While spending time in the Cotswolds last summer, I took a day trip to Oxford to wander the honey-colored college buildings and postcard-worthy streets. It was one of my favorite things I did while out in this part of England, getting to enjoy a day exploring the best things to do in Oxford, finding out exactly why this storied university town is so remarkable.
Swapping the rolling green hills of the Cotswolds for the sandstone architecture, I found myself quickly swept up in the charm of centuries-old libraries and leafy college grounds. And with the reputation of one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world, Oxford has earned it. With roots that trace back to the 12th century, it was the first university in the English-speaking world and opened a new era of education.
What I loved about visiting Oxford in particular was how condensed it was. All within a 20-minute walk, you have world-class architecture, like Christopher Wren’s Sheldonian Theatre and the Radcliffe Camera, to the whimsical college gardens, and historical sights. A single full day in Oxford is the perfect amount of time to see the city, which is why I’ve put together this list of the best things to do.
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Oxford:
Hotels
- The Store ($$), for the best luxury boutique hotel
- Malmaison Oxford ($$), for the best historic hotel
- Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre ($$), for the best mid-range hotel
Airbnbs
- 1 Bedroom Luxury Duplex Apartment, for the best luxury stay
- 4 Bedroom Historic Townhouse, for the best family and group stay
- 1 Bedroom Modern Cabin, for the best cozy lakeside stay
Things to Do
- Harry Potter Walking Tour (1.5 hours)
- Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide (2 hours)
- Chauffeured Punting Boat Ride Along the River Cherwell with Guide (30 minutes)
Travel Tips
- Get Cell Data Before You Arrive — We use Holafly unlimited data eSIMs (5% Off!) for all international travel.
- Book an Airport Transfer in Advance — We use Welcome Pickups for our private transfers to and from the airport.
- Rent a Car — Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip
If you’re also planning to visit the Cotswolds, don’t miss my guides to the best places to stay in the Cotswolds, the most beautiful Cotswolds villages to visit, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Cirencester! If you’re exploring more of England, check out my London itinerary and guide to where to stay in London.
The Best Things to Do in Oxford for a Day
What to Know Before Visiting Oxford
Oxford is world-leading in its reputation and wealth of academic history. But Oxford goes beyond its education; it is full of outstanding buildings and top-tier museums, plus plenty of quintessential British experiences, like punting and pubs.
It pays to plan, as access to some colleges and buildings might be limited during exam periods or events. You should always make sure to check opening times before your visit, and popular attractions like some of the most-well known colleges will require tickets to be purchased in advance.
How to Get to Oxford from London
The easiest way to get from London to Oxford is by taking the train, as it means you don’t need to worry about parking, and the station is an easy 10-minute walk from the city center. Trains run from Paddington Station every 30 minutes with Great Western Railway and only take about one hour to get to Oxford. You can also get the train with Chiltern Railways from Marylebone, which offers a slightly longer but often more affordable journey.
For the best experience, I recommend booking your ticket in advance. To make the most of your day, you should aim to get there by 9 am. You can book an off-peak return ticket, which means you have flexibility on which train to return to London on, as long as it isn’t during peak time (4-7 pm).
How to Get to Oxford from the Cotswolds
The best way to reach Oxford from the Cotswolds is by car. If you’re based in the Cotswolds, then you’ll likely have a rental car. Depending on where you are based, it can take between 45 minutes from the northern end to around 1.5 hours from the southern end of the Cotswolds. The roads are scenic, but typically narrow and a little slow.
Travel Tip: The best way to explore the Cotswolds is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car in the UK is quite easy, and while you drive on the opposite side, you’ll get used to it quickly (For more, read my guide to renting a car in the Cotswolds). Book your car with Discover Cars here.
Where to Park in Oxford
Driving into central Oxford is often a pain, so I recommend that if you do decide to drive, make use of one of the city’s well-organized park and ride services. There are several locations, which you can find at Pear Tree, Thornhill, Redbridge, and Seacourt. Using the park and ride service means you can park easily, then jump on one of the frequent buses to Oxford city center in around 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, if you want close parking and arrive early enough, I parked at Worcester Street Car Park and waited about 15 minutes to get a spot.
When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oxford?
The best times to visit Oxford are spring to early summer (March-June). This is when the days are longer, the seasonal blossoms start flowering, and the gardens are looking their best. Fall (September-October) is also a great time with mild temperatures and red vine leaves covering some of the college facades.
Summer (July and August) are holidays, meaning the university campuses will be out on break. It’s also the European and UK school vacation, and it can be a busier time to visit. However, long, warm evenings in pub gardens or by the river are a wonderful way to enjoy a British Summer.
How to Get Around Oxford
Oxford center is compact enough to explore on foot, making walking the best way to make your way around. Most sites are within a 15-20 minute walk from each other, so it’s easy to move between them. You’ll also see a lot of people on bikes to cycle around, and there are several options to rent a bike to get around Oxford for the day.
Travel Tip: Oxford is home to several famous Harry Potter filming sights. As you walk around, you may see some places that are recognizable. I suggest hopping on this Harry Potter walking tour if you want more knowledge and access!
Where to Stay in Oxford
I could make a case for spending a night or two in Oxford, as there is a lot to see in the city. It would make a wonderful stop before returning to London or even after on the way to the Cotswolds. I did some research and have saved these hotels and homes for a future stay:
Hotels
- The Store ($$), for the best luxury boutique hotel
- Malmaison Oxford ($$), for the best historic hotel
- Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre ($$), for the best mid-range hotel
Airbnbs
- 1 Bedroom Luxury Duplex Apartment, for the best luxury stay
- 4 Bedroom Historic Townhouse, for the best family and group stay
- 1 Bedroom Modern Cabin, for the best cozy lakeside stay
The Best Things to Do in Oxford, England
Take a Walking Tour Through Oxford
One of my favorite ways to learn about a city and get first-hand knowledge is with a local guide on a walking tour. The insights and stories from the guides reveal a side of the city that can otherwise remain undiscovered to new visitors, so I like doing this when I first get to town. With only a day to see Oxford, a walking tour is a great way to see hidden alleys and storied landmarks that make this famous city so celebrated.
Take time to wander Oxford’s cobblestone streets while you hear tales of famous alumni and discover tucked-away corners like the Bridge of Sighs and quiet quads. The guides are often students or locals with an intimate knowledge of the city. This is one of my favorite ways to get acquainted, and Oxford is perfect for a walking tour full of local knowledge.
The Best Walking Tours in Oxford
- Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide (2 hours)
- 90 Minute Classic Walking Tour of Oxford
- Oxford Official University & City Tour (2 hours)
Visit the University Colleges
Spend time wandering through the grounds and historic buildings of Oxford University colleges. These are the colleges I recommend visiting the most:
Christ Church
The most famous and iconic of Oxford’s colleges, Christ Church is known for its grand architecture and cathedral. It’s also the inspiration for the Dining Hall at Hogwarts in Harry Potter. This is the most popular college, so you must book timed tickets in advance if you want to avoid missing out. The ticket price varies depending on when you visit.
Christ Church Open Hours
Usually Monday to Saturday, 10 am-5 pm, and Sunday, 2 pm-5 pm, but can be subject to change due to special events.
Magdalen College
Magdalen College has so much to offer and is often dubbed the prettiest of Oxford’s colleges. With a resident deer park, the opportunity to take riverside walks, and large grounds perfect for strolling, it’s hard to argue with. On top of impressive grounds, the college also lays claim to nine Nobel Prize-winning alumni, as well as the Chronicles of Narnia author C.S. Lewis. Admission is from £10, and you can purchase tickets online ahead of time or at the gate.
Magdalen College Open Hours
Daily from 10 am-5 pm, or 6:30 pm in July, August, and September
All Souls College
One of the most unique colleges, All Souls College is home only to fellows, with no undergraduate students. This college was founded by King Henry VI and is mostly used for research purposes. The highlight of All Souls College is climbing to the top of University Church for views across the city. Entry is free of charge.
All Souls College Open Hours
Mon-Fri and Sunday 2 pm-4 pm. *Note that open hours can change due to exams and other special events, so double-check before you visit.
New College
Don’t be fooled by its name, New College actually dates back to the 14th century and is known for its beautiful cloisters and gardens. The reason most visit this college is that it’s less busy than Christ Church or Magdalen Colleges. Or if they’re film buffs, the beautifully preserved college has served as a filming location on several occasions. Tickets are required to visit, with the last entry 30 minutes before closing.
New College Open Hours
Daily from 10 am-5 pm, March to October, or Tues-Fri and Sunday 1:30-4:30 pm, and Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
Walk Through Radcliff Square
Even though you can’t enter the Radcliffe Camera, the square surrounding the iconic dome-shaped building is one of the most photographed corners in Oxford. Fringed by an array of other impressive buildings, including the Bodleian Library and All Souls College, this space is the visual heart of Oxford. Simply strolling around the square is a memorable experience. I arrived in the mid-morning here, and really enjoyed the quieter pace before the busy lunch rush and afternoon crowds arrived.
Get a Coffee at Missing Bean, Turl St
I did some research to find good coffee in Oxford, and ended up at the Missing Bean on Turl Street. The cafe is popular with locals and students, and was a nice break during my day of sightseeing in Oxford. They also serve a range of sandwiches made from freshly baked loaves from their bakery, perfect if you arrive early and want a quick breakfast.
Eat Your Way Through the Covered Market
Head just off the High Street and into the energetic Covered Market. This is a great stop for lunch, so come hungry. Inside the Grade II-listed building, there is a collection of food vendors and artisan stalls, keeping the market operating since the late 18th century. I came in and ended up having pizza at Pizza by Sartorelli’s, which I absolutely loved.
There are numerous permanent stalls where you can shop for some souvenirs and stop for lunch. Whether you want fresh sandwiches, baked goods, or international dishes, there is plenty of choice. The market is open daily, and open late on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
Climb to the Top of University Church
The best view in Oxford is without a doubt found at the top of the climb at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. You’ll have to climb 127 stairs via a narrow spiral staircase, but the reward is a sweeping panoramic view across the city’s spires. It was one of my favorite things I did in Oxford during my day trip because you get a real sense of the place from the top.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see several of the iconic landmarks, including All Souls College and the Radcliffe Camera, as well as the surrounding city rooftops. It’s a relatively quick stop, but one worth it to give you a whole new perspective on Oxford’s layout and architecture. The cost is £6.00 per person, and you wait in line at the gift shop to purchase your tickets (Note: it’s limited to 8+ years old).
See The Divinity School
Most first-time visitors to Oxford miss this architectural gem. The Divinity School is part of the Bodleian Library complex within the lower story of Duke Humphrey’s Library. It’s no surprise that film scouts used this for part of the set of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies, with its impressive vaulted ceiling, intricate stonework, and symmetrical design.
While often overlooked, it is one of the most beautiful interiors in Oxford. The Divinity School was the first lecture hall at the university, and also hosted parliament during the plague in the 17th century.
How to See The Divinity School
You will certainly need advance tickets, which you can purchase online in advance for roughly £2.50 a person. It’s a time slot, or you can visit through one of the group walking tours.
Get a Pint at Turf Tavern
There are loads of pubs in Oxford, but I recommend heading down a narrow passage to soak up the atmosphere of Turf Tavern. The pub’s low ceilings, historic charm, and cozy courtyard feel like a completely different time. The pub actually dates back to 1381; a lot of people say it’s one of the oldest pubs in England.
Half the fun is the adventure of trying to find the pub first. Head down to St Helen’s Passage near the Bridge of Sighs, and it’s not far from there. Turf Taven has long been a favorite among students, and it’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. And after my day of walking around for a few hours, I was very happy to be tucked away from the crowds!
Visit J R R Tolkien’s Grave and C.S Lewis’ Grave
If you love literature, you may find visiting the final resting places of authors J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis the perfect addition to your Oxford itinerary. You’ll find Lord of the Rings writer, Tolkien, buried at Wolvercote Cemetery beside his wife Edith. During my visit to Oxford, since I had a rental car, I made a stop at both of the churchyards before leaving Oxford.
Not too far away, at Headington Quarry Churchyard, lies C.S. Lewis. The author is best known for the The Chronicles of Narnia book series, a classic among children. Both of these writers spent a lot of their lives living and writing in Oxford, and have been a major part of shaping the city’s literary legacy.
Explore the Oxford Botanic Garden
If you need a peaceful retreat from the bustling student and visitor crowds of Oxford, then a visit to the Oxford Botanic Gardens should be just what you need. Dating back to 1621, it is the oldest botanic garden in Britain that was originally established as a physic garden for medicinal plants.
More than 5,000 different plant species from around the world are planted here by the banks of the River Cherwell. The gardens shift through the seasons, with shaded paths in summer and blooms and fall foliage adding color from April until October. It’s especially lovely to slow down in the gardens, particularly in spring and early summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
Go Punting Along the River Cherwell
Can you really visit Oxford without punting? An Oxford tradition, floating along the waters of the River Cherwell, offers a different perspective to take in the city. The roots of punting stretch back to the Victorian era, when the flat-bottomed boats were originally used for transporting goods and fishing by locals.
While you won’t be expected to catch anything now, you can enjoy rowing along the River Thames or the River Cherwell and pass by college gardens. You can either choose to hire a punt for an independent experience, or choose a chauffeured ride with guided commentary about Oxford and to hear stories about college life.
Take a Harry Potter-Themed Walking Tour
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, you shouldn’t skip over a themed walking tour to see all things Hogwarts-related in Oxford. Covering highlights like historic architecture that were filming locations for the movie series, like the Divinity School, which was used as the set for the infirmary, and Christ Church’s Great Hall, the inspiration for Hogwarts’ dining hall, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to Hogwarts itself. Itineraries can vary depending on building access throughout the year, and often include some Harry Potter and Oxford-related trivia. Here are a few to consider:
- Harry Potter Walking Tour of Oxford Including New College (1.5 hours)
- Oxford Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour by Alumni (1.5 hours)
- Oxford Harry Potter Insights Entry to Divinity School Public Tour (1.5 hours)
Visit One of the Many Free Museums
I am always impressed by how the UK provides free access to a lot of the museums. The great news is that Oxford has its fair share that don’t need a ticket to visit. My top picks are the Ashmolean Museum, which was founded in 1683 and is widely considered Britain’s first public museum. Its collections mostly cover an assortment of art and archaeology.
Another great choice is the Pitt Rivers Museum, which offers an alternative experience, with tightly packed cases full of the museum’s anthropological collections. If you have kids, consider the Oxford University Museum of Natural History for its zoological displays and paleontology collection.
Have Classic Fish and Chips at King’s Arms
Traditional pub meals are a must when in England, and I’d recommend stopping in at the King’s Arms for fish and chips, with mushy peas of course! This 17th-century pub has been a long-time favorite spot for students, academics, and Oxford visitors to spend time among its cozy interiors. Not far from the Bodleian Library, you can easily plan a visit and a meal into your day for lunch or dinner.
Shop for Books at Blackwell’s Bookshop
If you’re a book-lover, then you shouldn’t skip a visit to Blackwell’s Bookshop. A key part of Oxford’s academic legacy is tied to the shop thanks to its relationship with Oxford University. The shop was founded in 1879 and has been operating on the same premises since then.
The Norrington Room was added in 1966 and contains nearly 3 miles of shelving, filled with books of all sorts. This impressive collection helped the bookstore secure a place in the Guinness Book of Records for having the biggest single room dedicated to selling books. A quick visit while exploring town is worth it for bibliophiles.
Visit the Oxford Castle
Damaged in the English Civil War, the partly ruined medieval castle was built by the Normans almost 1,000 years ago. Oxford Castle has had a varied past, first serving as a fortress until the mid-17th century, before operating as a prison from the late 18th century until the mid 1990s.
It has since been turned into a hotel and tourist attraction. Even if you don’t book an overnight stay here, you can still take guided tours through the castle mound, crypt, and former prison cells, which reveal a fascinating history involving escapes, executions, and everyday life behind its walls.
Frequently Asked Questions About an Oxford Day Trip
How Do I Spend a Day in Oxford?
The perfect day in Oxford should start with a morning spent exploring some of the best Oxford colleges, soaking up the exceptional architecture, and their grounds. Some of the most impressive are Magdalen and Christ Church colleges. From there, head to the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera area, which is the architectural heart of Oxford.
Head to a local pub or the covered market for lunch before visiting the Ashmolean Museum or Natural History Museum. When the weather is good, spend time punting down the River Cherwell or taking a walk along its willow-lined river banks. A stroll around the Botanic Garden is also perfect for families.
Finish your day in Oxford with a pint at Turf Tavern or grab some fish and chips for dinner at the King’s Arms. Enjoying a quintessentially British meal in one of England’s impressive historic cities is a must.
Is it Worth Visiting Oxford for the Day?
Oxford is one of the best day trips you can take from London or the nearby Cotswolds, and one day is enough to make the most of the highlights, from museums to the remarkable colleges dotted throughout. It is compact enough to discover the best of Oxford on foot, enjoy its best features, and eat a great meal or two.
What are the Top Things Not to Miss in Oxford?
If you can only spend time seeing the very best Oxford has to offer, then my recommendation for the top things not to miss are:
- Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library, the most photographed spot in Oxford, and one of the most symbolic buildings of Oxford’s educational history.
- Visiting the best university colleges, including Christ Church for its grandeur, Magdalen for its stunning quad and grounds, and New College, which is an iconic filming location
- Spend an afternoon going punting down the River Cherwell, for a quintessential Oxford experience
- Make sure to spend time at a cozy pub by the fireplace in winter or soak up the sun out in the beer garden on a summer’s day.
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4. Book Your Private Transfers
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5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
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6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
