Collegiate city with a literary past
Oxford is one of these names that you might already know before you set foot in England. Its reputation precedes it and it’s sure not to disappoint.
Travel here to be charmed by Oxford’s timeless atmosphere, rooted in collegiate tradition, stunning architecture and literary ties.
At the heart of the city, you’ll find the University of Oxford, often ranked amongst, if not as one of, the most prestigious universities in the world.
You won’t want to miss the Radcliffe Camera. This is one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, a circular library designed in the Palladian style.
Another of Oxford’s historic libraries is the Bodleian, which dates back to 1488 and is one of the world’s oldest working libraries. You can book guided tours of the Bodleian, including the Radcliffe Camera, to take a peek inside.
For an astounding 360-degree panorama of Oxford, visit the Sheldonian. This is the theatre that hosts university ceremonies such as matriculation (welcoming new students) and graduation.
When you stroll through Oxford, you’ll notice there is no real campus. In fact, the university’s historic buildings and independent colleges are scattered amidst the shops, pubs and parks. This makes the city even more vibrant, as the student population and their quirky traditions are all around.
One of the most famous colleges you won’t want to miss is Christ Church. Its lavish lawn is worth the detour and so are its interiors. This includes its grand dining hall that is said to have inspired Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.
Oxford's beauty extends beyond academia. Go punting (travelling on a boat called "punt") on the serene River Cherwell. Wander through the Botanic Garden. Pick up lunch, coffee or a local souvenir at the Covered Market. Or visit the nearby Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.
There are lots of museums in Oxford that you could also explore, such as the:
- Oxford University Museum of Natural History
- Story Museum
- Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
- Pitt Rivers Museum
- Modern Art Oxford
When discussing Oxford’s cultural heritage, we can’t forget to mention all the famous people who have called this place home. This includes world leaders, authors, Nobel Prize winners, and Olympians such as JRR Tolkien, Adam Smith, Iris Murdoch, Hugh Grant, Philip Pullman, Indira Gandhi and Stephen Hawking, among many more.
Whatever you decide to do while visiting Oxford, you’ll find it's a journey through time. Unravel all it has to offer or simply relish in its picturesque atmosphere.
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