Oxford

Oxford

Type:Towns & Villages

Oxfordshire
Radcliffe Camera in Oxford, Oxfordshire

About

The world-famous City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford is a picture-perfect historic site set in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside.

Of course, Oxford is also famous for its university – an institution that has seen everyone from Oscar Wilde to 25 British Prime Ministers pass through its colleges. For the best view of this magnificent city and the Oxford University buildings, climb the 99 steps of Carfax Tower and gaze over the rooftops below.

While history echoes through every street and alley in Oxford, it also has its fair share of modern attractions and lively arts and entertainment too. The large student population means that there are plenty of cinemas, art cafés and live music venues to choose from – including the excellent Sheldonian Theatre.

Shopaholics can head for the wonderful Oxford Covered Market for more unusual and retro items. High-street brands and chic boutiques can be found in the Westgate Shopping Centre.

You may want to indulge in a timeless Oxford classic – punting along the serene Cherwell on a bright summer's day. You can also book river cruises along a beautiful stretch of the River Thames.

Things and do in Oxford

  • Take a tour through Oxford in the capable hands of a Blue Badge Guide. For more information see walking tours in Oxford.
  • Visit the Bodleian Library, one of Oxford University's most impressive - founded in 1488, it contains over seven million items along 118 miles of shelving!
  • The iconic Blenheim Palace is only 8 miles from Oxford. The birthplace of Winston Churchill, it's one of the most celebrated buildings in Britain.
  • Take a guided tour around Oxford Castle to discover gruesome tales and amazing episodes from this great castle's long history.
  • Make sure you head in to see the exhibits at Britain's oldest museum, the recently refurbished Ashmolean Museum.
  • Waterperry Gardens have been delighting visitors for years with 8 acres of historic and inspirational gardens nestled in the Oxfordshire countryside. The gardens feature a spectacular 200 foot herbaceous border along with rose and formal gardens, a lily canal and riverside walk.

Book Tickets

TripAdvisor

Map & Directions

Road Directions

Oxford is about 60 miles north west of London, is easily accessible via the major motorway networks of the M40 and M25 and is well served by public transport.

Video

  • Visit Oxfordshire

What's Nearby

  1. Oxbridge Tours

    As the site of important moments in the arts, sciences, film and sport, Oxford has…

    0.03 miles away
  2. Museum of Oxford

    History of the city and university. Discover the cities earliest residents, medieval…

    0.09 miles away
  3. Footprints Tours

    Footprints Tours is a student start-up company, created to show a more fun side of Oxford…

    0.11 miles away
  1. Bodleian Libraries

    The Bodleian is a working library & part of the University of Oxford. It is housed in…

    0.13 miles away
  2. Oxford Town Hall

    A victorian building opened in 1897 and still used for local government. Original rooms…

    0.14 miles away
  3. Museum of the History of Science

    Displays include scientific instruments, fine Islamic and European astrolabes, early…

    0.15 miles away
  4. Sheldonian Theatre

    Secular venue for the principal meetings & public ceremonies of the university.

    0.15 miles away
  5. The Story Museum

    Our schools performances, exhibitions and workshops help children engage with and enjoy…

    0.17 miles away
  6. Saint Michael at the North Gate Saxon Tower

    Oxford's oldest building, boasting the oldest stained glass in Oxford. Associated with…

    0.17 miles away
  7. Oxford Official Guided Walking Tours

    Our Official Guided Walking Tours are an enjoyable and interesting way to explore our…

    0.18 miles away
  8. City Sightseeing Oxford

    Let us take you on a journey on our award-winning open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour to…

    0.23 miles away
  9. Concierge History Tours

    Bespoke History/Sightseeing guided tours around the rural surroundings of Oxfordshire in…

    0.23 miles away
  10. The Bate Collection of Musical Instruments

    A rich collection of historical woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, over a dozen…

    0.25 miles away
  11. New Theatre Oxford

    The New Theatre, Oxford, is owned by The Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) who are the…

    0.28 miles away
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