Things to do in Oxford: colleges, museums and tips

You are wondering What to do in Oxford Just an hour from London, the oldest university in the English-speaking world reveals its colleges, libraries, and Harry Potter filming locations. From free museums to boat trips, here are our favorite sights and tips for enjoying the city.

In short: In Oxford, first admire the Radcliffe Camera and visit the Bodleian Library, then Christ Church College, whose dining hall inspired that of Hogwarts. Next, discover the free Ashmolean Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Covered Market, before a boat trip on the River Cherwell. Oxford is about an hour from London by train: one day is enough, two are ideal.

Things to do in Oxford: the must-see attractions

The Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library

With its dome, the Radcliffe Camera is the symbol of Oxford. It is part of the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe. guided tours They allow you to discover the Divinity School, which served as Hogwarts' infirmary in the films.

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Christ Church

It's the largest college in Oxford. Its refectory, the Great Hall, inspired the Great Hall at Hogwarts, and its staircase appears in the films. The college also houses a cathedral, which is unique in Oxford. Be aware, however, that the Great Hall sometimes closes to visitors during mealtimes.

The colleges and the Bridge of Sighs

The university comprises over thirty colleges, some of which can be visited for a small entrance fee. Don't miss, for example, the Bridge of Sighs, a footbridge connecting two buildings of Hertford College, or the gardens of Magdalen College on the banks of the River Cherwell.

Free museums

The Ashmolean Museum, opened in 1683, is one of the oldest public museums in the world, and admission is free. Nearby, the Natural History Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum, also free, house amazing collections.

Views of the city

To admire Oxford's "dreaming spires," climb to the top of the tower of St. Mary's University Church, opposite the Radcliffe Camera. Carfax Tower, at the central crossroads, also offers a beautiful view.

Experiences to have in Oxford

• Take a punting trip on the Cherwell, departing from Magdalen Bridge.
• Lunch at the Covered Market, an 18th-century covered market.
• Have a drink at the Turf Tavern, a historic pub hidden in an alley in the center.
• Attend a concert in the Sheldonian Theatre, designed by Christopher Wren.

Oxford and Harry Potter

Several Oxford locations appear in the films: the steps of Christ Church, the Divinity School, and Duke Humfrey's Library. To complete your experience, visit the studios near London with our guide. Harry Potter in London.

Day trips from Oxford

Excursion	Distance	To have
Blenheim Palace	Approximately 20 minutes	Baroque palace, Churchill's birthplace
The Cotswolds	30 minutes to 1 hour	Golden stone villages
Stratford-upon-Avon	Approximately 1 hour	Shakespeare's birthplace
Bath	Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes	Roman baths and Georgian architecture

Oxford is indeed the gateway to the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds. Blenheim Palace is also among the England’s most beautiful castles. You can finally continue towards Bath.

How to get to Oxford and how many days to allow?

• By train : approximately one hour from London Paddington or Marylebone.
• By bus Direct buses connect central London with Heathrow and Gatwick airports.
• By car : park in the park and ride lots, as the centre is difficult to access.

One day allows you to see the essentials. Two days, however, leave time for museums, a boat trip, and a visit to Blenheim. Combine it with our itinerary for Visit London in 3 days.

Also read: Things to do in Cambridge: colleges, punting and advice.

Frequently asked questions: What is there to do in Oxford?

What to do in Oxford in one day?

Start with the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library, then visit Christ Church. In the afternoon, explore the Ashmolean Museum and finish with the Covered Market or a boat trip.

Can we visit the colleges of Oxford?

Yes, many colleges open to visitors, often in the afternoon and sometimes with an entrance fee. However, their opening hours vary depending on exams and events.

Oxford or Cambridge: which one to visit?

Both are superb. Oxford is more urban and has more Harry Potter locations, while Cambridge is more peaceful, situated on the banks of its river.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Oxford?

Yes to Christ Church and visits to the Bodleian Library, especially in summer. However, free museums do not require reservations.

Cover photo: Mike Peel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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