Things to do in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire, nestled in the heart of South East England, is a region steeped in rich history, academic excellence, and breathtaking landscapes. It is most famously home to the University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. The county’s blend of historical architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and natural beauty attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. From its rolling hills in the Cotswolds to the serene waters of the River Thames that meanders through its quaint towns and villages, Oxfordshire offers a quintessentially English experience.

Beyond its academic prestige, Oxfordshire boasts an array of attractions ranging from ancient castles and museums to contemporary art galleries and theaters. The county’s market towns like Henley-on-Thames, Banbury, and Witney offer unique shopping experiences, local culinary delights, and traditional pubs. For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Oxfordshire provides ample opportunities for walking, cycling, and boating amidst its scenic countryside. With its rich tapestry of cultural heritage sites, leisure activities, and natural wonders, Oxfordshire presents a compelling destination for tourists seeking both enlightenment and entertainment.

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Things not to miss...

  • Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Woodstock. This monumental country house is not only renowned for its baroque architecture but also for being the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The palace is set within over 2,000 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown.
  • Bodleian Library: One of the oldest libraries in Europe located at the heart of Oxford city. It serves as a working library part of the University of Oxford but also offers guided tours to visitors eager to explore its historic rooms including the Divinity School with its intricate ceiling carvings.
  • Ashmolean Museum: The world’s first university museum located in Oxford offering an extensive collection ranging from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art pieces. Its exhibitions span across time showcasing civilizations from around the globe.
  • Bicester Village: A luxury shopping destination offering more than 160 designer outlet boutiques with savings on international brands. Located near Bicester town it’s perfect for those looking to indulge in high-end shopping.
  • Didcot Railway Centre: A living museum dedicated to preserving Great Britain’s railway heritage with an impressive collection of steam engines and railway memorabilia dating back to Victorian times.
  • Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens: Situated near Burford it provides a thrilling opportunity to see exotic animals up close within beautiful garden settings – perfect for family outings.
  • River & Rowing Museum: Located in Henley-on-Thames this museum celebrates rowing sports along with showcasing exhibits related to river life and history within an award-winning building design.
  • Henley-on-Thames: Famous for its annual Royal Regatta rowing event attracting teams worldwide but also known for charming streets lined with shops cafes and pubs making it ideal for leisurely exploration.
  • Upton House & Gardens: Owned by National Trust this country mansion near Banbury displays a remarkable collection of art alongside beautifully maintained gardens reflecting various historical periods.
  • White Horse Hill: Offering panoramic views over Oxfordshire this ancient hill figure etched into chalk hillsides is surrounded by myths making it an intriguing site for hikes or picnics amidst nature’s splendor.
  • Westgate Shopping Centre: Located in central Oxford it’s home to over 100 retail stores restaurants cinemas providing a modern shopping dining entertainment experience within historic city surroundings.