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Oxford is a beautiful city full of history, learning, and charm. If you’re wondering about things to do in Oxford, you’re in for a treat. From old libraries to peaceful gardens, there is something for everyone. You can explore museums, enjoy a river ride, or just walk through stunning college buildings. This city is perfect for a day trip or a weekend stay. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best things to see in Oxford. Get ready to discover famous spots, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences.
Top 10 Things To Do In Oxford
Here are the top 10 things to see in Oxford, offering stunning architecture, rich academic history, and charming cobbled streets, something for every kind of traveller.
1. Visit The Ashmolean Museum
Photo: Lewis Clarke / Wikimedia Commons
The Ashmolean Museum is Britain’s oldest public museum, founded in 1683. It has a massive collection of art and historical items from all over the world. Inside, you can see Egyptian mummies, Roman coins, Chinese paintings, and even Samurai armour. The building itself is beautiful and full of stories. It’s perfect for anyone interested in history or world cultures. Entry is free, making it great for all travellers. It’s one of the top things to see in Oxford.
Location: Beaumont Street, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: See the Egyptian exhibits
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
2. Explore The Bodleian Library
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
The Bodleian Library is one of Europe’s oldest libraries, with over 400 years of history. It was founded by Sir Thomas Bodley in 1602 and now holds more than 13 million items. You can’t borrow books, but you can explore parts of the library on a guided tour. Highlights include the Radcliffe Camera and the beautiful Divinity School. This library is a must for book lovers and history fans.
Location: Broad Street, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Join the Duke Humfrey’s Library tour
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
3. Take A Punting Tour On The River Cherwell
Photo: Txllxt TxllxT / Wikimedia Commons
Punting on the River Cherwell is a classic Oxford activity. A punt is a flat boat you move with a pole. You can steer it yourself or hire a guide. The journey takes you past green meadows, quiet gardens, and lovely college buildings. It’s peaceful and fun, especially on a sunny day. Many locals and visitors enjoy this relaxing ride.
Location: Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Punt past Magdalen College
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
4. Discover The Pitt Rivers Museum
Photo: Jorge Royan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Pitt Rivers Museum is filled with fascinating objects from cultures around the world. You’ll see tribal masks, musical instruments, tools, weapons, and magical charms. The items are packed into glass cases, creating a treasure hunt feel. This museum is great for curious minds and kids. Entry is free, and there are often hands-on exhibits for families. If you want unusual and interesting things to see in Oxford, this museum should be on your list. It’s both fun and educational.
Location: Parks Road, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: View the shrunken heads
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
5. Visit Oxford Castle & Prison
Photo: Tejvan Pettinger / Wikimedia Commons
Oxford Castle & Prison dates back over 1,000 years. You can take a guided tour to learn about its dramatic past. The tour includes a climb up St. George’s Tower, offering amazing views of the city. Below, you can explore old prison cells and underground crypts. Guides dressed in costume share spooky and exciting stories from history. It’s a fun stop for families and history lovers.
Location: 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Guided tour with stories
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
6. Walk Through Christ Church Cathedral
Photo: Dmitry Djouce / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Christ Church Cathedral is a stunning piece of Oxford’s history and beauty. It is part of Christ Church College, one of the most famous colleges in Oxford. The cathedral has high ceilings, colourful stained-glass windows, and beautiful stonework. Fans of Harry Potter will love visiting, as some movie scenes were filmed here. The cathedral also hosts choir performances and services. It’s a peaceful place with deep history and charm. It’s one of the most unforgettable things to see in Oxford.
Location: St Aldate’s, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Attend a choir performance
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
7. Stroll Through The Oxford Botanic Garden
Photo: JMski / Wikimedia Commons
The Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest of its kind in the UK. It’s home to thousands of plants from around the world. Walk through peaceful pathways, glasshouses, and the special Walled Garden. The garden is perfect for a quiet moment or a lovely photo. It sits beside the River Cherwell, making it even more beautiful. Nature lovers and plant fans will enjoy every second here. It’s one of the most calming and beautiful things.
Location: High Street, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Visit the Walled Garden
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
8. Attend A University Of Oxford Tour
Photo: Sidharth Bhatia / Wikimedia Commons
Taking a tour of the University of Oxford is a great way to explore the city’s famous colleges. Many tours are led by current students who share fun facts and history. You’ll walk through courtyards, chapels, libraries, and gardens. Some tours even include filming locations from movies like Harry Potter. It’s a great way to learn about the world’s most famous university. If you’re wondering what to do in Oxford, start with a university tour for the full Oxford experience.
Location: Various spots across Oxford
Must-Have Experience: Visit Radcliffe Camera
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours
9. Climb The University Church Of St Mary The Virgin Tower
Photo: Laemq / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Climbing the tower of this church is one of the best things to do in Oxford. If you want amazing views. The tower is the tallest in Oxford, and the climb is steep but short. Once at the top, you can see the whole city, including college buildings, gardens, and church spires. It’s a great spot for photos and a quiet break from busy streets. The church itself is also worth visiting for its lovely windows and peaceful feel.
Location: High Street, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Take photos at the top
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
10. Relax At The Bear Inn
Photo: Ian S / Wikimedia Commons
The Bear Inn is Oxford’s oldest pub, dating back to the 13th century. It’s small, cosy, and full of character. One special feature is the wall of necktie snippets from schools and clubs around the world. It’s a fun place to relax after sightseeing. Enjoy a pint of local ale or try a classic pub meal. The Bear Inn offers a true Oxford experience and is one of the best spots for a quiet evening.
Location: Alfred Street, Oxford, England
Must-Have Experience: Try local ale and see the tie collection
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Oxford offers something special at every corner. Whether you love books, art, nature, or food, you’ll find many exciting things to do in Oxford. From the quiet gardens to the busy streets near the university, the city is full of charm. These 10 spots are some of the best things to explore in Oxford and will make your trip memorable. Plan a trip with TripXL and discover the things to see in Oxford.
Cover Photo: Tony Hisgett / Wikimedia Commons
