oxford travel map

Oxford Travel Guide (Practical tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our Oxford Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most famous university cities in the world. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Oxford!

Plan your visit to Oxford

Located only 60 miles (90 km) north-west of London in the county of Oxfordshire is the city of Oxford, home to arguably the world’s most famous and prestigious university.

Nicknamed the ‘City of Dreaming Spires” Oxford is a compact city with many of its main sights situated close to each other.

Oxford is one of England’s most beautiful cities and a popular day trip from London easily reached by train from the capital. Plan to spend the day exploring the University’s famous colleges, magnificent medieval buildings & museums.

What you will find in this complete Oxford Travel Guide

Map of Oxford

When is the best time of year to visit oxford, how many days do you need in oxford, what is the best way to explore oxford, which city should i visit – oxford or cambridge, by train from london, by car from london, take a tour from london to oxford, attractions and things to do in oxford and the surrounding area, accommodation in oxford, tickets, tours & attractions in oxford, best day trips from oxford, books to read before visiting oxford, enjoy your visit to oxford.

Oxford travel guide – Visiting Oxford FAQ’s

Oxford is a beautiful destination whatever time of year you plan to visit.

The summer months are busy with visitors from the UK and abroad flocking to explore the sights.

If you plan to stay in Oxford we recommend booking accommodation in advance during peak season.

During the winter Oxford is quieter but a truly magical experience when frost or snow covers the city.

Spring heralds in blossom-covered trees and colourful flowers across the city whilst visitors during the Autumn will be greeted by multi-coloured leaf displays of golds and reds. Oxford is simply stunning whenever you choose to visit.

It is possible to see the main sights and attractions of Oxford in a day but if you are an art or history lover we recommend 2 days to fully explore the cities museums and colleges.

Oxford is also a great base for further exploration of Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds by car or tour.

The historic centre of Oxford is easy to explore on foot. Alternatively consider buying tickets on the Oxford hop-on-hop-off bus tour and enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 or 48 hours.

I would say visit both if you can fit them into your itinerary. Both cities have their own unique charms.

Oxford is the larger city and has lots of things to see and do so could easily fill 2 days if you wish to explore all its colleges and museums. It is also the perfect destination to visit if you are considering a road trip to the Cotswolds. If you are a Harry Potter fan head to Oxford where you will find several film locations used in a number of the movies.

Cambridge is a smaller city than Oxford. There is less to do and see but it is a beautiful and easy city to explore in a day and well worth visiting. Enjoy a stroll along the river Cam, try punting, and enjoy the cities stunning architecture. Read more about Cambridge in my Cambridge Travel Guide .

As I have mentioned both cities are doable day trips from London by train. If you only have one day and want to see both cities take this Oxford & Cambridge Day Tour from London .

What is the best way to travel to Oxford from London?

Oxford is an easy day trip from London but with so much to do and see it is worth considering spending a few days there to fully appreciate the city.

It is also the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Cotswolds . The UNESCO World Heritage listed Blenheim Palace is also close to Oxford.

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Oxford for the day or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

• Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour
• Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Although located only 54 miles and an hour drive from London I recommend taking the train! Oxford is one of the least car-friendly cities in the UK and it is not worth the hassle if you can avoid it.

If you are planning to visit Oxford as part of a UK road trip and it is your first destination after London I recommend travelling to Oxford by train and picking up a rental car at the station.

If you are travelling to Oxford by car from other UK destinations note that car parking in the city centre is limited and expensive. 5 Park and Ride sites are available if you plan to visit for the day but do take into consideration the additional time you will need. Alternatively, if you plan to stay for longer book accommodation which includes parking.

There are many day tours available which include Oxford in their itinerary. If you are pushed for time we recommend considering booking a tour from London to see the highlights of the city.

• Day Trip to Highclere Castle and Oxford – Relive scenes from Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle, set in 1000 acres of beautiful countryside, followed by a visit to the university city of Oxford.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages Day Trip – Escape the hustle and bustle of London and spend the day exploring the historic city of Oxford and the traditional stone villages of the Cotswolds. Travel in comfort through the countryside on a small group tour with a knowledgeable guide.
• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford Day Tour from London – Depart London for a magical day out on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour–The Making of Harry Potter, followed by a visit to the University of Oxford. The full-day trip includes admission to the studio tour and a professional guided walk in Oxford.
• Warwick Castle, Stratford, Oxford & Cotswolds Day Trip – Discover Oxford on a guided walking tour from London. Visit Stratford-upon-Avon to see William Shakespeare’s birthplace as well as his schoolroom and guildhall. Explore inside Warwick Castle.

Click the links for more information about the best things to do in Oxford plus places we recommend visiting in the surrounding area.

ONE DAY IN OXFORD ITINERARY – BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO

COTSWOLDS TRAVEL GUIDE

VISITING BLENHEIM PALACE

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN OXFORD

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

There are numerous walking tours of Oxford available. Choose the tour that interests you the most – for fans of Inspector Morse and Harry Potter there are excellent themed tours available.

If you prefer to tour the city with a university graduate this is also possible and a great way to learn about life for students at this hallowed university.

• University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide – Learn about life at the prestigious university from your student guide. This tour is also available as a private walking tour if you prefer to customise your tour.
• Making of Harry Potter Tour – Explore Oxford through the eyes of Harry Potter and other characters from the Harry Potter movies on a 1.5 to 2-hour tour. Discover how student life at Hogwarts compares with an Oxford education. Test your knowledge with a Potter-mania quiz.
• Morse, Lewis and Endeavour Walking Tour of Oxford – Follow in the footsteps of the fictional Inspector Morse and his sidekick Lewis on a TV locations tour of Oxford. See sites from the books and TV shows created by the author Colin Dexter.
• Private Punting Trip with Optional Walking Tour – Enjoy a relaxing 1-hour outing on the river and learn all about Oxford university, student life, and its proud rowing traditions. Have the option to also add on a guided walking tour afterward.

Oxford is the perfect base for day trips to surrounding areas including the Cotswolds and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace.

I have handpicked the best tours available from Oxford through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy)

• Cotswold Explorer Full-Day Tour – Take an unforgettable drive through the glorious Cotswolds, visiting sleepy stone villages, hidden valleys, and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy hearing the history and stories of the old wool and market towns and browsing in the quirky shops and cafes.
• Cotswolds & Blenheim Palace Small-Group Tour – Meander through the quaint villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, and explore the rich history of Blenheim Palace.
• Blenheim Palace Guided Tour – Enjoy a guided tour of one of England’s most famous palaces and gardens and home to the Churchill family and Duke of Marlborough. Learn about the events which led to the creation of Blenheim Palace. Enjoy a private tour for a maximum of 4 persons.

Oxford is proud of its literary heritage and connections with many famous authors who have studied or taught at one of its colleges. To fully appreciate and enjoy your visit to Oxford we recommend reading some of their works.

These include

• Lewis Carroll
• Oscar Wilde
• JRR Tolkien
• John Betjeman
• Philip Pullman

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Oxford. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Liverpool Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary & map)
• York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has lots of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

Home > Articles > Enjoying Oxford

Oxford Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Plan a Visit at Your Own Pace

Oxford is a gem of a town. There’s so much to see, and you can visit practically all of their attractions on foot. This is why walking tours are an excellent option for those coming to Oxford. Some will choose to have a guide, while others might prefer to explore the city, its University museums and sights at their own rhythm . We’ve created these maps to help you do exactly that. Below, you will find free walking tour maps (you can download them to your phone if you prefer) to see all that Oxford has to offer. Pubs and restaurants? We got it. Colleges and libraries? Of course! How about a bit of shopping or a Harry Potter-themed adventure? Look no further. 

(Want to see a self-guided walking tour for Oxford Museums only? Check this link ). 

Oxford Basic Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

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Let’s start with a quick overview of the town. This walking tour is perfect for those visiting Oxford for just a few hours. It is a leisurely tour that should give you a great idea of what the town is all about. There are two paths I like to do myself when walking around Oxford:

In pink : Start from the train station or bus station and make your way to the centre of the city. This short walk should take about 30 minutes to an hour at a relaxed walking pace – and cover the best attractions in Oxford: Its colleges, churches, museums, and shops.

In purple : If the day is nice and you have an extra 40 minutes, you can also walk down St Aldate’s and into Christ Church meadow, where you will be able to relax in the shade and see the famous Cherwell river. Make your way back north through the Botanic Garden path and enter the city through the east, where you will see some of the oldest colleges of the university. 

Let’s go into a little more detail if you want to do the short (or pink) self-guided walking tour. 

• Arriving at the train or bus station, walk down George Street. If you are already hungry, this is the perfect opportunity to grab a bite, as there are several restaurants and bars here. If not…
• Continue walking until you reach St Michael at the North Gate . This was the city limit when Oxford was surrounded by a wall!
• Turn right and walk down Cornmarket Street, the central commercial vein. Don’t miss 24-26 Cornmarket Street , a house dating back to the 14th century (it’s on the left, right across the tower).
• You can continue walking down the street and check out the Covered Market , or turn left on Market Street and continue down Braselose Lane, which will eventually lead you to the landmark Radcliffe Camera library. To your right, you will also see the Church of St Mary the Virgin, and to the left, the Bodleian Library .
• Turn left again after you exit, and you’ll see the Sheldonian Theatre and, right across Broad Street, Trinity College .
• Walk up to Corn Steet and turn left again, so you can enjoy a pleasant stroll up Parks Road and see the Natural History Museum and Keble College .
• You can continue until Keble road to close the circuit or turn left on Museum Road to see a secret passage and the most beautiful tree in Oxford!

What You Shouldn't Miss in This Self-Guided Walking Tour

(You can click here to see all the historical places you will encounter )

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

This is the largest church in Oxford and is popular with students, professors, and visitors. The first church here was built in 1086, although the building that can now be seen on the north side of the chancel is from 1320 (when the Univesity was officially founded). The Baroque porch (considered “the most beautiful porch in the world”) was designed by Nicholas Stone, and the tower (also from the 13th century) can be climbed and offers an excellent view of Oxford. 

Radcliffe Camera

This circular library is probably considered by most locals and visitors as “the very centre of Oxford”. It was built in 1749 by James Gibbes and has an Edwardian Palladian style. Although it appears to have three stores from the outside, it’s actually one main floor. This floor is divided into different bays separated by Corinthian columns. Today, the Radcliffe Camera holds over 600,000 books. It’s open to students but not to the public. 

The Bridge of Sighs

Although you also won’t be able to cross this bridge (unless you are a Hertford College student), you can still admire its beauty from the street level. The bridge was built in 914 by Sir Thomas Jackson and received its name because it looks like its homonym in Venice. The geometrical concept is also inspired by Archimedes in the 3rd Century BC (the area of the parabolic segment is 4/3 of an inscribed triangle). 

St John’s College

A constituent college of the University of Oxford, St John’s College was founded in 1555 as a men’s college but turned coeducational later.

Keble College

Keble College is one of the University of Oxford’s constituent colleges. It is located on Parks Road, opposite the University Museum.

Exeter College

A constituent college of the University of Oxford in England, Exeter College is the fourth-oldest college of the university.

Christ Church College

Christ Church is college of the University of Oxford. It was founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII and is one of the larger colleges.

Brasenose College

Oxford University’s Brasenose College (BNC) was founded in 1509 and is home to one of the oldest rowing clubs in the world.

All Souls College

All Souls College is a constituent college of the University of Oxford. It was founded by Henry VI and it has no undergraduate members.

See all Oxford Colleges >

Oxford Museums

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology in Oxford is Britain’s first public museum. It was founded in 1683.

Oxford University University Museum of Natural History

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History or OUMNH displays many of the University of Oxford’s natural history specimens.

See all Oxford Museums >

Oxford Libraries

Radcliffe Camera is a neo-classical style building inside Oxford University, built from 1737 to 1749 for the Radcliffe Science Library.

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of Oxford’s most famous landmarks. Among the oldest in Europe, it’s easy to visit and incredible to see.

See all Oxford Libraries >

Un-Missable Stops in an Oxford Walking Tour

If you’re exploring Oxford on your own, there are a few places you should consider stopping by. This includes colleges (which are normally open to visitors during the day), museums, the Botanic Garden , shops, and definitely, if you can, the Bodleian Library !

Of course, Oxford has something for everyone, so if you’re looking for places to shop or parks to relax, you can see some good options in the list below this section.

However, before you move on, if you’re interested in visiting the best Oxford museums (and combining them with the city walking tour), you can use this map.

Also, here’s the complete guide covering the most popular Oxford Museums .

And the direct link to download the museum walking tour map . 

Best for Shopping in Oxford

There are two – possibly three – shops you should NOT miss if you’re visiting Oxford and doing a self-guided walking tour. These are Alice’s Shop (with tons of Alice in Wonderland memorabilia, all beautifully displayed in a historically-relevant little building!), The Shop of Secrets (more Harry Potter merch than you can dream of), and Blackwell’s Bookshop , founded in 1879.

Of course, as Oxford continues to grow, there re several other places you can visit if you’re looking for unique gifts or just a memorable experience. Below is a more comprehensive list with all of them. 

Blackwell’s Bookshop

Blackwell’s Bookshop first opened its doors in 1879, on Broad Street, Oxford. They have been trading continuously from there ever since. The History of Blackwell’s Bookshop The first Blackwell’s Bookshop

Alice’s Shop

Alice’s Shop is a little shop placed exactly where Alice Liddell (the “real” Alice that inspired the books) used to buy sweets.

Arcadia Bookstore

Arcadia is a popular bookstore in Oxford, offering second-hand books and stationery with a vintage and whimsical vibe.

The Shop of Secrets

The Shop of Secrets is Oxford’s chamber of Harry Potter collectibles and merch. A shopping must-to in the city, this is why you should visit.

Parks and Meadows

Oxford has many beautiful parks and meadows – which make perfect spots for a picnic or a relaxing stop. These parks are large and tend to have exotic plants and students practising sports or reading a book under the shadow of a tree. The best thing about adding a visit to a park during your self-guided walking tour is that you can visit them any time of the year. University Parks , for example, are evergreen and have seats no matter the season. Of course, if you like plants and quietness you should not miss the Botanic Gardens, they are included in the map above and have exotic species, lots of secret corners, and even a pond with fish!

Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

The Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the UK. It was founded in 1621 and holds unique and important species.

Christ Church Meadow

Christ Church meadow is open to the public all year round. This open space in the heart of Oxford is an ideal choice for recreation.

Oxford University Parks

Oxford University Parks (or University Parks) is a large park area northeast of the city. The park is open to the public during the day.

Port Meadow

Port Meadow is a large open space in the north of Oxford. The River Thames flows through its heart and the plains are home to many animals.

Learn More About Oxford

Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum: A Brief History

Oxford College Gardens

Oxford Aerial Map and Guide

Insight Guides Great Breaks 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.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

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

VisitBritain

Cotswolds, England

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

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

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

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

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.

Explore the tour

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Use the interactive tourist map below to see the attractions at each stop of our Hop-on Hop-off bus tour route. Click on the stop numbers to see pictures and more information. You can also see a quick rundown of all the sights on our Explore the Tour page.

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Oxford Map: The Attractions

Oxford Castle

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Oxford Botanic Garden

The Covered Market

Bodleian Library

Radcliffe Camera

Carfax Tower

Ashmolean Museum

Hertford College

Trinity College

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With its honey-coloured colleges arrayed in splendour beside the river, the university town of Oxford is a seductive vision of medieval learning and modern charm.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do in oxford: exploring the university and beyond.

This thatched and wonderfully rural 800-year-old inn can be reached by road, but it’s more enjoyable to walk half an hour upstream along the Thames Path,…

Alice’s Shop

This tiny 500-year-old shop was operating as a grocery – and managed by a sheep – when Lewis Carroll’s Alice popped in. Opposite Carroll’s Christ Church…

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…

Malmaison Oxford Castle

You won’t mind being locked up in this wonderfully converted former prison. Centring on a turreted tower of Oxford’s castle, it’s now a sophisticated…

Head of the River

A genuine jewel among Oxford hotels, this large and characterful place, at Folly Bridge immediately south of Christ Church, was originally a Thames-side…

Story Museum

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

Isis Farmhouse

Half the fun of this isolated pub – yes, it really is a farmhouse – is the half-hour walk to get there, south along the Thames footpath from Folly Bridge…

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…

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…

Last Bookshop

Booklovers beware! This enticing little Jericho shop can easily swallow an hour of your time. Specialising in remainders and discounted stocks, largely…

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…

Blackwell’s

The most famous bookshop in the most studenty of cities, Blackwell’s is, with its vast range of literature, treatises and guilty pleasures, a book-lover’s…

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 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…

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…

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…

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…

Three miles northwest along the Thames from Oxford – a wonderful walk– this old-world pub has been drawing drinkers for around four centuries, and was…

Magdalen Bridge Boathouse

Right beside Magdalen Bridge, this boathouse is the most central location to hire a punt, chauffeured or otherwise. From here you can either head…

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Get to the heart of Oxford with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• 1.1 History
• 1.2.1 Central Oxford
• 1.2.2 Surrounding districts
• 2.1 By road
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3.1 Oxford Tube
• 2.3.2 The Airline
• 2.3.3 Stagecoach X5
• 2.3.4 Stagecoach S2
• 2.3.5 Local Stagecoach buses
• 2.4 By plane
• 3.1 On foot
• 3.2 By bicycle
• 3.3 By scooter
• 3.5.1 Oxford Key
• 3.5.2 Park and ride
• 3.6 By taxi
• 4.1 Landmarks
• 4.2 Colleges
• 4.3 Museums and galleries
• 4.4 Parks, gardens and open spaces
• 5.1 Sport and recreation
• 5.2 Stage and screen
• 5.3 Concerts
• 8.2.2 American
• 8.2.3 Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indochinese
• 8.2.4 Indian, Nepalese, Bangladeshi
• 8.2.5 Italian
• 8.2.6 Mexican
• 8.2.7 Other
• 8.3 Splurge
• 9.1 Coffee shops and cafés
• 9.2.1 Traditional pubs & inns
• 9.2.2 Cocktail bars
• 9.2.3 Gastropubs
• 9.2.4 Other
• 9.3 Nightclubs
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Police stations
• 11.2 LGBT scene
• 12.1 Hospitals and clinics

Oxford is the oldest university city in the United Kingdom , some 50 miles (80 km) to the west of the capital London in its own county of Oxfordshire , on the rivers Thames and Cherwell. Together with Cambridge (the second oldest university city and Oxford's great rival), Oxford has long represented the English academic establishment and elite ("Oxbridge"), a haven of tradition and endeavour. Oxford's famous "Dreaming Spires" refer to the medieval churches and colleges that dominate the bustling modern town in all their Gothic splendour. Picturesque architecture and a vibrant modern life, driven by students, light industry and technology, all set in the rolling countryside of Oxfordshire, make this a great destination.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ]

Oxford was first occupied in Saxon times, and was known as "Oxanforda". The settlement began with the foundations of St Frideswide's nunnery in the 8th century, and was first mentioned in written records in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle for the year 912. By the 10th century Oxford had become an important military frontier town between the kingdoms of Mercia and Wessex and was on several occasions raided by the Danes.

The University of Oxford was founded in the 12th century and therefore constitutes the oldest English-speaking university. Oxford, like Cambridge , differs from many other universities in that there is no 'campus' as such, and no central university building. Instead, the university consists of approximately 40 colleges and associated buildings, such as the Exam Schools (on the High Street: closed to the public), the world-famous Bodleian Library (main buildings in Radcliffe Square, off the High Street: limited access to the public), and several world-class museums. Each college has its own individual character, some date from the 13th century, others are merely a few decades old. Many of the colleges are closed to the public, particularly during term times, but some are open at different times. For example: Christ Church (the college of "Brideshead" fame) is mostly open, and has the added bonus of having a (small) cathedral attached, where excellent music is performed at Evensong everyday; it also has an excellent art gallery . Some of Christ Church's buildings are used in films such as Harry Potter . Other colleges of note are Magdalen (pronounced 'maudlin'), which has a deer park, and those along the High Street, all of which have an impressive list of alumni. Shelley fans should visit University College. Former women-only colleges such as the pretty Somerville (Woodstock Rd) further to the north of the centre are interesting to get a feel for the range of colleges in Oxford.

During World War II, Oxford was spared from the German carpet bombing that levelled many other British cities, making it one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the United Kingdom. The city has a population of 150,000, and the metro area 244,000.

Orientation [ edit ]

One of the best online resources for planning a visit to Oxford is the Virtual Tour of Oxford , hosted by the university's chemistry department.

• Visitor information fir Oxford from Experience Oxfordshire.

Central Oxford [ edit ]

Central Oxford is bound to the west and south by the River Thames, which in Oxford is known as the Isis , and to the east by the Cherwell , which confluents into the Isis at Boathouse Island, a centre for university rowing. The city centre is built around two intersecting thoroughfares which cross at Carfax:

• the High Street — running east–west, this is the main road coming in from Headington and Cowley.
• George Street — runs west from the centre and is known for the New Theatre and its restaurants
• Running north–south is another road, essentially continuous, but with separate ancient names for its various stretches — St Aldates and St Giles , separated by Cornmarket (now a pedestrianised shopping boulevard).

Surrounding districts [ edit ]

• Jericho is an affluent area just north of city centre. Jericho is home of the Oxford University Press and its museum. It also has plenty of nightlife, including pubs and cocktail bars.
• Summertown is an affluent area north of central Oxford. Most of Summertown is directly on the Banbury Road, however there are shops and restaurants on the side roads such as the South Parade.
• Kidlington is north of Summertown. It is apparently Britain's largest village. It has a small high street with a Tesco's and Co-operative supermarket, several pubs, resaurants and a large Sainsbury's supermarket.
• Wolvercote is an affluent village to the north-west of Oxford. It has a church, three pubs (The Plough, The White Hart and Jacobs' Inn), a village store and a common for walking on.
• Headington is to the east, perhaps most notable for one of Oxford Brookes University's main campuses. It has a small high street and Thornhill Park & Ride nearby. There is also a house with a large shark sculpture in the roof, located just off the high street, which may be of interest.
• Botley and Osney are west of the train station. Much of the area is industrialised and therefore uninteresting to tourists. However the area has the city's Waitrose store and several retail parks such as Botley Retail Park and Seacourt Tower Park, along with Seacourt Park & Ride nearby.
• Cowley , to the south east of the city, has a plethora of restaurants, pubs and shops, many of which are independent. Confusingly the term Cowley can refer to two distinct areas: the area along the Cowley Road to the east of Magdalen Bridge tends to be more commercial and student focussed (and is the part which appeals more to tourists), while the suburbs to the south east of this are more residential and working class. In this more outlying area is Plant Oxford where cars have been made for over 100 years, the Templars Square Shopping Centre (and nearby Templars Retail Park), and the Oxford Retail Park with a large 24-hour (on weekdays) Tesco supermarket.
• Blackbird Leys is south of Cowley. It is a social housing (housing projects) area and is generally not recommended to tourists. However the Kassam Stadium, home to Oxford United F.C., and the Ozone Leisure Park nightlife complex opposite may justify a trip.

Get in [ edit ]

By road [ edit ]

Oxford is linked to London by the 50-mile (80-km) south-eastern stretch of the M40 motorway. The journey takes 50–90 min, depending on traffic, which can be heavy. The north-western continuation of the M40 conveniently links Oxford with England's second largest city, Birmingham , and the West Midlands .

Parking and access restrictions are very stringent on the narrow streets of central Oxford, policed by both wardens and cameras, with heavy fines applicable. The one-way traffic systems are circuitous and confusing, making it difficult to get around by car. An alternative is to use one of the five municipal park and ride sites which are located on the outskirts of all sides of Oxford, and are well signposted. Park and ride sites are open 24/7, and you can park there for a maximum of 72 hours. Forget about using the Thornhill Park and Ride on weekdays; it is invariably full. The first hour's parking is free, after which you pay £2 for up to 12 hours, £4 for up to 24 hours, and so on. In addition, the return bus trip to the city centre costs £2.80. (May 2022) .

Since February 2022, a zero-emission zone (ZEZ) closed to non-electric cars has been under trial in the city centre, albeit on streets which are essentially pedestrianised, making it easy to avoid for the time being. However, the council has plans to expand this zone to enclose much of the centre of Oxford.

By train [ edit ]

Cross Country Trains run through Oxford, mostly running to/from Manchester and Southampton . These trains run approximately half-hourly in both directions until about 9PM. All of these trains stop at Reading going south, and Leamington Spa for Warwick and Warwick Castle, and Birmingham going north.

By bus [ edit ]

Oxford tube [ edit ].

The express coach service between London and Oxford is called the Oxford Tube , and is run by Stagecoach. The "Tube" runs very frequently and the journey time is usually 100 min (longer during rush hours).

There are frequent and comfortable coach services that run from several convenient bus stops to Gloucester Green coach station in Oxford. They normally start at the London Victoria station, running westward and parallel to the London Underground Central line via Marble Arch , Notting Hill , Shepherd's Bush and then Hillingdon . Before arriving in Oxford, there is one last stop at Lewkner. Stops in Oxford include Thornhill Park & Ride, Headington, Oxford Brookes University, St. Clements, High Street (Queens Lane) (which is best for daily visitors, as it is right in the middle of the majority of University Colleges) and finally the Gloucester Green bus station, which is also well situated.

As of Feb 2023, prices for the Oxford Tube are £12/£11/£4 for an adult/concession/under-16 one-way and £18/£16/£7 for an adult/concession/under-16 period return ticket. Some peak-time journeys take slightly different routes in London, so the place that you want to go to/from may influence when you board the coach. If you wish to travel late at night, the Oxford Tube runs 24 hours a day. You can also book London to Oxford coach travel through Megabus.com , but you'll be travelling on an Oxford Tube coach.

The Airline [ edit ]

There are regular bus services between Oxford and London's Heathrow and Gatwick airports with The Airline , run by Oxford Bus Company.

Stagecoach X5 [ edit ]

There is also an X5 [dead link] bus between Oxford and Bedford (via Milton Keynes), taking approximately two hours, along with the S6 service to Swindon. Several coaches in other parts of the country are run by National Express.

Stagecoach S2 [ edit ]

Another useful (but infrequent) service is the S2, which travels using the A40 from Cheltenham to Oxford via Charlton Kings, Andoversford, Northleach, Burford, Witney and Eynsham, which runs from the bus station about every two hours and takes approximately an hour and three quarters.

This is operated by Stagecoach and it is possible to buy a day ticket for it which allows you unlimited travel on it and allows you to make connecting journeys anywhere on Stagecoach's buses in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, or Wiltshire.

Local Stagecoach buses [ edit ]

Local buses to Bicester, Blenheim Palace, and Banbury are run by Stagecoach , and depart from Magdalen Street, near Cornmarket. There are also bus services to Reading, Abingdon, and Didcot run by the Oxford Bus Company from St Aldate's, also in the city centre.

By plane [ edit ]

51.837298 -1.319298 4 Oxford Airport ( OXF  IATA ) at Kidlington is used mainly for private and charter aircraft and has only intermittently had scheduled airline flights; it is useful only if you fly your own plane, or are able to charter a small aircraft.

The nearest commercial airports are those around London , to the south-east, or Birmingham , to the north, with most foreign travellers preferring London.

Heathrow ( LHR  IATA ) is the closest major airport, followed by Gatwick ( LGW  IATA ) in terms of size and popularity. Road access from both Heathrow and Gatwick (fastest) is by M25 (heading north and west respectively) and then the M40 to Oxford's outskirts (follow the signs).

Oxford Bus Company runs several airport bus services called The Airline to Oxford Gloucester Green bus station (running in from Thornhill Park & Ride, then Headington and up the High St with several convenient stops: check web pages below). The Oxford Bus Company recommend allocating a minimum of an hour for between when the coach arrives and flight check-in:

• between London Heathrow and Oxford . generally every 30 minutes . Travels to Heathrow Terminal 5 and then Heathrow Central bus station. The route takes an average of 1 hour 20 minutes, but this can be increased due to traffic congestion. The Oxford Bus Company recommend stopping at the Heathrow Central bus station for Terminals 2&3. For Terminal 4, there's a free shuttle bus from Terminal 5 that leaves from bus stand 7. £23 single, £30 return . ( updated Nov 2018 )
• between London Gatwick and Oxford . hourly 7AM-11PM, less frequently thereafter . Travels to Gatwick South Terminal and then Gatwick North Terminal. The route takes an average of 2 hours and 30 minutes, but this can be increased due to traffic congestion. £28 single, £37 return . ( updated Nov 2018 )

National Express bus company runs airport bus services to Luton Airport ( LTN  IATA ) and to Stansted Airport ( STN  IATA ).

Birmingham Airport ( BHX  IATA ) has fewer destinations compared to the London airports (it still has quite a lot), but it is the closest to Oxford in terms of public transport travel time. Birmingham Airport has its own railway station called Birmingham International , which is connected to the airport terminal building via the free AirRail Link cable car shuttle, taking 1–2 min. From the railway station, trains depart to Oxford every hour between 6:14AM and 10:14PM and take about an hour. A non-advance, non-rail card single costs £25.50, a return £28.80 off-peak or £51 any time. You could do a lot cheaper by booking an advance ticket though (but be careful as tickets are valid only on the booked train, so if your flight is late and you miss the train, you will have to buy another ticket).

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ]

Oxford city centre is very compact and easily walkable. Many areas of the city centre are pedestrianised, and all major tourist sights are well signposted.

That the narrow streets of the city centre are pedestrian-friendly, difficult for cars and full of beautiful buildings that will draw your attention upwards (rather than onto a more horizontal plane) does not mean that the roads of the city are overspill pavements. You will find most cyclists quite forgiving on this point as they are used to it and are often themselves pedestrians tempted to do the same as long as you suppress the urge to pass comment on any near-misses actually arising from your standing in the middle of the road.

By bicycle [ edit ]

The preferred mode of transport for the university student is the bicycle and, like Amsterdam or Copenhagen, there are hundreds of them. Most trains into Oxford allow bicycles to be carried for free. There are cycle lanes on most streets near the centre, however you will sometimes be sharing the road with other motorists. Though the bus traffic can be daunting, the familiarity of cyclists to local drivers makes cycling safer than it seems at first. The best option is to follow the locals as they know what they are doing. It is illegal for cyclists to run red lights (although many do) and you must use lights at night; local police frequently set up checkpoints and impose fines. Bike parking is available everywhere, but make sure you get a strong lock as bike theft is common. Avoid cable locks as they are cut through frequently, and try to avoid leaving your bike locked in the same place in public for an extended period of time (especially overnight), since unlocked wheels or even the saddle may be stolen.

If you expect your time in Oxford to be spent largely in the city centre, getting around on foot is often just as convenient as by bike due to the high density of pedestrians in the centre. Only if you plan to frequently venture to the outskirts of the city, for example to Summertown, Cowley, or Iffley, does a bike really become worth your while.

By scooter [ edit ]

Since at least 2022, a trial of electric scooters for hire has been running in central Oxford. These can be found at designated points across the city and unlocked using a smartphone app, and provide an inexpensive means of travel if you want to venture a little further out of the city centre. However, they must be used on the roads, which, coupled with the volume of road traffic, can make travelling this way fairly daunting.

By car [ edit ]

Avoid driving in central Oxford. Traffic is heavy, the one-way system is very confusing, the streets are often very narrow with restrictions, and parking is very expensive. Use the park and ride system, or forget the car and come in by public transport. If you have a motorcycle or a scooter, things are a little easier.

Local urban buses are mostly operated by the Oxford Bus Company (largely in the south and east of the city) and by Stagecoach (largely in the north and west). Fares are expensive and are charged by distance (starting at £1.10 single, £2 return (Oct 2018), pay the driver when boarding: cash or contactless; change is available), but if you plan on making more than two trips in one day, buy an all-day pass (£4.20, Oct 2018) to save money. The main hubs for local buses are the rail station and St Aldates.

Oxford Key [ edit ]

If you are in town a while, there is also a rechargeable smart-card known as the Oxford Key that gives discounted bus fares for a week, month, 13 weeks, or a year. It can take several hours for the Key to be ready once recharged.

• CityZone [dead link] is the standard Key which allows travel only on Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel buses, the radius covers as far north as most of Kidlington to as far south as Cowley, Kennington, and Blackbird Leys.
• SmartZone allows the same travel as CityZone including Stagecoach buses (which is very convenient, particularly in rush hour).
• CityZone Extra extends the CityZone radius to include as far north as Woodstock to as far south as Abingdon.

The Oxford Bus Company have two travel shops where you can top-up or ask questions in-person:

• 51.7539 -1.2622 1 Gloucester Green Travel Shop , 89 Gloucester Green, OX1 2BU . M–F 8AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 9AM-4PM . You can sign up for an Oxford Key, top it up in-store and purchase tickets for the Airline bus. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 51.7541 -1.2573 2 High Street Travel Shop , 44 - 45 High Street, OX1 4AP . 9:30AM-5:30PM . Only provides sightseeing information. ( updated Jul 2020 )

Park and ride [ edit ]

Oxford Bus Company operates several park and ride services for people visiting the city by car, because parking is difficult to find and expensive in the centre.

The purple buses operate from 6AM to 11:30PM on weekdays and Saturdays. Return fares start at £2.80 per adult, and children travel free when accompanied. Parking charges apply at Pear Tree, Redbridge, and Seacourt.

Oxford has 5 park & ride bus stations:

By taxi [ edit ]

Oxford has Black Cabs (Hackney Carriage) which can be flagged down from the street or taken from taxi stands located around the city, and 'minicabs' which must be ordered by phone or app, 001 & Royal Cars are the most popular services. Black Cabs are quite pricey but are convenient for short hops if travelling in a big group. Minicabs are much cheaper for long-distance journeys; the fare should be agreed over the phone when booking or should be bargained with the driver for long distance, however within city the fare is set by meter within every taxi–never get in a minicab without agreeing the price.

Uber is not yet available in Oxford.

See [ edit ]

Visitors to Oxford should definitely visit at least one museum, visit at least one college and – if possible – hear one of the world-class college chapel choirs. A walking tour (see 'Do' below) is a good way of achieving this.

Landmarks [ edit ]

Colleges [ edit ]

Many Oxford colleges allow tourists to visit their grounds during certain hours and certain seasons, although some are closed to tourists at all times. During certain times of the year, those that do open their doors generally offer reduced public opening hours or are closed completely to tourists, especially during University terms (approximately October/November, January/February and May/June). This is particularly true in May/June, which is when examinations are taken. It is advisable to visit the college's website before visiting, or to enquire at Oxford's local tourist information office to be certain you are not disappointed.

Each college has a unique history and something interesting to offer in terms of striking architecture or historical notoriety.

Balliol , University , and Merton Colleges each claim to be the 'oldest' in the university, with founding dates in the 13th century, although the exact year may be unclear or contested. They are fine examples of the collegiate Gothic architecture for which Oxford is renowned.

Exeter College on Turl Street is an example of one of Oxford's smaller colleges. Built in 1314, it is also one of the oldest and in its front quad exemplifies collegiate architecture in Oxford. The Victorian neo- Gothic chapel is modelled on the Sainte Chapelle in Paris , and houses 'The Adoration of the Magi', the famous pre-Raphaelite tapestry by William Morris. The Fellows' Garden neighbours the Divinity School and the Bodleian Library and offers one of the best views in Oxford, over Radcliffe Square.

New College on Holywell Street is interesting for being the only college to be built straddling the ancient city wall, which cuts through the center of the grounds.

The Queen's College along High Street, founded in 1341, is renowned for its grand 18th-century Classical style architecture for which is unique among the ancient (medieval) colleges, which have otherwise each been rebuilt or expanded over the years in a largely Gothic or neo-Gothic style. Tourists are not admitted to this college.

All Souls , also along High Street, is famous not only for its striking towers, but also in that it does not accept undergraduate members, but rather elects only two graduate fellows each year based upon their performance in what has been described as the 'hardest exam in the world'.

Finally, two colleges (some of the largest and most famous in Oxford) that have somewhat established themselves as tourist destinations are Magdalen and Christ Church . You're as likely to see a tourist inside as a student, but they do offer regular visiting hours, tourist facilities, meticulously manicured and beautiful grounds, and ticket booths for charging admission fees.

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

Parks, gardens and open spaces [ edit ].

Many of Oxford University's colleges have parks and gardens to walk through that are open to the public.

Do [ edit ]

Walking tours, starting from St Aldates in the city centre, are an excellent way of visiting some of the more famous colleges, such as Christ Church and Merton. Independent general and ghost tours also start nearby in Broad Street. In general, a walking tour lasts about two hours and can cost around £20 plus college admission fees.

The only Oxford-based Harry Potter walking tour is offered by the Oxford Tourist Information Centre . Like all the non-Oxford-based Potter tours, Duke Humfrey’s Library is not included (only Bodleian Library staff can lead visitors into this hallowed space). Harry Potter Places Book Two—OWLs: Oxford Wizarding Locations guides Potterites through the decision-making process required to enjoy all Oxford Harry Potter sites, including Duke Humfrey’s Library.

Sport and recreation [ edit ]

• University Boat Races (usually W-Sa of Week 7 of Hilary Term and W-Sa of Week 5 of Trinity term - check www.ox.ac.uk for term dates) Twice a year, the river is taken over by the inter-college boat races. The races are a great way to experience the Oxford obsession with rowing first-hand. The river is full of people and there is a great atmosphere of college spirit. Races take place south of the city centre on the Isis, between Donnington Bridge and Christ Church Meadows. The best places to watch are either the towpath along the side of the river, or at the bottom of the meadows - both accessible by foot from the centre (about 10-15 minutes). Word of warning however for those watching along the towpath, the towpath is likely to be swarming with marshals and bike riders while the crews are racing. The towpath does however offer the best vantage points, particularly for the bumps races where crews will often 'bump out' halfway along the course. Most college boathouses will also be serving food and drink throughout the week of racing. Races take place 11AM-6PM, with the better boats racing later in the day.
• 51.751414 -1.246342 2 Oxford Punting , Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, High St, OX1 4AU , ☏ +44 1865 202643 , [email protected] .  
• 51.746084 -1.256175 3 Salter's , Folly Bridge, Oxford, OX1 4LA , ☏ +44 1865 243421 .  
• 51.768116 -1.257267 4 Cherwell Boathouse , Bardwell Rd, OX2 6ST , ☏ +44 1865 552746 .  
• In the summer, check out the nesting swifts (birds) at the Oxford Museum of Natural History [dead link] . These elegant little birds have been nesting in ventilation flues in the tower of the University Museum for many years, providing a wonderful opportunity for scientists. Visitors to the museum between May and August can watch live pictures from three of the nests in the tower on a television monitor.

Stage and screen [ edit ]

Oxford has five city-centre cinemas, screening mainstream (Odeon) and art films (Ultimate Picture Palace, Phoenix Picturehouse). The latter sometimes has showings at 11:30PM for night owls.

• 51.7537 -1.261398 5 Odeon (Gloucester Green) , George St, OX1 2BL , ☏ +44 333 0067777 . Largest cinema in the Oxford city centre.  
• 51.754695 -1.259442 6 Odeon (St. Giles) , Magdalen St, OX1 3AE , ☏ +44 333 0067777 . Smaller Odeon cinema with a Costa café at the front.  
• 51.760275 -1.266421 7 Phoenix Picturehouse , 57-58 Walton St, Jericho, OX2 6AE , ☏ +44 871 9025736 . Vibrant independent cinema with an assortment of viewings available.  
• 51.717473 -1.211804 9 Vue , Ozone Leisure Park, Grenoble Rd, OX4 4XP , ☏ +44 871 2240240 . Large mainstream cinema located just opposite the Kassam Stadium.  

Oxford also hosts a number of London productions on tour, as well as playing host to a large number of student productions each year. Oxford has a lively student-drama scene. The following theatres put on amateur student productions during term-time, which are often very good value for money:

• 51.754515 -1.261223 10 Burton Taylor Theatre , 11 Beaumont St, OX1 2LW , ☏ +44 1865 305350 . M-Sa 8AM-1:30PM . Tickets sold at the Box Office of the Oxford Playhouse (see above)  
• 51.753493 -1.262213 11 Old Fire Station Theatre (OFS) , 40 George St, OX1 2AQ , ☏ +44 1865 263980 . Tu-Sa 11AM-6PM . Charity-run culture hub showcasing contemporary UK and local art, drama and music. Also has a café.  
• Oxford Show Details . Aggregation website that highlights shows worth seeing in Oxford.  

Concerts [ edit ]

Learn [ edit ].

Most lectures are only open to members of the University of Oxford; however, a variety of public talks and lectures are organised throughout the year.

It is also possible for members of the public to attend residential summer schools within the university, such as with Oxford Royale Academy or Lite Regal Education . The university's Department of Continuing Education also runs a series of short courses on various subjects.

As well as the obvious world-famous university, those wishing to study in Oxford may wish to enter at Oxford Brookes , an entirely separate institution.

Buy [ edit ]

A large number of shops in the city centre specialise in selling the ubiquitous Oxford University range of souvenirs. One is official, the others less so, but all do a roaring trade in T-shirts, sweaters, calendars and paraphernalia:

• 51.752345 -1.256559 4 University of Oxford Shop , Oriel College, 106 High St, OX1 4BW , ☏ +44 1865 247414 , fax : +44 1865 724379 . M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM . The official outlet for university souvenirs and gifts. (Bank Holidays and Sundays in June 11AM–4PM, Sundays in July and August 11AM–5PM.)  

Larger stores selling apparel, electronics and furniture can be found in Oxford's retail parks at the Botley/Seacourt area:

• 51.752068 -1.286602 5 Botley Retail Park , Botley Rd, OX2 0HA . Has a Currys/PC World, Argos, Pets at Home, Hobbycraft and other large stores. ( updated Sep 2018 )
• 51.754054 -1.294992 6 Seacourt Tower Retail Park , OX2 0FB . Has a Sports Direct, Homebase, Dreams and Decathlon. ( updated Sep 2018 )

Books [ edit ]

Unsurprisingly for a university city, Oxford is noted for antiquarian, specialist and new books.

• 51.754582 -1.25768 7 Blackwell's Books , 48–51 Broad Street ( opposite the Sheldonian Theatre ), ☏ +44 1865 792792 , [email protected] . Founded in 1879, Blackwell's main Oxford shop is a veritable tourist attraction in itself, the vast 10,000-square-foot Norrington Room excavated beneath Trinity College Gardens laying claim to being the largest space dedicated to book sales in Europe. Another 9 speciality branches of this Oxford institution dot the city.  
• 51.753057 -1.26283 8 Oxford University Press Bookshop , 116 High Street , ☏ +44 1865 242913 , fax : +44 1865 241701 , [email protected] . Stocks a wide variety of books published by Oxford University Press.  
• 51.75409 -1.260772 9 Waterstones , William Baker House, Broad St , ☏ +44 1865 790212 , [email protected] . Situated in the grade II listed William Baker House is one of the largest branches of Britain's dominant bookshops. The bookshop houses many different works both academic and leisurely catering to many tastes and preferences. There is also a café making it perfect for meeting friends or taking a break.  

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ]

• 51.7529 -1.2567 1 Alpha Bar , 89 Covered Market, Avenue 3 , ☏ +44 1865 250499 . 9AM–5PM(ish) . One of the healthier options inside the Covered Market, Alpha Bar serves up organic, fair-trade food. Sandwiches are reasonably priced, at around £3.50, and you can choose from their many interesting fillings, including baked tofu, seaweed and roasted vegetables. Their salads are priced by the pound and you can fill your recyclable container with good-for-you grains. A favourite among students for lunch, but make sure you get there early — they tend to run out of the more popular ingredients by around 3:30PM. ( updated Jan 2021 )
• 51.755068 -1.251836 2 The Alternative Tuck Shop , 24 Holywell Street, OX1 3SB , ☏ +44 1865 792054 . M-F 8:15AM-6PM . One of the best sandwich shops in Oxford. Cheap, lightning-fast service, high-quality food. Offers a great selection of sandwiches (warm and cold), panini, pasties and cakes. Friendly and efficient staff. Queues during term time are longest in the lunch rush 12-2pm, but don't be put off by this. Minimum £5 spend when paying by card.  
• 51.752432 -1.256404 3 Ben's Cookies , 108-109 Covered Market, OX1 3DZ , ☏ +44 1865 247407 . M-Sa 9:15AM-5:30PM; Su 10AM-4PM . Great little shop right in the centre of Oxford, and much better quality than some of the other, over-priced coffee shops. Also notable for being the first store in what would later become an international chain. Popular with Oxford University students!  
• 51.752853 -1.256749 4 Brothers and Georgina’s , Covered Market, OX1 3DY , ☏ +44 1865 249527 . M–F 8:30AM–5PM . Georgina’s is tucked away on the upper floor of the Covered Market, and this small café has a fairly groovy, hippy-ish décor and atmosphere. You’ll pay more for your sandwiches and wraps here than you would at other places, but portions are huge and, for the most part, healthy. An exception to the latter is their loaded potato skins, which are slightly spiced and come with a heaping of sour cream. Delicious! £ .  
• 51.752465 -1.26814 5 Dosa Park , 25 Park End St, OX1 1HU ( next to the train station ), ☏ +44 1865 791197 . M-Sa 11AM-10:30PM, Su noon-10PM . Tiny South Indian restaurant/café/takeaway next to City Centre bus stands and train station, whose appearance belies its quality — some of the most mouth-watering authentic South Indian food out there, and dirt cheap too! Well worth a stop if travelling through Oxford Station and needing a snack or meal. £ .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

Café [ edit ].

• 51.750544 -1.257007 7 G&D’s (George and Danver) , 94 St. Aldates, OX1 1BT , ☏ +44 1865 245952 . 8AM–midnight . £ . ( updated May 2023 )
• 51.748374 -1.239233 8 G&D’s (George and Delila) , 104 Cowley Road, OX4 1JE , ☏ +44 1865 727111 . 8AM–midnight . £ . ( updated May 2023 )
• 51.752382 -1.250416 9 The Grand Cafe , 84 High Street, OX1 4BG , ☏ +44 1865 204463 . 9AM – 8PM . Lunch options include Waldorf salads, oak smoked salmon and varied sandwiches, but the real draw here is the afternoon tea. For £16.50 you get a couple of sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, handmade chocolate truffles, tea or coffee and a glass of champagne. True extravagance! ££ .  

American [ edit ]

• 51.753555 -1.260584 10 [dead link] Byron's , 33 -35 George Street, OX1 2AY , ☏ +44 1865 792155 . Part of a chain. An upmarket diner experience offering burgers, fries and milkshakes. Recommended to try are the "hard shakes" which add a shot of liquor (such as rum or Bailey's) to any milkshake. ( updated Nov 2017 )

Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indochinese [ edit ]

• 51.753742 -1.26121 11 Angrid Thai , Threeways House, 36 George St, OX1 2BJ ( Opposite the Odeon cinema in Gloucester Green. ), ☏ +44 1865 791898 . 11:30AM-11PM . An inexpensive Thai fast-food establishment right in the centre of Oxford that offers great value dishes and a casual atmosphere. Recommended to try are the panang curries and the prawn crackers with a helping of sweet chilli sauce. A 15% student discount is available.  
• 51.780463 -1.266469 12 New Dancing Dragon , 283 Banbury Rd, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JF , ☏ +44 1865 554475 . Contemporary restaurant specialising in primarily Cantonese cuisine, but has other Asian dishes too. Located on the site of former cheap buffet restaurant Dancing Dragon. ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 51.748392 -1.239495 13 Taberu , 100 Cowley Rd, OX4 1JE ( west end of the Cowley Road opposite Big Society and the church ), ☏ +44 1865 434100 . M-Th noon-3PM, 5:30PM-10:30PM; F-Su noon-10:30PM . Authentic Japanese restaurant with a superb atmosphere and menu to boot. Start your meal with some delicious takoyaki, a snack dish originating from Osaka that involves frying octopus in dough and garnishing with sauces. Enjoy traditionally made sushi or go for katsu curry or a bento dish instead. While alongside having a sake beer or instead a Ramune which is a Japanese-made soft drink.  
• 51.753707 -1.260857 14 Thaikun , 36 George St, OX1 2BJ , ☏ +44 1865 591960 . noon-10:30PM . An extensively decorated Thai restaurant in the centre of town. ( updated Nov 2017 )

Indian, Nepalese, Bangladeshi [ edit ]

• 51.746129 -1.231861 15 Kadai & Naan , 209 Cowley Rd, OX4 1XF , ☏ +44 1865 241493 . Restaurant specialising in primarily Nepalese cuisine but also offers Indian dishes too. The Nepalese food here is strong and bursting with flavour particularly the rum-rum chicken. Also recommended are the momo dumplings, served with a delicious spicy tomato chutney they both compliment the meal or serve as an excellent appetiser.  
• 51.748364 -1.239036 16 Majliss , 110 Cowley Rd, OX4 1JE , ☏ +44 1865 726728 . Su-Th noon-2:30PM, 5:30-11:30PM; F Sa noon-2:30PM, 5:30PM-midnight . Contemporary designed authentic restaurant specialising primarily in Indian cuisine but also caters to other Asian delicacies. Food is delicious regardless of the diner's spice preference and the service is excellent. ££ .  
• 51.775908 -1.264538 17 Spice Lounge , 193 Banbury Rd, OX2 7AR , ☏ +44 1865 510071 . Oxford Spice Lounge has a delicious Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine with a very friendly staff. They offer a lunchtime buffet on Sundays from noon to 3PM. At the Spice Lounge the emphasis is on organic and creative dishes. Ethnic recipes are used to provide a diverse, unusual menu, while focusing on healthy eating.  

Italian [ edit ]

• 51.748351 -1.238314 18 Pizzeria Trattoria Mario , 103 Cowley Rd, OX4 1HU , ☏ +44 1865 722955 . M-Sa 6-11PM, Su 6-10:30PM . Rustic Italian restaurant with typical cuisine. Offers a selection of pizzas, pastas and a specials menu. Has plenty of vegetarian dishes and some vegan dishes as well.  
• 51.748949 -1.262302 19 Pilgrims Pizza , Westgate Centre Roof Terrace RU12, OX1 1PG , ☏ +44 1865 808030 . M-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F Sa 11:30AM-10:30PM, Su noon-9:30PM . Very good pizza with in a relaxed atmosphere. The place has several arcade games set up to keep busy while the pizza is being prepared. £8.50-12 . ( updated Mar 2019 )

Mexican [ edit ]

• 51.754155 -1.262118 20 El Mexicana , 92 Gloucester Green, OX1 2BU , ☏ +44 1865 251253 . 11AM-9PM . ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 51.753523 -1.259131 21 The Mission (St Michael’s Street) , 8 St Michael’s Street, OX1 2DU ( off Cornmarket ), ☏ +44 1865 202016 , [email protected] . Su-W 11AM-10PM, Th-Sa 11AM-11PM .  
• 51.752091 -1.254743 22 The Mission (King Edward St) , 2 King Edward Street, OX1 4HS ( off High St. ), ☏ +44 1865 722020 , [email protected] . The King Edward St. location of the Mission chain. Delicious burritos at a low price.  

Other [ edit ]

• 51.758545 -1.261907 23 Wilding , 11-12 Little Clarendon St, OX1 2HP , ☏ +44 1865 985630 . Open daily 10AM-11PM . Opened in 2021, is a wine shop-cum-restaurant on Little Clarendon St. ( updated Feb 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 51.760889 -1.267534 24 Brasserie Blanc , 71-72 Walton Street, OX2 6AG , ☏ +44 1865 510999 . 11AM – 11PM . Raymond Blanc’s French brasserie is intimate and full of charm. Considering the quality of the food, prices are extremely reasonable – a rack of lamb, potatoes and cabbage will set you back £17.50, and for vegetarians the grilled Crottin goats’ cheese and beetroot tart is an exquisite choice. A great place for a date or to bring your mother.  
• 51.764322 -1.261003 25 Gees Restaurant ( Gees ), 61 Banbury Rd, OX2 6PE , ☏ +44 1865 553540 . Gee's is an Oxford restaurant serving traditional British food with an emphasis on seasonal food, simple, good cooking and value for money  
• 51.7525 -1.2531 26 Quod Brasserie , 92–94 High Street , ☏ +44 1865 202505 . Quod Brasserie & Bar on the famous High Street in Oxford, with its terrace and bar forms the hub of the Old Bank Hotel ( updated Jan 2021 )
• 51.755 -1.2594 27 The Randolph Hotel , ☏ +44 1865 791678 . Afternoon tea at the Randolph is world-renowned, but a sit-down dinner in the beautiful dining room is an experience. Mains include roast loin of Highland venison, served with chestnuts and sprouts at £26.50, and fillet of wild seabass, fennel puree and langoustine sauce at £25.50. Their cheese trolley is an indulgent way to end the meal. £££ . ( updated Jan 2021 )

Drink [ edit ]

Coffee shops and cafés [ edit ].

• 51.764694 -1.261263 1 Brew Coffee Shop , 75B Banbury Rd, OX2 6PE . M-F 7:30AM-6PM; Sa Su 8:30AM-5:30PM . Serving up some of Oxford's best coffee in all its forms from espresso, to pourover. Brew also stocks coffee to buy from all over the world as well as everything you need to make the perfect cup at home. Run by friendly coffee experts and frequented by locals and students who enjoy its intimate atmosphere, delicious treats and excellent caffeinated beverages!  
• 51.753195 -1.25625 2 The Missing Bean , 14 Turl Street, OX1 3DQ ( only 1 minute's walk from the main quadrangle of the Bodleian ). 8AM–6:30PM . Hidden halfway down Turl Street is this little gem of a coffee shop; it only opened in October but already has a reputation for the best coffee in Oxford. Laid-back atmosphere & friendly staff. Ask for the famous flat white!  
• 51.74884 -1.240726 3 Quarter Horse , 76 Cowley Road, OX4 1JB ( over the Magdalen Bridge, through the roundabout and a short walk up Cowley Road ), ☏ +44 1865 248808 . Venture over the Magdalen Bridge to the delights of East Oxford and take a break at Quarter Horse, another of Oxford's serious coffee ventures. They offer delicious, expertly crafted cups of coffee, some cold drinks and delicious baked goods and sandwiches. The Banana Bread is a must if you have a sweet tooth!  
• 51.753265 -1.260421 4 The Handle Bar Cafe and Kitchen ( Zappi's Bike Cafe ), 26-32 St Michaels Street, OX1 2EB ( inside above Bike Zone ), ☏ +44 7964 241212 . M-Sa 8AM-11PM; Su 10:30AM-6PM . Need to recharge after some hectic sightseeing in Oxford? Then Zappi's is the place to go for a fantastic cup of coffee or a simple lunch or snack. Located in the middle of town just off Cornmarket Street.  
• 51.758148 -1.26306 5 The Natural Bread Company , 29 Little Clarendon Street, Jericho, OX1 2HU ( a short walk from the centre of town, in 'Jericho' ), ☏ +44 1865 302996 , [email protected] . M-Sa 7:30AM-5PM; Su 9AM-4PM . Just north of the city centre on Little Clarendon Street, the Natural Bread Company offers a fantastic coffee as well as its famous cakes and sourdough bread. Perfect for a quiet break away from the standard tourist trail. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 51.751721 -1.259411 6 Costa Coffee , 29 Queen St, OX1 1ER . Costa Coffee has been named best chain coffee shop in UK, friendly staff & wide range of hot & cold drinks, sandwiches and cakes. ( updated Feb 2017 ) ,

Pubs and bars [ edit ]

Oxford has many old pubs, as well as newer nightclubs.

Traditional pubs & inns [ edit ]

Oxford has a lot of traditional pubs and inns. While some are modern, many are hundreds of years old and are notable enough to have their own Wikipedia page.

• 51.750279 -1.242596 7 Angel and Greyhound , 30 St Clement's St, OX4 1AB . Popular with Friday evening after-work crowd, letting their hair down. In quieter moments good for board games. Food is average.  
• 51.744406 -1.240044 10 The Fir Tree , 163 Iffley Rd, OX4 1EJ ( on the corner of Bullingdon Road and Iffley Road ), ☏ +44 1865 245290 . Good beer, open till 2AM on Fridays and Saturdays, friendly atmosphere.  
• 51.762696 -1.266618 11 The Gardener's Arms , 39 Plantation Road, OX2 6JE , ☏ +44 1865 559814 , [email protected] . Very pretty with a beer garden, and an excellent all-vegetarian menu with vegan dishes offered as well.  
• 51.75033 -1.243562 12 Half Moon , 17-18 St Clement's St, OX4 1AB . Ignore the plastic faux-Irish outlets in the city centre and head out along the High St and over Magdalen Bridge and enjoy the relaxed vibe in this small, friendly pub.  
• 51.746799 -1.256226 13 Head of the River , St Aldate's, 40 Pembroke Square, OX1 4LB ( follow St Aldate's down past Christ Church college until you reach the river (the pub's on the far bank) ), ☏ +44 1865 721600 . M-Sa 11AM-11PM; Su noon-10:30PM . Perfectly located, right on the Thames. This place buzzes on summer evenings, when the large garden gets extremely busy. Food is mediocre.  
• 51.749998 -1.242761 16 The Old Black Horse , 102 St Clement's St, OX4 1AB ( opposite the Angel and Greyhound ), ☏ +44 1865 244691 . Quaint little pub used formerly as a coaching inn from the 17th century, still offers lodgings to those who need them to this day. Serves sub-zero Carling and often shows live football on an adequately sized TV. Sometimes there is the odd round of chess played among patrons too.  
• 51.758447 -1.269754 17 The Old Bookbinders' Arms , 17-18 Victor St, OX2 6BT ( go down Great Clarendon Street, turn right into Canal Street ), ☏ +44 1865 553549 , [email protected] . Hidden in the back streets of Jericho. Has eccentric decorations, but friendly and with lots of beers. Bookings to made by telephone only.  
• 51.750739 -1.261555 18 Royal Blenheim , 13 St Ebbes St, OX1 1PT , ☏ +44 1865 242355 . Quirky, friendly place with good beer and food. Check out the Chuck Norris quotes in the gents.  
• 51.760687 -1.261736 19 The Royal Oak , 42-44 Woodstock Road, OX2 6HT ( opposite the Radcliffe Infirmary ), ☏ +44 1865 310187 . Graduate and North Oxford local pub, offering Schneider Weiße from Germany. Popular with scientists and doctors working in the area.  
• 51.755 -1.254444 20 St. Aldates Tavern , 108 St Aldates, OX1 1BU ( located on the former Hobgoblin site ), ☏ +44 1865 242369 . Su-Th 11AM-11PM; F Sa 11AM-midnight . Small and traditional Victorian tavern but with adequate seating, with drinks varying in price depending on how early you get there.  

Cocktail bars [ edit ]

Oxford has a few cocktail bars. Most are in the Jericho area or on the Cowley Road.

• 51.747184 -1.236037 22 The Cowley Retreat , 172 Cowley Road, OX4 1UE ( located on the former Hobgoblin site ), ☏ +44 1865 247878 . Lively student pub with a decent cocktail selection. Staff are friendly until 11PM, at which point you'll be rudely kicked out.  
• 51.758693 -1.261556 23 The Duke of Cambridge , 4 Little Clarendon St, Jericho, Oxford, OX1 2HP , ☏ +44 1865 558173 , [email protected] . Fashionable for young students wanting great cocktails with some cheeky bar staff. Swisher than you might expect.  
• 51.757966 -1.263676 25 LJ's (Love Jericho) , 30 Walton Street, Jericho, Oxford, OX2 6AA ( on the old site of Sweet Browns and adjacent to Raoul's ), ☏ +44 1865 424631 . M-Sa 4:30PM-1AM . Cocktail bar with a great atmosphere and vibrant menu. There is a variety of flavours to be chosen from, ranging from sweet to spicy. Patrons consider the place to be trendy and also has a happy hour.  
• 51.758051 -1.263741 26 Raoul's , 32 Walton Street, Jericho, Oxford, OX2 6AA ( adjacent to LJ's (Love Jericho) ), ☏ +44 1865 553732 , [email protected] . Su-Tu 4PM-midnight; M-Sa 4PM-1AM . A trendy and upmarket cocktail bar with a strange and rather futuristic interior design. Often very busy at weekends.  

Gastropubs [ edit ]

Oxford has a few gastropubs, often with clean modernist decor and a large emphasis on food.

• 51.748584 -1.239412 27 Big Society , 95 Cowley Rd, OX4 1HR , ☏ +44 1865 792755 . Noon-midnight . A modern bar with minimalistic decor and an emphasis on murals. Serves a US-inspired diner menu complete with burgers, fries and milkshakes (along with excellent Southern-fried chicken). Has free Wi-Fi with a password that rotates on a daily basis and plenty of entertainment activities including pool, table tennis and an upright arcade machine with a plethora of classic titles.  
• 51.764185 -1.210724 28 The Black Boy , 91 Old High St, Headington, OX3 9HT , ☏ +44 1865 741137 . Headington gastropub named after a racehorse, hence its unusual name. Apparently has a nine year award winning streak. ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 51.777636 -1.264524 29 The Dew Drop Inn , 258 Banbury Rd, Summertown, OX2 7DX , ☏ +44 1865 559372 . Summertown's own pub is now a gastropub. The menu is a bit expensive, though recommended is the Bloody Mary station that allows customers to add their own amounts of Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco sauce. ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 51.783604 -1.293515 30 Jacobs' Inn , 130 Godstow Rd, Wolvercote, OX2 8PG , ☏ +44 1865 514333 . Tucked away in the affluent village of Wolvercote lies the Jacobs' Inn. ( updated Dec 2017 )
• 51.747357 -1.235928 32 The Bullingdon , 162 Cowley Rd, OX4 1UE , ☏ +44 1865 434998 . Lively and unpretentious with a mixed clientele. Live music and club nights in the back room. Jazz club on Tuesday nights. Blues on Monday nights.  

Nightclubs [ edit ]

Certain weeknights are student-only at some clubs, so you should probably check before going.

• 51.75327 -1.266006 33 The Bridge , 6-9 Hythe Bridge St, OX1 2EW , ☏ +44 1865 242526 . Nightclub frequented by students. Two floors — R&B on one, dance on the other. Plenty of acceptable seating, long bars and quite importantly clean bathroom facilities! Drinks can be a bit pricey: bottled beer £3 (no draught), double vodka coke £2.70, entry £4–£5. VIP room.  
• 51.752684 -1.265611 34 [dead link] Atik ( previously 'LavaIgnite' ), Cantay House, Park End St, OX1 1JD , ☏ +44 1865 250181 . M–W 9PM–2AM; Th–Sa 9:30PM–3AM . Nightclub frequented by students and locals. Come here to drink heavily and dance to uninspired pop tunes. £1-5 cover, £3 pints, £3 mixed drinks (some nightly drink specials). Monday is Brookes student night, Wednesday is OUSU student night (many bottled drinks £1.50). Student ID required for both.  
• 51.752324 -1.257008 35 The Varsity Club , 9 High St, OX1 4DB , ☏ +44 1865 248777 . Su-Th noon-midnight; F Sa noon-3AM . ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 51.753021 -1.25921 36 Plush , Frewin Court, OX1 3HZ , ☏ +44 1865 247966 . 6PM-3:30AM . Colourful LGBT bar and nightclub located in one of the old Oxford University coal cellars. ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 51.746955 -1.234578 37 O2 Academy Oxford ( previously Carling Academy and The Zodiac' ), 190 Cowley Rd, OX4 1UE , ☏ +44 1865 813500 . Live music venue and stop-off for many a band's UK tour, turned nightclub after hours.  
• 51.752844 -1.26534 38 Thirst , 7-8 Park End St, OX1 1HH , ☏ +44 1865 242044 , [email protected] . M–W 6:30PM–2AM; Su 6:30PM–1:30AM . A small nightclub with a cocktail bar - drinks from £1.75. Also has an extensive outdoor smoking area with a bar and shisha.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Oxford has a large number of B&Bs and guesthouses, located both centrally and in the suburbs. Check the website of the Oxford Association of Hotels and Guesthouses [dead link] to get some ideas of available options.

Most hotels in the city centre are pretty expensive, and you pay almost London prices. Book in advance if you are travelling in summer: accommodation can be scarce during high season. The tourist information office in the city centre can help find available accommodation for a small fee.

For visitors of Oxford University, low cost residency may be available in St Edmund Hall .

Travelodge and Premier Inn have budget hotels on the outskirts of Oxford, although one will need to take a 20-minute (or more) bus ride to get to the centre.

• 51.79451 -1.282815 2 Travelodge (Pear Tree) , Moto Service Area, Peartree Roundabout, Woodstock Road, OX2 8JZ , ☏ +44 8719 846206 . Premier Inn and next to the Pear Tree Park & Ride making it a great place to stay on a budget. From £49 per night .  
• 51.731278 -1.248997 3 Travelodge (Abingdon Road) , Abingdon Road, OX1 4XG , ☏ +44 8715 591877 . On the bottom of the Abingdon Road - 1.6 miles (2.6 km) away from Oxford city centre. It's next to Redbridge Park & Ride, making getting into the city centre convenient. From £57 per night .  
• 51.741938 -1.115605 4 Travelodge (Wheatley) , Harvester A40, London Road, Wheatley, OX33 1JH , ☏ +44 8719 846207 . ( updated Nov 2016 )
• 51.731049 -1.202971 5 Premier Inn (Oxford) , Oxford Business Park, Garsington Road, OX4 2JT , ☏ +44 8715 595454 . Another budget hotel. From £49 per night . ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 51.71552 -1.206374 6 Holiday Inn Express , Kassam Stadium Grenoble Rd, Oxford, OX4 4XP , ☏ +44 1865 780888 , [email protected] . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: noon . A modern hotel next to Kassam Stadium with free parking, free WiFi, inclusive breakfast and easy access to Oxford city centre, hotel is less than 5 miles (8 km) from central Oxford's bus and railway stations. £56 per night . ( updated Feb 2017 )

Alternatives in the centre include:

• 51.752685 -1.271601 7 YHA Oxford , 2a Botley Road, OX2 0AB , ☏ 0870 770 5970 (high cost number), +44 1865 727275 (outside UK) , fax : +44 1865 251182 , [email protected] . Housed in newish, purpose-built building next to the railway station and minutes from the city centre, prices from £20.50 adult, £15.50 under 18s. Prices are a bit steep, and unfortunately no longer include breakfast. Location is convenient although avoid getting a room facing the train station as the sound of passing trains and station PA announcements can become annoying after a while.  
• 51.752855 -1.265745 8 Central Backpackers Hostel , 13 Park End Street, OX1 1HH , ☏ +44 1865 242288 . Close to the city centre. Clean and airy. Make sure to grab a pair of the free earplugs they hand out at the reception, though, as the bar crowd on the street can get noisy at night. From £14 . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 51.753227 -1.266159 9 Oxford Backpackers , 9a Hythe Bridge Street, OX1 2EW , ☏ +44 1865 721761 , fax : +44 1865 203293 , [email protected] . Cheap and a little dingy. 2-min walk the rail and bus stations. Dorm beds from £13.  
• 51.753643 -1.260366 10 Victoria House Hotel , 29 George St, OX1 2AY , ☏ +44 1865 727400 . Popular 3-star hotel in the heart of Oxford on George Street. From £71 a night .  
• 51.758821 -1.216242 11 Dial House Guest House , 25 London Rd, Headington, OX3 7RE , ☏ +44 1865 425100 . Bed and breakfast from £91 .  
• 51.7876 -1.2836 12 Leonardo Hotel ( formerly Jury's Inn ), Godstow Rd OX2 8AL , ☏ +44 1865 489988 . Located near the Wolvercote Roundabout with plenty of amenities nearby and easy access to the number 6 bus to the city centre. This 4-star hotel offers decent accommodation along with pool & spa facilities. From £125 per night .  
• 51.784627 -1.269079 13 Remont Boutique B&B Oxford Hotel , 367 Banbury Road, OX2 7PL , ☏ +44 1865 311020 , [email protected] .  
• Tower House , 15 Ship St OX1 3DA ( one block west of Bodleian ), ☏ +44 7402 008003 . Comfy little B&B, only one shared bathroom and rooms are small, but great value for this location. B&B double £120 .  
• Oxford University Rooms . Some of the colleges rent out rooms out of term time, providing a B&B-like experience. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• 51.775211 -1.263813 14 [dead link] The Galaxie Hotel 4-Star B&B Summertown , 180 Banbury Road, OX2 7BT , ☏ +44 1865 515688 .  
• 51.782519 -1.267083 15 Burlington House Hotel , 374 Banbury Road, OX2 7PP . £157 .  
• 51.744688 -1.258857 16 Ethos Hotel , 59 Western Road, Grandpont, OX1 4LF , ☏ +44 1865 245800 . £130 .  
• 51.752932 -1.267165 17 Royal Oxford Hotel , Park End Street, OX1 1HR ( near the Saïd Business School ), ☏ +44 1865 248432 . Three-star hotel on the west-side of town. It has its own restaurant Jam Factory , and the city's first Korean restaurant called Bamboo .  
• 51.770276 -1.259569 18 Linton Lodge , 11-13 Linton Rd, OX2 6UJ , ☏ +44 1865 553461 , [email protected] . Mid-sized hotel in a quiet side street of Banbury Road, 5 min from a bus stop and ca. 15 min from the University Engineering Faculty. Full Continental breakfast, garden, lounge, and well equipped rooms with bath tub and comfortable beds. No air conditioning. Express checkout available. Wifi is free, submit random name and room number on the landing page and click "Connect". £94 . ( updated Mar 2019 )
• 51.835 -1.27 19 The Bell at Hampton Poyle , 11 Oxford Rd, Hampton Poyle, Kidlington OX5 2QD , ☏ +44 1865 376242 . Country pub of character with nine rooms and great cooking. B&B double £130 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 51.751549 -1.262517 21 Malmaison Oxford Prison Hotel , Oxford Castle, 3 New Rd, OX1 1AY , ☏ +44 1865 689944 . Set in the old prison, this modern quirky 4-star hotel also allows pets!  
• 51.75948 -1.260317 23 The Old Parsonage Hotel , 1 Banbury Rd, OX2 6NN , ☏ +44 1865 310210 . Small, modern luxury hotel in Oxford 5 minutes from the city centre.  
• 51.740494 -1.25168 25 Oxford Spires Hotel , Abingdon Road , ☏ +44 1865 324324 , fax : +44 1865 324325 , [email protected] . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: 11AM . Close to the city centre but set in a large garden area. There's an indoor pool and spa treatments are available. £79-£229 .  
• The Store opens in April 2024. It's in the former Boswell's department store on Broad St.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Although Oxford is an affluent university city and is generally very safe, as with any city care should be taken with personal belongings and surroundings.

Street crime in the centre of the city, with the exception of bicycle theft, is low, though proper precautions as would be followed in any other city should be taken. Avoid getting caught up in drunken revelry or street fights, and, remember, traffic is on the left (so look both ways). Oxford has a lot of student cyclists, especially during term time (January, February, April, May, October, and November), making hearing alone insufficient for checking whether a road is clear.

Though having seen improvement following local government investment, the suburb of Blackbird Leys on the southern outskirts of the city ranks amongst the 10% most deprived areas in the country, and has a higher rate of crime than one might expect in Oxford. Visitors are, however, unlikely to visit this area of the city other than on football matchdays.

Oxford has a relatively high rate of not only street performers but also beggars (though still a low number of the latter by international standards). Police advise not handing over money to those who expressly ask for it unless threatened.

Police stations [ edit ]

For emergencies , dial 999 or 112 . For non-emergency situations use 101 . 101 is a charged call.

• 51.748166 -1.256285 3 Police Station (St Aldates) , St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1SZ , ☏ +44 1865 841148 . 8AM-10PM . Parking is for disabled badge holders only and fines are hefty.  
• 51.734451 -1.213764 4 Police Station (Cowley) , Oxford Rd, OX4 2LE .  
• 51.813245 -1.278598 5 Police Station (Kidlington) , Oxford Rd, Kidlington, OX5 2NX . M-F 8AM-5PM . Free parking available, closed on bank holidays.  

LGBT scene [ edit ]

Oxford has a small gay scene and a gay area, which is accepting and friendly. The city's LGBT population is not as high as in places like Manchester, Brighton, London, Blackpool; but it is a safe and comfortable feeling for gay visitors. The Plush Lounge , Frewin Court, is the most popular gay nightclub in the city, busy on Friday & Saturday nights, though visitors should be aware that it is largely the haunt of undergrads during the Autumn months.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

In a life-threatening medical emergency, dial 999 or 112 . For urgent, but not life-threatening emergency issues it is recommended to call 111 and ask for assistance.

Hospitals and clinics [ edit ]

Although there are many hospitals in clinics in Oxford, the following are most likely to be of use to the sickly traveller.

• 51.764268 -1.219434 6 John Radcliffe Hospital ( JR Hospital ), Headley Way, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU , ☏ +44 300 3047777 . The largest hospital in Oxford, used for most illnesses. Has an Accident & Emergency department for severe injuries.  
• 51.750135 -1.213861 7 Churchill Hospital , Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LE , ☏ +44 300 3047777 .  

Connect [ edit ]

Oxford itself has a reasonably good mobile signal available on all carriers including Vodafone, O2, EE and Three.

Oxford's own public library has free internet available. It has moved to the Oxford Castle temporarily due to the construction of the new Westgate Shopping Centre.

The hostels near the train station all provide the Internet to residents.

There are also internet cafes in the city. One to try is located above the baguette (sandwich) shop on the far south end of New Inn Hall Street (the little lane running perpendicular to George Street, right across from Gloucester Green bus station and immediately parallel to Cornmarket Street). They also offer international telephone calls, international fax, and printing.

• 51.7521 -1.2599 16 La Baguette , New Inn Hall St, OX1 2DW . Sandwich shop with a whole internet cafe setup upstairs. Computers run Windows. ( updated Nov 2017 )

Go next [ edit ]

Map of places with Wikivoyage articles nearby

• 51.8986 -1.1508 2 Bicester . 10 mi (16 km) north of Oxford, a nice little town famous for its outlet shopping centre Bicester Village.  
• 51.75187 -1.09053 1 Waterperry Garden . Near Thame , A lovely wander through manicured gardens.  

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Oxford Itinerary

Our comprehensive Oxford Itinerary was put together to give you a true essence of what Oxford has to offer its visitors.

Steeped in rich history and dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period, Oxford is a city world-renowned for its academic prestige and historic buildings, which have led to its name, coined by English poet and Oxford academic Matthew Arnold, as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’. Today, the majestic city attracts millions of visitors every year, and with so much to see and do, we want to show you exactly how to make the most of your time in Oxford.

9:30 am Kickstart your weekend in the heart of it all, with breakfast at Cafe Creme on bustling Broad Street. After you’ve filled up, head further down the road to explore some of Oxford’s most famous landmarks including the Sheldonian Theatre , the Weston Library , the Bodleian Library , and Radcliffe Square.

10:45 am Start your guided tour around more of Oxford’s iconic sites on an Oxford Official University and City Walking Tour at 10:45 am from Broad Street in central Oxford. Tours are led by professional green badge guides, and include entry to the Divinity School and one of the University of Oxford’s 38 Colleges.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to walk, the City Sightseeing bus tour is a great way to see the city. Listen to your guide as you are driven around with the option to get on and off at 19 stops around the city.

1 pm After your morning tour, it’s time for a well-earned lunch. A great location for views over the city is the Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant .

2 pm Oxford’s museums cater for all tastes. Visitors can choose from the Ashmolean Museum – Britain’s first public museum and home to world-famous collections or art and archeology; the Museum of the  History of Science, the Museum of Natural History and neighbouring  Pitt Rivers Museum . Alternatively, The Museum of Oxford tells the history of the city and finally, The Story Museum celebrates the power of story. We’ll leave it to you to decide!

6.30 pm A wonderfully unique way to spend your time in Oxford, join one of Bill Spectre’s Ghost Trails on a Friday or Saturday evening at 6:30 pm outside  Oxford Castle & Prison ’s gift shop or at 6:50 pm outside the Oxford Visitor Information Centre on Broad Street. Illustrated with props and illusions, follow Victorian costumed Bill Spectre as he guides you through the historic city, leaving you with a “deliciously scary tingle down your spine”!

8 pm Your tour will finish around 8 pm at the Sheldonian Theatre. A short walk from here across town will take you to the Oxford Castle Quarter  which is home to a selection of restaurants including the 1855 wine bar. Oxford’s prison used to be on this site but is now a boutique Malmaison hotel which is a great place to stay the night in a converted prison cell!

10 am Next door to the Malmaison is Oxford Castle & Prison.  Take a guided tour and let the characters reveal their fascinating stories entrenched in the building’s 1,000 year past while you explore the Saxon St George’s Tower and descend deep underground to the 900-year-old crypt.

11 am Head over to Folly Bridge and the River Thames. From here you can try out the quintessentially Oxford tradition of punting at Salter’s Steamers . Hire a punt or be chauffeured by a professional and admire the views of Christ Church in the distance.

1 pm Take a short walk back along St Aldates to Cafe Loco . Here you can have lunch in the cafe or takeaway and enjoy a picnic just over the road in the beautiful Christ Church Meadows with views of the River Thames and cows grazing in the fields.

2 pm Allow a little time for shopping and browse the independent shops along the High Street and in the Covered Market . Close by is Westgate Oxford – the city’s new shopping and entertainment centre – and here you will find an eclectic mix of global fashion brands, high street fashion, restaurants, bars and a boutique cinema. Certainly enough to keep you busy!

From 5.15 pm Bring your time in Oxford to an end with 45 minutes of often world-class Choral Evensong in a beautiful Oxford college chapel. It happens every evening during Term Time and starts between 5.15 pm and 6.45 pm depending on which college you visit.

The best way to travel to Oxford is to use the  Park and Ride . There are 5 Park and Ride car parks located on the outskirts of Oxford with frequent onward bus journeys into the city centre.

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EVERYTHING OXFORD & OXFORDSHIRE

Discover oxfordshire and the city of oxford, welcome to oxford city visitor information.

You’ve found the essential Oxford City guide with information on where to stay in Oxford and around Oxfordshire , what to see if you’re visiting or living in Oxford and surrounding areas , ideas for the best places to eat and drink , great shopping trips , local weather and details of Oxfordshire’s thriving businesses and community essentials .

Oxford City Guide

Oxford, The City of Dreaming Spires, is famous the world over for its University and place in history. For over 800 years, it has been a home to royalty and scholars, and since the 9th century an established town, although people are known to have lived in the area for thousands of years. Nowadays, the city is a bustling cosmopolitan town. Still with its ancient University, but home also to a growing hi-tech community. Many businesses are located in and around the town, whether on one of the Science and Business Parks or within one of a number of residential areas.

With its mix of ancient and modern, there is plenty for both the tourist and resident to do. Whether its visiting one of the many historic buildings, colleges or museums , going out for a drink or a meal , taking in a show or shopping till you drop , Oxford along with the entire county of Oxfordshire has it all and oxfordcity.co.uk is your online Oxford City guide.

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Greyfriars Hideaway is an exclusive luxury 5 Star Gold destination in England complemented by concierge services. Two historic luxury self catering properties are set within a truly unparalleled private and secure location cosseted in the vibrant centre of Oxford just metres from Westgate Oxford and Oxford Castle and a short walk to many of Oxford's other famous landmarks. An exceptional location for business or pleasure. These two luxurious self catering properties can either be booked independently or taken together as a whole for complete exclusivity.

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Visiting Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful city of stunning architecture, history and culture. You'll find ancient and modern colleges, fascinating museums and galleries, and plenty of parks, gardens and green spaces in which to relax. Plus, the city centre is small enough to cover on foot, and only a few minutes walk from the main rail and coach stations.

Things to see and do at Oxford University

Oxford is not a campus university, so it is not all located on one site. It is made up of many different buildings, including academic departments, colleges and halls, located around the centre of Oxford. Many University buildings, such as gardens, libraries and museums, as well as many of the colleges, are open to visitors during the day, although please note that they may have varying opening hours, fees and rules for groups.

You can find more information, including opening times and fees, at the links below:

• Visiting the Colleges
• Visiting Museums, Libraries and Places of Interest
• What's on at the University
• Shopping at the University

To make the most of your visit, bring along a copy of our leaflet, ' Explore the University of Oxford ', which contains a map and information on opening times of colleges, museums and other places of interest. 

Tours of Oxford University

Oxford University does not organise tours but a city walking tour is offered by the Bodleian Libraries in association with the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides. The tours, all operated by Blue and Green Badge Guides, begin at the beautiful modern Weston Library before heading through the historic and famous streets of the city. Tours take around two hours and can be  booked through the Bodleian Libraries .

A number of independent operators also offer guided tours of Oxford. A range of general and themed tours are available, as are tours by cycle, rickshaw and bus. For a list of tour companies, please visit the  Daily Information  website. 

Please note that all operators are independent of Oxford University. Details are provided here for information only. 

Disabled access

The collegiate University is committed to improving access and is currently continuing to develop its Access guide . As more of our historic buildings are modified the Access guide will become more comprehensive. In the meantime, the Access guide is a helpful first point for information on accessible buildings. Where there are gaps in the information we suggest you contact the places you wish to visit directly.

Information for prospective students

If you're thinking about applying for an undergraduate degree and want to see more of Oxford, our Virtual Open Days are an excellent opportunity to see the University, get to know the city, and meet tutors and students.

Additional information for visitors to the city of Oxford

Experience Oxfordshire  offers advice on walking tours, accommodation, things to do in Oxford, and more.

• History of the University
• Oxford Glossary
• Oxford people

Special offers for alumni

Make sure to bring your Alumni Card with you and see our special offers on the Alumni website

Accommodation in Oxford

• Accommodation at the University and the Colleges
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Oxford Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Oxford is a charming, historic city located just a short ride from London . The city is famed for its prestigious university, which is one of the oldest in the world (it was founded in the 11th century).

Oxford first earned fame in the Middle Ages as a hub for theological learning. It then expanded into medicine and law. Today, the university is home to over 24,000 students and you can study with the best and brightest in pretty much any field here.

While the city can feel stuffy and lacks the cut-loose university town feel that cities like Bristol have, visiting Oxford and seeing the old architecture more than makes up for it.

This Oxford travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you have an amazing visit to the historic city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Oxford

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oxford

1. Tour Oxford

The University is the main attraction here. 24,000 students study at the famed college and on a visit to Oxford, you can tour fascinating museums, botanical gardens, and relax in the many pristine green spaces around campus. Bodleian Libraries offers guided tours of the university, including the inside of many historic buildings, which have been featured in countless movies over the years (including Harry Potter). They provide a look at university life, the history of the school, the architecture, and more. Tours last a couple of hours and cost 20 GBP.

2. Visit Balliol College

Founded in 1263 by wealthy landowner John I de Balliol, Balliol College is one of the oldest colleges in the University of Oxford. After Balliol’s death, his widow Dervorguilla continued to fund the founding of the college. This college was one of the first to create academic opportunities for women after only admitting men for 700 years and now the walls inside are lined with portraits of female graduates. Four Prime Ministers are alumni of Balliol college, as well as influential philosophers like Adam Smith and Aldous Huxley. It’s a prestigious college within Oxford and has a student body of about 400 who study Biology, English, History, Law, and more.

3. Admire South Park

Located in east Oxford, South Park is the largest park in Oxford, with free admission and a sweeping view of the city, including the university skyline. The land was privately owned until 1932 when the Oxford Preservation Trust acquired it and transformed it into a public park. The park is a favorite spot for photographers and from the highest point you’ll be able to see the towers of Oxford College. Within the park, you’ll find a 19th-century bridge and the Oxford Artisan Distillery. On a nice day, the park is filled with locals getting a tan, playing sports, and lounging. There are also a variety of events held there throughout the year including parades, firework displays, food festivals, and concerts.

4. Stroll under Hertford Bridge

This bridge is known as the ‘Bridge of Sighs’ because college students sigh under it on their way to take exams, and because it resembles the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. Hertford Bridge has an iconic design and connects the Old and New Quadrangles of Hertford College. It was completed in 1914 and serves as a convenient link between the two buildings. Visit the nearby Turf Tavern and commiserate with the students over a pint. You’ll be drinking in good company — Elizabeth Taylor, Stephen Hawking, and Margaret Thatcher have all paid a visit to Turf Tavern over the years.

5. Visit the Ashmolean Museum

Founded in 1683, this is Britain’s oldest public museum with a focus on art and archeology. It was originally constructed to house a “cabinet of curiosities” that Elias Ashmole donated to the University of Oxford in 1677. Ashmole’s collection was combined with older university treasures that supposedly included Guy Fawkes’ lantern and Jacob’s Coat of Many Colors. It recently went through a renovation in 2009 and displays Ancient Egyptian art, as well as an impressive Eastern Art collection. Today the museum is also working to preserve history, while simultaneously decolonizing the language and practices surrounding certain exhibits. Make sure to see the Amarna Princess Fresco and the Alfred Jewel before you leave. Admission is free.

Other Things to See and Do in Oxford

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the first things I do in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land and connect with a local guide. Footprints Tours are run by students and offer a solid introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Admire the University of Oxford Botanical Gardens

When it opened in 1621, the botanical gardens here were the first of their kind in the UK. Today, the collection includes traditional English landscape designs and some of the UK’s oldest redwood trees. There are over 5,000 plant species here spread out over 4.5 acres. Admission is 6.30 GBP and pre-booking is highly recommended to guarantee entry.

3. Shop for snacks at the Covered Market

This historic 250-year-old market has dozens of coffee bars, restaurants, traditional butchers, fish merchants, and independent shops. You’ll be able to find everything from artisanal sausage to sushi. There are a lot of homemade meals served here and it’s the best place to do some cheap shopping for groceries in the city. In addition to food, there are also lots of local vendors selling handmade wares, including clothing, souvenirs, and jewelry.

4. Browse the Bodleian Library

As the main research library of the University of Oxford, the Bodleian is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and the second-largest library in the UK (after London’s British Library). Opened in 1602, its English Gothic architecture is gorgeous — so much so that it has served as a set for numerous films, including the first two Harry Potter films (its Divinity School, with its fan-vaulted ceiling and ornate decoration, was used as the Hogwarts hospital wing.) Entry is free and tours start at 9 GBP.

5. Go punting

Punting is a quirky and unique summer activity in Oxford. It’s essentially pushing a small boat around the River Thames or the River Cherwell with a pole. Punting season takes place from mid-March to mid-October when you can rent a boat or hire someone to take you. Rentals cost 30 GBP per hour and can fit up to 5 people.

6. Visit the Museum of Natural History

Established in 1850, this museum holds the University’s scientific collections of zoological, entomological, geological, paleontological, and mineralogical specimens. The exhibits are devoted to the history and diversity of life on Earth. One of their most famous exhibits is the Oxford Dodo. It has the only surviving dodo soft tissue remains in the world as well as a dodo skull (the dodo is an extinct flightless bird that was endemic to Mauritius). Admission is free.

7. Learn about medieval life at Oxford Castle Prison

Originally built in the 11th century, visiting this Norman castle prison (which was in operation until 1996) is like stepping back in time. You can descend into a 900-year-old crypt and then climb to the top of Saxon St George’s Tower for a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding area. You’ll also learn about the past residents of the prison and hear stories of their crimes, which range from murder to tyranny to religious rebellion. Admission is by guided tour only and costs 15.25 GBP.

8. Get lost in Blackwell’s Books

For the bookworm, this historic shop is a must. Opened in 1879, it’s home to the Norrington Room, which holds the Guinness Record for the largest bookselling room in the world. Named after Sir Arthur Norrington, a former president of Trinity College, the 10,000-square-foot (929-square-meter) basement is just one of Blackwell’s four floors of books.

9. Take a day trip to Blenheim Palace

This underrated attraction is just 8 miles (12 kilometers) outside of Oxford. Built in the early 18th century, it is the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Aside from the amazing Baroque architecture, the rooms are preserved with their original furniture and the grounds include a beautiful garden and a butterfly house. The entire palace is filled with statues, tapestries, priceless furniture and fine china, and huge oil paintings. Highlights include the room in which Winston Churchill was born and the Blenheim Tapestries, which are 10 large tapestries that commemorate the first duke’s conquests. Fun fact: this 17th-century palace is the only non-royal house in the UK that’s still allowed to be referred to as a palace. Admission to the palace, park, and gardens is 35.00 GBP.

10. Have a pint at the student pubs

A lot of Oxford’s energy comes from the huge student population. Around Oxford, you’ll find everything from small, quirky dive bars to romantic cocktail bars. The Eagle and Child pub on St Giles’ street is one of the most famous of Oxford’s pubs. The pub was a popular meeting spot for literary heavyweights like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide

Oxford Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There is currently just one hostel in Oxford and a bed in a dorm with 8 beds costs 35-40 GBP. Free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities are included.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for 14 GBP per night. This gets you a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels that include free Wi-Fi and breakfast start at around 80 GBP per night.

There are lots of Airbnb options available in Oxford. A private room costs at least 25-35 GBP per night, while an entire home/apartment starts around 60-90 GBP per night.

Avoid visiting during alumni weekend (which takes place in September) and the annual Oxford Boat Race, which draws 250,000 visitors around Easter. The city fills up fast and prices rise!

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular here too.

You can eat cheaply in Oxford if you stick to the cafes centered close to the university. Most give discounts to students, and whether you pick up a sandwich, salad, or bagel, you won’t pay more than 9 GBP for a meal (even if you aren’t a student).

You’ll find most student restaurants on and around George Street with small takeaway windows and stands selling everything from falafel to burritos. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 GBP for a combo meal while a pint at a pub costs around 5 GBP.

A personal pizza can cost as little as 5.55 GBP while Chinese food costs around 8 GBP for a meal.

Expect to pay 12 GBP for a meal at an inexpensive casual restaurant, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs 25 GBP per person, including a drink.

If you’re cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-60 GBP. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl, Aldi, and Sainsbury’s.

Backpacking Oxford Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Oxford, expect to spend about 70 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, public transit, limiting your drinking, cooking your own meals, and doing mostly free attractions like hanging out in the parks and exploring Oxford University. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 GBP per day to your budget.

A mid-range budget of 140 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room or private hostel room, eating out for most of your meals, taking the occasional taxi, enjoying a few drinks, and doing some paid activities like a guided tour of Oxford or going punting.

On a “luxury” budget of about 240 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car or bike to explore, and do as many tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Oxford Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

As one of the UK’s biggest university towns, Oxford has many free and low-cost things to do. With plenty of cheap pubs, student-focused restaurants, and lots of public spaces, cutting your costs and saving money is easy here. Here are my top ways to save money when you visit Oxford:

• Take a free walking tour – One of the best ways to learn about Oxford is with a free walking tour. Footprints Tours runs free walking tours that can introduce you to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Cook your own food – Like elsewhere in the UK, eating out in Oxford will destroy your budget. Cook as much as you can to save money.
• Eat cheap food – If you do plan on eating out, head out to neighborhoods outside the city center, where most of the students live. Stick to fast food and take-out joints for the cheapest options.
• Bike or walk everywhere – Oxford is not a large city so you can pretty much walk or bike everywhere. Skip the taxis and public transportation if you can.
• See the student theater – You can see cheap and cutting-edge student theater for a couple of pounds at the Burton Taylor Studio (near the bus station). It’s a small theater, but because it hosts student and independent productions, you can find a good deal on the ticket prices — even for last-minute tickets.
• Stay in an Oxford University dorm – When classes aren’t in session, it’s possible to stay in a dorm on the university campus. Exeter College is located in the center of the city and offers bed-and-breakfast-style accommodation in the dormitory. Rooms are only available during the Easter, summer, and winter vacations. (Not currently available due to COVID).
• Stay with a local – If you’re on a budget you’ll definitely want to try Couchsurfing . It’s a great way to cut costs while connecting to the local scene. Many students are away in the summer, however, so be sure to apply early.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Oxford

Oxford currently has just one operational hostel. Fortunately, it’s a good one!

• Central Backpackers

How to Get Around Oxford

The easiest way to get around Oxford, especially if you stick to the central tourist areas, is by walking. Oxford is compact enough to get around on foot.

Bus – There is an extensive bus network through Oxford to get around if you choose to take public transportation. Three separate bus companies operate public transport in Oxford, with single trip fares as low as 1.20 GBP and day passes costing around 3.90 GBP.

Bicycle – Oxford is very bike-friendly if you stick to the bike paths. Pony Bikes and Donkey Bikes are dockless bike companies operating in Oxford, meaning the bikes can be picked up and left anywhere on the sidewalk. Download and rent directly from their respective apps.

If you’d rather pay for a full day of access, you can rent a bike from Summertown Cycles for as little as 18 GBP for your first day (6 GBP for each following day). Brompton Bike Hire offers folding bikes for 5 GBP per day, which you can pick up from the self-serve bike locker next to Oxford Station.

Taxi – Taxis cost around 4.60 GBP to start and 2.40 GBP per mile, but the price depends on the time of day and traffic. You can also use an app like MyTaxi to order your ride. Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Uber – Uber is available in Oxford, but again, walking or cycling are the easiest way to get around in the compact city so I’d skip them if you can.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. Keep in mind you’ll be driving on the left and that most cars have a manual transmission. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for at least one year.

When to Go to Oxford

Summer (July-August) is peak tourism season in Oxford, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely do they go above 22°C (72°F). It’s perfect weather for exploring, punting, and relaxing in the many parks.

Spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit as the city is abuzz with student life and temperatures are mild. This is my favorite time to visit.

Winter lasts from December through February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below freezing, and prices are slightly lower. The days are cold and grey, however, so I wouldn’t suggest visiting during this time if you can avoid it.

How to Stay Safe in Oxford

Oxford is safe and the risk of violent crime is low. The biggest risk here is petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in the busy student pubs and clubs (however, it’s still quite rare).

Solo travelers, including female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re partying in the student pubs, be aware of your surroundings and avoid dimly lit alleys and pathways when heading home. Pickpockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and keep your valuables tucked away.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Oxford Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Oxford Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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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Oxford top tourist attractions city travel maps

City centre detailed street travel plan with must-see places, sights & landmarks to visit - oxford top tourist attractions map.

Maps of best attractions in Oxford, England

Oxford maps will guide you to the best destinations in this fascinating city. Oxford is the oldest university city in the United Kingdom, some 50 miles (80 km) to the west of the capital London in its own county of Oxfordshire, on the rivers Thames (the section of the Thames in Oxford is known as The Isis") and Cherwell. Together with Cambridge (the second oldest university city and Oxford great rival), Oxford has long represented the English academic establishment and élite ("Oxbridge"), a haven of tradition and endeavour. Oxford's famous "Dreaming Spires" refer to the medieval churches and colleges that dominate the bustling modern town in all their Gothic splendour. Picturesque architecture and a vibrant modern life (driven by students, light industry and technology) set in the rolling countryside of Oxfordshire make this a great destination. With the help of our maps you will be able to make to most of your trip. You can find the detailed locations of the must-see sights including Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, Radcliffe Square, Hertford Bridge (Bridge of Sighs), Sheldonian Theatre, Taylorian Institute, University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Christ Church, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Pitt Rivers Museum, Botanic Gardens - just click on a selected map to access a high resolution version that can be downloaded and printed or saved onto your mobile device.

Interesting sites (Botanic Gardens), best museums (Ashmolean Museum) & top galleries in two days - Oxford top tourist attractions map

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Map of top 10 attractions in Oxford

The typical top ten attractions are listed below. You can find the detailed locations of these places on the maps above.

• Christ Church College whose Great Hall inspired Hogwarts Hall in the Harry Potter movie and whose meadow is grazed by rare breed cattle.
• University Church of St. Mary the Virgin - Entrances on High Street and Radcliffe Square. It is worth the climb of 124 steps to make it to the top to enjoy fine uninterrupted views in all directions across Oxford and the surrounding countryside.
• Bodleian Library - Broad Street. The Bodleian Library is a working library which forms part of the University of Oxford. It is housed in a remarkable group of buildings which form the historic heart of the University, and you can explore the quadrangles of these magnificent structures at no charge.
• Radcliffe Camera - Radcliffe Square. The distinctive circular dome and drum of the structure makes it one of the most recognizable and often-photographed building in Oxford. This building is not open to the public except as part of a tour of the Bodleian Library.
• Hertford Bridge - New College Lane. Hertford Bridge is often called the Bridge of Sighs because of the similarity to the famous bridge in Venice. Actually, it looks more like the Rialto Bridge, and this Oxford structure was never intended to be a replica of any existing bridge.
• Carfax Tower - Corner of St. Aldate's, Cornmarket Street, Queen Street, High Street. It is possible to climb to the top of the tower for a good view of the Oxford skyline.
• Oxford Castle Quarter - New Road. The castle was originally built in 1071 for William the Conqueror, to enable the Normans to control the area.
• Ashmolean Museum - Beaumont Street. Museum of Art and Archaeology.
• Pitt Rivers Museum - South Parks Rd. Famous for its period atmosphere and outstanding collections from many cultures around the world, past and present.
• Covered Market - The Market was officially opened in 1774 and has a unique and wonderful atmosphere. It provides its visitors with the wonderful aromas of fresh fruit, coffee and fresh baking and to a feast of sights and sounds.

What are some interesting facts about Oxford?

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10 Things You Can Do On Your First Visit To Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire: Home To The Best Craft Beer In The UK

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The Allure of Dreaming Spires: A Guide to Relocating to Oxford from Outside the UK

T he city of Oxford, steeped in history and academic prestige, holds a magnetic allure for many.  For those considering a move to Oxford from outside the UK, the prospect can be both exhilarating and daunting.  This essay delves into the practicalities and cultural nuances of relocating to this vibrant city, offering a roadmap for a smooth and enriching transition.

The Enchantment of Oxford:  Reasons to Make the Move

Oxford's charm goes beyond the iconic Bodleian Library and the architectural grandeur of its colleges. Here are some key reasons why a move to Oxford might be a compelling choice:

• Academic Hub: For those seeking intellectual stimulation, Oxford is a paradise. World-renowned universities like Oxford and Brookes offer a dynamic environment with access to cutting-edge research, esteemed professors, and diverse learning opportunities.
• Cultural Tapestry: Oxford's rich history bleeds into its vibrant present. Museums, art galleries, and theatres offer an abundance of cultural experiences. The city also boasts a thriving music scene, catering to diverse tastes.
• Green Oasis: Despite its urban center, Oxford offers a surprising amount of green space. Parks like Christ Church Meadow and University Parks provide tranquil escapes, while the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and outdoor recreation.
• Lively Community: Oxford fosters a welcoming atmosphere for international residents. The city boasts a large expat population, along with friendly locals and a strong sense of community spirit.

Planning Your Journey: Practical Considerations

Making a successful move involves careful planning. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Visas and Immigration: The process for obtaining a visa depends on your nationality and reason for moving. Thoroughly research UK visa requirements well in advance of your relocation.
• Finding Accommodation: The Oxford housing market can be competitive. Explore options such as student housing, shared accommodation, or private rentals. Consider factors like location, budget, and availability when making your choice.
• Financial Considerations: The cost of living in Oxford can be higher than other parts of the UK. Factor in expenses like rent, groceries, transportation, and potential relocation costs when creating a realistic budget.
• Job Hunting: If you haven't secured employment before your move, start your job search well in advance. Utilize online job boards , network within your industry, and consider contacting companies directly.

Navigating New Waters: Cultural Adjustment

Adapting to a new culture can be challenging, but embracing the differences can lead to personal growth. Here are some tips for a smooth cultural transition:

• Understanding Accents and Humor: The British sense of humor and regional accents can take time to get used to. Be patient, immerse yourself in conversations, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification when needed.
• Embracing Social Etiquette: The British are known for their politeness and social codes. Learn about queuing etiquette, using titles (Mr., Ms.), and maintaining personal space in social interactions.
• Exploring Local Traditions: Participate in local festivals, explore traditional pubs, and sample British cuisine. Immersing yourself in the local culture is a great way to integrate and feel at home.

Building a New Life: Resources and Support

Several resources can help you adjust to life in Oxford:

• Welcome Centers: Local welcome centers offer support and information specifically for newcomers, helping you navigate everything from visa processes to finding housing.
• Expat Groups: Connecting with other expats who have gone through a similar relocation process can provide valuable advice and a sense of community.
• Language Learning: Learning basic English phrases goes a long way in everyday interactions. Consider taking language courses or utilizing online resources to improve your English communication skills.

A City of Opportunities:  Integrating into the Oxford Community

Oxford offers a plethora of opportunities for engagement and personal growth:

• Joining Clubs and Societies: From book clubs to sports teams, Oxford boasts a vibrant array of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests. Joining one is a great way to meet new people and explore your passions.
• Volunteering: Volunteering your time to a local cause is a rewarding way to connect with the community and give back while learning new skills.
• Exploring the Surroundings: Oxford's location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby towns like Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the beautiful Cotswolds countryside.