Are you planning a visit to the beautiful city of Oxford? Perhaps you’re ready to start University. Or you like Harry Potter, Inspector Morse, and ghost stories. Or you’re just looking for day trips around the Oxfordshire area. On this site, you can explore Oxford’s history, find tours, and research what to do and see in this incredible city.
Oxford in the Autumn:
Top Activities for 2024
Take a scenic walk through the University Parks as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, perfect for an autumn stroll or picnic.
Visit Oxford’s famous colleges like Christ Church and Magdalen College to admire their stunning architecture and explore cloisters and courtyards framed by autumnal colors.
Autumn is a peaceful time to go punting, with the river lined by trees in rich autumn hues. Cozy blankets and warm drinks can make it even more enjoyable.
In October, enjoy world-class classical music during this annual festival, which brings together renowned artists for performances across the city.
Oxford’s Botanic Garden is especially beautiful in the autumn, with seasonal plant displays and peaceful riverside views.
Visit the historic Covered Market for seasonal treats, or attend local autumn fairs and markets for artisanal goods and traditional Oxford delicacies like hot chocolate or pies.
Must-See Oxford Attractions
Explore Oxford’s iconic sights, including the historic Bodleian Library and the stunning Radcliffe Camera. Visit Christ Church College, famed for its cathedral and Harry Potter filming location.
Oxford Castle & Prison
Oxford Castle is a partly ruined Norman medieval castle on the centre of Oxford. The castle then became a prison which closed in 1996.
The Sheldonian Theatre
The Sheldonian Theatre was designed by Christopher Wren for the University of Oxford. The building is named after Gilbert Sheldon.
Old library (Duke Humfrey’s)
Humphrey of Lancaster, 1st Duke of Gloucester, founded the Duke Humfrey’s Library in 1447 after donating 281 books to the library.
Christ Church College
Christ Church is college of the University of Oxford. It was founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII and is one of the larger colleges.
Top Free Oxford Attractions
Curated by Yisela A.
Free Self-Guided Walking Tours
If you prefer to explore at your own pace and delve into the charm of Oxford independently, consider embarking on a free self-guided walking tour. I’ve created a few options based on places I enjoy visiting!
Oxford Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Plan a Visit at Your Own Pace
If you’re visiting Oxford just for the day, you might want to explore the city and its colleges and museums at your own pace. Here’s how.
Free Self-Guided Tour: Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum of Archaeology
The Ashmolean is one of the world’s most renowned archaeological museums. Plan your visit, what to see, best treasures, and when to go.
Oxford Free Self-Guided Museums Waking Tour (+ Map)
If you’re visiting Oxford just for the day, you might want to explore the city and its colleges and museums at your own pace. Here’s how.
Oxford Neighbourhoods Self-Guided Walking Tour and Map
If you’re moving to Oxford (or within it) and you’re feeling adventurous, here are some walking tours to get familiar with the neighbourhoods.
Oxford City Centre Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Explore at Your Own Pace
This Oxford City Centre walking tour will allow you to see the city’s highlights. An ideal self-guided tour if you’re in Oxford for just a few hours.
Other Tours and Experiences
If you enjoy a pre-planned wander, though, you will probably prefer some of these experiences offered by various reliable companies in Oxford. For instance:
Harry Potter in Oxford
If you love the Harry Potter books or movies, you’re probably well aware a lot of the latter were actually filmed in Oxford. And there’s little doubt Hogwarts takes enormous inspiration from the University, too. So, if you’re visiting and you like the series, you should definitely check these out:
All of Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations and How To Visit Them
A lot of Harry Potter scenes were filmed in Oxford. Explore the exact locations, what they were used for, and how to visit them.
Oxford Harry Potter Free Self-Guided Walking Tour
A free self-guided walking tour allows you to discover the enchantment of Oxford at your own pace. Includes colleges, shops, and more.
Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations: Hogwarts’ The Great Hall
A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s The Great Hall in Christ Church, Oxford. Opening times, tickets, and all the must-see details.
Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations: Hogwarts’ Hospital Wing
A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s Hospital Wing or Infirmary, Oxford. Opening times, tickets, and all the must-see details.
Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations: Hogwarts’ Staircase
A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s Staircase in Christ Church, Oxford. Tickets, opening times, and all the must-see details.
Oxford Ghost Stories
From haunted colleges to mysterious apparitions in public spaces, Oxford’s ghost stories reflect both the city’s historic significance and its darker, more mysterious side.
Latest Stories & Articles About Oxford
We LOVE Oxford and everything it has to offer. People come to the city for different reasons, though, so we’ve created a few guides that can give you ideas to plan your visit. For example, you can explore Oxford Harry Potter filming locations or places that are ideal for a date. Or you can do a deep dive into the University and its traditions – some of which will probably surprise you (turtle racing? Yep. That’s a thing!). Take a look at some of our articles below.
Halloween in Oxford: All 2024 Events, Parties & Tours
Halloween in Oxford is a lively and diverse celebration, blending its rich historical backdrop with modern-day spookiness!
Oxford Celebrations: May Morning
A traditional celebration on the 1st of May, thousands gather at Magdalen Bridge to hear the Magdalen College Choir sing from the tower.
What’s the Oxford Lieder Festival? Best Performances for 2024
The Oxford Lieder Festival is an annual event that celebrates classical songs and art songs. This year the docus is on Cities of Song.
Everything About The Autumn Equinox in Oxfordshire
The Autumn Equinox marks the beginning of autumn in Oxfordshire. The countryside becomes especially picturesque — and worth a visit!
How to Rent in Oxford: A Guide to Houses, Apartments, and Rooms
Learn everything you need to know to rent a flat, house, or room in Oxford, including average prices, neighbourhoods, and much more.
All About the Oxford St Scholastica Day Riot
The St. Scholastica’s Day Riot was a violent and deadly conflict that erupted in Oxford in 1355 between students and the townspeople.
The University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the leading academic institutions in the world – and the home of many unique traditions. If you want to learn more about the University, its different colleges, fun facts, ceremonies, terms, and much more – follow the links below!
Oxford Quadrangles: What Are They and Why Are So Popular in Colleges?
Most Oxford University Colleges are built around one or more quadrangles. But what are they, exactly? And how did they become so popular?
What is the Oxford University Tortoise Race and Fair?
The Tortoise Race is the chance for Oxford University Colleges pets to prove their mettle against rival schools. Facts, history, how to see one.
What is it Like to Study at Oxford University (and Live in Oxford)?
Living and studying in Oxford is quite the experience. The city has a vibrant social life and endless activities and things to explore. Take a look!
J. R. R. Tolkien at Oxford – Hobbits, the Inklings, and the University
Tolkien, creator of the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, taught English Language at Merton College in Oxford.
How Do You Get Into Oxford University? Is It Hard? What Grades Do You Need?
A detailed guide to help you get into Oxford. The grades you need, how hard it really is, and everything you need to apply to the University.
Oxford University Formal and Informal Halls. What and When Do They Take Place
Traditional collegiate colleges like Oxford and Cambridge hold formal and informal dinners many times a year. Learn more about this tradition.
Oxford Colleges
The University of Oxford has 39 semi-autonomous constituent colleges and six permanent private halls. Some of them include:
Magdalen College
Established in 1458 by William of Waynflete, Magdalen College is a constituent college of the University of Oxford.
St Antony’s College
St Antony’s College is one of the constituent colleges at Oxford University. Founded in 1950 by French merchant Sir Antonin Besse of Aden.
St Peter’s College
St Peter’s College is one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford, and it is located in New Inn Hall Street, Oxford, UK.
Green Templeton College
Green Templeton College (GTC) is a constituent college of the University of Oxford located on Woodstock Road next to the Observatory.
Reuben College
Reuben College is the first new Oxbridge college since 1990. The plans for the new graduate college were announced in December 2018.
Things to Do in Oxford
Bored and looking for something to do in Oxford? These are some of our suggestions and ideas for unique activities you can try:
Tree Artisan Café
Nestled in a cosy spot in Oxford, this café has quickly gained a reputation as a go-to destination for those seeking a relaxed environment.
No.1 Ship Street
This stylish restaurant offers a modern British menu with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
The Spires Café
The Spires Café is a charming spot that offers a delightful escape from the busy city centre with a range of delicious food and beverages.
Tick Tock Café
The Oxford Tick Tock Café is a cozy and charming spot located in the heart of Oxford, known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious food.
The Isis Winter League Oxford Row Head Race
The Isis Winter League is a series of races in Oxford running through the Michaelmas and Hilary terms. Here’s everything you need to know about them.