South Oxfordshire
The cultural capital of Oxfordshire is Oxford, The City of Dreaming Spires and there are plenty of tourist attractions to enjoy on days out. With its honey-coloured stone architecture, noble lawns and prestigious colleges, the unchanging beauty of this city will always dominate the county.
Learning and exploring are synonymous with this city, even for tourists. Why not start with a city sightseeing bus tour, a great way to get your bearings and discover some of the interesting facts and stories behind the city, with 20 bus stops you and hop on and off as must as you like or just sit and enjoy the ride.
With countless city locations being used as the backdrop for television and film sets from Morse to Harry Potter, you may get a feeling of déjà vu. Oxfordshire is also home to several points of interest used for filming in the The hit ITV drama Downton Abbey including Bampton and Greys Court. Download a PDF guide to follow in the footsteps of the Crawley family.
In the north of Oxfordshire the lush and fertile Cherwell Valley is centred on the lovely town of Banbury, where you can really see a fine lady upon a white horse - or a statue of her, anyway. It's just one of the bustling market towns that punctuate a journey through Oxfordshire. For more information on places to visit in Oxfordshire, see our interactive map of Oxfordshire detailing the county's towns and villages.
Many of Oxfordshire's tourist attractions are open all year round so find something to do today with activities listings each showing a map and opening times for your convenience. Or why not browse our Oxfordshire events guide to find out what's happening this week.
For things to do in Oxford, Bicester, Banbury, Henley-on-Thames and other Oxfordshire towns, browse our pick of the best attractions below or find a more comprehensive list of what to do and places to go at the bottom of the page.
With picturesque villages, breathtaking natural scenery, a world-renowned university city and over 6,000 years of history, if you're looking for places to stay in Oxfordshire, the county has it all if you find yourself wanting more time to explore. The morden Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South is located a short hop away from Blenheim Palace and Bicester Village and with family-friendly interconnecting rooms, free Wi-Fi and a tasty childrens menu, it also has great access to the A34. Did you know you can actually stay on the Blenheim Palace Estate? Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat has around 30 lodges set in peaceful and well maintained grounds, located within walking distance of the Palace, some lodges welcoming dogs too, so everyone in the family came come on your next Oxfordshire adventure.
For more information about Oxfordshire, including ideas for days out, accommodation and events, browse the county's things to do and towns and villages in the list below. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.
Number of results: 190
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Pub/Inn
Faringdon
The Old Crown Coaching Inn is a 15 century Coaching Inn, with a fabulous pub, cocktail bar, fine dining and casual dining restaurant, with 14 en suite bedrooms, a beautiful courtyard, and a private car park.
Restaurant
6 Milton Gate, Abingdon
Take sanctuary from the street-level bustle and dive in to the flavours of local British cuisine at Oxen Bar & Grill, the all-day neighbourhood brasserie nestled in the Courtyard Oxford South Hotel. With leather snugs, Oxfordshire inspired details,…
Towns & Villages
Located at the heart of middle England, North Oxfordshire boasts a landscape of rolling countryside, the thriving market towns of Banbury and Bicester, picturesque thatch topped villages, and a wide range of good quality overnight accommodation and a
Vineyard
WALLINGFORD
Brightwell Vineyard was first planted in the late 1980's and acquired by its present owners in 2000. It covers 16 acres and grows 8 varieties of grape including Bacchus, Chardonnay, Huxelrebe, Dornfelder and Pinot Noir.
Historic Site
ABINGDON
Discover the historic Abingdon Abbey Buildings at the heart of the the ancient town of Abingdon-on-Thames - this historic site story stretches back to the Middle Ages, and was once one of the richest monastic foundations in the country.
Towns & Villages
Faringdon
Historic market town at the edge of the Cotswolds, Faringdon makes a great base for a short break in the Vale of White Horse and the Cotswolds. With easy access to many attractions, including the ridgeway, White Horse Hill, Buscot Park, Thames walks…
Restaurant
Oxford
The Cherwell Boathouse is an iconic Oxford punt station and restaurant on the banks of the river Cherwell. Established in 1904, the family run Boathouse now has over 80 handmade punts in the water and is an idyllic spot for punting, dining and…
Towns & Villages
Chipping Norton
Just north of Chipping Norton, set high on a hill and enjoying panoramic views across the valley, Great Rollright is the larger of The Rollrights, Little Rollright is 2 miles to the west, with the prehistoric Rollright Stones in between.
Historic Site
Oxford
The Bodleian is a working library & part of the University of Oxford. It is housed in remarkable buildings which form the historic heart of the University, & has been seen in TV shows such as Inspector Morse, & films such as Harry Potter.
Towns & Villages
Northmoor
A small village, close to the River Thames, handy for Oxford, and south east of Witney. Tucked away off the beaten track with plenty of walks. The recently restored 14th century church, and the pub provide a village focus.
Towns & Villages
Black Bourton
Near to Bampton, this village is worth a visit to see the outstanding 13th century wall paintings in the church. There is also a thriving vineyard producing nine different wines. Visitors are welcome but it’s best to phone in advance (01993 842028).
Town
ABINGDON
Abingdon–on–Thames, a quaint, bustling market town nestled on the river Thames just waiting to be explored, 6 miles south of Oxford.
Steeped in history and dating back to the Saxon era, Abingdon-On-Thames is a rare gem. Holding claim to ‘the…
Walking Tour
Oxford
On its way the Trail passes through peaceful water meadows rich in wildlife, historic towns and cities such as Oxford, Henley and Windsor, many lovely villages and some of the best known landmarks of London.
Independents
Henley-on-Thames
Experience Henley is the gateway to discovering the vibrant cultural and lifestyle scene in Henley-on-Thames. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the website & app provides valuable insights into what’s happening, where to go and how to immerse…
Event Venue
Crafting the perfect day out - Enjoy a unique experience enjoying truly elegant travel.
Boat Trip
Henley-on-Thames
Hobbs of Henley offers river cruises in Henley‑on‑Thames, providing a relaxing and memorable way to explore the River Thames. From scenic sightseeing cruises and themed river trips to luxury private charters, it’s an ideal choice for a day out in…
Church / Chapel
Oxford
Christ Church is one of more than thirty colleges that make up the University of Oxford. Its college chapel is unique as it is also Oxford’s cathedral.
Town
THAME
Thame, a thriving market town at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, is just 14 miles from Oxford. Its historic centre has a vibrant High Street; host regular events – from festivals to traditional market days; and features in Midsomer Murders
Historic House / Palace
ABINGDON
This lovely family home built in circa 1660 was remodelled in the early 1700’s for the Blandy family. With English and French furniture in the elegant panelled rooms the entrance hall is dominated by its handsome cantilevered staircase.
Towns & Villages
Witney
Known across the world for blanket making, especially in North America where the Witney Point Blanket was traded in exchange for furs, the town owes its prosperity to the wool trade.
Witney is the largest of the market towns in the Oxfordshire…
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