A skyline of dreaming spires, domed theatres and college gargoyles, Oxford inspires. Chain up your bike outside university colleges to peek past the porters onto quadrant lawns. The last time we counted there were 38. Pack up picnics for pauses in wonderful attractions including deer parks, meadow flood plains and exotic botanic gardens in this central-southern city. Be brave and try punting while you’re visiting for the weekend. It's the best way to see the River Isis in all its glory. After dark squeeze into side-street city pubs with rowdy students or master the arts at fringe theatres.
Places to visit in Oxford
Best things to do on a city break in Oxford
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The medieval metropolis of Oxford revolves around its prestigious university, dating all the way back in the 12th century, though there’s so much more to Oxford than meets the eye.
Romantic punting on the River Cherwell
Ever watched people punting and felt you’d like to have a go? Pick up a few tips at Cherwell Boathouse, grab the pole and off you go.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Rainy Day Activities: Visit the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford
All the great civilizations of the world are represented in the Ashmolean Museum’s collections; escape the rain for a whole day, or pop in for five minutes for a quick browse.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Explore the city with Oxford Official Walking Tours
The fantastic walking tours are the perfect way to explore and learn about the history, famous residents and odd traditions of this unique city.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Get close to nature at Oxford Botanic Garden
Pack your picnic and plan a day out at Oxford’s Botanic Garden where there is always something interesting to see in the gardens.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Go on a tour of Oxford University
A host of famous alumni and one... Harry Potter?
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Plan a romantic escape to Malmaison Oxford
Enjoy chocolate dipped strawberries in a converted prison on a romantic break in Oxford.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Explore the 1,000-year history of Oxford Castle and Prison
Step back in time with costumed guided tours and see fascinating stories come to life.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Eat and drink by the riverside, at The Trout pub, Wolvercote
Sample local Oxfordshire food at this famously good pub on the banks of the River Thames.
Location: Wolvercote, Oxford
Rainy Day Activities: Explore Oxford's Museum of Natural History
Delve into Oxford University’s scientific archives, housed inside one of the city's most beautiful neo-Gothic buildings.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Lights, camera, Oxford – a screen tour to remember
From Inspector Morse to Harry Potter, don't miss a stop on this trip through Oxford's greatest screen moments.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Drink a beer at The Bear Inn – Oxford’s oldest pub
Sit back, relax and sample the cask ales and pub grub at Oxford’s oldest drinking hole.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
August events: Oxford Foodies Festival
Feeling hungry? Eat and drink your way around one of the UK’s biggest food festivals.
Location: Oxford South Parks, Oxfordshire
Spend an afternoon in the gardens of The Fishes pub
Eat away the afternoon at the Fishes, a serious gastropub with beautiful views in the Oxfordshire countryside.
Location: North Hinksey, Oxford
Recreate the real Alice in Wonderland’s river trip
Take an Oxford River Cruise trip along the Thames just like the real Alice in Wonderland many years ago.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Join Bill Spectre on his award winning Ghost Trail
Dressed as a Victorian undertaker, Bill will lead you through the streets of this pretty city lifting the lid on this great seat of learning.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Escape to a country cottage in picturesque Oxfordshire
Oxford Country Cottages are situated on Lower Farm in Noke in a stunning courtyard garden.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Discover heritage and luxury in the heart of Oxford
Uncover the history of Oxford Castle Quarter, and then relax at the luxurious Macdonald Randolph Hotel on a city break in historical Oxford.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Enjoy a romantic escape to Broughton Castle
Stroll hand in hand through the beautiful gardens and grand Elizabethan manor of Broughton Castle on a romantic break in Oxford.
Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire
July events: Alice's Day
Rediscover the charm of Wonderland with a fun-packed day of events on Oxford’s unique Alice’s Day.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Discover beautiful Oxfordshire on a cycling holiday
The Carter Company's tours are authentic travel experiences, giving you the chance to discover hidden gems and local secrets across Oxfordshire.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Enjoy elegant riverside dining at The Folly
Enjoy alfresco dining whilst taking in views of the river at The Folly in Oxford, followed by a cruise aboard one of the river boats moored outside.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
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