Steeped in History!
If you love history, an Oxford day out has all you could ask for. From prestigious institutions to beautiful buildings and plenty of exciting sights, the city of dreaming spires has a unique culture and cosmopolitan vibe. Home to scholars for nearly 1,000 years, the UK's oldest university is based here alongside a bustling student population and an abundance of other historical attractions.
Explore Egyptian mummies and modern art at the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, delve into the past at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and the Pitt Rivers Museum, or step back in time and immerse yourself among the Norman ruins of Oxford Castle. Admire the formidable architecture of the City of Spires, and bask in the wonders of the Bodleian Libraries before discovering Oxford’s eclectic foodie scene, meandering waterways and lush green spaces.
Best of Oxford
Oxford tourist attractions combine deep, rich history with the innovation, creativity and liveliness of its student population. The site of some of the UK’s most beautiful architecture, the city dates back to Saxon times, with its university being home to the world’s most renowned scholars, public figures and artists as well as being the set of some Hollywood films, including Harry Potter.
Must-see historical attractions include the Old Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera, two iconic buildings with their own unique story and impressive architecture. The university colleges are also partly open to visitors, with Christ Church, Magdalen and Keble College being particular highlights. To see the contemporary side of the city’s culture, head to Modern Art Oxford or the trendy Jericho neighbourhood.
Explore all of Oxford
Things to do in Oxford
Oxford is crammed with fantastic things to see and do, with incredible architecture, superb art and a history dating back to Saxon times.
Get ready to look up during your Oxford sightseeing trip. Full of huge towers and uniquely high buildings, a short walk from the train station to the university will make it clear to you why Oxford gets the nickname ‘the city of dreaming spires’. Make your way towards Carfax, the point where four main streets cross, and you’ll be sure to spot Carfax Tower, a 14th-century replica of the destroyed St. Martin’s Church. The University Church and Christ Church Cathedral are also worth a visit, with the Sheldonian Theatre, Radcliffe Square and Bodleian Library having their own unique history and architecture.
Find out all about Bodelian’s unique history with a visit to the neighbouring (and public) Weston Library or uncover the stories behind the world’s rarest art and antiquities at the unique Ashmolean Museum - a neoclassical university museum founded in 1683. If you want to explore art collections and exhibitions, then the Modern Art Oxford and Christ Church Picture Gallery are must-visit destinations.
There are also plenty of attractions to visit if you’re travelling with children. The Pitt Rivers Museum and Museum of Natural History bring world history to life for little ones. Walking amongst dinosaur bones, cool events and hands-on exhibitions promise an exciting day out for everyone. Plus, if you want to do some more historical exploring, then Oxford Castle and Prison have over 1,000 years of stories to discover.
For a city as diverse as Oxford, it should come as no surprise that you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food and drink. With a large number of dining and drinking options, offering all manner of cuisines, delicacies and beverages, there is something for every budget and taste, every day of the week.
Oxford's nightlife is well tuned to cater for almost all tastes! With a thriving student population, you can expect a host of different nightlife experiences including live music and comedy, as well as plenty of pubs and bars that are loved by locals. If you’re looking for a super trendy night out or a relaxed evening of entertainment, there are plenty of venues in the Jericho neighbourhood to explore.
FAQs
Why choose a day out in Oxford?
Oxford trips are sure to be packed full of history, unique attractions and exciting entertainment, making it an ideal destination for families, couples or individual travellers alike. Whether you’re visiting for a short break or a day out, there’s plenty to see and do.
What are the best day trips from Oxford?
Enjoy a morning exploring the sights of Oxford and the afternoon enjoying all that London has to offer with Avanti West Coast. In around an hour, you can be in the centre of the UK’s capital, with regular trains departing Oxford every day of the week.
What to do in Oxford with children?
Whether you’re staying in Oxford for a few hours or a couple of days, make sure you see as many of the city’s historical sights as possible with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. From running around beautiful green spaces to punting on the river, your children will love their trip to the university city.
