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. The Doubletree by Hilton Oxford Belfry is located just a short hop from the Chilterns National Landscape (previously known as Area of Oustanding National Beauty) in the market town of Thame with a health club and treatment rooms, visitors can take time to relax, aswell as explore from this Oxfordshire hotel. 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: 191
, 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,…
Towns & Villages
Originally in Berkshire, this small Thames-side village was transferred to Oxfordshire in 1974 and is now part of South Oxfordshire.
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
Towns & Villages
This ancient university city is both timeless and modern, with plenty of things to do, lively arts venues, bustling shops and fashionable restaurants
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.
Towns & Villages
Charlbury
Charlbury, set in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, grew from a small clearing in the Wychwood Forest to become a prosperous market town, due largely to its reputation as a glove making centre during the 18th and 19th centuries.
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.
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
Woodstock
Woodstock, eight miles north west of Oxford is often visited for two reasons: Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, and his grave in nearby Bladon. However, Woodstock has much more to offer...
It is a fine Georgian town with a…
Towns & Villages
Burford
With its medieval bridge, old stone houses and attractive Tudor and Georgian frontages, Burford is justifiably one of the most picturesque towns in England. Often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’, the town was originally a fortified…
Boat Trip
Henley-on-Thames
Hobbs and Sons Ltd (now named Hobbs of Henley Ltd) was established in 1870 and has continued to provide the finest hospitality afloat to its patrons.
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.
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…
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…
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).
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
Didcot
Didcot is a town and civil parish in Oxfordshire and the area around has been inhabited for at least 9000 years.
Event Venue
Crafting the perfect day out - Enjoy a unique experience enjoying truly elegant travel.
History and Heritage
Witney
The Cotswold stone farm buildings grouped around the farmyard and the manor house beyond provide a tranquil setting that belies its proximity to Witney’s bustling town centre.
© Visit South East England 2025. All Rights Reserved
.png){kind=icon}
