Things To Do
in Oxford

Oxford, United Kingdom, is a historic city renowned for its prestigious university, which dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest in the world. The city is a vibrant blend of ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and a lively cultural scene. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Bodleian Library, the Ashmolean Museum, and the picturesque colleges that make up the university.

Oxford offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and academic excellence, making it a must-visit destination in the UK.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the University
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ashmolean Museum, the oldest public museum in the UK, which houses a vast collection of art and archaeology.

afternoon
:

Walk around the University of Oxford, visiting Christ Church College and its stunning cathedral, followed by a leisurely stroll in the nearby Christ Church Meadow.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at The Eagle and Child, a historic pub frequented by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and finish the evening with a riverside walk along the River Thames.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day at the Bodleian Library, where you can take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Oxford Botanical Garden for a serene experience amidst beautiful plants and flowers, then head to the Covered Market for lunch.

evening
:

End your trip with a performance at the Oxford Playhouse, followed by drinks at a local bar in the vibrant Jericho neighborhood.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20-$40
Coffee at a cafe$3-$5
🍕Pizza from a takeout$10-$15
🚌Public transport ticket$2-$4
🏨Budget hotel per night$70-$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful architecture and scenic parks
  • Vibrant student atmosphere and nightlife
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
  • Higher cost of living compared to other UK cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain

Places to Visit in Oxford

Visit one of these nice places.

Radcliffe Camera

An iconic circular library building, perfect for capturing the beauty of Oxford's architecture.

Bridge of Sighs

A picturesque bridge connecting two parts of Hertford College, resembling its Venetian namesake.

University Parks

A tranquil park offering scenic views and beautiful landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oxford

Oxford offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects both its history and modern influences, with a variety of local dishes to try.

Oxford Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Oxford Sausage

A unique sausage made from seasoned pork, often served with mash and gravy.

Must-Try!

Pimm's Cup

A refreshing cocktail made with Pimm's No. 1, lemonade, and a selection of fresh fruits.

Sticky Toffee Pudding

A rich dessert made of moist sponge cake, covered in a luscious toffee sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oxford Covered Market

A historic market filled with independent food vendors, offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet street food.

Cowley Road

Known for its diverse street food options, from international cuisines to local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oxford experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and variable weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

Always queue politely; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Respecting Academic Spaces

Be respectful when visiting colleges; these are active educational institutions.

Politeness and Manners

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is essential in social interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oxford is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and public transport.

Tipping in Oxford

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and many outdoor events; a great time for picnics.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists; enjoy festivals and open-air performances, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it a picturesque time to visit; perfect for photography.

Winter

Cold and often wet, winter can be quiet in Oxford; enjoy cozy indoor attractions and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Oxford at Night

Oxford has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of traditional pubs, trendy bars, and clubs. The Cowley Road is particularly popular for its diverse range of venues, from live music to dance clubs. Many pubs host quiz nights and live music events, offering a friendly and social atmosphere. The city's student population contributes to a lively nightlife, especially during term times, making it an exciting place to explore after dark.

Hiking in Oxford

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shotover Country Park

A beautiful area offering various trails through woodlands and heathland, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Port Meadow

A large, flat area of common land providing scenic walking paths alongside the River Thames, ideal for leisurely hikes.

Airports

How to reach Oxford by plane.

London Heathrow Airport

Located about 50 miles from Oxford, Heathrow is the nearest major airport, offering extensive international and domestic flights. Regular bus services connect the airport to Oxford.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oxford is an extremely walkable city, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring cobbled streets and well-maintained pathways. Walking is a popular way to explore the city, allowing visitors to soak in the architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With a large student population attending the University of Oxford, the city has a youthful and vibrant demographic.

Tourists

Oxford attracts millions of tourists each year, contributing to a diverse mix of cultures and backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rowing

Rowing is a popular sport in Oxford, especially among the university students, with the River Thames serving as a key venue for competitions.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following in Oxford, with many local clubs and university teams participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oxford can be congested, especially during peak hours due to its narrow streets and high volume of cyclists. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city; however, cycling is also a popular and efficient mode of transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oxford.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Oxford offer vegetarian and vegan options, with clearly marked menus.

Gluten-Free

Most eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oxford is well-regarded, with the National Health Service (NHS) providing comprehensive medical services. Visitors from the EU may be entitled to some healthcare services with an EHIC card, while others are advised to have travel insurance. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide