Exploring Oxford: A Guide from My Study Abroad Experience

Activities:

-Visit the Colleges: Oxford’s colleges are architectural gems, each with its own history and charm.

-New College: Admission is €8 for adults. Explore Harry Potter filming sites like The Cloisters and the "Malfoy ferret courtyard." Don’t miss the chapel, the dining hall and the serene garden quadrangle.

-Magdalen College: Admission is €9.50 for adults. This picturesque college is known for its beautiful grounds, including deer park and riverside walks.

-Christ Church College: Admission is €18 for adults. Famous for its Great Hall, which inspired Hogwarts’ dining hall, and the hall staircase, which can be seen in several Harry Potter films. Make sure you check out the Tom Quad (the largest quad in Oxford) and the cathedral as well

-Bodleian Library: You can’t leave Oxford without visiting this iconic library! Book a guided tour starting at €10 to see areas like the Divinity School and Duke Humphrey’s Library (both Harry Potter filming locations) that are not open to the general public.

-Radcliffe Camera: This round, domed building is one of Oxford’s most photographed landmarks. A guided tour is required to get inside (starting at €20), but even the exterior is worth admiring!

-The Ashmolean: Offering free general admission, this is the world’s oldest public museum and houses an incredible collection of art and archaeology. Perfect for history buffs or anyone looking to explore treasures from ancient Egypt to modern art.

-Bridge of Sighs: A picturesque skyway linking two buildings at Hertford College. Snap a photo of this iconic Oxford spot, modeled after the Venetian bridge of the same name.

-Blenheim Palace: The birthplace of Winston Churchill, this stunning baroque palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to the palace, park and gardens is €38, and tickets must be purchased in advance.

-Bridgerton & Queen Charlotte Film Trail: Fans of the Netflix series will love exploring Oxford’s filming locations used in Bridgerton and Queen Charlotte. Keep an eye out for iconic spots that appeared on-screen!

-The Palace State Rooms: Wander through the grand, ornate rooms of the palace, filled with priceless art and historic treasures.

-The Churchill Exhibition: Dive into the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, from his birth at Blenheim to his role as a wartime leader, through this fascinating permanent exhibition.

-Formal Gardens: Take a stroll through the beautifully designed gardens, which include Italian, water and rose gardens, offering picturesque views of the palace grounds.

-Other Tours: There are several other guided tours available with an additional purchase, such as behind-the-scenes experiences, garden tours and seasonal highlights.

Shopping:

-Westgate Oxford: A modern shopping mall with a little bit of everything. From high-street brands to designer stores, you’ll find plenty of options here.

-Oxford Covered Market: Wander through this charming market to find unique shops and food vendors. Stop by Ben’s Cookies for a sweet treat or grab some gelato from iScream.

-Blackwell’s: Book lovers rejoice! This is the largest bookstore in the U.K., and it’s an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to browse or pick up a good read.

Outdoor spaces:

-Port Meadow: A vast, open green space along the Thames, perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic. Popular with locals, it's a great way to experience the quieter side of Oxford.

Day trips:

-Windsor Castle (55-minute drive): Visit one of the most famous royal residences, home to British monarchs for over 1,000 years. Explore the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel and the beautiful grounds.

-Bath (1.5-hour drive): This charming city is known for its Georgian architecture and rich history. A highlight is touring the Roman Baths, where you can see the ancient thermal springs and learn about life in Roman Britain.

-London (1.5-hour drive): While it merits much more than just a day trip, London is just a short drive away, so you can easily see both destinations in one trip.

Cafes:

-Vaults & Garden: Set in a beautiful 17th-century building near the Radcliffe Camera, this café offers organic, locally sourced food with a lovely garden view. It's perfect for breakfast or a light lunch.

-The Grand Café: Claimed to be England’s oldest coffeehouse, this elegant spot is great for afternoon tea, offering scones, cakes and light bites in a historic, lavish setting.

-Barefoot Jericho: A cozy, community-centered café in the Jericho neighborhood, offering healthy, homemade meals, great coffee and some of the most amazing cake around.

-Art Café: A cute and casual café offering sandwiches, salads, and fair-trade coffee. It’s a great stop for a quick bite, with vegan and gluten-free options available too.

Pubs:

-Turf Tavern: A hidden gem tucked away in an alley, this historic pub is a favorite for its cozy vibe and hearty pub fare. It's also known for having hosted famous figures like Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking!

-The Eagle & Child: This pub has a rich literary history, having been frequented by famous writers like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Enjoy a pint or some classic pub grub in this historic spot.

-The White Rabbit: A laid-back pub with a reputation for serving some of the best pizza in Oxford. The rustic decor and casual atmosphere make it a perfect hangout.

Restaurants:

-Victor’s: A trendy, Instagram-worthy rooftop restaurant with a beautiful floral interior. The chic atmosphere pairs perfectly with their modern European menu and cocktail options.

-The Alchemist: Known for its theatrical cocktails, this place offers a fun and unique experience with a wide range of creative drinks and a stylish setting.

-Dirty Bones Oxford: This spot in the Westgate Centre offers New York-style comfort food, including burgers, ribs and fried chicken, along with creative cocktails in a retro setting. Perfect for a casual meal or weekend brunch!

-Sasi’s Thai: Located in the Covered Market, this no-fuss spot serves up delicious, authentic Thai food. Perfect for a quick, affordable and flavorful lunch in the heart of Oxford.