Indoor Activities Oxford for Tourists

Oxford is a city full of history and culture and has some of the best indoor activities to enjoy during your stay. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or you’ve been to Oxford many times before, these activities are sure to make your trip one to remember. From exploring the city’s ancient university buildings to shopping in the modern Westgate Centre, there’s something for everyone in Oxford. Read on to find out the best indoor activities Oxford has to offer to tourists.

Explore Oxford’s Ancient University Buildings

Oxford University is the oldest in the English-speaking world and visiting its iconic buildings is a must for any tourist. Start by visiting the Bodleian Library, a stunning building that is home to over 12 million books and manuscripts. As well as being a repository of knowledge, the library is a beautiful example of late-medieval architecture.

Take a tour of the Radcliffe Camera, a stunning circular structure that is part of the Bodleian Library complex. You can also explore the university’s museums, including the Ashmolean Museum, which holds the world’s oldest public collection of art and artifacts. The Pitt Rivers Museum is also worth a visit, with its collection of over 400,000 archaeological and ethnographic artifacts.

Browse Oxford’s Famous Bookstores

Oxford is home to some of the most famous bookstores in the world, including Blackwell’s Bookshop and the Oxford University Press Bookstore. Blackwell’s has been in business since 1879 and is the largest academic and specialist bookseller in the UK. It has several branches in Oxford and is a must-visit for book lovers. The Oxford University Press Bookstore is the oldest academic bookstore in the world and offers a wide selection of books, including many rare editions.

Visit the Westgate Shopping Centre

The Westgate Shopping Centre is the largest shopping centre in Oxford and offers a wide range of shops and restaurants. You can find everything from high street fashion to designer labels at the Westgate. There is also an IMAX cinema in the centre, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours shopping and dining.

Enjoy a Show at the Oxford Playhouse

The Oxford Playhouse is one of the oldest and most respected theatres in England and is well known for its productions of classic and contemporary plays. The theatre is home to the Oxford Repertory Company, which stages a range of drama, comedy, and musicals throughout the year. It’s a great place to enjoy a night out and experience some of Oxford’s best theatre.

Discover the City’s History at the Oxford Castle

The Oxford Castle is an iconic landmark in the city and is a great place to explore its history. The castle was built in 1071 and has a long and fascinating history. Today, it houses a museum, the Oxford Castle Unlocked, which tells the story of the city from Roman times to the present day. The castle also offers a number of guided tours, which are a great way to learn about the history of the city.

Learn About Oxford’s Literary Heritage

Oxford has a rich literary heritage and is home to some of the most famous writers in history, including J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and J.K. Rowling. The city is also home to several literary landmarks, including the Eagle and Child pub, which was a meeting place for the Inklings, a group of writers including Tolkien and Lewis. The Oxford Literary Festival is also held in the city each year, a popular event that celebrates the city’s literary heritage.

Shop for Crafts and Souvenirs

Oxford is known for its unique crafts and souvenirs. Head to the Covered Market in the city centre to browse a range of stalls offering a variety of handmade items. You can also find a selection of souvenirs in the city, from t-shirts and mugs to postcards and magnets.

Experience Oxford’s Music Scene

Oxford is home to a vibrant music scene, with regular gigs and concerts taking place in venues across the city. Some of the city’s most popular music venues include the O2 Academy, the Cellar, and the Bullingdon. The Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra is also based in the city and performs regular concerts in venues across the city.

Additional Tips

When visiting Oxford, it’s important to remember that the city is a popular tourist destination and can get busy during peak times. Make sure to plan ahead and book your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid disappointment. Oxford is also a great place to explore the surrounding countryside and villages, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Public transport in the city is reliable and affordable, and you can also rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace. Oxford is also known for its food, with a range of restaurants serving traditional British dishes, as well as a selection of international cuisines.

Oxford is a city full of history and culture and is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. With so many great indoor activities to enjoy, you’ll never be bored in the city. From exploring its ancient university buildings to visiting its famous bookstores, there’s something for everyone in Oxford. Make sure to plan ahead and book your activities and accommodation in advance to make the most of your time in the city.