What to do in Oxford? A Detailed Guide

Oxford is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It has a unique history and culture that draw thousands of tourists each year. Whether you’re visiting for asemester, a weekend, or just a day, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained. From cultural attractions to dining and nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this historic city. In this guide, we will look at some of the best activities to do when in Oxford.

Visit the University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the oldest universities in the world and is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. The University of Oxford has been influential in academics, science, religion and literature since its establishment in 1096. Visitors can explore the college campuses and gardens, take part in a university tour, or explore the many museums located around the university. The Ashmolean Museum is a favorite amongst visitors, as it showcases an eclectic range of artifacts from their oldest artefacts dating from 4500 BC, to items from present day.

Enjoy a Punt Boat Ride

One of the most popular activities for visitors to Oxford is to take a leisurely punt boat ride along the River Cherwell. Punt boats are traditional flat-bottomed boats which are propelled using a long pole pushed into the riverbed. It is an easy form of exercise and provides a great opportunity to explore further up the river and visit many of Oxford’s bridges and sights. Visitors can choose to take single or double-seaters and can enjoy both daytime and evening rides to take in the spectacular sights of Oxford.

Explore Oxford’s Literary History

Oxford is known worldwide for being the home of some of literature’s greatest talents. Many popular authors and poets have stemmed from this great city, including Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Philip Pullman. Visitors can explore the city’s literary history by visiting many of the sights associated with these authors, such as The Eagle & Child pub where C. S. Lewis and J.R.R Tolkien met for their literary talks, or The Lamb & Flag pub, which is featured heavily in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Stroll Through the Parks

Oxford is an incredibly tight city, with a huge number of gardens, parks, and green spaces. Some of the most popular parks are Christ Church Meadow and Botanic Gardens, located on the banks of the River Cherwell and providing picturesque views across the city skyline. Other popular parks include The University Parks, which is home to tree-lined avenues and meadows, ideal for relaxing strolls; or Magdalen College Deer Park, which is home to herds of roaming red and fallow deer.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

When visiting Oxford, it would be wrong not to experience life as a local by spending some time in small independent restaurants, pubs, shops and markets that help make up Oxford’s distinct culture. There are plenty of Michelin star restaurants, cosy pubs and an array of shops selling vintage & pre-loved items from clothes to furniture dotted around Oxford.

Take a Walking Tour

Walking tours are an excellent way to get to know a city and its history better. Oxford is full of narrow winding streets, so walking tours provide a great way to explore further and find hidden gems that are normally missed by tourists. Tours range from Harry Potter walking tours to ghost walks around Oxford. Alternatively, visitors can take advantage of Oxford’s wealth of knowledge with scholarly walking tours that provide a unique insight into many aspects of University life and its historical buildings over time

Enjoy Great Nightlife

When night falls Oxford comes alive with plenty of options for those looking to, enjoy a night out. From drinking cheap pints on the cobbled streets in lively Cowley Road to dancing the night away in chic cocktail bars such as Raoul’s; there is something for everyone. There are also countless live music venues hosting regular gigs by both local and international acts throughout the year.

Take an Oxford Historic Pub Tour with Student Guide

When visiting Oxford it would be worth considering taking an Oxford Historic Pub Tour with Student Guide. This activity is ideal for those wanting to take advantage of obscure stories and facts about Oxford life. Your local student guide will take you back through time with stories about Oxford’s people and places as well as helping choose crafted ales from unique pubs rejected by everyone else! This small group tour also includes entry into two Oxford Colleges as well as a refreshment stop.

In conclusion, Oxford is full of hidden gems and there really is something for everyone during a visit. There are plenty ways to explore this ancient city from pub tours to exploring its literary history; each providing a unique experience that won’t be attained anywhere else in the world. People should take advantage of visiting this idyllic city for a unique experience that is certainly worth writing home about!