Welcome to Oxford, one of the UK’s most historic and culturally rich cities. If you’re planning a trip to this stunning city or considering it for your next travel adventure, you are in for a treat. With its world-renowned university, breathtaking architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene, Oxford has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the best sights, attractions and things to do in Oxford, from the iconic spires of the university to the picturesque riverbanks and everything in between. So, let’s get started on exploring this enchanting city together.
The 5 Best Stuff to Do in Oxford
- Official Cs Lewis Jrr Tolkien
- Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around
- Bike Tour Student Guide
- Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour
- City Bike Tour Student Guide
The 5 Best Stuff to Do in Oxford
1. Official Cs Lewis Jrr Tolkien
Explore the rich literary history of Oxford on a guided walking tour focused on two of its most famous authors: CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien. Walk in their footsteps and see where they lived, studied, preached, and worked. Visit key sites such as Exeter College, where Tolkien studied, University Church, where Lewis preached, and the Eagle & Child Pub, where the two met regularly as part of The Inklings. Along the way, also pass by other Oxford attractions including the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Ashmolean Museum. The tour includes pickup at 23-25 Broad St outside the entrance of Cool Britannia Gift Shop on the corner of Broad St and Turl St, and ends at the same location. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking and infant seats are available. Please note that the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems.
2. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around
Explore Oxford’s famous sights in a fun and unique way with this private self-guided adventure. Solve cryptic clues, uncover fascinating stories and enjoy the excitement of following a treasure map. The best part? You’ll do it all outdoors, avoiding the crowds and discovering lesser-known facts about Oxford along the way. There’s no need to keep up with a group — start and stop the game whenever you like. You’ll receive a link to the game upon booking that you can share with everyone in your group. The meeting point is Oxford Castle, located at Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 UK. As soon as you book, you’ll receive an SMS message to the number you booked with. Open the link to finish setting up your game, and on the day, simply open the game link and let the adventure begin!
3. Bike Tour Student Guide
Explore Oxford’s historic town center and university buildings on a bike tour with a local guide. Pedal alongside the City of Dreaming Spires, and discover the history of the University of Oxford as you visit buildings where famous personalities such as Oscar Wilde, J.R.R. Tolkien, and British Prime Ministers studied. This bike tour allows you to cover more ground than a walking tour and to access pedestrianized areas inaccessible to buses. Discover famous college buildings and other sites linked with some of the most celebrated writers and scholars, and make use of the included full-day bike during the tour. The tour starts at 5 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AJ, in front of Fudge Kitchen shop, and ends back at the meeting point. Choose between a morning or afternoon departure time, and get the chance to see Oxford in a unique and exciting way. Guide and gratuities included.
4. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour
Departing from your hotel in the Northern Cotswold or Oxford at 10:00AM, this private driving tour takes you to explore the undiscovered Cotswolds. You’ll visit idyllic villages and famous Cotswolds towns, tailor-making your tour to your interests.
The tour starts at the fascinating village of Great Tew and continues to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds. Here you’ll have time to browse among honey-coloured buildings, cozy pubs, narrow streets, interesting shops, and tiny tea rooms. Then, you’ll visit the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter, one of the prettiest villages in the Northern Cotswolds and set in amazing countryside.
Next, the tour takes you to the most famous Cotswolds town, Bourton-on-the-Water, which is regularly voted as one of the prettiest villages in England. Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water has a wealth of attractions, shops, restaurants, and tea rooms.
Finally, you’ll make your way through stunning scenic routes before enjoying lunch at an award-winning traditional pub. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, this tour offers something for everyone.
5. City Bike Tour Student Guide
Discover Oxford’s historic town center and the magical parks on the outskirts of town with this guided bike tour. Pedal past famous landmarks outside of the city center, and visit Port Meadow and beautiful parks on the outskirts of town. Along the way, see pubs and locations where famous writers and scholars, including Oscar Wilde, J. R. R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and many British politicians, spent their time.
Your student guide will teach you about the city’s rich history as you cycle through the city. Admire the impressive architecture of Oxford colleges, and visit the famous Bodleian Library. You’ll cover more ground on this guided bike tour than on foot, with plenty of stops along the way to see the best attractions.
This City Bike Tour Student Guide experience is a fun and unique way to get to know Oxford and all it has to offer. Meet your guide in the city center and finish back at the starting point, having enjoyed an immersive exploration of this beautiful city.
Frequently Asked Questions about Oxford
Oxford is one of the most famous cities in the world. From the prestigious Oxford University to the beautiful architecture and stunning scenery, the city has a lot to offer. However, for a first-time visitor, it can still be confusing. To help you out, we have put together some of the most frequently asked questions about Oxford.
1. Where is Oxford located?
Oxford is located in the southeast of England, around 60 miles from London. The city is the county town of Oxfordshire and is situated on the River Thames, a few miles upstream from London.
2. What is Oxford famous for?
Oxford is famous for its world-renowned university, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world. It is also well-known for its architecture, with many of its buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Additionally, the city has been the backdrop for various films and TV shows, including Harry Potter.
3. What is the best time to visit Oxford?
The best time to visit Oxford is in the summer months, between June and September. During this time, the weather is usually warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions. However, if you are looking to avoid crowds and get a more authentic experience of the city, then visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn may be better.
4. How do I get to Oxford?
Oxford is easily accessible by train from London and other major cities in the UK. There are also several bus services that operate to and from Oxford. If you are driving, the city is well-connected to major motorways.
5. What are some must-see attractions in Oxford?
There are plenty of must-see attractions in Oxford. These include:- Oxford University, including the Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera
– The Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest public museums in the world
– The Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK
– The Christ Church Cathedral, which has been used as a filming location for various films and TV shows, including Harry Potter
6. Can I take a tour of Oxford University?
Yes, you can take a tour of Oxford University. There are many guided tours available that offer a glimpse into the university’s history and architecture. These tours usually take around 1-2 hours and can be booked in advance.
7. Where can I go shopping in Oxford?
Oxford has a range of shopping options, from high street stores to independent boutiques. The main shopping street is Cornmarket Street, which is home to many popular brands. Alternatively, you can head to the Westgate Shopping Centre, which has over 100 stores and restaurants.
8. What is the best way to get around Oxford?
The best way to get around Oxford is on foot or by bike. The city is relatively small and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, you can hire a bike from one of the many rental shops in the city.
9. Where should I eat in Oxford?
Oxford has plenty of dining options, from formal restaurants to casual cafes. Some popular options include:- The Turf Tavern, a historic pub where many famous figures have drunk
– The White Rabbit, a stylish bar and restaurant serving pub classics
– The Old Parsonage Hotel, a luxury hotel with an acclaimed restaurant
10. Can I see the filming locations for Harry Potter in Oxford?
Yes, you can see some of the filming locations for Harry Potter in Oxford. Christ Church College was used as the backdrop for many of the Hogwarts scenes, including the Great Hall and the staircase leading to the first-floor landing. Additionally, New College was used for the interior and exterior shots of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Oxford. Whether you are planning a visit to the city or just curious about what it has to offer, there is plenty to see and do. From the historic university to the beautiful architecture and stunning scenery, Oxford is a city that truly has something for everyone.
The 5 Best Things to Do in Oxford: Frequently Asked Questions
Oxford is a famous university city located in south-central England. The city is renowned for its medieval architecture and world-famous institution of higher education, the University of Oxford. It is a wonderful city to visit, full of history and culture, and there are many things to see and do. Here are the five best things to do in Oxford along with some frequently asked questions to help make your trip perfect.
1. Visit Oxford University and its Colleges
The University of Oxford is a world-renowned institution known for being one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Visitors can explore its beautifully designed buildings, colleges, and libraries, and discover its history.
What colleges are open to the public?
Some of the Oxford colleges, such as Christ Church, Magdalen, and St John’s, are open to the public. Visitors can walk around these colleges and explore their gardens, chapels, and dining halls. However, visitors should check the official college websites for up-to-date information.
Are there any guided tours of the University of Oxford?
Yes. The University of Oxford offers a range of tours to visitors, including a guided tour of the university colleges and a walking tour through the city. Guided tours are available throughout the year, except during university exams and graduations. Visitors can book their tours from the University of Oxford website.
2. Visit Oxford Castle and Prison
Oxford Castle and Prison was originally built as a castle in 1071 and was converted into a prison in the 18th century. Nowadays, it is open to the public and is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England.
What can you see at the Oxford Castle and Prison?
Visitors can explore the castle’s crypt and the only surviving 14th-century turret, climb the mound to see incredible views of the city, and discover the stories of the people who lived and worked in Oxford Castle and Prison over the centuries.
How long does a visit to Oxford Castle and Prison take?
A visit to Oxford Castle and Prison typically takes approximately 1-2 hours, but visitors can take as long as they like to explore the castle.
3. Punting on River Cherwell or Thames
Punting is a classic Oxford pastime and a unique way to see the city. A punt is a long, flat-bottomed boat used for navigating shallow waters, and punting involves propelling a punt along a river using a long pole.
What is the difference between punting on the River Cherwell and the Thames?
Punting on the River Cherwell takes you through stunning water meadows and tranquil green spaces, providing a peaceful and secluded experience. In contrast, punting on the River Thames takes you through the heart of the city, so you can see many of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Where can you hire a punt in Oxford?
Visitors can hire a punt from various locations in Oxford, including Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, Cherwell Boathouse, and The Head of the River pub.
4. Explore the Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is the world’s first university museum, established in 1683. It houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, including Egyptian mummies, Greek and Roman sculptures, and an exceptional collection of modern art.
How long should you allow for a visit to the Ashmolean Museum?
Visitors typically spend around an hour and a half exploring the Ashmolean Museum. However, with over 500,000 objects in its collections, visitors with a keen interest in art, history, or archaeology could easily spend several more hours here.
Is entry to the Ashmolean Museum free?
Entry to the Ashmolean Museum is free for all visitors.
5. Visit the Botanic Garden
The Oxford Botanic Garden is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who loves nature and plants. It was established in 1621 and is the oldest botanic garden in the UK.
What plants can you see at the Oxford Botanic Garden?
The Oxford Botanic Garden houses over 5,000 different species of plants from all over the world. It features plants from six continents, including a tropical glasshouse and a water garden.
How long should you allow for a visit to the Oxford Botanic Garden?
A visit to the Oxford Botanic Garden typically takes approximately one to two hours.
Conclusion
Oxford is a fascinating city full of history and culture. Whether you are interested in exploring the world-famous university, visiting one of the city’s many museums, or simply taking a punt along the river, there is something for everyone. We hope that this guide has answered some of your frequently asked questions and has inspired you to visit this wonderful city.
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