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 guided walking tour around the city that focuses on literature, film, geography and culture?
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: 151
, currently showing 1 to 20.
WANTAGE
Maymessy makes a huge impact on the children who come here. After a few hours at Maymessy, the children have more collaboration; meaningful communication; teamwork, confidence, self esteem and time outside in the shared garden as well as greater…
Towns & Villages
Shipton under Wychwood
Heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and still a place of mystery, the area was once the ancient Royal Hunting Forest of Wychwood, much of which survives. Shipton is the largest of the Wychwoods (the others are Ascott and Milton), each having their…
Farm
Faringdon
Farmer Gow’s ~ the ‘favourite place on earth’ for lots of its young visitors.
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!
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).
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.
Walking Tour
Oxford
Oxford city & university walking & cycle tours or book bespoke themed tours. Many guides are actors or local alumni, who share their passion for Oxford with you via fun anecdotes.
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.
Brewery
Banbury
The brewery tours run throughout the day with an experienced local guide, it finishes with a tutored beer tasting. The shop in the old malt house has unique gifts and merchandise, bar and function room. Admire the magnificent Shire Horses, Nelson,…
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
Faringdon
The market town of Faringdon in Oxfordshire is perched on a golden limestone ridge between two river valleys. Find things to do and nearby events
Garden
Moreton In Marsh
Batsford Arboretum is home to one of the country’s largest private tree collections. Enjoy early colour from snowdrops, spring-flowering bulbs and Japanese flowering cherries; escape the heat under the tree canopy in summer and prepare to be amazed…
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
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…
Event Venue
Crafting the perfect day out - Enjoy a unique experience enjoying truly elegant travel.
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.
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.
Trips & Tours
Oxford
Open top bus tours of Oxford and the Historic University. Tickets valid all day. All major sights covered. Live guides.
Towns & Villages
Didcot
Didcot is a town and civil parish in Oxfordshire and the area around has been inhabited for at least 9000 years.
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