Things to Do in Oxfordshire

Whether you are planning on exploring the British countryside, visit ancient buildings and museums or hoping for some retail therapy, there are so many things to do in Oxfordshire.

Visit Oxford

For those who are keen history buffs, Oxford is home to world-class historical museums, such as the Ashmolean Museum and other university museums such as Pitt Rivers and the Bodleian Libraries.

Visitors will most definitely want to check out Oxford University, which is made up of 38 independent colleges, including the magnificent Christ Church. The University has been likened to something out of Harry Potter, with its enchanting spires and domes. Many visitors flock to the city each year to experience the medieval architecture and charming student surroundings.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the ancient history of Oxford, take a guided tour around the castle and prison. Costumed guides animatedly tell the tales of Oxford’s history during a tour of St George’s Tower, the crypt and prison.

Punting is one of the most popular things to do whilst in Oxford and a great way to see the city. See the city from a different perspective and punt down the River Cherwell or River Thames.

Oxford’s Botanic Garden, was the first in Britain and arguably one of the most famous in Oxfordshire. Along with Blenheim Palace, it is a true masterpiece of 18th Century Baroque architecture, surrounded by stunning award-wining formal gardens, a blanket of lawns and the Great Lake.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is an iconic country house in Woodstock, about 10 miles from the city of Oxford. It is the principal residence of the Dukes of Marlborough, and the only non-royal, non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace. The fabulous palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is surrounded by 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland.

Cotswolds Wildlife Park

For animal and countryside lovers, a trip to the Cotswolds Wildlife Park will no doubt be on the cards. The park expands across 120 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens and is situated 2 miles south of Burford. Home to more than 260 species of animals, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of the animals. Walk up the Giraffe walkway and get eye-to-eye with these amazing creatures, see Penguins feeding or walk with Lemurs in their free-roaming Madagascar Exhibit.

Broughton Castle

The picturesque Broughton Castle is a medieval manor house in the village of Broughton, which is southwest of Banbury in Oxfordshire. Boasting exquisite architecture, beautiful gardens and a quintessential English tearoom, the castle is said to be one of the best in the whole of England.

Bicester Village 

Shopaholics will most definitely want to visit Bicester Village. Situated on the outskirts of Bicester, the village has everything you need in one area. Home to more than 160 well known brands, the shopping village has savings of up to 60% recommended retail price on selected brands all year round.

Photo by Ben Seymour on Unsplash