58 Fun Things to Do in Oxford, UK

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Joe BlakeneyTravel WriterUpdated on: January 30, 2024

Oxford is a town just 90 kilometers northwest of London that was founded in the eighth century and is home to the oldest English-speaking university.

With its long-spanning history, the architecture in Oxford ranges from ancient Anglo-Saxon constructions to contemporary British design. You’ll be able to get to the prehistoric Stonehenge, a 12th-century castle and a modern state-of-the-art escape room all from the city center.

If you’re in an adventurous frame of mind, you can dive into the city’s nooks and crannies on a scavenger hunt, wander through the history of storytelling, or shop for a souvenir worthy of Wonderland.

If TV shows are your thing, you’ll be able to see where parts of “Downton Abbey” were shot. If books are more your style, you can visit key sites from C.S. Lewis’ “Alice in Wonderland” books. History buffs can also get their fix, being able to visit the birthplaces of William Shakespeare and Winston Churchill, as well as the oldest coffee shop in England. There’s something for everyone on the list of things to do in Oxford.

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1 – Step back in time on an Oxford’s Castle tour

Oxford Castle, UK

Located on the western end of central Oxford, this 1,000-year-old medieval castle that sits is partially in ruins, but you can still see the 12th-century moat and drawbridge if you pay it a visit.

A walking tour will take you past the castle then drives you over to some surrounding castles and landmarks, including the birthplace of William Shakespeare!

2 – Discover dinosaurs and the Dodo at Oxford’s Museum of Natural History

Museum of Natural History, Oxford University

The Museum of Natural History was founded in 1860 as a place to showcase all the scientific study conducted at Oxford University.

Among the 7 million objects at the museum, you can find the first scientifically described dinosaur and the last substantial remains of the now-extinct Dodo. Best of all, admission to the museum is free!

3 – Swing by Christ Church

Christ Church, Oxford University

A college and a cathedral within Oxford University, Christ Church is nestled between the busyness of Oxford and the serenity of Christ Church Meadow.

At the Oxford Cathedral, you can listen to the world-famous choir and see an expansive art gallery showing many historic paintings and drawings.

4 – Stroll through the Oxford Botanic Garden

Oxford Botanic Garden, Oxford University

The Oxford Botanic Garden is over 400 years old, the oldest botanic garden in the entire United Kingdom, and houses over 5,000 different plant species. It also hosts many cultural events, including poetry readings and orchestral performances, making this an exciting stop for nature or art lovers.

5 – Pick up a book at the Bodleian Library

Bodleian Library in Oxford University

One the oldest libraries in all of Europe and the second biggest in the Uk, Bodleian Library has over 13 million printed items, so you’re sure to find something of interest if you stop by.

There’s also the neighboring Radcliffe Camera that’s worth checking out, which is another library built in 1737 in a neoclassical style.

6 – Head to the Ashmolean Museum

Ashmolean Museum, Oxford University

Founded in 1683, Oxford University’s Ashmolean Museum aims to present the story of the human race over thousands of years. If you haven’t seen Egyptian mummies yet, this is the place to go. It’s also has collections of contemporary art from different parts of the world for you to discover.

7 – Challenge yourself with a scavenger game

scavenger game in Oxford

A self-guided puzzling tour, this scavenger hunt takes you around Oxford solving clues and discovering landmarks. There are over 200 different locations and puzzles to visit and solve, so you can choose how many you want to reach.

One ticket is valid for up to 15 people, so it doesn’t matter how big your traveling group is, you can all join in together!

8 – See the sights on a hop-on hop-off bus

hop on hop off bus, Oxford

With a large number of sights in Oxford, a hop-on hop-off bus takes the stress out of making it to them all.

With tickets valid for 24 or 48 hours, you can get on and off at any of the 20 stops around town to explore the city at your own pace.

The stops include Oxford Castle, Westgate Shopping Centre, and all of the university’s colleges.

9 – Uncover the shadows of British history at the Pitt Rivers Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford University

The Pitt Rivers Museum was founded in 1884 when archeologist General Pitt Rivers donated his worldwide collection to Oxford University.

Today the museum aims to provide a space for individuals to discover the darker, more difficult side of British history, containing many stolen artifacts and remnants of colonial England culture.

10 – Attend a service at University Church of St Mary the Virgin

University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Oxford University

To experience its atmosphere, you can attend services at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, which has been a Christian place of worship for hundreds of years. Simply take a walking tour to look at the architecture or hear the famous organ being played.

There’s also a great photo opportunity outside the church with the 14th-century spire being one of Oxford’s best-known landmarks.

11 – Discover the History of Science Museum

History of Science Museum, Oxford University

The building now known as the History Science Museum used to be a science teaching facility with a chemical laboratory in the basement. It was built in 1683 but wasn’t until 1924 that the museum was founded.

It is now a collection of the scientific and medical endeavors of the University of Oxford, documenting anything from the development of vaccines to the history of radio transmission.

12 – Explore the rich history of Magdalen College

Magdalen College, Oxford University

One of the wealthiest and best performing colleges within Oxford University, Magdalen College, established in 1458, has taught many notable figures in history — including a Prince of Wales and Oscar Wilde.

The college is open during the day for tourists, so you can walk through the hallowed grounds and even see the famous Deer Park where a herd of Fallow deer live during winter and spring.

13 – Ride around town on a bike tour

bike tours in Oxford

With so many famous writers and politicians having studied and lived in Oxford, you’ll never know when you’ll be walking past a pub where Oscar Wilde used to go or a park where C.S. Lewis came up with the idea for Narnia.

A guided bike tour takes this problem out of your hands, as you are taken around the city by a knowledgeable local, learning all about where these famous students spent their time.

14 – Cross the Hertford Bridge

Hertford Bridge, Oxford University

The Hertford Bridge — also known as the Bridge of Sighs — is an iconic Oxford landmark that connects two sections of Hertford College.

It is a grade two listed historic landmark in England, so grabbing a shot of the unique architecture is one of the essential things to do in Oxford.

Directions in Google Maps

15 – Unwind at University Parks

University Parks, Oxford

University Parks is a natural sanctuary that offers an escape from the busy chaos of the main streets of Oxford. Formerly owned by one of the colleges, the park is now open to the public most days of the year until dusk.

It had become a popular recreation spot for locals and Harry Potter fans, many even were able to catch a game of quidditch!

16 – Immerse yourself in a world of fantasy and high tech technology at the VR Rooms

VR Rooms in Oxford
credit to Reality Drop VR

At Reality Drop VR there are a multitude of different virtual reality games to explore whether you prefer to play solo or have a laugh with friends in a multiplayer setting.

Get your creativity flowing with the ABC Paint Game where you can express yourself on unlimited virtual canvases! Dare to enter in the spooky world of the Affected Manor where you can expect spine thrilling jumps or battle against squirrels in the addictive ‘Attack of the Squirrels’ game!

There are also many games suitable for kids (over 7 years old). Don’t worry if this is your first experience with virtual reality, no previous skills are required. Wear comfy clothes and shoes because in many games you get moving around!

17 – Visit famous filming locations on a Harry Potter tour

Harry Potter tours in Oxford

Several parts of the Harry Potter films were shot in Oxford, including the Divinity School within the Bodleian Library.

This tour includes a guided walk through the many key locations of famous writers before allowing you into the halls and libraries, where many of the key scenes in Harry Potter were shot.

18 – Immerse yourself in Oxford’s literary world at The Story Museum’s interactive exhibits and historical galleries

The Story Museum, Oxford
credit to The Story Museum

The Story Museum presents the history of myths and literature in Oxford with interactive exhibits of fairy tales for the younger guests. There are also historical galleries of the history of literature for the adults.

19 – Get behind the scenes with an Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour tour

Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour tours in Oxford

The TV show “Inspector Morse” was filmed at many key locations around Oxford and this tour makes sure you don’t miss a thing.

You’ll be taken to all the pubs and university colleges that became scenes in the famous British drama. If you’re a fan of the show, hopping on this tour is one of the best things to do in Oxford.

20 – Take a picnic at Port Meadow

Port Meadow, Oxford

Just out of the main town of Oxford is Port Meadow, one of the largest open spaces in the area. The River Thames flows right through the meadow and many species of horses and cows call the surrounding land home.

The whole meadows are accessible by foot, so you can take in a scenic stroll, bring a picnic or barbecue or take a fishing rod to the water.

Directions in Google Maps

21 – Escape to Cotswold Wildlife Park

Cotswold Wildlife Park, Oxford

Just a 45-minute drive out of Oxford, Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of the UK’s largest zoological collections.

Opened in 1970 to provide the public with a way to interact and discover nature, the park has a huge collection of animals and had kept natural gardens.

22 – Get ready for some weird crazy golf at the Junkyard Golf Club

Junkyard Golf Club, Oxford
credit to Junkyard Golf Club

Unlike anything you have ever encountered before, try out the three eccentric golf courses at the Junkyard. At the Bozo course you are surrounded by creepy circus paraphernalia, think random clowns and retro ferris wheels.

Car fans should opt for a game on the Gary course full of scrapyard garage parts and throw backs to 90s disco raves. Or get tropical on the Pablo course with freaky wild animals and palm trees. Enjoy some fruity and boozy cocktails as you make your way around the site. You can also enjoy some tasty pizzas or nachos after the round.

This trippy mini golf hub is centrally located in the Westgate Shopping center.

23 – Explore the world of contemporary art at Modern Art Oxford

Modern Art Oxford
credit to Modern Art Oxford

Founded in 1965, Modern Art Oxford is one of the leading collectors of contemporary art in England. It has a wide range of local and international works from many different cultures.

This is a great place to discover art from talents you haven’t known yet and to see collections from renowned contemporary artists.

24 – Take in the view at South Park

South Park, Oxford

South Park is 50 hectares of open greenery that has one of the best views looking down onto Oxford.

It is open to the public all day and is only a five-minute walk from the east of Oxford. If you bring a picnic, you might be able to catch a hot air balloon passing overhead.

25 – Explore Blenheim Palace on a day trip

Blenheim Palace day trip from Oxford

Blenheim Palace is an opulently designed castle that is most famously known as Winston Churchill’s birthplace.

A day trip from Oxford allows you to choose your own itinerary, picking which towns to pass through and how long you’d like to wander around the palace. You could get picked up and dropped off at your accommodation.

26 – Hop on a Cotswolds day trip

Cotswolds day trip from Oxford

The Cotswolds are a group of England’s best-known villages that are still well preserved. At this quaint country town, you’ll see thatched roofs and 15th-century ruins, all from the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan.

The tour only takes a small group and goes for about seven hours, allowing plenty of space and time to explore.

27 – Step back in time at Cogges Manor Farm

Cogges Manor Farm, Oxford

Cogges Manor Farm is a well-preserved house and farmyard that dates all the way back to 500 AD as part of an Anglo Saxon village.

In 1979, it became a farming museum where visitors can explore the house and surroundings that have been meticulously presented the way they originally were hundreds of years ago. It’s open seven days a week, so you can swing by whenever you have a free day.

28 – Wizz round the tracks during a fast paced karting session

karting in Oxford

Feel like a Formula One driver at Oxford Karting, located a 1 hour 20 minute drive away from central Oxford in Northampton. Get dressed up in your driving suit and put on your crash helmet before entering into this epic 400m indoor circuit.

Feel the adrenaline pumping as you smoothly swerve round the corners and break your lap record time! Race against your friends and push down on that accelerator! There’s a comfy viewing platform for friends and family spectators. All the karts are safely monitored and the professional staff ensure a friendly environment.

Bear in mind; drivers must be over 8 years old to participate.

29 – Go fishing at Linear Fisheries Oxford

Linear Fisheries Oxford
credit to Linear Fisheries Oxford

A one-stop shop for those wanting to get their fix of fishing while staying in the city, the Linear Fisheries Oxford has an on-site tackle and equipment store. You can get here everything you need and pick up a day pass then head out to the pristine water.

The site is known as one of the best places to catch carp, so you’ll have every chance of taking home a great catch.

30 – Pick up a souvenir at Alice’s Shop

Alice's Shop, Oxford

Located in the heart of Oxford on St. Aldates, Alice’s Shop is the actual shop that the characters from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” would visit.

Here, you can pick up all sorts of curios and souvenirs, and even recreate scenes from the famous book “Through the Looking Glass” where Alice befriended the Sheep Shop keeper.

31 – Paddle down the Thames on a sightseeing cruise

sightseeing cruise, Oxford

With the River Thames flowing right through the city of Oxford, a cruise downstream is a great way to see the sights at a more leisurely pace.

The tour lasts around two and a half hours, and will take you past many of the city’s well known landmarks before serving up a typical English lunch aboard the vessel.

32 – Head down to Waddesdon Manor

Waddesdon Manor, Oxford

This 19th-century house that is open to the public,  and has been kept in its original state, allowing you to get a glimpse of life in the 1800s.

Waddeson Manor is one of the only places in England where you can see a French Renaissance-style house, filled with centuries-old art and artifacts.

Here, you can expect antique sculptures, wall panels from Parisian homes and long dining tables laid out as they would have been 200 years ago.

33 – Test your wits at City Mazes Escape Rooms Oxford

City Mazes Escape Rooms, Oxford
credit to City Mazes Escape Rooms

City Mazes Escape Rooms in Oxford has five different rooms of variable difficulty for you and your friends to try out.

Among the rooms, there’s anything from a hostage situation in an office to solving a professor’s riddle in a lab. Whatever your set of expertise, there’s a way to challenge them here.

Alternatively, check out some of the adventures offered by Escape Hunt. There are plenty of Escape Rooms to choose from, from escaping cowboys in the Wild West to locating Blackbeard’s treasure or fleeing the curse of the ancient Pharaoh.

Don’t fancy spending time indoors? Book onto one of their outdoor city hunts which will take you around the city landmarks during your quest to solve the mission!

34 – Perfect your bowling swing on Oxfords top bowling alley

bowling in Oxford
credit to Hollywood Bowl Oxford

Spend an action packed afternoon or evening at the Hollywood Bowl Oxford, equipped with 24 bowling lanes and excellent feel good party music tunes. Finish off your round of bowling with some hearty food at the Hollywood style American diner. Expect plenty of milkshakes, ice cream sundaes and juicy burgers. There’s also a Hollywood bar for cocktails between games.

Fancy something a bit exclusive? Feel like a star and enjoy one of the VIP bowling lanes with your own private area for your group.

When finished with the bowling, don’t forget to have some fun in the amusement section full of fun arcade games. On Fridays and Saturdays the place stays open until midnight!

35 – Hire a punt and paddle through town

punt boats, Oxford

Punting is one of the most popular pastimes among Oxford locals. At Magdalen Bridge Boathouse you can hire one of these long paddle boats and make your way downstream.

From the water, you’ll pass through the Christ Church College meadows and Oxford Botanical gardens.

36 – Get behind the scenes at Downton Abbey filming locations

Downton Abbey filming locations, Oxford

Oxford and its surroundings have been where several scenes from the TV show “Downton Abbey” have been shot.

A day trip from Oxford takes you to all the key locations such as Cogges Manor Farm and St Mary’s Church — which has hosted a few Downton Abbey weddings. This trip will also take you to Winston Churchill’s birthplace and grave for an extra dose of history.

37 – Climb The Saxon Tower of St Michael at the North Gate

The Saxon Tower of St Michael, Oxford

Climbing the Saxon Tower of St. Michael, which is known as the oldest building in Oxford and was built in the 11th century, is one of the most important things to do in Oxford.

On your trip up the 97th step, you’ll see a treasury of priceless silver and the remnants of the Old Bocardo Prison that held the Oxford Martyrs.

Nearby, you can also climb up the Carfax Tower which is all that remains of the 12th century St Martins Church. The Carfax Tower is considered the exact central point of the city, at an intersection point between several main roads.

Directions in Google Maps

38 – Spot the Headington Shark

Headington Shark, Oxford

This bewildering street sculpture depicts a shark crashing into the roof of a house at 2 New High Street, Headington.

Headington Shark first appeared in 1986 when the owner of the house commissioned sculptor John Buckley to design it.

Directions in Google Maps

39 – Treat yourself at Bicester Village

Bicester Village, Oxford

An outdoor shopping hub, Bicester Village has a huge range of places to eat, with street vendors and plenty of places to pick up a gift with over 160 designer boutiques! It’s accessible by direct train or just 30 minutes by car from Oxford.

40 – Celebrate creativity, open your mind and be inspired during the Oxford summer festivals

festivals in Oxford

The Oxford Festival of the Arts runs annually towards mid June to July. Each year there is a changing theme for example ‘People. Stories. Histories’ in 2023. Expect lots of different events throughout venues across the city; from art exhibitions, walking tours, recitals and talks; there’s a lot going on to inspire hungry culture vultures!

For sheer escapism and lots of fun hedonism, look no further than the Wilderness Festival.  Located in the rural Cornbury Park, get ready for electric live music ranging from indie, folk to electronic!

Gourmet lovers make sure to check out the Oxford Foodies Festival in August with plenty of live music, pop up bars, street food and cooking demonstrations.

41 – Make the pilgrimage to Stonehenge

Stonehenge day trip from Oxford

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that is thought to have been built sometime between 2,000 BC and 3,000 BC.

There are countless theories about its purpose and origins, and you’ll learn all about its history from a knowledgeable guide and the visitor center if you take a day trip out from Oxford.

42 – Discover Shakespeare’s birthplace at Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon day trip from Oxford
inside of William Shakespeare’s birthplace house on Henley Street

A scenic one-hour drive from Oxford through the English countryside, Stratford-upon-Avon was first inhabited by Anglo-Saxons in the seventh century.

Known as the birthplace — and gravesite— of William Shakespeare, the town is also the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

43 – Play a round at Gravitee Golf

Gravitee Golf, Oxford
credit to Gravitee Golf

Gravity Golf, located opposite Oxford’s Kassam Stadium, is a 36-hole indoor mini-golf course.

The course is themed around everything science fiction and space exploration. It’s open seven days from lunchtime until late, either 10 or 11 p.m. every night.

44 – Step into Oxford’s vibrant past and present at the Covered Market

Covered Market, Oxford

The Oxford Covered Market was originally built in 1770 and has been a showcase for local craft and produce ever since.

Most of the businesses that reside in the Covered Market are independent and family-owned, so you know you’re picking up an authentic slice of Oxford when you pay them a visit.

Market goers may also enjoy visiting the nearby Gloucester Green Market which takes place outdoors on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Browse the street food stalls and food trucks for a bite to eat and take a look at the arts and crafts stalls featuring jewellery and vintage clothes. Stock up on second hand books or even purchase your weekly fruit and vegetables.

45 – Have lunch at the historic Perch inn

Perch inn, Oxford
credit to The Perch

One of Oxford’s oldest pubs, The Perch Inn has been around for almost 800 years, serving traditional English food. Stopping by for lunch here is one of the essential things to do in Oxford.

You can expect a ploughman’s lunch, home-baked pies and hedgerow desserts at this authentic pub.

46 – Have a laugh and take things a little less seriously at the best Oxford Comedy clubs

best comedy clubs in Oxford
credit to Jericho Comedy Club

At The Glee Club, every Saturday night features four stand up comedians and students can make the most of the excellent student discounts. There are also special comedy nights throughout the week so check out their full program for event information. The club is located within the Bullingdon venue on the Cowley Road.

Another popular comedy haunt is the award winning Jericho Comedy Club which showcases some of the best British comedians and upcoming talent. Their comedy shows take place in a wide range of venues across the city ranging from the Jericho Tavern, the Museum of Natural History to Blackwells Books store. Check out their online podcast to become familiar with some of the best local comedians!

47 – Try the whiskey at The Oxford Artisan Distillery

Oxford Artisan Distillery tour

Just a five-minute walk from Oxford Brooke’s University, the Oxford Artisan Distillery is a small, organic maker of spirits in the Oxford area.

The distillery runs group tours up to 12 people to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the process of making its whiskey. It also has a garden bar for visitors to enjoy all the products made on site.

48 – Attend the Cowley Road Carnival

Cowley Road, Oxford

One of the main streets in Oxford for shopping and cultural events, Cowley Road offers all the best boutiques and nightlife attractions.

There’s also the annual Cowley Road Carnival where the street is closed off to cars and becomes a hub of live music and street vendors.

49 – Have high tea at the best cafes

The Grand Cafe, Oxford

The Grand Cafe is the oldest coffee house in all of England, originally opened by an entrepreneur named Jacob in 1650.

Open seven days a week, it’s a short stroll from the Bodleian Library and serves lunch and high tea every day.

Tuck into cakes and cream tea at Vaults and Garden, or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at The Handle Bar, smack dab in the center of town.

Or unleash your nerdy side at Thirsty Meeples Cafe, where the board games are plentiful, and the teas are worth savoring!

50 – Wind through town on a dinner cruise

dinner cruise in Oxford

A dinner cruise takes you through the town of Oxford along the River Thames, while serving up a three-course meal.

On this cruise, you’ll drift past the colleges, botanical gardens and meadows, as you enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco!

51 – Have a meal by the water at The Folly

The Folly, Oxford

Sitting beside the River Thames, The Folly is known for creating a constantly changing menu of simple dishes that utilize whatever is in season.

With a terrace that floats over the water’s edge, the restaurant also offers the chance for a 30-minute pre-dinner cruise along the river before settling down for the evening at one of the tables.

52 – Explore Oxford University’s historic hub at the Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford

The main meeting place for Oxford University, the Sheldonian Theatre is where ceremonies and meetings have been held for over 350 years.

While there are multiple ways to visit the Sheldonian, you can simply take a self-guided tour for 4 pound or a guided tour for 8 pounds. The theatre itself is also available for hire, so keep an eye out for events being held there!

Theatre lovers should also take a look at what’s on at the Creation Theatre Company, an innovative local theatre group who put on outstanding quality performances in different venues throughout the city. They often perform theatre classics such as Shakespeare with a contemporary twist.

For musical shows, bands and comedy performances take a look at the program of the Oxford New Theatre, centrally located on George Street.

53 – Soak up the sun at a rooftop bar or restaurant

best restaurants in Oxford

If your trip to Oxford lines up with the warmer months in England, be sure to check out some of the rooftop bars around town.

Above the Ashmolean Museum is a rooftop bar where you can have cocktails and afternoon tea consisting of local ingredients. There’s also The Varsity Club which offers 360-degree views of Oxford, as you sip your drink in the English sunshine.

The Alchemist takes a suitably academic approach to its uniquely blended cocktails, which pairs perfectly with its theatrical aesthetics.

And at Victors, you can pair your beverage with seafood, appetizers, and tasty vegan fare, all surrounded by lush vines and gorgeous flowers that maintain the summer season all year round.

For fine dining, reserve a table at the stylish brasserie No. 1 Ship Street where British classics fuse with Gallic culinary traditions. The restaurant is easily recognizable with a bright purple exterior!

Or relax by the river and watch the punters go by at The Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant. They have been serving British style food such as excellent sunday roasts since 1904.

For unusual and exotic flavours, try The Coconut Tree in the St Clements area. Discover the rich spicy dishes of Sri Lanka with plenty of healthy vegan and vegetarian options!

54 – Uncover the haunted side of Oxford on a ghost tour

ghost tour in Oxford

Oxford is sometimes referred to as England’s most haunted town. This tour at twilight takes you to all the most haunted locations around the city.

The expert guide will let you into the stories of heretics being burned at the stake and bloody town riots, as you walk down dark and mysterious alleyways.

55 – Go on a craft beer pub crawl

pub crawl in Oxford
credit to Thirsty Meeples

Oxford has plenty of venues where you can grab a craft beer and they all offer a unique pub experience. One of them is Thirsty Meeples, a shop and cafe where you can play board games while sampling some craft beer.

There’s also The Library which serves craft beer in a dimly lit bar upstairs and hosts live music and entertainment most nights in the basement downstairs.

Soak up the cultural history of Turf Tavern, or the family-friendly atmosphere of St. Aldates Tavern.

Enjoy the cozy rooms of The Bear Inn (in business since 1242!), or the communal charms and live events at The Old Bookbinders Ale House.

And don’t miss the craft beers at BrewDog Oxford, which also provides a lovely terrace to sit and sip on nicer days.

56 – Enjoy a classy meal at The Ivy Oxford Brasserie

The Ivy Oxford Brasserie, Oxford
credit to The Ivy Oxford Brasserie

For a dining experience almost as good as the food itself, grab a table at The Ivy Oxford Brasserie!

Aesthetically elegant and filled with charm, this beloved restaurant offers a remarkable range of menus to sample.

It’s an especially popular spot during the holidays, with renowned, multi-course Christmas and New Year’s Eve feasts.

Dress nice, and bring your appetite!

57 – Catch a film at The Ultimate Picture Palace

The Ultimate Picture Palace, Oxford
credit to The Ultimate Picture Palace

The Ultimate Picture Palace is Oxford’s first purpose built cinema, opened in 1911. The theatre was originally used to present short comedies, serials and even the Oxford Boat Race. Today, it shows arthouse films and Hollywood blockbusters.

If you keep an eye out, you can watch many local and international film festivals shown here, which is a great way to get involved with local culture.

58 – Head out for a cocktail

cocktails in Oxford
credit to The Duke of Cambridge

Being a city mostly based around a university, Oxford has no shortage of cocktail bars, having a particularly high concentration of great places to drink. You can find them in the suburb of Jericho and the best of them all has to be The Duke of Cambridge.

They have some of the world’s finest bartenders, serving up perfected classics and creative specials. Or check out the interesting drinks menu at the eccentric Mad Hatter Cocktail bar, equipped with private karaoke rooms.

Head straight to the Freud Cafe Bar in Jericho, located in an old re-converted church with beautiful stained glass windows and fun DJ nights.

For dancing and student club night vibes, look no further than the Bridge with the biggest nightclub garden in Oxford. Set over two floors with three different dancefloors, there’s plenty of space to get grooving.

How to get to Oxford?

While there is an airport in town (Oxford Airport), London’s Heathrow Airport offers far more flight options, especially for international travelers.

Whichever transit hub you choose, book an airport transfer to get to town quickly and conveniently.

Where to stay in Oxford?

Blending an elegant atmosphere and historic structure with close proximity to transit and the university campus, the Randolph Hotel is perfect for a relaxing stay, with a gorgeous restaurant and wellness center to sweeten the deal.

And Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford will keep you well-fed and entertained, from its steakhouse and bar to its short driving distance from the city center.

Oxford Spires is the perfect place to spoil yourself, offering up a spa, pool, and afternoon tea service to help you unwind in between your adventures.

And at Holiday Inn Oxford, you can enjoy all the best amenities – such as a gym and complimentary breakfast -, then stroll over to the Park and Ride shuttle and head straight to town.

Meanwhile, Hampton by Hilton Oxford is perfectly positioned for both city and country excursions, as well as a welcoming atmosphere that gets tourists oriented right off the bat.

Visiting Oxford on a budget?

A free walking tour is the ideal way to start exploring, as your enthusiastic guide introduces you to the city’s famous facts, faces, and places.

Learn about the rich history and culture of the town, especially its weird, wonderful academic sphere.

And remember to bring some cash to tip your guide for a job well done!

Where to go next?

Before leaving Oxford, make sure to check out the list of multi-day trips from Oxford that are available. In a 3 day private tour, explore the charming stone villages of the Cotswolds, the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, Shakespeare’s hometown Stratford upon Avon and the well preserved Warwick Castle!

For some romance, consider the gorgeous English countryside driving tour which includes the picturesque Cotswolds and grand Regency style architecture of former spa town Cheltenham.

Just like Oxford, there are many things to do in Cambridge, boating with world-renowned universities making it a paradise for intellectual exploration.

Venture to York, where history unfolds through millennia, evident in its Roman ruins and medieval builings. Yet, don’t miss the contemporary allure with a thriving art scene and vibrant bars, adding to the list of things to do in York!

In Manchester, history merges seamlessly with creativity. Explore its industrial legacy, immerse yourself in a hyper-creative present, and discover numerous museums and athletic facilities, offering a diverse range of things to do in Manchester.

There are also plenty of things to do in Liverpool, a city that offers awesome architecture, dynamic historical sites, and, of course, plenty of music!

If you are looking for things to do in Brighton, this coastal gem provides a holiday with some authentic English charm, from food tours and adrenaline-fueled activities to relaxing beaches.

There is also a wide range of things to do in Birmingham, a destination that provides a truly dynamic city experience, whether you’re eating, shopping, or strolling past canals and Hobbit-worthy scenery.

As for London, it perpetually dazzles with iconic landmarks, extraordinary museums, and an unending procession of arts and culture. Explore the grandeur and heritage of the city, adding to your list of things to do in London, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the monarchy!

After these captivating journeys, continue your exploration by discovering more of the UK’s best places to visit!

Final thoughts

From the minute you first set foot in the fabulous town, you’ll feel in touch with your intellectual side!

While it’s rightly known for its cultural pursuits, you can find plenty of other fascinating things to do in Oxford, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, and art enthusiast, or a cultured hedonist.

So come and see what the centuries of fuss are about!

As always, happy travels!

Author
Joe Blakeney profile image
Joe BlakeneyTravel WriterUpdated on: January 30, 2024