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

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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?