Photo by: Ben Seymour
26 fun things to do in Oxford
Welcome to Oxford, a city steeped in history and culture. As the home of one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, Oxford boasts a wealth of beautiful architecture, fascinating museums, and picturesque parks. Here’s a brief guide to help you get the most out of your visit to this charming city.
First, start your exploration in the city centre, where you’ll find many of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, and the Sheldonian Theatre. These stunning buildings date back to the 17th and 18th centuries and showcase some of the finest examples of English Baroque architecture.
Next, take a stroll through the narrow alleyways and charming streets that wind their way through Oxford’s historic centre. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, ancient chapels, and quaint bookstores tucked away in unexpected corners.
If you’re a fan of literature, be sure to visit the Eagle and Child pub, where C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien used to meet for discussions about their work. The pub is still open and serves excellent food and drink.
For a deeper dive into Oxford’s rich history, visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest public museums in the world. Here, you’ll find a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the globe, ranging from ancient Egyptian mummies to contemporary sculptures.
Another must-see attraction is the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK. This stunning oasis is home to over 7,000 species of plants, including rare and exotic specimens from all over the world.
Finally, take some time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Oxford’s many parks and green spaces. The University Parks and Christ Church Meadow are both popular spots for picnics, walks, and leisurely bike rides.
For the ultimate Oxford experience, take to the water and cruise down the river in a punt. This traditional flat-bottomed boat tour will show some of the best sights of the city.
Cycling around Oxford: exploring the city’s best routes
Cycling is a popular activity in and around Oxford, and there are many great routes to explore. Here’s a guide to cycling around Oxford.
- Cycling around Oxford’s city centre can be a great way to see the city’s historic buildings and landmarks. The streets can be busy, so make sure to follow traffic rules and be aware of pedestrians.
- The Oxford Canal runs from Oxford to Coventry, and offers a peaceful and scenic ride. The route is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels.
- Port Meadow is a large area of grassland located just outside of Oxford’s city centre. The meadow is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and cycling. There is a circular path around the perimeter of the meadow that is suitable for cyclists.
- Shotover Country Park is located just east of Oxford and offers a network of off-road cycling trails. The trails are suitable for mountain bikes and are well-maintained.
- The Oxfordshire Cycleway is a 200-mile circular route that runs through Oxford and the surrounding countryside. The route is divided into four sections and offers a mix of on-road and off-road cycling.
- The River Thames runs through Oxford and offers a picturesque ride. There are several cycling routes along the river, including the Thames Path, which follows the river for 184 miles from its source in Gloucestershire to the Thames Barrier in London.
- Wytham Woods is located just outside of Oxford and offers a network of off-road cycling trails. The woods are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, and offer a peaceful and scenic ride.
Remember to always wear a helmet and follow traffic rules when cycling around Oxford. Stay safe and enjoy the ride!
A guide to pubs, clubs and Oxford’s exciting nightlife scene
Oxford is a vibrant city that offers plenty of nightlife opportunities for both students and locals alike. If you’re looking for a night out in Oxford, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience.
First, start your evening with a visit to one of the city’s many pubs. Oxford has a long tradition of brewing and you’ll find plenty of historic and charming pubs to choose from. The Turf Tavern is a popular choice, known for its cosy atmosphere and its connections to Oxford’s literary greats such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
After you’ve had a few drinks, it’s time to head to one of Oxford’s many music venues. The O2 Academy is a great choice for live music, hosting both established and up-and-coming bands. For a more intimate experience, check out The Bullingdon, which hosts a variety of music events, including DJ nights and live performances.
If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, Oxford has plenty of cocktail bars to choose from. The Duke of Cambridge is a sophisticated option, serving up classic cocktails in a stylish setting. Alternatively, the Turf Tavern also offers a great cocktail menu and a cosy atmosphere.
For a truly unique experience, visit the Oxford Playhouse or the New Theatre, both of which offer a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows. You can also check out the Phoenix Picturehouse, which screens independent and classic films.
Finally, for a night of dancing, head to one of Oxford’s many clubs. Atik Oxford is a popular option, with multiple rooms playing different genres of music. Alternatively, Plush is a smaller club with a more relaxed atmosphere and a focus on indie and alternative music.
Overall, Oxford has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene, with something to suit every taste. So, whether you’re looking for a casual pint or a night of dancing, you’re sure to find it in this charming and historic city.
Here are some fun things to do in Oxford
There are many things to do in Oxford, a historic city located in the south of England. Here are some of the top activities and attractions to explore:
- Visit Oxford’s Historic University: Oxford is famous for its world-renowned university, which dates back to the 12th century. Explore the historic colleges and university buildings, such as Christ Church College and the Bodleian Library.
- Oxford Castle and Prison: the Oxford Castle and Prison is a historic site that dates back to the 11th century. Explore the castle’s history and learn about the prison’s past as a place of punishment and rehabilitation.
- Oxford Botanic Garden: the Oxford Botanic Garden is located in the heart of the city and is home to over 8,000 plant species. Take a relaxing stroll through the gardens and learn about the plants and their history.
- Ashmolean Museum: the Ashmolean Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world and is home to a vast collection of art and artefacts from around the world. Explore the museum’s galleries and exhibitions, which range from ancient Egyptian artefacts to contemporary art.
- Punting on the River Thames: take a peaceful trip down the River Thames on a traditional punt. Punting is a popular activity in Oxford and offers a unique perspective on the city’s history and architecture.
- Covered Market: the Covered Market is a historic market located in the city centre. Explore the market’s stalls, which offer a range of goods, from fresh produce to souvenirs.
- Oxford Playhouse: The Oxford Playhouse is a historic theatre that hosts a range of performances, from plays to stand-up comedy. Check out the theatre’s schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
- Oxford Canal: The Oxford Canal offers a peaceful and scenic route through the city and the surrounding countryside. Take a stroll or a bike ride along the canal and enjoy the views.
There are many other things to see and do in Oxford, from exploring the city’s historic pubs to taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. Whatever your interests, Oxford has something to offer.
