Places to Visit in Oxford for Free

Oxford is one of England’s most beloved cities, renowned for its historical architecture, cultural attractions, and academic excellence. With a rich history dating back to the 11th century and an impressive array of cultural attractions, Oxford is a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

As one of England’s oldest and best-preserved cities, Oxford is an ideal destination for those looking to explore its stunning architecture and soak up some of its unique culture. Home to a world-renowned university, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and numerous renowned museums, Oxford is a city that will leave you feeling inspired.

Oxford is a city that is steeped in history and culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to explore its past. From its historic churches and university buildings, to its gorgeous parks and gardens, there are plenty of places to visit in Oxford that are totally free. Read on to find out some of the best places to visit in Oxford for free.

Oxford Botanic Garden

The Oxford Botanic Garden dates back to 1621 and is the oldest botanic garden in the UK. Located on the banks of the River Cherwell, the garden is home to over 8,000 different species of plants from around the world. It is also home to the oldest scientific herbarium in the UK, which houses over 400,000 specimens. Visitors to the garden can explore its 4,000-year-old cedar of Lebanon tree, as well as its impressive glasshouses that house exotic plants from tropical climates. The garden also houses a number of sculptures and monuments from various periods of history.

Oxford Castle

Oxford Castle is a Norman castle located in central Oxford, England. Built in 1071 by Robert D’Oyly, Oxford Castle has a long and varied history, having served as a royal residence, prison, and military stronghold over the centuries. Today, visitors can explore the preserved historic buildings at the castle, including its tower and chapel. They can also learn more about the castle’s history with interactive exhibits at the museum. There are plenty of activities to enjoy within the castle grounds, such as visiting the Saxon St. George’s Tower and exploring the underground crypt.

Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera is an iconic building located in central Oxford. Built in 1737–1749, it was designed by James Gibbs, one of Britain’s most renowned architects. The Radcliffe Camera has served as a library since 1810 and is now part of the Bodleian Library. Its beautiful 18th-century architecture makes it a popular tourist attraction for visitors to Oxford. Visitors can take a guided tour of the library or explore its exhibitions and displays on their own.

Museum of Natural History

The Museum of Natural History is one of Oxford’s most popular attractions, located in the heart of the city centre. The museum houses a wide range of exhibits from around the world, including dinosaur skeletons, fossils, rocks, minerals, meteorites, and much more. Visitors can also explore the museum’s interactive displays and learn more about Earth’s environment and biodiversity with interactive activities and talks.

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, dating back to 1602. Located in central Oxford on Broad Street, it is home to over 11 million books and manuscripts from around the world. Visitors can explore the library’s exhibition galleries, which house rare books, paintings, and maps from across Europe and beyond. They can also take part in guided tours of the library or explore its historic reading rooms on their own.

Pitt Rivers Museum

The Pitt Rivers Museum is located on Parks Road in Oxford and is home to one of the largest collections of archaeological artifacts in Europe. It was founded in 1884 by General Augustus Pitt Rivers and houses over 500,000 objects from across the world. Visitors can explore its fascinating collection of artifacts from cultures around the world or take part in one of its many activities such as lectures or workshops.

Christ Church Meadow

Christ Church Meadow is one of Oxford’s most beautiful parks and gardens located just outside the city centre. The meadow is full of lush greenery and flowerbeds and provides visitors with stunning views of Oxford’s famous spires and buildings. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the meadow or relax on the grassy banks of its River Cherwell which runs through it. The meadow also houses many birds such as ducks and swans which visitors can feed during their visit.

Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre is an iconic building located on Broad Street in Oxford. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1663 and built by Thomas Woodroffe in 1669. The theatre has hosted many important events over its 350-year history such as performances by Handel’s orchestra and graduations by Oxford University students. Visitors can explore its interior with guided tours or simply admire its impressive architecture from outside.

Magdalen College

Magdalen College is one of Oxford’s most prestigious colleges located on High Street in central Oxford. Founded in 1458 by William OfWaynflete, Magdalen College has a rich history and has produced many famous alumni such as C.S Lewis and JRR Tolkien. Visitors can explore its beautiful grounds or take part in guided tours which tell its fascinating history.

Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum is an art museum located on Beaumont Street in Oxford. Founded in 1683 by Elias Ashmole, it is home to one of Europe’s most important collections of art and antiquities from around the world. It houses over 800,000 objects from various cultures including classical sculptures, Renaissance paintings, Ancient Greek pottery and coins, Egyptian mummies and much more. Visitors can explore its fascinating collections or take part in one of its many activities such as lectures or workshops.

University Church of St Mary

The University Church of St Mary is an iconic building located on High Street in Oxford. It was built in 1180 by Robert D’Oyly and has been used as a place of worship ever since. The church features some stunning medieval architecture with soaring ceilings and stained glass windows depicting scenes from Christian history. Visitors can explore the church’s interior or attend one of its daily services to experience a piece of Oxford’s religious heritage firsthand.

Book A Guided Tour Of Oxford’s Historic Sites Here

If you’re looking for an easy way to explore some of Oxford’s most fascinating historic sites, then why not book a guided tour? Available from various operators across the city, these tours offer a great way to learn more about Oxford’s history with expert guides who know all about the city’s past. From walking tours that take you through centuries-old streets to coach tours that let you discover all that Oxford has to offer at your own pace – there are plenty of options available for those looking to explore some of Oxford’s most iconic sites without spending a penny! Book a guided tour here.

Book A Private Tour Of Christ Church College Here

Christ Church College is one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks and is an absolute must-visit on any visit to Oxford! Located on St Aldates, it was founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII and has since become one of England’s most famous universities with alumni such as JRR Tolkien and Lewis Carroll amongst many others having studied here! With its beautiful gardens, grand dining halls and stunning chapels – it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Oxford! Why not book a private tour with an expert guide who will tell you all about the college’s fascinating history? Book a private tour here.

Book A Day Trip To Blenheim Palace Here

Blenheim Palace is one of England’s most beautiful stately homes located just outside Oxford in Woodstock! Built between 1705-1722 for John Churchill – first Duke Of Marlborough – it was originally intended as a reward for his military triumphs over France during The War Of The Spanish Succession! Today visitors can explore this majestic palace with its beautiful gardens and grounds or take part in one of its many activities such as falconry displays or tours! Book a day trip here.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for stunning views or interesting attractions – there are plenty of places to visit in Oxford for free! From beautiful churches and university buildings to fascinating museums and stately homes – there’s something for everyone to enjoy here! With so much to see and do – why not plan your visit today?