Oxford is a city that never fails to impress its visitors with its quintessentially English charm, majestic architecture, and rich history. This city is home to one of the most prestigious universities in the world and attracts tourists from all over the globe. Whether you are a history buff, book lover, or just looking to relax and explore at your leisure, Oxford has something for everyone. In this blog post, we will take you through some of the best things to do and see in Oxford.
- Visit the Oxford University Colleges: The University of Oxford is made up of 38 independent colleges that contribute to the unique character of the city. Strolling along the narrow streets and admiring the medieval architecture of colleges such as Christchurch, Magdalen, and New College is a must-do activity when visiting Oxford. The Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, is also located within the university and is fascinating to explore.
- Punting on the River Thames: If you want to see Oxford from a different perspective, you can take a punt ride on the River Thames. This is a popular activity in the summer months and a great way to relax and soak in the sights of Oxford. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat that is driven by a person standing at the back using a long pole. Several companies offer guided tours along the river or you can rent a punt and do it yourself.
- Explore the Ashmolean Museum: The Ashmolean Museum is the oldest public museum in the United Kingdom and is home to significant collections of art, archaeology, and history. From ancient Egyptian mummies to Renaissance masterpieces, the museum’s collections span over 5000 years of human history and the museum always has interesting exhibitions for visitors to enjoy.
- Discover Oxford’s Literary Heritage: Oxford was the home of many famous writers, including J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll. There are many places in Oxford where you can explore their literary heritage, such as The Eagle and Child pub, where the Inklings (a literary group that included Tolkien and Lewis) used to meet. You can also visit the Bodleian Library, which has been featured in several famous novels, including Harry Potter.
- Walk the Oxford Canal: The Oxford Canal runs through the city and offers a peaceful walking trail where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. The canal was built in the 18th century to transport goods between Oxford and Coventry and its picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere make it a great place to unwind.
Conclusion:
Oxford is a stunning city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. From exploring the city’s many colleges to discovering its literary heritage or punting on the River Thames, there is never a dull moment in Oxford. If you are looking for a destination that offers a mix of history and modern-day flair, Oxford should be on your bucket list. With so much to see and do, it’s impossible to see everything in one visit, but we hope this blog post has given you a great starting point to explore all that Oxford has to offer.