If you’re traveling to England, you absolutely must put Oxford on your itinerary! The university and surrounding city is beautiful with stunning architecture around every corner and a rich history that extends all the way back to 1096. It’s a small, walkable city with charming nooks and crannies that you’ll enjoy getting lost in. Conveniently, Oxford’s size means you can see everything worthwhile in a short, two day period!

Getting There

If you’re traveling to Oxford from London, the easiest (and quickest) way to get there is by train. Every day there are numerous trains that make the hour long journey from London to Oxford. The earlier in the day you go, the more likely you are to snag a seat. Check out the train schedules via Trainline and make sure to reserve your tickets in advance.

Once the train drops you off in Oxford, you’ll likely need to take an Uber or Taxi to your accommodations. My husband, Alex, and I usually opt to stay in AirBnBs when traveling, but we decided to upgrade to a hotel while we were in Oxford so we could be right downtown. We stayed at the Old Bank Hotel and had a wonderful experience. The hotel was in a beautiful, historic building, the service was exceptional, and the location was perfect. From our window, we could see the spires and rooftops of the university and we were only steps away from the Radcliffe Camera.

Exploring Oxford

While in Oxford, you absolutely must take a walking tour. While the university is gorgeous, learning its history will make you appreciate the scenery that much more. There are numerous companies that offer walking tours, but after reading many reviews, Alex and I chose the free walking tour offered by Footprints Tours. Our guide was fantastic! Some of the sites you’ll visit during the two hour tour include…

High Street
Bridge of Sighs
Oxford Castle
Radcliffe Camera
Bodleian Library
Christ Church
University Church

You’ll only see the outsides of the various buildings and colleges while you’re on the tour so if you want to go inside any of them, you’ll have to do so before or after. If you’re trying to choose which colleges to visit (many charge a small fee), Christ Church should be at the top of your list. It’s beautiful and was the setting and inspiration for several Harry Potter scenes. New College is also an excellent choice and has a serene courtyard. If you are on a budget, colleges that are free to visit include All Souls College, Corpus Christi College, Exeter College, Hertford College, and Keble College. Just remember to check when the buildings are open before you go! They are still working colleges and are only open to the public during certain hours.

Besides visiting the various colleges of Oxford, be sure to make time for the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. The view from the top is unbelievable and something you do not want to miss. Once you pay the £4 fee and climb the 127 steps, you will be rewarded with incredible 360° views of Radcliffe Camera and beyond!

Harry Potter Scenes

If you’re a Harry Potter fan like me, as soon as you step foot in Oxford, you’ll feel like you’re in the wizarding world of Hogwarts. It’s every millennial’s dream! If you’re curious as to which buildings and sites were featured in the movies, I’ve got you covered.

Duke Humfrey’s Library

This small section of the Bodleian Library served as the restricted section of Hogwarts Library. In the Sorcerer's Stone, this is where Harry crept around under his invisibility cloak before he encountered a screaming book.

The Divinity School

Also at the Bodleian, make sure you take a peek into the beautiful Divinity School. It was used as the Sanatorium at Hogwarts.

New College Cloisters

These particular cloisters were used in the fourth Harry Potter film, where Mad Eye Moody turned Draco Malfoy into a ferret.

Christ Church

Christ Church is probably the college most closely associated with Harry Potter. The grand stairwell was used in multiple films, but you’ll likely recognize it from when the students arrived at Hogwarts on their very first day.

Also within Christ Church is the dining hall that was the inspiration for the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Filming took place at Leavesden Studios where they recreated this hall, taking inspiration from the long tables and portraits covering the walls.

Where to Eat & Drink

Like many college towns, Oxford offers an almost overwhelming number of interesting restaurants and pubs. Here are a few worth checking out…

The Eagle & Child - This pub has been in existence for longer than America. It has associations with the Inklings writers' group which included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
The Turf Tavern - This is a hidden, historic pub in central Oxford. The beer garden is worth a visit.
Edamamé - If you’re in the mood for authentic Japanese food, this is the place to go. Their sushi is phenomenal.
Pierre Victoire - This relaxed, candlelit French bistro is cozy and the food is fantastic.

Of the many exceptional towns and regions worth visiting in England, Oxford is one of the most unique. Even if your visit is short, you won’t be disappointed by its charm and beauty.