On an Oxford city break visit the centuries-old colleges of Oxford University and stroll or punt along two pretty rivers. Browse high-quality shops, enjoy classic set teas and sample local ales in wood-beamed old pubs. Book an Oxford hotel to discover a city steeped in tradition and prestige.
Historic university
Quiet quads, grandiose medieval stonework and the wood-panelled Great Halls of
Britain’s oldest university are all open to visitors. Massive Tom Tower rises over the largest,
Christ Church College, which has its own cathedral.
Balliol College is one of the oldest and prettiest. The university has its own museums including one of
Musical Instruments, and one of the world’s great libraries, the
Bodleian.
Parks and rivers
Waterside paths follow Oxford’s two rivers, the Isis and Cherwell, beside big picnic meadows like
University Parks. Try
river punting for a taste of student life.
Magdalen College has deer woods and its own island. In town, traditional
set teas are served. Or sample
local ales in quirky 300-year-old
pubs like the venerable Turf Tavern.
Classic shops
Oxford’s eclectic shopping includes
high-class outfitters and a traditional local independent department store,
Boswells. Dozens of
booksellers include antiquarian, secondhand and specialist shops –
Blackwell’s is one of the world’s largest. The city centre
Covered Market is a tangle of lanes lined with fashion bargains, fishmongers, jewellers and fine wines.
Culture
International standard
choirs are a feature of Oxford’s medieval churches and music venues. Jazz and classical
concerts are staged all year round. The University’s
Pitt Rivers Museum displays renowned collections of world art and culture. Galleries in town range from Old Masters at
Christ Church Gallery to
Modern Art Oxford. There’s drama at
Oxford Playhouse, and household name entertainment at the
New Theatre.
