Exploring Oxford

Oxford's historical sights
The Bridge of Sighs, Oxford

A world-renowned city steeped in history and tradition

Oxford City

Oxford is a fantastic place in which to study and an equally fascinating place to explore.

The city has welcomed learned students since the creation of the first college in 1249.

Modern-day Oxford is home to a vibrant and constantly changing community of students, scholars and entrepreneurs from across the world. As you wander around, you will see a city steeped in tradition and learning but one that is also a thriving hub for manufacturing, information technology and science-based businesses.

With around 165,000 inhabitants, Oxford is fairly compact and easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Visit world-renowned museums, take a boat trip down river, picnic in a park, or enjoy a pint in the Eagle and Child pub, where C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien used to meet.

Here are just a few of the most popular attractions:

  • Oxford Castle – built for William the Conqueror
  • the oldest botanical gardens in England
  • the permanent Covered Market – selling delicious local produce
  • the world-famous Bodleian Library and Blackwell's Bookshop
  • historical Oxford colleges around the city

Modern-day Oxford is home to a vibrant and constantly changing community of students, scholars and entrepreneurs.

Bikes in Oxford

Exploring further afield

If you travel a short distance to the northwest of Oxford, you will arrive in the Cotswolds – home to some of the most picturesque villages.

This is an area of outstanding natural beauty – perfect if you love rambling or hiking.

Visit a farmers’ market in Stroud, stop off for a Sunday roast in Chipping Campden or head up north to Stratford-upon-Avon – where you can visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and enjoy some top-class theatre.

The thrill of the capital

Big Ben

Oxford is ideally placed for exploring London, which is just an hour away by train and within easy reach by coach and bus.

Why not visit the capital's many well-known sights, such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, and enjoy West End shows, beautiful parks, fantastic restaurants and extensive shopping areas?