10 things to do in Oxford

Christ Church Cloister Fountain & Olive Tree, Oxford

Oxford is full of beautiful buildings, green spaces, museums, cafés and places to explore. Whether you are visiting for a short time, staying with family, or enjoying a longer break, there is plenty to discover within easy reach of Observatory Retreat.

Here are ten of our favourite things that you might like to do while you are here:

1. Explore Oxford University’s colleges
Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, and its colleges are one of the city’s greatest treasures. Many are ancient, peaceful and extraordinarily beautiful, with quads, chapels, gardens and dining halls tucked behind grand wooden doors.
A gentle wander through the city centre will take you past some of the most famous colleges, and several are open to visitors at certain times of the year.
https://www.ox.ac.uk/about/visit-us/map

2. Visit Christ Church
Christ Church is one of Oxford’s most iconic colleges. It is home to Oxford’s cathedral, the magnificent Tom Quad and the beautiful Christ Church Meadow.
It is also well known for its links with Alice in Wonderland and for inspiring the Great Hall in the Harry Potter films. A visit here gives you a wonderful mix of history, architecture and open green space, all in one place. 

3. Discover the Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean is one of Oxford’s great cultural landmarks and is only a short walk from the house. Its collections range from Egyptian sculpture and ancient artefacts to paintings, ceramics and drawings by the Old Masters.
With regular lectures, and seasonal exhibitions, it is a lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon.  The rooftop café is a special spot for coffee, lunch or a peaceful pause above the city.

4. Walk through Port Meadow
A five-minute walk from the house brings you to one of Oxford’s most beautiful open spaces. Port Meadow feels like a slice of countryside on the edge of the city, with wide skies, wildflowers, grazing horses and cattle, and views across the river Thames.
You can head over the river to The Perch in Binsey or take a longer walk to The Trout in Wolvercote, both popular local pubs and perfect places to stop for a drink or meal.  Sunday lunch at the Trout has been a much-loved treat for our family - and well earnt reward after the two and a half mile walk. 

5. Visit the Natural History and Pitt Rivers Museums
These two museums share the same striking Gothic building and make a brilliant outing, especially for families.
The Oxford University Museum of Natural History was a favourite for our children and is famous for its dinosaur skeletons, minerals and natural specimens. The Pitt Rivers Museum, tucked just behind it, is wonderfully atmospheric, with cases full of objects from cultures around the world. 

6. Browse the Covered Market
Opened in 1774, the Covered Market is a characterful part of Oxford life. It is full of independent shops, food stalls, cafés and local businesses selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to gifts, clothes, cakes and handmade treats.  We love it as a space for finding unique and memorable gifts.
It is a great place to browse, buy something special, or stop for lunch while exploring the city centre. 

7. Take a tour of the Bodleian Library
The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest and most significant libraries in Europe, and one of Oxford’s most recognisable landmarks.
Set around Radcliffe Square, and close to the iconic Radcliffe Camera building, it is a fascinating place to visit. Guided tours allow you to see inside some of the historic rooms and learn more about the university’s extraordinary academic heritage. 

8. Go punting on the river Cherwell
Punting is a classic Oxford experience. From Magdalen Bridge Boathouse you can hire a punt and enjoy the city from the water.
Bring a picnic, take your time, and enjoy a gentle trip along the river with family or friends. If you have not punted before, staff are on hand to help you get started – and sometimes you can hire someone to take the strain and punt for you!
A good alternative option is to head to the Cherwell Boathouse (also home to a renowned restaurant) and punt from there. 

9. Enjoy Oxford Botanic Garden
Oxford Botanic Garden is a peaceful and beautiful place in the heart of the city. It is filled with plants from around the world and is lovely in every season.
It is close to Magdalen Bridge, so it combines very well with a walk, a punt, or a visit to nearby colleges. 

10. Spend time in University Parks
University Parks is a green oasis in the middle of Oxford and only a short walk from the house. With open lawns, riverside paths and plenty of space to wander, it is a perfect place for a relaxed morning or sunny afternoon.  It also hosts one of Oxford’s weekly 5k parkruns.  You may even catch a game of cricket — or, in true Oxford style, Quidditch.

A little further afield: Blenheim Palace
If you have time for a day trip, Blenheim Palace is a wonderful addition to your stay. The palace, parkland, lake, gardens, maze and seasonal events make it a memorable day out for all ages.   It is the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill
It is just outside Oxford and well worth visiting if you would like to explore beyond the boundaries of the city.