Oxford is a city of fascinating architecture, history and nightlife. Visit college buildings that count Aldous Huxley and Stephen Hawking as alumni and have been the setting of many scenes in the Harry Potter films. Experience the atmosphere of centuries-old pubs and relax in pristine parks. Watch rowing competitions and rugby union matches.
The University of Oxford is one of the city’s major highlights. It’s the oldest university in the English-speaking world and is home to some of England’s most architecturally impressive buildings. These include Christ Church College, Christ Church Cathedral and Radcliffe Camera. In the Bodleian Library, see treasures such as original Magna Carta documents. Step inside the Sheldonian Theatre, the location of the Oxford Literary Festival. Walk around the Botanic Garden at Magdalen College.
Enjoy the university’s free museums. Spot archaeological and anthropological objects at the Pitt Rivers Museum. Find collections of scientific instruments at the Museum of the History of Science. See artifacts from the Neolithic period to the present at the Ashmolean Museum.
In Oxford’s city center browse over 50 independent stalls at the Covered Market. Shop for literature at Blackwell’s Bookshop, one of Europe’s largest bookstores. Learn about the legends of Oxford Castle at Oxford Castle Unlocked. Climb to the top of Carfax Tower for unrivaled city views.
Experience the buzz of Oxford’s nightlife. Watch concerts at Cowley Road’s live music venues. Visit historic pubs that have been the haunts of Oscar Wilde and J.R.R. Tolkien. Jericho and Walton streets, in the Jericho area, are home to great restaurants.
In summer, punting is a favorite activity. Rent a punt, a flat-bottomed boat, and travel through the city along the gently flowing rivers. Include some Oxford Blue cheese in ingredients for a picnic on the riverbanks or in University Park or Christ Church Meadow.
Getting to Oxford is easy via frequent public train and bus services from London. Once in Oxford, get an overview of the highlights on an official walking tour. Be sure to visit attractions outside of the city center, too. Enjoy daytrips to elegant Blenheim Palace and villages set amid the picturesque Cotswolds countryside.
