The Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Weekend in Oxford, England: What to See and Do
The City of Dreaming Spires, Charm, and Intellect
University of Oxford
One of the most visited cities in England besides London, Oxford is an incredibly vibrant city defined not only by its famous university and history, but also for its buzzing modern day scene. We just spend a weekend in Oxford and were blown away by this city. Utterly charming and filled with history and magic beyond every corner, Oxford should undoubtedly be on your list for city breaks from London and a stop on your United Kingdom and England itinerary.
Oxford’s history dates back to Saxon times, with the earliest mention of the city as "Oxenaforda" in the 9th century, referring to a ford for oxen across the River Thames. By the Middle Ages, it had become an important market town and a centre for trade. The city's strategic position made it a key site during the English Civil War, where it was a Royalist stronghold. Oxford’s architecture reflects this long history, with medieval structures like the Castle and Carfax Tower blending with more modern developments. Over the centuries, Oxford’s role as a crossroads of commerce, politics, and culture has helped shape it into the iconic city it is today. Oxford is so stunning that, according to rumor, Hitler considered it as the headquarters for the Nazi regime after conquering the UK. Because of this, the city remained largely untouched during the war.
While we’re (mostly) past the battles of town and gown, the dynamic between Oxford’s historic university and the city that surrounds it still shapes daily life. From the medieval colleges that dominate the skyline to the independent cafés and pubs where students and locals mingle, the interplay between tradition and modernity is everywhere. Oxford is a city steeped in history yet always reaching for the new, whether through groundbreaking research at the university or the latest restaurant or gallery making its mark.
Here’s our guide to where to sleep, eat, and what to do in Oxford, England.
A Weekend in Oxford
Painted in pastels, Jericho is a quaint and quiet neighbourhood in southeast Oxford
Where to Stay in Oxford
Iffley
We stayed in Iffley during our time in Oxford, a leafy suburb located just a half-hour walk, 20-minute bus ride, or 10-minute taxi ride from the city centre. Set along the River Thames, Iffley is incredibly picturesque, with a distinct village feel that makes it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a taste of Oxfordshire's countryside charm while remaining just a short distance from the city centre. The area also holds a special place in literary history, as it is said to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, with the tranquil surroundings and charming riverside setting providing a perfect backdrop for some of Carroll's imagination.
Iffley Village along the River Thames
Church Way, Iffley Village, Oxford OX4 4DZ
We stayed at Mercure Oxford Hawkwell House, a quiet spot just outside Oxford. The main building is the birthplace of Francis Howard Bickerton, a renowned explorer and polar medallist, adding a touch of history to the stay. The rooms are modern and comfortable, offering a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing. Frank's, the hotel’s restaurant, serves a modern take on classic British and European dishes. Whether it was breakfast or dinner, the food was tasty and well-prepared. Set in peaceful grounds, the hotel provides a calm environment while still being close to Oxford, making it an ideal base for your trip. We enjoyed walking into Oxford along the river, passing through village surroundings that offered a glimpse of the Oxfordshire countryside.
If you want to stay in the heart of Oxford, you'll find plenty of accommodation options to suit every traveller. Whether you prefer a charming bed and breakfast, a sleek modern hotel, or even a stay in historic university housing for an authentic experience, the city has something for you.
For more details on where to stay, visit Experience Oxfordshire to find the perfect place for your visit.
How to Get to Oxford
Visiting Oxford from London
While London is an incredible city, it’s also wonderfully situated to experience multiple parts of the country without having to travel too far, whether for a day trip or another stop on an extended England itinerary.
From London, you have multiple options for how to reach Oxford, whether you’re keen to take a bus, train, or even drive as part of a longer England itinerary.
By Bus
We opted for the bus and took the Oxford Tube from London Victoria to Oxford. Operated by Stagecoach, the Oxford Tube runs 24/7, with departures as often as every ten minutes from central stops in both cities. We loved the flexibility, no need for ticket reservations, and we could hop on and off at multiple points in central London.
By Train
From London, train transportation is also a fast and efficient option, with frequent departures throughout the day. Great Western Railway (GWR) operates direct services from London Paddington, with trains running every 10 to 30 minutes and a journey time of around an hour. Alternatively, Chiltern Railways offers services from London Marylebone, which take slightly longer but can be a good alternative during peak hours.
For those travelling from other parts of the UK, Oxford is well-connected by rail across the UK. CrossCountry runs direct trains from major cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Newcastle, while services from destinations such as Edinburgh, Bristol, and the South Coast require a simple change at a hub like Reading or Birmingham New Street. The city's main railway station is just a short walk from the historic centre, making train travel a convenient choice.
By Car
If you're including Oxford in your England road trip, you'll find it ideally situated for exploring other nearby destinations. Just a short drive away, you can visit cities like Bath, Cambridge, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Winchester, each offering its own unique history and charm.
For reliable car rentals across Europe, we consistently turn to Discover Cars. Over the past four years, it's been our go-to platform for finding the best deals and most competitive rates when exploring European destinations.
Oxfordshire countryside
Getting Around Oxford
Recently named the UK’s most walkable city by Preply, Oxford is just as easy to get around on foot as it is enjoyable, with stunning scenery just about everywhere, from historic buildings to quaint Oxfordshire homes and river scenes.
The city's top five tourist attractions are only 1.1 miles apart, meaning you can travel between them in just 22 minutes.
In the case that you’re staying outside the city centre or prefer to take public transportation, Oxford has a wonderful public transportation system connecting greater Oxford and central Oxford.
For warmer days, consider renting a bicycle and cycling through Oxford. This gives you a glimpse into local life as you glide past historic landmarks, charming streets, and centuries of intellectual heritage.
How Long to Stay in Oxford
When planning our stay, we wondered, how many days are enough for Oxford? While originally we were planning just a day trip from London to Oxford, we ultimately decided that a weekend would likely be best. Although the city is small, there’s plenty to do, and it’s just not worth rushing to fit it all in one day unless it’s your only option.
A weekend in Oxford was perfect, giving us time to explore the colleges, museums, food scene, and just leisurely wandering around its historic and enchanting streets. At the end of our trip, we actually found ourselves wishing that we just had one more night. So with that being said, 2 to 3 days is the sweet spot for making the most of your time in Oxford.
A Weekend in Oxford Itinerary
Day One
MORNING
Walking tour
One of my favourite ways to begin a trip in a new city is to take part on a walking tour. It’s the perfect way to acquaint yourself with new surroundings, get a better idea of the orientation and how to get around, but also learn hoards of new information from someone who knows the city best. This sets the perfect tone for the rest of your visit, and allows you to really appreciate where you are and make the most of your trip.
We joined the Oxford University & City Tour with Oxford Official Walking Tours, hosted by Experience Oxfordshire, and we learned so much. Our guide shared unique facts about the city along with local tips that gave us a deeper understanding of Oxford. If you're new to the city, we definitely recommend starting with a tour like this. They also offer tailored options, such as the Oxford On Screen Tour, the C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien Tour, and the Oxford Ghost Tour.
Coffee at The Independent Cafe
The Old Palace, 85-87 St Aldate’s
It’s no surprise that a town home to the world’s most prestigious university has a thriving coffee scene, with plenty of options to keep minds fuelled and ideas flowing. From familiar high street chains to unique local cafés, there's something to suit every taste. We tend to gravitate toward local gems, so we chose The Independent Cafe, just across from Christ Church College. With its warm and inviting interior, The Independent Cafe prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, serving up delicious pastries, satisfying lunch options, and, of course, great coffee.
Blackwell’s Bookshop
48-51 Broad Street
A trip to Oxford wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Blackwell’s Bookshop, a beloved local institution. Founded in 1879, this iconic bookshop is a treasure trove for book lovers, offering everything from academic texts to the latest fiction. The real highlight is the Norrington Room, a vast space with shelves that seem to stretch on forever, making it a perfect spot for getting lost in a good book. Whether you're after a classic, a rare find, or just a new read, Blackwell’s has something for everyone, and it’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger all day.
AFTERNOON
Explore a College
Oxford’s colleges are the heart and soul of the university, each with its own unique history and charm. Whether you're wandering through the iconic quadrangles or soaking in centuries of academic tradition, every college offers something special. Most colleges offer independent visits, but guided tours are also available to give you a deeper understanding of their history and significance. Admission costs vary depending on the college, but it’s generally affordable, around £2–£10. Popular colleges like Magdalen and Balliol are open to visitors throughout the year, but be sure to check each college's website for specific visiting hours and availability.
Bodleian Library & Radcliffe Camera
The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest and most famous libraries in Europe, and a visit here is like stepping back in time. Home to millions of books, manuscripts, and rare collections, the Bodleian has been the intellectual hub of Oxford for over four centuries. It's also a famous Harry Potter filming location - Duke Humfrey's Library was used as Hogwarts' library, while the Divinity School served as the Hogwarts infirmary.
Just steps away stands the iconic Radcliffe Camera, a stunning circular library built in 1749 that's become Oxford's most photographed building. Its distinctive dome and neoclassical architecture make it a must-see landmark, even if you only admire it from the outside.
While the historic sections of the library aren't open for independent visits, you can join a guided tour to explore these remarkable spaces. Tours range from 30-minute introductions to 90-minute deep dives into the library's history, with admission typically between £10–£20 depending on your chosen tour. For the best experience, book your tour in advance on the Bodleian's website, as spaces are limited and special events or closures may affect availability. Even if you don't take a tour, don't miss walking around the exterior of the Radcliffe Camera - it's especially beautiful at sunset when the golden stone seems to glow.
The Bodleian Library in Oxford is home to a collection so vast that it’s said to hold a copy of every book ever printed in the UK. It's also one of the oldest libraries in Europe, with a history dating back to 1602!
Covered Market
Market Street
Oxford’s Covered Market is a landmark of history and craftsmanship, dating back to the 1700s and earning its Grade II listed status in 2000. Tucked just off Market Street in the heart of the city, it’s home to more than 60 independent stalls and shops, some of which have been family-run for generations. From artisanal coffee roasters to florists and beloved sandwich makers, the market offers a rare glimpse into Oxford’s rich trading heritage. In an era dominated by chains and mass retail, the Covered Market stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring charm of independent businesses, well worth a visit and deserving of preservation.
Oxford’s Covered Market has been serving up local produce and unique goods since 1774, making it not just a shopping destination, but one of the oldest markets in the UK still in operation today!
EVENING
Dinner at KIBOU
11-12 Little Clarendon St
In the heart of Oxford’s vibrant Jericho neighborhood, KIBOU is the perfect spot for a modern Japanese dinner. This stylish restaurant blends tradition with creativity, serving everything from comforting katsu curry to playful gyoza sushi tacos and delicate Wagyu A5 tataki. The bar is just as much of a highlight, I went with the YUYAKE, a fruity mix of yuzu and passionfruit that perfectly complements the bold flavours on the menu. Whether you’re settling in for a leisurely evening or stopping by for a few plates and a sake, KIBOU is a great way to experience the international side of Oxford’s dining scene.
Day Two
MORNING
Botanical Gardens/Christ Church Meadows
A peaceful escape from the city’s buzz, the Oxford Botanic Garden and nearby Christ Church Meadow offer a perfect spot to slow down and soak in the scenery. The Botanic Garden, the oldest in the UK, is a lush oasis filled with rare plants, medicinal herbs, and glasshouses brimming with tropical greenery. Just a short walk away, Christ Church Meadow stretches along the River Thames, where you can watch rowers glide past and even spot the resident longhorn cattle. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed morning stroll before diving back into Oxford’s historic streets.
Pub Lunch
There’s nothing more quintessentially English than a Sunday pub lunch, or whatever day your itinerary calls for a leisurely feast. It’s one of my favourite things about England, something I’ve loved since I was a kid. While dishes evolve with the times, you’ll always find the classics, perfectly crisp roast potatoes, rich gravy, and seasonal vegetables, served alongside modern twists. The pub atmosphere, too, adapts just enough to stay current while holding onto that familiar warmth. Whether you’re enjoying a succulent roast by a roaring fire or in a sunlit beer garden, it’s a tradition that never gets old.
Where to tuck into a Sunday lunch in Oxford:
The Chester Arms
19 Chester St, Oxford, OX4 1SN
Tucked between Iffley Road and the greenery of Aston’s Eyot, The Chester Arms sits just outside Oxford’s city centre. A classic pub with a touch of industrial charm, it’s known for its locally sourced dishes, from roast beef and chicken to pork belly and a hearty vegetarian option. They don’t take reservations, so be sure to arrive early to snag a table.
The Perch
Binsey Ln, Binsey, Oxford OX2 0NG
If you have a car or don’t mind a scenic walk, The Perch sits along the River Thames and Binsey Green, tucked inside a thatched 17th-century country inn about 40 minutes from Oxford’s city centre. The Sunday menu is a mix of seafood specials and classic roasts, featuring dishes like steamed Cornish mussels, roast leg of Oxfordshire lamb, and 28-day dry-aged, grass-fed British rump of beef.
AFTERNOON
Museums
I love that most public and national museums in the UK are free, giving both visitors and locals the chance to dive into a place’s history and culture without spending a fortune. Oxford is no exception. In a city built on intellect, curiosity, and centuries of discovery, its museums offer the perfect excuse to wander, linger, and soak up the spirit of the place, without spending a penny. No bookings or tickets are needed, just show up and explore to your heart’s content.
Ashmolean Museum
The world’s first university museum and Britain’s first public museum, the Ashmolean offers an impressive range of art and artefacts, from Ancient Egypt to contemporary works. Highlights include the iconic Alfred Jewel and a collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings. The museum is also home to a café with an impressive view, perfect for a quiet break after exploring its extensive galleries. The Ashmolean really is a mix of everything, so if you only have time to visit one museum while in Oxford, I suggest dedicating your time to the Ashmolean.
Ashmolean Museum
Museum of Natural History
The moment we stepped into the Museum of Natural History, we were in awe. Located in a striking neo-Gothic building, this museum showcases everything from dinosaur skeletons to rare fossils. The museum’s soaring glass ceiling and historic ironwork add to its charm, making it as much a visual treat as a scientific one.
Pitts Museum
Tucked behind the Museum of Natural History, the Pitt Rivers Museum is a captivating repository of global artefacts, presented in its signature traditional wooden cases. Featuring a wide array of objects, from shrunken heads to intricate textiles, the museum offers an unparalleled anthropological journey, shedding light on the rich and diverse tapestry of human culture and history.
History of Science Museum
As big science nerds, we were absolutely amazed by the History of Science Museum. One of the highlights for me was the exhibit on early medicine and vaccinations. It was absolutely captivating, featuring original artifacts and informative displays that really brought the history to life. The museum, though compact, is packed with an incredible collection of scientific instruments, including early telescopes, astrolabes, and even a blackboard used by Albert Einstein. Located in the world’s oldest surviving purpose built museum, it may be small, but it’s a must-visit while in Oxford.
EVENING
Evensong
I’ve always wanted to experience the tradition of Evensong, and Oxford felt like the perfect place to finally do so. It offered the added bonus of exploring the colleges without the usual admission fees charged during the day. For centuries, the church has marked the transition from day to night with psalms, prayers, and hymns, creating a deeply reflective atmosphere. We went to Evensong at Merton College, where there was something so peaceful and meditative about sitting by candlelight in a 13th-century chapel, listening to the choir as day faded into night. This Anglican tradition felt like a quiet, grounding moment in the middle of the busy city.
If you’re interested in finding Evensong services across the UK, check out the full schedule here: https://www.choralevensong.org/uk/.
Oxford truly offers the best of both worlds, with the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern energy, from its rich academic heritage to a vibrant contemporary scene filled with exciting restaurants and abundant green spaces. It’s a city where history and innovation come together seamlessly. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend in Oxford from London or a longer stop in an extended England trip, you’re bound to be enchanted.
For further travel information on what to do, where to stay, shop and eat in Oxford and beyond, visit experienceoxfordshire.org
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