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.
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 two AA Rosette fine dining restaurant ,fabulous relaxed pub for casual dining and quirky cocktail bar for a nights out with friends or family.
Towns & Villages
Tackley
Tucked away close to the Oxford Canal, the River Cherwell and north east of Woodstock, this character village has many stone buildings and its railway station provides easy access to Oxford and further afield.
Tackley Village Shop, a community…
Historic Site
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.
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…
Towns & Villages
Watlington
Reputedly England’s smallest town, nestling in the shadows of the Chiltern Hills, Watlington offers a traditional welcome, with specialist shopping, great hospitality and outstanding landscapes.
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…
Boat Hire
Buscot, Faringdon
Where do you visit? We are based near the source of the Thames, and you can cruise its upper reaches through the beautiful Cotswold countryside, perhaps stopping for a picnic or lunch at a traditional country pub. If you hire an overnight vessel,…
Heritage / Visitor Centre
Oxford
Explore the 1,000-year history of Oxford Castle Prison. Step back in time with our costumed guided tours and listen to fascinating stories as they are brought to life. Dive into fascinating tales of traitors, royals and rebels, led by expert…
Historic House / Palace
Woodstock
Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and home to the Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace, one of the finest baroque houses in England, is set in over 2,000 acres of landscaped gardens
Garden Centre
Oxford
Waterperry Gardens
Eight acre ornamental gardens with a fascinating history, including; Plant Centre, Gift Barn, Gallery, Museum, Teashop and events throughout the year.
Animal Collection / Zoo
Carterton
Come and join us on a great day out in Oxfordshire with photo opportunities, feeding displays, crocodile talks and much more at the UK's only Crocodile Zoo - Crocodiles of the World
Towns & Villages
Burford
A short distance from Burford, the village overlooks the Windrush valley. The parish church is Norman, showing traces of earlier Saxon work. There is a fine yew tree in the churchyard with a girth of over 19ft and almost 1,000 years old!
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…
Tea Room/Coffee Shop
Woodstock
We have a range of delicious cafés and restaurants available for you to enjoy with your family and friends. Whether you’re after some warming comfort food or a sophisticated afternoon tea, we have something for everyone. Much of our produce is…
Wildlife
Abingdon
Earth Trust is an Oxfordshire charity championing accessible green spaces. Based at Earth Trust Centre by Wittenham Clumps, it hosts events like nature workshops, farm festivals, and archaeology tours. With nature reserves across the county, it…
Country / Royal Park
Carterton
Set within 50 acres Kilkenny Lane Country Park is an ideal location for playing, walking, jogging, or simply relaxing with a picnic. There are 2.5km of paths (suitable for wheelchair access) and bridleways, as well as an adventure play area
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
Didcot
Didcot is a town and civil parish in Oxfordshire and the area around has been inhabited for at least 9000 years.
Theatre
Didcot
Cornerstone is a purpose-built theatre, entertainment and arts venue in the heart of Didcot, south Oxfordshire. Cornerstone provides a varied programme of comedy, drama, music and family shows, together with a wide range of courses, workshops and…
Towns & Villages
Set around a pleasant market square, Bicester is one of Oxfordshire's most popular towns. Find things to do and explore nearby towns and villages.
© Visit South East England 2026. All Rights Reserved
.png){kind=icon}
