Top Things to Do in Oxford: A Journey Through the City of Dreaming Spires

Unveiling Oxford's Timeless Charms and Hidden Treasures

Oxford, affectionately known as the "City of Dreaming Spires," is a tapestry woven with centuries of history, academic prestige, and cultural richness. Beyond its renowned university, the city offers a plethora of experiences that captivate the hearts of visitors. Embark on this journey through Oxford's top attractions, where each corner tells a story, and every experience leaves an indelible mark.

1. Explore the Historic Colleges of the University of Oxford

Strolling through the hallowed halls of Oxford's colleges is akin to walking alongside the echoes of scholars past and present. Each college, with its unique architecture and traditions, contributes to the university's storied legacy.

• Christ Church College: Beyond its academic significance, Christ Church boasts the grandeur of its cathedral and the iconic dining hall that inspired the Great Hall in the Harry Potter films. The blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture is a visual feast.

• Magdalen College: Pronounced "Maudlin," this college enchants visitors with its cloistered walkways, the serene Deer Park, and the harmonious melodies of its renowned choir. The Magdalen Tower offers panoramic views of the city, rewarding those who ascend its heights.

• All Souls College: Known for its exclusivity and the enigmatic All Souls Examination, this college's chapel and library are architectural gems that exude an aura of mystery and intellect.

Insider's Tip: Many colleges have specific visiting hours and may charge a nominal fee. It's advisable to check their official websites before planning your visit to ensure a seamless experience.

2. Delve into the Treasures of the Ashmolean Museum

As Britain's oldest public museum, the Ashmolean is a treasure trove that spans continents and epochs. Its collections range from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art, each artifact narrating a fragment of human history.

• Highlights: Marvel at the Alfred Jewel, an exquisite piece of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship, and immerse yourself in the museum's impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings.

Insider's Tip: Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural excursion. Allocate at least a couple of hours to truly appreciate the depth and breadth of the exhibits.

3. Ascend the University Church of St Mary the Virgin

For those seeking a vantage point to behold Oxford's skyline, the tower of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin offers an unparalleled panorama. The ascent, though narrow and winding, culminates in a breathtaking view of the city's spires and rooftops.

Insider's Tip: The climb involves navigating a tight spiral staircase, which may be challenging for some. However, the reward at the summit is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.

4. Wander Through the Enchanting Oxford Botanic Garden

Established in 1621, the University of Oxford Botanic Garden is a living library of over 5,000 plant species. It's a sanctuary where nature and academia intertwine, offering a tranquil retreat from the city's bustle.

• Highlights: Explore the Walled Garden, home to medicinal plants and the oldest tree in the garden, an English yew. The Glasshouses shelter exotic flora from diverse climates, providing a sensory journey across the globe.

Insider's Tip: Visit during different seasons to witness the evolving tapestry of blooms and foliage. Each visit offers a new perspective and a fresh burst of colors and scents.

5. Experience the Vibrancy of the Covered Market

Since 1774, the Oxford Covered Market has been a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Its labyrinthine alleys are lined with independent shops, artisan stalls, and eateries that tantalize the senses.

• Highlights: Indulge in a Ben's Cookie, savor the delights of a traditional Cornish pasty, or peruse bespoke clothing and handcrafted jewelry. The market embodies the spirit of Oxford's community and creativity.

Insider's Tip: The market can become quite lively during peak hours. For a more leisurely experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings when the crowds are thinner, allowing for unhurried exploration.

6. Embark on a Punting Adventure Along the River Cherwell

Punting is an Oxford tradition that offers a serene perspective of the city from its waterways. Glide along the River Cherwell, passing beneath weeping willows and alongside verdant meadows, as you navigate the gentle currents.

• Options: Rent a punt for a self-guided adventure, or opt for a chauffeured experience where an adept punter steers while sharing anecdotes about Oxford's history and landmarks.

Insider's Tip: If you're new to punting, starting from the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse offers a relatively straightforward route with fewer obstacles, easing the learning curve.

7. Discover the Quirky Charm of the Headington Shark

In the suburb of Headington, an unexpected sight awaits—a 25-foot fiberglass shark embedded headfirst into the roof of a terraced house. This audacious sculpture, known as the Headington Shark, is a testament to Oxford's embrace of the unconventional and the whimsical.

Insider's Tip: While the shark is visible from the street, combining the visit with a leisurely exploration of Headington's cafes and shops can make for a delightful afternoon excursion.

8. Immerse Yourself in the Literary Legacy at the Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is not merely a repository of books; it's a cathedral of knowledge. Its hallowed halls have inspired countless scholars and writers, and its architecture is a harmonious blend of history and grandeur.

• Highlights: The Divinity School, with its intricate vaulted ceiling, and the Radcliffe Camera, an iconic reading room, are must-see features. Guided tours provide insights into the library's rich history and its role in academia.

Insider's Tip: Advance booking for tours is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure access to this bastion of learning.

9. Relive History at the Oxford Castle & Prison

Oxford Castle & Prison offers a vivid, immersive journey into the city’s lesser-known—and darker—past. This Norman stronghold dates back to the 11th century and has been used as a royal residence, a court, and later, a prison until as recently as 1996. Today, it's a fascinating historical site brimming with dramatic stories, turbulent politics, and architectural marvels.

• Highlights: Climb the Saxon St. George’s Tower, one of Oxford’s oldest buildings, and enjoy sweeping views over the city. Descend into the candlelit 900-year-old crypt, and walk the footsteps of prisoners inside recreated cells. Each step on the cobblestones feels like a page from a history book being turned.

Insider’s Tip: For a truly unforgettable experience, join one of the evening ghost tours. Whether you're a skeptic or believer, the atmosphere in those ancient, dimly lit chambers is undeniably eerie.

10. Find Literary Footsteps in Oxford’s Storybook Streets

For lovers of literature, Oxford is a pilgrimage site. The city has inspired some of the greatest minds in English letters—its streets are steeped in the spirit of narrative, fantasy, and philosophical reflection.

• J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were not just Oxford dons, but close friends who met regularly as part of the literary group The Inklings at The Eagle and Child pub.

• Lewis Carroll (Charles Dodgson) penned Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland while teaching at Christ Church.

• Philip Pullman’s Oxford, the parallel universe of His Dark Materials, blends fantasy with familiar Oxford locations.

Insider’s Tip: For literary enthusiasts, Blackwell’s Bookshop on Broad Street is a temple of the written word, with its massive Norrington Room boasting miles of shelves beneath the street.

11. Walk Through Port Meadow—Untouched Since the Norman Conquest

Port Meadow, an expanse of common land northwest of the city, has remained unchanged for over a thousand years. Cows and wild ponies graze freely here, and the flat plains give way to serene riverbanks—ideal for a contemplative walk, a wild swim, or an impromptu picnic.

Insider’s Tip: Enter via Walton Well Road or the Perch Inn, and loop back through Jericho for a post-walk pint or coffee.

12. Savour a Pint in Oxford’s Historic Pubs

No trip to Oxford is complete without soaking in the atmosphere of its storied pubs.

• The Turf Tavern: Hidden down an alleyway near the Bridge of Sighs.

• The Lamb & Flag: Opposite the Eagle and Child, with a literary legacy.

• The Bear Inn: One of Oxford’s oldest pubs, known for its collection of over 4,500 snipped-off neckties.

Insider’s Tip: Pub culture in Oxford is less about rowdiness and more about conversation. Take your time. Sip, sit back, and let the centuries settle in around you.

13. Marvel at the Radcliffe Camera and the Heart of Oxford

If there’s one image that encapsulates the essence of Oxford, it’s the domed elegance of the Radcliffe Camera. This neoclassical masterpiece sits at the center of the Radcliffe Square, bordered by the Bodleian Library, All Souls College, and the University Church.

14. Explore Modern Oxford in the Jericho and Cowley Road Quarters

Oxford isn’t just frozen in time—it pulses with modern culture too.

• Jericho: Think artisan coffee shops, boutique cinemas, and atmospheric restaurants.

• Cowley Road: Oxford’s multicultural artery. Global eateries, vintage shops, live music, and street art.

Insider’s Tip: Try Antep Kitchen for Turkish delights or Atomic Burger for a nostalgic feast. Visit during the Cowley Road Carnival in July.

15. Take a Day Trip to Blenheim Palace or the Cotswolds

• Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Winston Churchill.

• The Cotswolds: Postcard-perfect villages like Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bibury.

Insider’s Tip: Renting a bike or car opens up more flexible access to these areas. Alternatively, plenty of guided tours operate from Oxford city centre.

Conclusion: Oxford, Endlessly Discoverable

Oxford is not a city to be ticked off a list—it’s a place to return to, each time peeling back another layer. Whether you come for its libraries or its lattes, its meadows or its museums, Oxford rewards the curious with stories that stretch across centuries.

Because Oxford isn’t just a destination—it’s a state of mind.