Many visitors to the UK often wonder, is Oxford in England worth visiting? As one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the country, we certainly think so. Oxford receives over 7 million visitors every year, both domestic and international, and there is so much to do here. In fact, it’s the 7th most visited city in the UK! With its world-famous university, range of museums, shops and restaurants, and breath-taking architecture, Oxford has something for everyone. Read on to find out why Oxford in England is worth visiting.
History
With over one thousand years of history, Oxford is an unmissable chance to dive into the past. Its roots date back over one thousand three hundred years to the Saxon period, when it first got its name. The city’s history is also intertwined with Oxford University’s, since both grew and changed together. You can step back into the past in the college halls and libraries, dine in centuries-old pubs like The Bear Inn, and find fascinating ancient artefacts from around the world in the various museums.
Architecture
Oxford is so famous for its beautiful architecture that it has been given the name “the city of dreaming spires”. The term was first used by Victorian poet Matthew Arnold in his poem “Thyrsis” and grew in popularity from there. And he was certainly correct – any picture of Oxford is quickly recognisable by the buildings featuring a range of towers, domes and spires, particularly in the colleges of the university. The city’s heritage can be seen through its various architectural styles, including Gothic, Norman and Baroque.
University
Undoubtedly, Oxford University is one of the most prestigious in the world. This is due to its long history, influential alumni and high quality of education and research – only top students worldwide are accepted. While in the city, you can explore the city-wide campus, including libraries, halls and over 36 colleges that together all form the university. Many places are recognisable from movies and TV since the university buildings are popular filming locations, and you can walk the same halls as many famous professors and students alike.
Harry Potter
The movie series for Harry Potter included many key scenes shot in and around Oxford. For example, New College, Christ Church, and the Bodleian Library became the backdrop for Hogwarts, providing authentic historic scenery for the Infirmary, the Restricted Section, and the Great Hall. For your own Hogwarts-esque experience, you can even pay to stay in the college dormitories during the university holidays in summer, Christmas and Easter, or go on a Harry Potter walking tour through the city and visit the main sites used for filming.
Places to eat
Oxford boasts a huge variety of tasty and interesting pubs, restaurants, bars and cafes. Duck into the Covered Market, with themed decorations, cheerful coffee shops and international eateries. Head to a pub such as The Bear Inn or The Turf Tavern for traditional British fare like pies, roasts, and fish and chips. Climb up to the top floor of the Ashmolean Museum for its rooftop restaurant with stunning views over Oxford’s skyline, or down to the basement for a cosy cafe experience. Finally, step into the Randolph Hotel for a meal at The Alice or a drink at the Morse Bar. In Oxford, there’s something for everyone.
Museums
To really immerse yourself in the story of Oxford, visit the museums in the city. There’s a huge variety with many different themes, so there’s something for everyone. And best of all – many offer free general admission! For instance, in the Ashmolean Museum, you can find fascinating historical artefacts from around the world. The analytically-minded will enjoy the History of Science Museum, with its collection of historical scientific instruments including Einstein’s blackboard, whereas nature-lovers will appreciate the amazing specimens from the natural world in the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Then, wander over to the Pitt Rivers Museum for a unique display of anthropological and archaeological items arranged by object type instead of origin. Finally, to learn more about Oxford itself, head to the Museum of Oxford in the Town Hall to discover the story of the city and its people.
Close to London
Best of all about Oxford is its location. Just over 50 miles (90km) away from London, it is accessible by a variety of transport. You can easily get the train from Marylebone or Paddington to Oxford Station, then a short 15-minute walk later, you are in Oxford city centre! There’s also a useful bus route available known as the Oxford Tube. This runs between London and Oxford several times an hour, seven days a week from many central London locations including London Victoria, Marble Arch and Shepherd’s Bush, to Gloucester Green Bus Station in Oxford, just 10 minutes walk from the city centre. Or, if you want to avoid the hassle of public transport, consider going on tour! This is often the cheapest and most convenient way to travel to destinations outside of London. Not only do you get to relax in comfortable, air-conditioned surroundings without worrying about checking train times, but you also get interesting information from a friendly guide who will help you make the most of your day out in Oxford.
Plan your visit to Oxford today!
Thank you for reading “Is Oxford in England Worth Visiting?”. We hope this article has been helpful and made you want to see this amazing city with your own eyes. Oxford has so much to offer and is absolutely worth a day trip from London to go see. To start planning your trip today, check out the Tours to Oxford that we offer. We hope to see you exploring Oxford yourself soon!
