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.
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,…
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.
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
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…
Animal Collection / Zoo
Chipping Norton, Chipping Norton
Mixing classic fairy tales, animals and adventure play, children will love Fairytale Farm.
With an exciting adventure playground, an enchanted walk with a surprise around every corner and a chance to meet our amazing animals, there is so much to…
Towns & Villages
Aston
The village of Aston, four miles south of Witney, is centred around the Square - which is actually a triangle! Often linked with the neighbouring hamlet of Cote, Aston has all the essentials of village life - a church, a school, a post office, a…
Vineyard
Henley-on-Thames
Oaken Grove Vineyard is a family-run boutique vineyard which produces award winning English white and rose still and sparkling wines. The vineyard was established in 1986 and has seven acres of Pinot Noir, Bacchus and Madeleine Angevine vines. 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.
Historic House / Palace
Lechlade
The summer home of William Morris, Kelmscott Manor is a Grade I listed farmhouse, built around 1600 adjacent to the River Thames.
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.
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
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.
Pub/Inn
Wantage
Guests can soak up the friendly service and homely charm of this welcoming inn, nestled in the heart of the historic market town of Wantage. At The King Alfred’s Head, the team takes pride in being at the centre of the community, offering 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.
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
Town
Didcot
Didcot is a town and civil parish in Oxfordshire and the area around has been inhabited for at least 9000 years.
Nature Trail / Watching
Watlington
Discover an Oxfordshire dreamscape as you walk to the top of Watlington Hill, where you will find breathtaking views and fine wildlife all year round.
Town
Henley On Thames
Henley is a beautiful 13th century market town in Oxfordshire famous for its popular festivals. View a map of the area and places to visit nearby
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…
© Visit South East England 2026. All Rights Reserved
.png){kind=icon}
