tea in Oxford .

Supposedly, it was the first coffee house in England, according to an entry in the diary of Samuel Pepys. Whatever the history, it is a place heaped with character where you can have high tea in atmospheric surroundings.

Holywell Street

If you have time, wander away from the Bodleian Libraries and head down Holywell Street. This is where you will find a street of pastel-coloured houses occupied by students from some of the surrounding university colleges.

You will also encounter the 17th-century Bath Place Hotel – a fabulous place to stay in the heart of this historic city.

Christ Church College Buildings

College buildings tend to be dotted around the city. We stumbled on several more buildings associated with Christ Church College as we strolled through the roads surrounding the main college building and Cathedral.

Oxford University has had its own police force for 180 years. Nicknamed ‘bulldogs’ and famous for their bowler hats, they had powers to arrest anyone within four miles of a University building. They were finally disbanded in 2003.

Remember to grab a beer while you are nearby at Oxford’s oldest pub, The Bear Inn, which dates back to 1242.

Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum was founded in 1683, making it the world’s oldest public museum. The museum houses art and archaeology collections ranging from contemporary art to Egyptian mummies and aims to give visitors an insight into different cultures across the centuries.

The Ashmolean is huge, so it will take away a lot of sightseeing time. Nevertheless, it is one of the world’s most famous museums and deserves a look.

I stayed around an hour on my visit and wandered through several collections before finding an extremely interesting one.

A mummified Egyptian baby had been scanned using modern technology to be viewed as a 3D image – for me, fascinated by Ancient Egypt , this was a treat.

Before you leave, head to the Ashmolean Museum Rooftop Restaurant and Cafe, a lovely place to enjoy refreshments with a view across Oxford’s rooftops.

One of the Ashmolean Museum’s most famous objects is Guy Fawkes’s lantern, held by him on the night he tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament .

Visit the Oxford University Natural History Museum

If you love all things associated with palaeontology, this is one of the museums in Oxford you should visit.

On a much smaller scale than the Natural History Museum in London, this one still has its fair share of dinosaurs and other incredible natural subjects.

Check out Pitts River Musem

Once inside the Natural History Museum, you will also find the Pitt Rivers Museum, which is famous for its anthropology. It has over half a million specimens from all over the world and from all periods of human existence.

The museum’s interior is also worth seeing. Beautiful columns made from natural stone in many colours support the museum’s steel girders and glass roof.

When you have finished, enjoy refreshments from the Oxford artisan Horsebox Coffee Company, which is set up on the lawn in front of the museum.

Keble College

Opposite Pitts River Museum is one of the biggest colleges at Oxford University.

It was founded in 1870, and I had to capture an image of this beautiful building.

See inside St Johns College during Oxford Open Doors Weekend

One of the last colleges we visited was St John’s College, founded in 1555 and Oxford’s wealthiest college, with almost £600m of assets!

St John’s was open as part of Oxford Open Doors and, in my opinion, was the epitome of how I imagined Oxford University would be.

The college buildings were beautiful, crafted centuries ago by skilled stonemasons, and the site was eerily quiet. Bikes were parked in bays, and small doorways led up tiny stone stairwells to student and professor accommodations.

Seeing the names of students and professors on wooden boards outside each accommodation block probably sealed my time in Oxford.

There was no John Smith or Jane Green here; these were the names of people currently studying at Oxford and not a prop leftover from a Harry Potter film.

I can only imagine what it must be like to be tutored by Professor Batty and what roles Violet Elsworthy and Augustus Coningham will go on to hold in their lives!

As they say, Oxford really is another world!

Quirky Things To See In Oxford

As you wander around Oxford, look for quirky signs and sculptures!

Beyond the City of Oxford

A day trip to blenheim palace.

If you have a car with you, a thirty-minute drive from the city will take you to Blenheim Palace, sitting on the edge of the picturesque Woodstock in Oxfordshire. Buy entrance tickets online for Blenheim Palace to avoid the queues.

The 300-year-old Blenheim Palace is a Unesco World Heritage site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, who, unsurprisingly, went on to study at Christ Church College!

The Blenheim Estate is still the country residence of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and is one of England’s most famous stately homes.

A five million pound solid gold toilet sculpture was stolen from Blenheim Palace in 2019 and has never been recovered!

If you travel without a car, you can book a guided day tour of Blenheim Palace from Oxford.

Shop until you drop at Bicester Designer Outlet

Shop till you drop at this fashionista heaven in Oxfordshire, 25 minutes from Oxford city centre. Gucci, Fendi, Burberry and the like will have you parting with your cash at an alarming rate as you wander the 160 boutique stores in this village.

If you are more of a Marks and Spencer girl, this one might not be for you!

Bicester Designer Outlet is billed as the second most visited location in the United Kingdom by Chinese tourists, after Buckingham Palace!

Visit the Cotswolds

With so many things to do in the Cotswolds, you can combine a city break in Oxford with a stay in a beautiful Cotswold cottage to experience the English countryside.

A leisurely one-hour drive from the city centre, you will arrive in Broadway, one of Cotswolds’ prettiest villages. Or stop off at Castle Combe , an idyllic Cotswold village with a historic main street and a pretty stream running through it.

If you prefer to take a guided tour of the Cotswolds from Oxford, you can book several Cotswold day tours.

Oxford represents everything wonderful about England. Its historic architecture, incredible museums, and stunning countryside are all found in Oxford. What more could you want?

I hope you have found this post helpful in planning your trip to Oxford. If you have, I would love you to let me know by commenting below.

Pin For Future Travel to England

Are you looking for other places in England to see historic landmarks? Please check out the following posts:

Visit Historic Fountains Abbey Ruins and Studley Royal Gardens in Yorkshire

Discover the Medieval Ruins of Waverley Abbey

Visit Bayham Old Abbey in Tunbridge Wells Kent

Top Things to Do in Faversham: Kent’s Oldest Market Town

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Saturday 26th of March 2022

very informative, thanks! I love all the references to Harry Potter. I’m hoping to take my granddaughters to the UK in the next few years and I know they’d love to see the HP locations.

WhereAngieWanders

Sunday 27th of March 2022

I do hope you all get to visit Oxford, I am confident you will all love it.

JenniferMostert

Thank you for this lovely stroll down memory lane. I spent a week here, many years ago, soaking in the architectural beauty and joy of learning that feels imbued in the very walls of Oxford.

Thursday 24th of March 2022

Would love to visit Oxford someday. The architecture alone makes it incredible... and the kids would be all over the Harry Potter filming site!

It is a great place to visit with something for all ages.

Oxford looks beautiful, and it seems like there is so much to see and do there! The Oxford Botanical Gardens really caught my eye, and I'd love to see the inspiration behind the Hogwarts Dining Hall. I'll have to take a weekend trip here the next time I'm in London. Thank you for sharing!

I am so glad you enjoyed the post and it has highlighted to you what a great place Oxford is to visit.

Jen Nilsson

Wednesday 23rd of March 2022

This is a seriously comprehensive guide! Thank you so much! I'm saving it for later because I always manage to spend all my much time in London without getting to Oxford. Next time!

You won't be sorry! Oxford is such a quick journey from Oxford but very different.

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A Day Trip To Oxford: Things to Do in Oxford for a Day

Last updated: April 19, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 15 Comments

I spent a good deal of my childhood in Oxford, and it has long been one of my favourite cities in the UK. As you can imagine, we’ve explored the city in great detail! In today’s post, I want to help you plan your own day trip to Oxford, with a guide to all our favourite things to do in Oxford.

Being so close to London, Oxford makes for a popular day trip from the English capital. I t’s only an hour by rail from central London, with trains running regularly. So it’s easy enough to stay in London and just visit Oxford for the day. Oxford is also very compact and easy to get around, so you’ll be able to take in a good many highlights in a day.

Of course, there’s plenty to do for more than just a day if you’d prefer to spend longer in Oxford, so I’ve also included some tips on accommodation for a longer stay as well.

Here are some ideas for things to do on an Oxford day trip, based on both our recent visit and my previous experience living there. There’s also a section on how to get to Oxford from London to help you plan.

Things to do in Oxford on a Day Trip

Here’s a list of all our favourite things to do in Oxford which you should be able to do in a day trip from London, or other nearby location.

1. Take a walking tour

One thing Jess and I did this time round that was different to my previous visits was to take an official walking tour. This was an excellent way to get oriented (I always get lost in Oxford, the place is a maze!), learn about some of the history of the city, as well as see some University Colleges, of which there are many!

We took the Official University and City Tour , which started at the visitor centre and which is run by the official Oxford Tourism Board. Tours run a number of times a day, and are led by  licensed blue badge guides, which means they really know their stuff.

The tour lasted a couple of hours, with our guide taking us to some of the highlights of Oxford, including the covered market, the high street, the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library and of course, a number of the university colleges.

It was excellent value for money, and a wonderful way to quickly get a handle on the layout of Oxford, the history of the town, and to learn more about the university colleges. We also went in to a number of the universities, and were given advice and tips as to which ones we should come back to to visit independently.

Finally, our last port of call was the optional Divinity School, a stunning building which also doubled up as the location for the Hogwarts Sanatorium in the Harry Potter movies.

Film buffs will know that Oxford was featured in many of the Harry Potter films – see our guide to Harry Potter filming locations for more of these. Plus you can take a specific Harry Potter walking tour if that’s what you are interested in.

All in all, a very worthwhile couple of hours of exploration! If you’re interested in doing a walking tour of Oxford, this is a link to the tour we took  so you can book in advance now.

Alternatively, you can also take a tour of Oxford which is led by an Oxford student , which is a fun way to get more of an insight into what life here is like as a student. These tours cover similar ground and last around the same amount of time – you can see the reviews and book online here .

2. Visit the University Colleges

We visited a number of the colleges on our walking tour, and they are just stunning. Our guide had given us some ideas as to which we could visit by ourselves, including some of his personal favourites, and I would very much recommend setting aside a bit of time to explore the colleges by yourself.

A little bit about Oxford University. One of the oldest Universities in the world, Oxford University is made up of thirty eight colleges, each of which is independently governed. There’s no campus, with all the colleges, halls, faculties and departments set throughout the city centre.

Visiting the colleges is a bit hit and miss depending on the time of year. In addition, some of the colleges (notably Christchurch), do charge an entry fee. Since opening times vary depending on the time of year and the exam schedule, your best bet is to draw up a shortlist of colleges you would like to visit, and pop into the porter’s office for each college to see if it’s open. The porter’s office is pretty much always at the entrance, and we found that they were always more than happy to help us out.

We visited a number of the colleges, including David’s College, Exeter College and Trinity College. I particularly liked the chapel at Exeter College, arguably one of the most picturesque of all the college chapels, and the gardens at Trinity College was also gorgeous to walk in.

Christchurch, which is generally regarded as one of the more spectacular colleges, was unfortunately closed on the day we visited, but if it’s open when you’re in town, I’d highly recommend popping by.

3. Go Punting

Punting is a classic pastime in Oxford, and one that is best enjoyed over a lengthy period of time, where you can learn how to actually do it, and maybe even reach a pub somewhere on your journey.

I’ve punted a few times before, but usually in the company of a competent punting friend. On this visit, it was just Jess and I, so I was given the task of figuring out how to make the boat move along the river in the direction I wanted it to go.

After a slightly confusing start where I confused the front and back of the punt, and following some helpful advice from the punt house as to my technique, we set off upstream, with the theory being that this would make for an easier return journey. I settled into a vaguely efficient rhythm, managing to avoid both the riverbanks and other punters, and we had a lovely time, even if we didn’t get quite far enough to find a pub.

For punting, I’ve always gone with the Cherwell Boathouse . It’s a great location, there are pubs in both directions, and they have a lovely bar and restaurant on-site if you don’t quite make it the half hour upstream that’s required to find a pub. We went this time, and were thankful for the friendly service and helpful punting advice! Punts are hired either by the hour, or the day, with the most up to date prices on their website.

4. Imbibe a Beverage

If you struggle to punt your way to a pub, don’t worry. Oxford has no shortage of fantastic watering holes, with some personal favourites including The Eagle & Child (popular with Tolkien), The White Horse, the Lamb and Flag, and the King’s Arms.

At the top of my list though is The Turf Tavern . A little tricky to find, being as it is down a tiny alley just next to the Bridge of Sighs, if you’re struggling just find a local to give you directions. This is one of the oldest pubs in Oxford, and has a lovely outdoor beer garden as well as plentiful indoor seating and a wide selection of beers as well as food.

It’s popular with University students, and has had it’s fair share of famous faces over the years, including former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, who downed a yard of ale in 11 seconds. Not as easy as it sounds. Other famous visitors include Bill Clinton, and legend has it that it was at the Turf Tavern that he “did not inhale”. Whatever you think of that story, you’re bound to love this venue.

5. Visit Oxford Castle

If you are travelling with children, they’ll likely love a visit to Oxford Castle . Originally built in the 10th century, the castle served first as the main defensive centre of the town, back when castles were genuinely useful for that, before being used as a prison from around the 14th century.

Whilst much of the original castle was destroyed in the English Civil War, the parts that survived were incorporated into Oxford’s official prison, and stayed that way until 1996, when it was concluded that it probably wasn’t the most modern of prison constructions, and decommissioned.

Now, the surviving castle complex serves a number of functions, with part of it being a hotel. As a visitor wanting to learn more about the history though, you’ll want to take an Oxford Castle Unlocked tour, which gives you access to the Motte (a big earth mound), St George’s Tower, the crypt and parts of the prison.

The tour, which ran for around half an hour, largely comprised St George’s tower, and was performed by a character actor who assumed the role of King Stephen. From him, we learnt all about the history of the tower and it’s various uses, as well as some notable characters who had been held here.

We also got to go up on the roof of the tower itself, which had great views over the city. After the tour was complete, we were able to explore the prison, where we got a bit of an insight into prison life over the years, which looked pretty miserable! You can buy tickets online here .

6. Climb the University Church

Regular readers will know that one of my favourite ways to see a city is from above, usually by finding a nice tower and climbing to the top of it. It turns out that even in all my years living around Oxford I had never found a suitable tower, which was a bit of a failing as it turns out there’s an excellent view to be had from the top of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin , which is right next to the Radcliffe Camera.

It’s a bit of a climb to the top, and there’s an entry fee of £4, but the view is more than worth both the effort and expense.

Practicalities for Visiting Oxford

Where to stay in oxford.

If you want to stay in Oxford for longer than a day, there are plenty of options in Oxford for accommodation to suit the majority of budgets.

We stayed a little way outside of the city centre at the peaceful Hawkwell House Hotel , found in Iffley Village. This is just a short taxi ride from Oxford City centre, or a ten minute bus ride. It’s also walkable via a lovely riverside footpath.

Our room was very comfortable, and the included English breakfast was of course appreciated. Other details like free wi-fi and luggage storage rounded out a solid offering.

If you’d prefer to be more central, there are lots of options for city centre accommodation in Oxford – check out the booking.com listings for Oxford here to get yourself started.

How to Get To Oxford from London

Oxford is very easy to get to, being served by trains and buses, and of course by car. There are direct trains from London Paddington to Oxford multiple times an hour – if you get one of the fast trains the journey time is around an hour.

Avoid the local trains which stop at more than four stations on the route, as this can make the journey more like two hours! We recommend the  Trainline   website for advanced booking reservations – we’ve tried most of the train booking sites in the UK and the Trainline is our favourite for ease of use.

Always book train tickets in advance of your travel for the best prices in the UK, and opt to either have them delivered to your mobile device, or to pick them up from the station, to save on postage fees.

There are also buses to Oxford from the centre of London, Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport and Stanstead Airport, as well as many other destinations around the UK.

Buses (also known as coaches) in the UK are usually a little bit cheaper than the train, although they do take a bit longer. We recommend Megabus for bus travel, see their prices and book in advance for the best deals here .

If you’d prefer to drive yourself, Oxford is between 60 and 90 minutes drive from London. If you’re visiting Oxford as part of my detailed two week UK itinerary , then you’ll know that a hire car is my preferred method of getting around the country, giving you more flexibility and control over your trip. We recommend searching for your car rental on Discover Cars here . They compare a range of providers so you can find the best deal for your trip.

Finally, if you want to just visit Oxford as part of a tour and let someone else handle all the logistics, there are a number of tours you can take from London. Here are a few options to choose from:

• A tour of Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford . This is a full day out, and means you’ll see a number of popular English attractions
• A tour of Oxford, Stonehenge & Windsor   – another full day of some of the most popular attractions you can visit from London
• A tour of Oxford and the Harry Potter Studios – two popular destinations that you can visit in a day from London
• A tour of Oxford and some of the stone villages of the Cotswolds

As you can see, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to options for visiting Oxford as a day trip from London, as well as trips incorporating some other popular destinations.

Further reading

We’ve got lots of resources to help you plan your trip to the UK, from posts we’ve written ourselves to third party content we’re happy to recommend. Here it is:

• If you’re planning a trip around the UK, I have both a one week itinerary of the UK and a two week UK Itinerary for you to check out.
• For budget planning, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK
• Our guide to things to do in Cambridge , another popular day trip from London
• A two day Edinburgh Itinerary & 21 Highlights in Edinburgh
• A 2 Day Glasgow itinerary
• Looking for an epic Scottish road trip? Take a look at our guide to the North Coast 500
• A guide to 10 of the best Stately Homes in England , to give you some ideas as you plan your itinerary
• Essential Sight-Seeing in London
• The Best Photography Locations in London
• Tips on Buying and Using the London Pass
• Eight Things to Do in Kensington
• Visiting Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds as a day trip from London
• 20 Things To Do in Dublin
• A Guide to Touring the Scottish Borders
• If you want a physical (or digital!) book to accompany your travels, then we suggest the Oxford Insight Guide

So you know: we partnered with Visit Britain for our trip to Oxford, who covered our accommodation, walking tour, punting trip and Oxford Castle visit. As always, opinions remain our own – check out our code of ethics for our disclosure policy.

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There are 15 comments on this post

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SITI MAHINA BINTI ABDUL MANAP says

7th September 2023 at 9:01 am

Tq for the post.Really helpful.Will fly over to London mid December 2023.Any tips on how it’s like in winter?

Laurence Norah says

8th September 2023 at 8:13 am

My pleasure. So in December the UK in general is relatively cold, although this will depend on where you are coming from. Expect temperature to be between freezing and around 10C, with rain likely. The days will also be quite short at this time of year, sunrise in mid-December is around 8am, and sunset is just before 4pm.

As long as you dress appropriately though, with warm layers and a waterproof coat or umbrella, you will be fine. Most cities and towns will have nice Christmas lights and other festivities going on at this time of year, like CHristmas markets, so it can be a lovely time to visit.

I’d suggest reading our UK packing list guide for some tips on what to bring 🙂

Have a great trip!

Isabelle Martinez says

5th November 2019 at 3:44 pm

Very interesting post. Exactly what I need to plan a day trip to Oxford on my next stay in London.

6th November 2019 at 9:02 am

Thanks very much – have a great trip!

Tania Fonseca says

4th April 2019 at 12:37 pm

Thank you for such a helpful guide full of great ideas! Can’t wait to visit Oxford next month and follow your tips. Wish you all the best!

4th April 2019 at 1:13 pm

Our pleasure Tania! Have a great trip – let us know if you have any questions!

6th February 2019 at 1:27 am

I am planning my first trip to the UK (not London- done that). Came upon your blog and really enjoy the frankness and especially the beautiful photos.

6th February 2019 at 10:31 am

Thanks Linda 🙂 Have a great trip and do let us know if you have any questions!

23rd January 2019 at 5:31 pm

Thankyou for a lovely reminder of my home city of Oxford. I have not been home for 23 years ( it’s still home to all of my family, I’m the only one who moved more than 3 miles away) I miss my home city , even though I love my adopted country (USA) it doesn’t have the grandeur and rich history of England.

23rd January 2019 at 9:08 pm

Our pleasure Marie! We hope you get to make it “home” at some point soon 😀

27th November 2018 at 5:34 pm

I tried punting in Oxford and it’s so much harder than it looks >< You need to have a good core and strong arms for that! Well done for finding the front and back of the punt Laurence!

27th November 2018 at 6:19 pm

Thanks Alice! It is definitely a lot harder than it looks, and I have to say we didn’t go in an exactly straight line for most of our voyage 😉

Divya Nelson says

23rd March 2018 at 5:50 am

Thank you for such a lovely, picturesque guide to Oxford . I loved it thoroughly.

23rd March 2018 at 3:10 pm

My pleasure Divya – thanks for your kind comment!

curtis lau says

29th October 2016 at 8:59 am

Thanks for the introduction of the Oxford. Good insight.

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Oxford is the perfect place to learn how to row. Here are the best options for private or group rowing classes, events, and activities.

The Cake Shop

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The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Oxford

By: Author Char Taylor

Categories UK

I love reading travel blogger’s advice and guides to places when I’m planning a trip, so I thought I’d round-up some of the best based on Oxford; a UK city that you really, really need to visit.

In my humble opinion the beautiful city of Oxford doesn’t really need any introductions. It has it all; quirky pubs, hidden lanes, iconic buildings, both high street stores and independent boutiques, Harry Potter magic (yes, that’s a thing), awesome cocktail spots, glam spots, hip hangouts…need I go on?!

I lived in the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ for a little bit, got married there and regularly head back for an Oxford-fix. I can’t recommend it enough.

Don’t just take my word for it though; these fellow travel bloggers have lots of praise for the city and loads of ideas for your next trip to Oxford.

Oxford is just over an hour or so from London or Birmingham, so it’s a really easy option for a weekend break (and you know how we feel about those weekenders here at The Travel Hack!).

Oxford City Guides

Okay it’s one of our own guides, but it’s handy one! In this post we share our top picks for that perfect weekend in Oxford. We’ve listed both save and splurge options, so you can tailor the trip for your own visit.

Rosie shares a snippet of her visit to the city. This post includes loads of gorgeous photos (what else would you expect from The Londoner?!) that will have you lusting for your own Oxfordian adventure.

Emily shares her itinerary for a short break in Oxford. If you’re tight on time, but want to get a good taste of the city then this guide is for you. Emily also includes some really good tips for scoring a tour of the Bodleian Library.

Short on time? If you can’t spare a whole weekend, but still want to visit Oxford you could pack a lot into just one day like Chloe. This guide includes a handy tip for enjoying great views above the city.

This guide is themed around Alice in Wonderland. If you’re a fan of the book, this particular guide is for you. It includes lots of the iconic sites and references from Lewis Carol’s Alice in Wonderland.

I wrote this guide for my own site. What can I say? I just love this city! I’ve included tips on where to stay, what to see and do and importantly, where to eat. This guide is essentially an itinerary for a great weekend in Oxford.

This blog post shares a little of what you can expect in the city, including rough budgets/prices. If you’re watching your pennies it’s worth having a look at his guide.

If you’re more of a visual person this post is for you. It’s full of loads of photos of Oxford from the guys at Hand Luggage Only.

I love the name of this blog, but that’s not all to love. This post contains lots of gorgeous photos of the city, as well as some tips for your own trip. I second the recommendation Gee’s.

Where to Stay

Want to wake up to a view like this? Stay in this famous historical hotel and you can enjoy that and more.

For the ultimate Harry Potter experience you need to stay in one of the colleges. Emily did just that and you can read all about it in this review.

Lucy shares what it’s like to sleep behind bars. No really! If you’re looking for a stylish, quirky stay this one is definitely worth reading.

Not convinced? Lauren shares her luxurious stay at this stylish spot too. Just check out that bath (and mandatory champagne!).

Where to Eat and Drink

If you can’t afford to stay at this hotel it’s still worth visiting for the food and probably more so the cocktails. The drinks menu is massive.

What to See and Do

Another one of my posts – see I told you I love this city! I’ve rounded up seven of my fave things to do and see in Oxford. If you only do one thing, it’s surely got to be punting?!

Planning a trip to Oxford? Pin this post for later!

Sunday 26th of June 2022

Thanks so much for all this links to these Oxford posts! We plan a long awaited trip to Oxford as our base for 14 days in the UK in September. Our September 2020 trip had to be cancelled for obvious reasons I care not to mention. :) We want to make the most of our days and trust bloggers for tips. https://happywonderer.com/

The 7 best things to stream this weekend, from a new Netflix show about teen ghosts to a Bon Jovi docuseries

• Check out new shows like "Dead Boy Detectives" this weekend.
• The finale of FX's "Shōgun" and a Bon Jovi docuseries are streaming now too.
• There's also a new season of "MILF Manor" for reality fans.

Remember that controversial reality show last year where eight older women were looking for love among a pool of eight much younger men who just so happened to be the sons of those women? Well, it's back for a second season and somehow even messier than before.

On the opposite end of the reality spectrum is "We're Here," a heartwarming HBO reality show about the transformative power of drag.

There are also several new documentaries out this weekend, including one about Bon Jovi and another about a Chilean doomsday cult.

Here's a complete rundown of all the best movies, shows, and documentaries to stream this weekend, broken down by what kind of entertainment you're looking for.

FX's epic historical drama 'Shōgun' aired its finale this week

FX hasn't addressed whether "Shōgun" will get a second season , though it's unlikely given that the source material — James Clavell's 1975 novel of the same name — was used in its entirety for the first season.

But whether it continues or not, the series, set in Edo-era Japan, is an absolute triumph and well worth a watch. With 99% on Rotten Tomatoes , it's shaping up to be one of the best-reviewed new shows of 2024 .

Streaming on: Hulu

The new season of 'MILF Manor' is a must for fans of ultra-messy reality TV

Like I said above, it's moms dating sons (no, not their own sons).

TLC also teased an added twist in the new season that promises to make this outing even more deranged than the last.

Streaming on: Hulu Live TV

Or, for a more wholesome and heartwarming reality TV watch, check out 'We're Here'

In "We're Here," an uplifting, "Queer Eye"-type of reality show, famous drag queens travel to small-town America where they adopt a "drag daughter" for a makeover.

But it's not just about glam hair, makeup, and outfits — the queens are helping their daughters to be their most authentic selves, confronting bigotry, and helping foster connection in historically closed-minded communities.

Streaming on: Max

True crime fans should tune into 'The Doomsday Cult of Antares de la Luz'

In this new Netflix documentary, former members of a Chilean cult speak out about their experiences — which apparently included human sacrifice.

Streaming on: Netflix

Or for a fictionalized take on a real murder case, try 'The Asunta Case'

"The Asunta Case" is a drama based on a shocking, real-life murder case in Spain.

In 2013, Rosario Porto and Alfonso Basterra reported their adopted daughter, Asunta, missing. Her body was found by the side of the road hours later, and authorities eventually zeroed in on the parents as the perpetrators of the crime.

If you want a new supernatural YA show to binge, check out 'Dead Boy Detectives'

Neil Gaiman might not care that much about creating a larger "Sandman" universe at Netflix, but we sure do. The latest series based on one of Gaiman's comics, "Dead Boy Detectives," follows two ghosts named Edwin Paine and Charles Rowland, who opt to stay on Earth to investigate crimes with a supernatural bent.

Music fans should check out 'Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story'

The four-part docuseries is a definitive telling of Bon Jovi's 40-year journey . It features intimate access to the band members, decades of personal videos, and never-before-seen photos. The doc kicks off in February 2022, following lead singer Jon Bon Jovi's vocal injury that derailed the band's future.

Disclosure: Mathias Döpfner, CEO of Business Insider's parent company, Axel Springer, is a Netflix board member.

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.