Home to the oldest English-speaking university, this historic city boasts ancient colleges, the Ashmolean Museum, and literary landmarks like the Eagle and Child pub.
Oxford, a city in southeast England, is known for its prestigious university and literary heritage. As you walk through its streets, you'll see Gothic spires and ancient colleges. You can punt on the River Cherwell, explore the Bodleian Library with its vast collection of books, or have a pint at The Eagle and Child pub, where J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis once discussed their works.
Exploring Oxford University
The University of Oxford, dating back to at least 1096, consists of 38 colleges and numerous academic departments. You can visit several colleges, each with its own distinct character and architecture. Christ Church, one of the largest, appeared in the Harry Potter movies. Magdalen College has extensive grounds and a deer park, while Merton College claims to be one of the oldest, founded in 1264.
Museums and Libraries
Oxford has several important museums. The Ashmolean Museum, founded in 1683, is the UK's oldest public museum and contains archaeological and art collections. The Pitt Rivers Museum displays anthropological and archaeological objects from around the world, including its collection of shrunken heads. The Bodleian Library, one of Europe's oldest libraries, holds over 13 million printed items and rare manuscripts.
Literary Oxford
Many famous authors have lived and worked in Oxford. Lewis Carroll wrote "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" here, based on stories he told to the real Alice during boat trips on the River Isis. J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, members of the literary group known as The Inklings, regularly met at The Eagle and Child pub to discuss their works. You can visit this pub and see where the conversations that led to the creation of Middle-earth and Narnia took place.
Architectural Highlights
Oxford's skyline includes the spires of its many colleges and churches. The Radcliffe Camera, a round building, is one of Oxford's most recognizable landmarks. The Bridge of Sighs, connecting two parts of Hertford College, is another well-known structure. At Oxford Castle, with parts dating back to the 11th century, you can learn about the city's history and its use as a prison until 1996.
Green Spaces and River Activities
Oxford has numerous parks and green spaces. The University of Oxford Botanic Garden, founded in 1621, is the UK's oldest botanic garden and home to over 5,000 plant species. Port Meadow, a vast area of common land, is suitable for picnics and walks. For a typical Oxford experience, try punting on the River Cherwell. You can rent a punt from the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse and navigate the calm waters while taking in views of the college gardens.
Dining and Pubs
Oxford's dining options range from traditional pubs to modern restaurants. The Covered Market, dating from the 18th century, houses numerous food stalls and cafes. For a unique dining experience, try the Vaults and Garden Café, located in the Old Congregation House of the University Church. The Turf Tavern, a historic pub hidden down a narrow alleyway, has been serving drinks since 1381 and was reportedly a favored spot of former U.S. President Bill Clinton during his time as a Rhodes Scholar.
Day Trips from Oxford
While Oxford itself has plenty to explore, several nearby places make for interesting day trips. Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is located just 8 miles from Oxford. This UNESCO World Heritage site has Baroque architecture and extensive landscaped gardens. The Cotswolds, an area known for its small villages and rolling hills, is easily accessible from Oxford and allows you to experience rural England.
