Oxford, UK is a holiday destination to which the traveler can happily
return again and again. One could spend days wandering through Oxford’s
myriad cultural treasures which boast some of the world’s best
exhibits. The winding streets are full of restaurants ranging from
inexpensive local fish and chips shops to world class gourmet dining.
Opportunities for recreational pursuits abound; all of this in a city
which can easily be traversed on foot.
It should be noted that Oxford is a haven for the pedestrian. The
center city is virtually car free. Public transportation is highly
advised as it is frequent and inexpensive. Visitors who may be used to
long commutes in many holiday towns will find that Oxford has literally
dozens of interesting locales within blocks of one another and each
side street holds its own jewels ready for discovery.
Oxford is a bonanza for the history lover. Museums and storied
historical buildings sit on almost every corner. Trip after trip could
be made here and there would still be cultural vistas to explore.
The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Architecture an arm of University
of Oxford. Established in 1683 it is one of the world’s oldest and
finest museums. Admission is free although donations are accepted and
appreciated.
Sheldonian Theatre. This magnificent structure offers unparalleled
views of the city. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built
over a four year period from 1664-68. Self guided tours available at a
modest cost.
Bodleian Library. Dating back to the fourteenth century and housing
more than six million texts, the Bodleian is one of the premiere
libraries in the world.
Christ Church. Founded by Cardinal Wolsey in 1524, Christ Church is
the oldest college in the Oxford University system and serves as
Oxford’s Cathedral. The site is familiar to many tourists via its
connection to Lewis Carroll and the Alice books and more recently its
appearances in the Harry Potter movies. Lines can be long but the
galleries and gardens are well worth the wait. Admission.
Museum of the History of Science. This unusual museum is devoted to
the history of scientific instruments and its collection of almost
10,000 of these instruments is without peer. Rotating exhibits, many
with free admission.
After mornings spent in cultural endeavors, a tourist will find a wide
variety of activities to fill the rest of the day. No visitor should
leave Oxford without at least a short water excursion.
Have a punt. Located on the Thames River, known as the Isis within
Oxford proper, Oxford is home to legendary rowing teams. While rowing
is a sport not learned in an afternoon, most people can manage a punt
with a short lesson and a little effort. Try picking one up at the
Magdelen Bridge Boathouse.
Picnic on the river. The banks of the Isis make for cool and
inviting picnic locales and many shops are available for impromptu food
purchases to fill a basket.
Self guided architecture tours. Walking the streets of Oxford is a
feast for the eyes. Be sure and find the Bridge of Sighs on New College
Lane and heads up for the gargoyles which can be found on almost every
historic building.
Oxford Covered Market. Don’t miss this walk through center. It
features stalls full of items from tourist kitsch to upscale as well as
quick eats and groceries. Be advised that skinned animal carcasses hang
from many meat market displays.
Hop a sightseeing bus. Although Oxford is totally foot travel
friendly those who have only a short time in Oxford might enjoy a trek
around town on a bus. This is also a good way to get an overview of the
abundance of things to see and do in town. Tours are reasonably priced,
easy to hop and make frequent stops.
Alice’s Shop. The small shop is the true inspiration for the shop
in “Through the Looking Glass” and the real “Alice”, Alice Liddell, was
a frequent visitor.
A quick stop at a pub will leave one refreshed for an afternoon spent
on foot exploring Oxford’s side streets. Pubs can also be a fun
atmosphere for an afternoon or evening spent watching football or
rugby. Multi course gourmet meals of almost any cuisine are also
readily available at fine restaurants throughout Oxford.
Eagle and Child. This pub was for years a favorite haunt of both C.
S. Lewis and Tolkien and remains largely authentic.
The Exeter Hall. A lively venue further out than most, Exeter
offers pool, two bars and a growing reputation for live music.
The Jack Russell. Open to both dogs and children this family
friendly bar is also largely handicapped accessible.
Rosamund the Fair. This cruising restaurant specializing in
distinctly British cuisine requires advanced booking but offers
excellent food and a varied wine list.
Head of the River. This busy outdoor restaurant is a favorite of
students. It has heat lamps for cool evenings and a few hotel rooms for
evenings spent with beer in hand.
The Navy Oak. Located north of the Ring Road this restaurant may
take a little effort to find but a reasonably priced and tasty menu
make the hunt worthwhile.
Oxford Hotels & Accommodation
As a university town, Oxford offers lodging running the gamut from bed
and breakfast to the most luxurious of accommodations. However, the
wise traveler will begin booking early as the city is busy year round
and any sort of hotel or self catering establishment can be difficult
to find on short notice.
The FEATHERS
Westwood Country Hotel Ltd
The Oxford Hotel
Cotswold Lodge Classic Hotel
A Lakeside Town Farm B & B
Holiday Inn Oxford
Victoria House Hotel
Express by Holiday Inn Oxford Kassam Stadium
The White Horse
The Bat & Ball Inn
For those seeking a little nightlife, Oxford has several lively venues
including The Zodiac and Oxford Brookes Student Union. Most name acts
visiting Oxford will be found at one of these sites. If the play’s the
thing try New Theatre located on George Street or the Oxford Playhouse
across the way from the Ashmolean. Oxford also has four cinemas with
currently popular offerings as well as foreign and art house fare.
Those who make a first visit to Oxford may well find that there are
drawn there many times over. History, food and pleasant recreation are
all to be found within easy walking distance. Couple these advantages
with hospitable people and climate and Oxford becomes a destination of
choice for almost any holiday.
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