Oxford, England: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Oxford University’s Bodleian Library is so vast it adds around 1,000 new books every day? With over 13 million printed items housed across 28 buildings, it’s just one of the countless wonders awaiting in this historic city. Known as the “City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford blends centuries of academic excellence with stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and literary magic that has inspired works from Alice in Wonderland to Harry Potter.

Best Time to Visit Oxford

Oxford enjoys its finest weather from late spring through early autumn, making May through September the ideal time to visit. Summer (June-August) brings average temperatures of 21°C (70°F) and longer daylight hours perfect for exploring the colleges and punting on the river. However, this is also peak tourist season when the city fills with visitors.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) offer milder temperatures around 15-18°C (59-64°F) with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors. Winter (November-February) sees temperatures drop to 2-7°C (36-45°F) with occasional frost and fog that adds a mystical quality to the ancient buildings, though some attractions may have reduced hours.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Oxford is conveniently located just 60 miles (97 km) northwest of London, making it easily accessible by various transportation methods.

By Train

Trains from London Paddington or Marylebone stations reach Oxford in approximately one hour, with services running frequently throughout the day. The Oxford train station is just a 10-minute walk from the city center, making this one of the most convenient options.

By Bus/Coach

The Oxford Tube and National Express coaches operate regular services from London Victoria Coach Station, taking approximately 100 minutes depending on traffic. This option is typically less expensive than the train but takes longer.

By Car

If driving from London, take the M40 motorway and exit at junction 8 or 9. However, parking in central Oxford is limited and expensive. Consider using the Park and Ride services located around the city’s outskirts (£12.50 for up to 72 hours at Thornhill Park and Ride).

Getting Around Oxford

Oxford is a compact, walkable city where most major attractions are within a 15-20 minute stroll of each other. Walking is not only practical but also the best way to discover hidden courtyards, winding lanes, and architectural details.

Walking

The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, with many streets closed to traffic. Consider joining a walking tour to get oriented – the Official Oxford Tourist Board Walking Tour provides excellent historical context and insider knowledge.

Cycling

Oxford is known as a cycling city, with many locals using bikes as their primary transportation. Rental shops like Donkey Bikes and Brompton Bike Hire offer daily rentals, and the flat terrain makes cycling accessible for most visitors.

Bus

Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach operate comprehensive networks throughout the city. The Oxford Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is particularly useful for first-time visitors, allowing you to see the major sights while learning about their history.

Where to Stay in Oxford

Oxford offers accommodation options ranging from historic boutique hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs. Location is key – staying in the city center puts you within walking distance of major attractions but comes at a premium.

Many Oxford hotels offer rooms with stunning views of the city’s historic architecture

Dining & Local Cuisine

Oxford’s dining scene blends traditional British fare with international influences, catering to both budget-conscious students and gourmet enthusiasts. From historic pubs serving hearty classics to modern restaurants showcasing local ingredients, there’s something for every palate.

Must-Try Local Experiences

• Afternoon Tea at The Grand Café – England’s first coffee house (established 1650) offers a quintessential afternoon tea experience
• Pint at The Turf Tavern – Historic 13th-century pub hidden down a narrow alleyway where famous alumni like Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking once drank
• Oxford Covered Market – Sample artisanal foods, fresh produce, and treats like Ben’s Cookies and milkshakes from G&D’s Ice Cream

Afternoon tea at The Grand Café is a quintessential Oxford experience

Notable Restaurants

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Oxford

Oxford’s rich history, stunning architecture, and literary connections offer visitors a wealth of attractions to explore. Here are the must-see highlights that showcase the best things to do in Oxford.

University Colleges

Oxford University comprises 38 independent colleges, each with its own character and history. While you can’t visit them all, these standouts should be on your itinerary:

Christ Church College’s Great Hall inspired the Hogwarts dining hall in Harry Potter

• Christ Church College – Oxford’s grandest college featuring the magnificent Great Hall (which inspired Hogwarts’ dining hall), Tom Tower designed by Christopher Wren, and Christ Church Cathedral
• Magdalen College – Pronounced “Maudlin,” this picturesque college boasts medieval cloisters, a deer park, and a tower that hosts the May Morning choir
• New College – Despite its name, it dates to 1379 and features stunning gardens, cloisters used in Harry Potter films, and a chapel with original stained glass
• Balliol College – Founded in 1263, it’s one of Oxford’s oldest colleges with beautiful gardens and historic architecture

Iconic Oxford Landmarks

• Radcliffe Camera – This distinctive circular library is Oxford’s most photographed building. Climb the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin tower for the best views
• Bridge of Sighs – Officially Hertford Bridge, this skyway connecting two parts of Hertford College resembles Venice’s famous bridge
• Bodleian Library – One of the oldest libraries in Europe, featuring the 15th-century Divinity School with its elaborate fan-vaulted ceiling
• Sheldonian Theatre – Christopher Wren’s first major architectural commission, used for university ceremonies and concerts

The Radcliffe Camera is one of Oxford’s most recognizable landmarks

Museums & Cultural Sites

• Ashmolean Museum – Britain’s oldest public museum houses an impressive collection of art and archaeological artifacts from around the world
• Pitt Rivers Museum – A fascinating anthropological collection of over 500,000 objects from cultures worldwide, including the famous shrunken heads
• Oxford University Museum of Natural History – Home to dinosaur skeletons, the Oxford Dodo, and stunning Victorian Gothic architecture
• The Story Museum – Interactive museum celebrating stories and storytelling, perfect for families

Outdoor Activities & Experiences

Oxford’s picturesque setting offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from relaxing in historic gardens to active pursuits on the river.

Punting on the River Cherwell is a quintessential Oxford experience

Punting on the River

No visit to Oxford is complete without trying punting – gliding along the River Cherwell in a flat-bottomed boat propelled by a long pole. Rent a punt from Magdalen Bridge Boathouse or Cherwell Boathouse (which also has an excellent restaurant). Novices can hire a “chauffeur” to do the punting for you while you relax.

Parks and Gardens

• University of Oxford Botanic Garden – The UK’s oldest botanic garden (founded 1621) features over 5,000 plant species and inspired authors like Lewis Carroll and J.R.R. Tolkien
• Christ Church Meadow – Beautiful riverside meadow perfect for picnics and peaceful walks
• Port Meadow – Ancient grazing land along the Thames with wild horses and cattle, offering beautiful sunset views
• University Parks – 70 acres of parkland where you might catch a cricket match in summer

The Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest in the UK, featuring thousands of plant species

Literary Oxford & Harry Potter Connections

Oxford has inspired countless literary works and served as a filming location for major productions, most notably the Harry Potter series.

Harry Potter Filming Locations

• Christ Church College – The Great Hall inspired Hogwarts’ dining hall, and the Bodley Tower staircase appeared in several films
• Bodleian Library’s Divinity School – Served as Hogwarts’ infirmary
• Duke Humfrey’s Library – Became the Hogwarts library in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
• New College Cloisters – Featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Literary Connections

• Alice’s Shop – Once a grocery store frequented by the real Alice who inspired Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland
• Eagle and Child Pub – Meeting place of the Inklings literary group, including J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis
• Tolkien’s Grave – Located in Wolvercote Cemetery, often visited by Lord of the Rings fans
• Oxford University Press – The world’s largest university press, publishing since the 16th century

Day Trips from Oxford

Oxford’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. These destinations are all within an hour’s journey from the city.

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 30 minutes from Oxford

Blenheim Palace

Just 30 minutes from Oxford, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the birthplace of Winston Churchill and one of England’s most magnificent stately homes. The baroque palace is set in 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown, featuring formal gardens, a lake, and even a miniature train.

The Cotswolds

This region of rolling hills and picturesque villages with honey-colored stone cottages epitomizes rural England. Visit charming towns like Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold, all within an hour’s drive of Oxford.

Bicester Village

Shoppers will appreciate this luxury outlet shopping center just 15 minutes by train from Oxford. With over 160 boutiques offering discounted designer goods, it’s one of the UK’s premier shopping destinations.

Practical Travel Tips

Make the most of your Oxford visit with these helpful insights and recommendations.

Money-Saving Tips

• Many museums, including the Ashmolean, Pitt Rivers, and Museum of Natural History, offer free entry
• Visit colleges in the afternoon when entry fees are sometimes reduced
• The Oxford Visitor Information Centre offers discounted tickets for attractions
• Consider the Oxford Pass if visiting multiple paid attractions

Local Etiquette

• Don’t walk on the grass in college quads – it’s usually reserved for fellows
• Respect quiet zones in libraries and study areas
• When punting, keep to the left and be mindful of other river users
• Many colleges close to visitors during exam periods (typically May-June)

Oxford students in academic gowns during formal university occasions

Safety Information

Oxford is generally a safe city with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply – keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. The city center is well-lit and usually busy until late.

Accessibility

Many historic buildings have limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. Contact attractions in advance to inquire about accessible entrances and facilities. The Oxford Visitor Information Centre can provide details on accessible routes and attractions.

Visitor Comments About Oxford

Sample Oxford Itineraries

One Day in Oxford

• Morning: Tour Christ Church College and Cathedral
• Mid-morning: Visit the Bodleian Library and climb the University Church tower for views of the Radcliffe Camera
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at the historic Turf Tavern
• Afternoon: Explore the Ashmolean Museum
• Late afternoon: Go punting on the River Cherwell
• Evening: Dinner at one of the riverside restaurants

Weekend in Oxford

Oxford’s famous “dreaming spires” are particularly beautiful at sunset

Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary above

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Pitt Rivers Museum and Museum of Natural History
• Lunch: Sample local treats at the Covered Market
• Afternoon: Explore the University of Oxford Botanic Garden
• Evening: Attend Evensong at Christ Church Cathedral or a concert at the Sheldonian Theatre

Conclusion

Oxford truly deserves its reputation as one of England’s most captivating destinations. From wandering through ancient college quads to punting along tranquil rivers, the city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of literary giants, exploring world-class museums, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this academic powerhouse, Oxford rewards visitors with unforgettable experiences around every corner.

As you plan your journey to the City of Dreaming Spires, remember that Oxford’s magic lies not just in its famous landmarks but also in its hidden corners and quiet moments. Take time to sit in a centuries-old pub, browse the shelves of a historic bookshop, or simply gaze up at those magnificent spires that have inspired generations of scholars, writers, and dreamers.