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 Things to Do Today 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 Things to Do Today 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 Today in Oxford: Frequently Asked Questions
Oxford is a city that has something for everyone – from its stunning architecture to its wealth of cultural attractions, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan your visit in advance to make the most of your time. In this blog post, we’ll be answering some of the most frequently asked questions about the five best things to do in Oxford.
1. What are the top attractions to see in Oxford?
One of the most iconic landmarks in Oxford is the University of Oxford, which is made up of 38 colleges and over 22,000 students. Taking a tour of the university is a must-do, where you can visit the famous Bodleian Library, the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, and the Sheldonian Theater. The Botanic Garden, the oldest in Britain, is also a popular attraction with its wide variety of plants and flowers.
If you’re interested in history, then the Oxford Castle & Prison is an excellent option to explore. It offers guided tours that will take you from the Saxon period all the way through to the present day. You can even experience the Prison D-Wing, which is said to be haunted.
For those interested in literature, the Museum of Oxford offers a fascinating insight into the city’s literary heritage. You can learn more about famous authors who have lived or studied in Oxford, including J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll. Additionally, the city offers literary walking tours, tracing the footsteps of these famous writers.
2. What are the best places to eat in Oxford?
Oxford’s thriving food scene offers a wide range of options, ranging from local cafés, restaurants, bistros, and pubs. If you’re looking for a quick bite in between sightseeing, the Covered Market offers a wide range of food options, including fresh produce, baked goods, and sandwiches.
For a more substantial meal, there are many fantastic restaurants to choose from. The Chester Arms, a gastro pub located in Summertown, offers classic British cuisine with a contemporary twist. For something more exotic, The Coconut Tree offers authentic Sri Lankan street food. For a truly special experience, The Oxford Kitchen offers Michelin-starred cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
3. What are the best outdoor activities in Oxford?
Oxford offers a range of outdoor activities to enjoy, especially during the summer months. If you’re interested in cycling, then taking a leisurely ride along the Thames Path offers beautiful views of the city and its surroundings. You can also rent a punt on the river and see Oxford from a different perspective.
The nearby countryside offers excellent opportunities for hiking and walking, too. Wytham Woods, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, is a great place for a family picnic. If you’re interested in wildlife, then the Otmoor Reserve is an excellent place to spot a variety of bird species.
4. What are the best shopping options in Oxford?
If you’re looking for high street shopping, then the Westgate Shopping Centre is the perfect destination. It offers a wide range of stores, from fashion to homeware. If you’re interested in more niche shopping, the Oxford Covered Market is a great place to start, offering a range of independent stores selling artisanal goods and crafts.
For book lovers, Blackwell’s Bookshop is a must-visit, located in the heart of Oxford. It offers a vast selection of books, from bestsellers to academic textbooks. Additionally, the shop hosts regular author events and book signings.
5. What are the best nightlife options in Oxford?
Oxford has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from. If you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of beers, the Turf Tavern and The White Rabbit are popular choices. For something more lively, the Thirst Basement and Atik offer a range of music and dance options.
If you’re interested in live music, the O2 Academy Oxford hosts regular events and concerts. You can also check out The Bullingdon, which hosts regular gigs showcasing emerging talent and established bands alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are plenty of things to do in Oxford, regardless of your interests. From visiting world-famous landmarks to exploring the countryside, and experiencing the city’s thriving food and nightlife scenes, you’re sure to have a memorable time. With the help of this blog post, we hope you’ll plan your visit to Oxford in advance and make the most of your time.
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