Oxford
Oxford
Oxford, a city in England's South East, blends centuries of academic excellence with stunning architecture and vibrant culture. Home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford University's buildings dating back to the 13th century create a backdrop that feels like stepping into a history book.
The city's skyline is defined by the 'dreaming spires' of its colleges and churches. Walking through Oxford means discovering places like the Bodleian Library, one of Europe's oldest libraries, or the iconic Radcliffe Camera. The city center is compact enough to explore on foot, with hidden courtyards and narrow lanes revealing new surprises around every corner.
Beyond academics, Oxford has been a cultural powerhouse, inspiring authors from J.R.R. Tolkien to Lewis Carroll. Many scenes from Harry Potter movies were filmed here, making it a pilgrimage site for fans. The city also boasts excellent museums like the Ashmolean, Britain's first public museum founded in 1683.
The River Thames (locally called the Isis) flows through Oxford, offering peaceful green spaces along its banks. With its mix of students from around the world, excellent restaurants, historic pubs, and year-round cultural events, Oxford maintains a buzzing energy that contrasts beautifully with its ancient stones.
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Things to do in Oxford
Top things to do in Oxford by www.timeout.com
Where to stay in Oxford
Best hotels in Oxford:
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Oxford Spires (budget hotel)
Oxford Spires offers a great location within easy walking distance of the city’s vibrant center, making it an excellent starting point for visiting key landmarks and attractions. Despite being so close to the action, the hotel is set in peaceful surroundings, with green spaces and access to the nearby River Thames providing a calm environment to unwind after a day out. Guests can enjoy a quiet stroll through the gardens or simply relax away from the busy city streets.
The rooms are designed with comfort in mind, featuring soft bedding and sleek, modern bathrooms — the showers, in particular, receive a lot of positive attention. Deacons, the on-site restaurant, serves a wide selection of meals throughout the day, and the breakfast buffet, especially the pancakes, is a favorite among many visitors. For those looking to relax further, the indoor heated pool offers a welcome break after exploring Oxford. Do keep in mind that on-site parking comes with an additional fee if you're arriving by car.
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Old Bank Hotel (luxury hotel)
Situated in Oxford’s historic center, the Old Bank Hotel offers a refined blend of sophistication and comfort. Its prime High Street location places you within walking distance of renowned Oxford colleges such as Merton, All Souls, and Oriel, making it easy to explore the city on foot. The Botanic Garden and Magdalen Bridge are just a few minutes away, and the train station can be reached with a 15-minute stroll. This setting makes it ideal for both sightseeing and enjoying the local atmosphere.
The rooms are notably spacious and tastefully styled, featuring marble bathrooms, air conditioning, and carefully selected modern art. Many also retain original architectural features and offer impressive city views. Guests can dine at the on-site Quod restaurant, which includes a terrace and bar, serving a wide range of meals from breakfast through dinner, including traditional roasts. The hotel also provides afternoon tea, meeting facilities, and 24-hour room service, combining classic elegance with thoughtful modern touches for a refined stay in Oxford.
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Malmaison (medium range hotel)
Malmaison Oxford stands out as one of the most distinctive places to stay in the city, housed in a former Victorian prison that's been thoughtfully converted into a stylish boutique hotel. While the original structure and layout have been preserved, the old cells have been transformed into sleek, comfortable rooms featuring mood lighting, power showers, and a full range of modern amenities. This blend of heritage and contemporary design creates a stay that’s both visually striking and comfortable.
The hotel’s central location makes it ideal for exploring Oxford on foot, with major sights, historic colleges, shops, and cafés just a short walk away. Its high location rating reflects how convenient it is for sightseeing. After a day out, guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site brasserie or unwind with a drink at one of the two bars. The thoughtful preservation of the building’s past, combined with attentive service and comfortable accommodations, gives visitors a memorable experience. If you're arriving by car, be sure to reserve parking in advance, as spaces are limited.
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Best hostels in Oxford:
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Central Backpackers (hostel)
Central Backpackers in Oxford offers a highly convenient location just a short 5-minute walk from the train station, making it an ideal base for sightseeing. It's within walking distance of major attractions like the Bodleian Library and Oxford Castle, as well as numerous dining spots and cafés. Guests frequently highlight the warm and welcoming nature of the staff, creating a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. The hostel provides free WiFi, secure swipe-card access to dorm rooms, and shared areas designed for easy interaction among travelers.
There are several thoughtful amenities that enhance the stay, including a rooftop terrace perfect for relaxing, complimentary tea and coffee in the kitchen, and beds equipped with individual charging ports. The communal spaces are clean and inviting, featuring a lounge with a TV and DVD player for entertainment. Whether you're in Oxford for a short visit or an extended stay, this hostel makes exploring the city convenient and comfortable.