Things to Do in Oxford

About Oxford

Oxford has educated students for nearly a millennium, with university fees averaging £9,250 annually for UK students and £26,770 for international undergraduates, while the honey-colored Cotswold limestone buildings create architectural unity throughout the city center spanning 1.43 square kilometers. Walking tours cost £15-18 per person through companies like Oxford Official Walking Tours, though self-guided exploration proves equally rewarding with detailed maps available free from the Tourist Information Centre on Broad Street near the Sheldonian Theatre. The Bodleian Library houses over 13 million printed items including four original copies of Magna Carta, while Christ Church College served as inspiration for Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and filming location for Harry Potter's Great Hall scenes, with entrance fees of £15 for adults providing access to cathedral, hall, and cloisters. Visit during early morning hours (8:00-9:30 AM) when college courtyards remain peaceful and golden sunlight illuminates carved stone facades, while the air carries sounds of bicycle bells on cobblestones, church tower chimes marking the hours, and the distant hum of students discussing philosophy over coffee in centuries-old alcoves.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Purchase an Oxford Bus Company day pass (£4.50) for unlimited city travel. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, but avoid driving—parking is extremely limited and expensive. Cycle hire from Bainton Bikes costs £15/day and is the most efficient way to navigate like a local.

Money: Most venues accept contactless payments, but carry £20-30 cash for small independent shops and college porter tips. ATMs charge £1.50-2.50 fees. Budget £8-12 for pub meals, £15-25 for restaurant dining, and £3.50 for coffee in tourist areas.

Cultural Respect: Respect college privacy—many courtyards are off-limits during exam periods (April-June). Keep voices low in libraries and chapels. Don't climb on statues or feed the swans. When visiting pubs, order at the bar and wait to be served—table service isn't standard.

Food Safety: Tap water is excellent quality throughout Oxford. For real feels, try traditional pubs like The Eagle and Child or The Turf Tavern. Covered Market offers fresh local produce and international foods. Avoid chain restaurants near Carfax Tower—overpriced tourist traps with mediocre quality.

When to Visit

Spring (April-May) offers the quintessential Oxford experience with temperatures of 12-18°C, moderate rainfall (45mm monthly), and gardens in full bloom. This peak season sees accommodation prices 40-50% higher, but coincides with May Morning celebrations (May 1st) and beautiful college gardens opening. Summer (June-August) brings warmth (15-23°C) and long daylight hours, though tourist crowds peak and prices remain elevated 35-45% above winter rates. Graduation ceremonies in June create a magical atmosphere but limit college access. Autumn (September-November) presents Oxford at its most scholarly, with temperatures dropping from 18°C to 8°C and rainfall increasing to 60mm monthly. Prices decrease by 20-30%, making it ideal for budget travelers who appreciate the contemplative atmosphere as students return. Winter (December-March) transforms Oxford into a Dickensian wonderland, with temperatures of 2-8°C and occasional snow. Accommodation costs drop 40-50%, perfect for literary pilgrims seeking atmospheric walks and cozy pub evenings. Christmas markets (late November-December) add festive charm. Avoid late April through June if you prefer fewer crowds, as this coincides with exam periods and graduation festivities, though the energy is undeniably infectious for culture ensoiasts.