Things To Do In Oxford This Weekend

Oxford is a city located in the heart of England with a rich and ancient heritage. It is the home of one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Oxford, and has been a center of learning and culture for centuries. It is filled with historic buildings, stunning architecture, and incredible museums that are sure to impress any visitor. From punting down the River Cherwell to visiting the Bodleian Library, Oxford offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, here are some of the best things to do in Oxford this weekend.

Explore the City’s Historic Buildings and Architecture

Oxford is filled with incredible architecture, from its ancient colleges to its modern buildings. Start your exploration of the city’s architecture by taking a stroll along the High Street and admiring the stunning buildings that line it, such as the iconic Radcliffe Camera and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. Make sure to also take in some of the city’s less famous gems, such as the 17th century Alexander Building and the historic Turf Tavern.

Visit the Top Museums

Oxford has some of the best museums in the country and they are all free to enter. Start your exploration of the city’s museums by heading to the Ashmolean Museum, which holds one of the world’s great art collections. Then make your way to the Museum of Natural History to discover fascinating specimens from around the world. Other top museums in Oxford include the Pitt Rivers Museum and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Take a Punting Tour

One of the best ways to explore Oxford is to take a punting tour along the River Cherwell. Punting is a traditional English activity and there’s no better place to do it than in Oxford. You can rent a boat or take a guided tour, which will take you past some of Oxford’s most famous sights, such as Magdalen Bridge and Christ Church Meadows.

Explore the University Colleges

The University of Oxford is home to some of the most stunning college buildings in the world. Take a tour of some of its most famous colleges, including Christ Church College, Magdalen College, and Trinity College. You can also explore their beautiful grounds, which are complete with gardens and lawns.

Visit the Botanic Garden

The Oxford Botanic Garden is one of the oldest in Britain and is home to over 6,000 species of plants from around the world. Take a stroll through its beautiful gardens and admire its stunning display of flowers and trees. The garden also offers special events and activities throughout the year, so make sure to check their website for more information.

Visit Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is an 18th century stately home located just outside of Oxford. It is one of England’s most iconic buildings and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Take a guided tour around its grand interiors and admire its stunning paintings and sculptures. The palace also offers special events throughout the year, so make sure to check their website for more information.

Explore Oxford’s Shops and Markets

Oxford’s Covered Market is one of the oldest in Britain and has been trading since 1774. Here you can find an array of shops selling everything from fresh produce to vintage clothes. Make sure to also explore some of Oxford’s other independent stores, such as Blackwells Bookshop, which is one of the oldest bookshops in Britain.

Take a Guided Tour Around Oxford

If you are short on time or want to learn more about Oxford’s history then why not take a guided tour around Oxford? There are many companies that offer guided tours around Oxford’s top sights and attractions, such as Oxford City Guides, which offers walking tours around some of Oxford’s most famous streets and sights. You can book a tour in advance and they usually last around two hours.

Go on a Walking Tour of Oxford’s Literary Sights

Oxford is famous for its literary history and there are many walking tours that will take you around some of its most iconic literary sights. These include The Eagle & Child pub where JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis used to meet for their infamous Inklings meetings, as well as The Trout Inn where Lewis Carroll used to frequent when he was at Christ Church College. You can book a tour in advance or join a free walking tour offered by one of the city’s many universities.

Visit The Museum of Oxford

The Museum of Oxford is dedicated to telling the story of the city from prehistory right up until today. Here you can explore over 1,000 years worth of objects, artefacts and artwork that tell the story of this great city. From Roman coins to Victorian dresses, there are many interesting items on display here. The museum also offers special events throughout the year, so make sure to check their website for more information.

Take a Tour of Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral is one of Oxford’s most iconic buildings and was founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII. Take a guided tour around its beautiful interiors and admire its stunning architecture and artwork. The cathedral also offers special events throughout the year, so make sure to check their website for more information. You can book a tour in advance or join one of their free daily tours.

Visit Magdalen College Cloisters

The Magdalen College cloisters are some of Oxford’s most iconic buildings and were built in 1480 by William Waynflete, Bishop of Winchester, as part of his plan to create a “New College’ at Oxford. Take a stroll around its peaceful grounds and admire its beautiful architecture, which includes soaring gargoyles, stained glass windows and ancient stone carvings.

So there you have it – some of our favourite things to do in Oxford this weekend! Whether you’re looking for culture, history or just a pleasant stroll around some beautiful buildings, there is something for everyone in this wonderful city. Plan your weekend now by booking an activity, or simply explore its ancient streets at your own pace – whatever you choose you won’t regret it!