Travel and Vacation Packages to Oxford England

Discover Oxford's Wonders

Oxford, the "City of Dreaming Spires", is famous the world over for its university and its place in history. For over 800 years, it has been home to both royalty and scholars. Dating back to the 9th century as an established town, the area has been continuously occupied since pre-Roman times.

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Description

Oxford was known as "Oxenaforda" in the early times. It means "Ford of the Oxen", where fords were utilised by the people to walk or drive across the river or stream. Oxford also became a significant location for military frontier between the kingdoms of Mercia and Wessex. The achievement of Oxford was enhanced by a charter granted by King Henry II. It grants its citizens the same privileges, exemptions and important religious houses as those enjoyed by the citizens at the capital of the kingdom. To date, Oxford city is a bustling cosmopolitan town where ancient University still rises as its attractions. The city offers a wide range of guest houses, hotels, apartments and self-catering accommodations for its tourists and residents. Oxford is also now a growing hi-tech community where many businesses are established. Take time to find the right place for you whether for dining, chilling out or taking a rest. This city definitely has something for everyone.

Useful information

Population:

162,100

Currency:

Pound Sterling (GBP), £1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

For police, fire and ambulance services: 999

Opening Hours:

General opening hours are from 9am-10pm on weekdays, 9am-9pm on Saturdays and 12pm-6pm Sunday. Opening hours for bank holiday are from 12pm-6pm.

Do & See

Bill Spectre's Ghost Trail

Bill Spectre's Ghost Trail is an entertainment walking tour of old Oxford which is conducted by a costumed professional actor. The touring activity is illustrated with props and illusions as it horrifyingly entertains the visitors through the streets of the historic city Oxford. The tour takes place every Friday and Saturday at 6:30pm and additional tours at the usual times on Sundays during July and August.

Blenheim Palace

The Blenheim Palace is a monumental country house in Woodstock. It was once a home to the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. It stands in a romantic park created by the famous landscape gardener 'Capability' Brown. The palace was built between 1705 and 1722 and distinguished by an eclectic style and a return to national roots which are perfect examples of an 18th-century princely dwelling.

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the greatest libraries in the world and one of the oldest libraries in Europe. It is a working library and the main research library of the University of Oxford. In Britain, it is the second in size only to the British Library with over 11 million items. The library is believed to hold millions of printed items as well as manuscripts.

Broughton Castle

Broughton Castle is a medieval manor house of the 14th century and home of Fiennes family, Lords Saye and Sele. The ownership of the castle has remained in the same family since 1447 and is situated in the village of Broughton which is about two miles south-west of Banbury. Simon Jenkins selected the place as one of only twenty to be awarded five stars in his book "England’s Thousand Best Houses".

Christ Church

Known as "The House", Christ Church is one of the colleges of Oxford University and was founded in 1525 by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. It is also the cathedral church of the diocese of Oxford, namely Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford. The dining hall at the Christ Church, known as the Great Hall, will look familiar to any fan of the Harry Potter films as it inspired the set of Hogwarts. The cathedral and college complex was also used as the backdrop for numerous scenes in the popular movie series. Moreover, a portrait of Charles Dodgson can be seen upon entering the Hall. Charles Dodgson's pen name is Lewis Carroll who is a famed author of Alice in Wonderland.

City Sightseeing Oxford

City Sightseeing in Oxford is a way for every visitor to take sight of the fantastic views within Oxford. Tours also include gazing at the Hertford Bridge, Pitt Rivers Museum, William Morris’ Original Workshop and the Bodleian Library while it teaches more about the city. For souvenirs and bargains, one may hop off at Gloucester Green Bus Station at the Covered Market or Westgate Shopping Centre. There are also joint tickets available for combined Bus and Oxford Castle Unlocked.

Didcot Railway Centre

Didcot Railway Centre was formerly known as the Great Western Railway. It has been the stabling point of engine-shed and locomotive in Didcot. Today, the place is a comprehensive railway museum and preservation engineering site. It is a recreation of Brunel's broad gauge railway and a home to unique collections of Great Western Railway steam engines, coaches, building, wagons, and small relics; and a recreation of Brunel's broad gauge railway. Didcot Railway Centre is open during Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year and daily during peak season and school holiday.

Footprints Tours

The famous two-hour free walking tour around Oxford, covering sights such as Bodleian Library, University sights, in-depth history of the town and more is hosted by Footprints Tours. But they also provide other tours like bike tours, private family Oxford tours, Harry Potter Tour and much more. Moreover, the tours are guaranteed that no visitor or tourist will fall asleep.

Dining

Brasserie Blanc

Brasserie Blanc is a simple French restaurant on Walton Street. The food served are made from natural and fresh ingredients as their aim is to provide lovingly prepared food. Dining here is a pleasure to anyone's experience.

Cote Brasserie - Oxford

Cote Brasserie is a known French bistro in UK. Brasserie favourites are always available for their guests on an à la carte menu. The chain is also known best for its quick service.

Everest Nepalese Restaurant and Bar

Everest Nepalese Restaurant and Bar serves great Asian and Fusion cuisines. They serve the finest Nepalese dishes in Howard Street paired with their brilliant service. This restaurant offers freshly prepared food with beautiful flavours from their extensive menu.

Hassan's Kebab Van

Hassan's Kebab Van is known for its best kebab in Oxford. Hassan is an outstanding landmark establishment in the area. Aside from its best tasting kebab, Hassan's service is friendly and the food served is of great value and tastiness. You will find the food truck / van on Broad Street.

Kadai & Naan

Kadai & Naan is cosy Indian and Nepalese restaurant on Cowley Road. They are excellent in customer service and they offer good balance of flavours in their food. The dishes at Kadai & Naan are guaranteed of its freshness and best tastes.

Le Kesh

Le Kesh is a cosy and inviting restaurant that serves delicious Lebanese and Moroccan dishes on Cowley Road. This restaurant is an Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards 2013 Gastronomy nominee. At Le Kesh, you will be guaranteed of super quick and friendly service. There is also a pianist to play live music for the guests.

Mamma Mia Pizzeria

Mamma Mia Pizzeria is considered as Oxford's best Italian, Pizza and Pasta restaurant. The setting is also an authentic Italian ambience as they are very child-friendly. At Mamma Mia Pizzeria, the staff is wonderful, happy, friendly and would definitely cater to your every need. It is a must and a regular haunt in the city.

Moya

Moya is a Slovak restaurant managed and run by two catering experts in West England and East of Slovakia. Food served here are guaranteed of its hearty character and homemade freshness. The restaurant is small but the atmosphere is very friendly as it maintains its Slovakian theme.

Cafés

Art Café

Art Café offers good breakfast and brunch meals on New Road. They have an upstairs small seating area that is usually a good spot to look out over Queen Street. All the food they produce is organic and freshly made.

Café Coco

Café Coco is known for its great food, great cocktails and great atmosphere. It is one of the best cafés on Cowley Road. It is a European-style late night café affair that suits perfect for treats and lively chats. They also offer excellent tasting Greek and Italian stuff including lots of pizza but also breakfast.

George and Delila

George and Delila opened its doors in the summer of 1992 as an independent ice cream café on Cowley Road. They serve great ice creams, desserts, baked goods, bagels and drinks. They offer reasonably priced quality food, friendly and convenient service and a bright atmosphere.

Greens Café

Greens Café is a pub with a comfortable and friendly atmosphere that serves fresh and organic food. They cater to all sorts of tastes including vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free. The place has a second floor with a great view and always available for private hire.

Organic Deli Café

The Organic Deli Cafe is family run and an artisan in homemade creators of vegan, organic, dairy free and gluten breads, snacks, cakes and pastries. It prides itself on using locally sourced organic produce.

Queen's Lane Coffee House

Queen's Lane Coffee House is situated on the corner of Queen’s Lane and the High Street in Oxford. This café is said to be the oldest coffee house in Europe dating back in 1654. Close by this place are both The Queen's College to the west and St Edmund Hall to the north. It is a very busy café with great tasting coffee and food.

Rick's Café

Rick's is a French café situated on Cowley Road. They serve delicious patisserie from Chateau Gateau. This is the right place to find nice macaroons in the city.

The Grand Café

The Grand Café is a French café on High Street. Both coffee and food are not only exquisite here but the decor are truly spectacular and luxurious. It definitely is a lovely place to spoil oneself.

Bars & Nightlife

Angels

Angels Bar is a fancy place where good cocktails and good music are offered. The place has its own “Angels' Lab” where their bartenders create the most refreshing drinks. Whether it is a long or short cocktail preference, it is offered at a great price.

Atik

With five rooms of clubbing, the latest sound and lighting technology and a high level of customer service, you just can't go wrong at this nightclub. From the bar you can get fresh new cocktails, extraordinary spirits and exceptional champagnes. Atik, is the place to dance the night away.

Duke of Cambridge

The Duke of Cambridge opened its doors in 1981 and has been mixing great drinks since then. It offers only the freshest ingredients and best cocktails around. It has quite a classy interior and amazing bar staff.

Freud

Freud is an elegant café and bar located inside the majestic Saint Paul's church on Walton Street. Since 1986, they are known to serve legendary cocktails in Oxford. They also offer delicious and freshly made soups, salads and sandwiches during the day.

Kiss Bar

Kiss Bar is an independent late night bar situated on Park End Street. It has a unique venue style with 193 capacity. For over 13 years, it has been offering a wide selection of affordable cocktails and other great drinks together with its fantastic DJs.

Port Mahon

Port Mahon is a traditional East Oxford pub with great atmosphere and delicious home cooked food. All the major sporting events can be watched here and if the sun is shining you can even enjoy your beer in the large decked garden.

Quod Brasserie & Bar

Quod Brasserie & Bar is one of the best places on High Street for private and business dining. This place was formerly a banking hall transformed to become Oxfords largest and most successful restaurant. A spectacular heated terrace lets diners enjoy a morning coffee, a superb value 2 course lunch or a cocktail.

Rose & Crown PH

With a beautiful location, a mile north of city centre, you will find this quaint old world pub. Rose & Crown PH is a charming English pub who offers a great venue together with good British food and the best beers. Everything in here is of great value too.

Shopping

Alice's Shop

Alice's Shop is a famous and original shop from Alice in Wonderland items. It is one of the most famous little shops in the city that can be found in Oxford across the road from Christ Church College. To date, this is a gift shop selling gifts, souvenirs and memorabilia all based on Alice.

Antiques on High

When it comes to buying antiques, there is Antiques on High Street for you. This shop offers variety of antiques such as silver and jewellery, books and music, linens, vintage fashion and accessories, ceramics and glass, pictures, prints and maps, and a lot more collectibles. It even includes work by the members of the Oxfordshire Craft Guild and of the Oxford Art Society. This is Oxford's favourite shop for antiques.

Bicester Village Outlet Shopping

Bicester Village Outlet Shopping is one of the collections of Chic Outlet Shopping Villages managed by Value Retail. This place offers the best luxury clothing brands and designs such as Alexander McQueen, BOSS, DKNY, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Marc Jacobs, Lacoste and much more.

Bury Street Shopping Centre

Bury Street Shopping Centre is located on the Abingdon area and is a great family shopping destination, offering a wide spread of shops and cafés. This place also features seasonal entertainment in the mall. When shopping here, you will come across shops like New Look, Boots, WH Smith, Pandora, Clarks and Dorothy Perkins.

Castle Quay

Castle Quay is a premier shopping centre that has more than 85 fantastic stores for everyone's need. It also has a wide variety of cafés and restaurants on site. There is even an on-site car service that will tend to your car's need while you shop. This place is easily accessible from the town centre, by bus, train, car or barge. Shops you will find here are; Accessorize, H&M, Debenhams, Claire's, GAP, River Island and much more.

Clarendon Centre

Clarendon Centre is another shopping centre located in central Oxford linking Cornmarket Street and Queen Street. This centre was built in 1983 and was designed by Gordon Benny and Partners. Big shop names in Clarendon includes Zara, French Connection, Gap, Swarovski, and so much more.

Hardy's Sweet Shop

Hardy's Sweet Shop specialises in confectionaries as gift ideas and treats. They offer a wide array of sweets including the finest European liquorice, chocolates, fudges, and much more.

Mallams

Mallams is one of the country’s leading expert provincial auctioneers and estate agents. Mallams holds a full programme of specialist sales and further entries that are invited for future auctions of antique furniture, garden furniture, paintings and prints, carpets and rugs, clocks, silver, ceramics, jewellery, fine wines and sculpture.

Tourist Information

Passport & Visa

For travel to the UK, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland (except Irish citizens) need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). However, those planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. Additionally, residents of nine other countries — including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States — can also visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, but they will still need an ETA. To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to consult the UK government website for any specific visa requirements or regulations.

London Heathrow Airport

London Heathrow Airport is the nearest airport to Oxford, England. It is located approximately 45 miles from the city centre, and it offers both international and domestic flights. Travelling to and from here may requires you to take either a bus or a taxi. The airport is linked to Oxford by "The Airline" coach company, which operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week and approximately leaves every 20 minutes. The journey takes about 80 minutes. You can book your tickets on "The Airline" online booking system or via their app. Single and Return tickets can also be bought from the driver. (airline.oxfordbus.co.uk/) Another way to travel to Oxford from the airport is by renting a car. You will find car hire desks in arrivals at Heathrow. Companies such as Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Budget and Sixt are operating here.

Taxi

There are many taxi companies working in Oxford and they are clearly marked, and are very distinctive looking. You can either call when you need a taxi or just hail one. Another way is to walk over to the Gloucester Green bus station or the Train station where you will find taxi stands. 001 Taxis +44 1865 24 00 00 www.001taxis.com Oxford City Cars:

Electricity

220V - 230V. Plugs are large in shape and have three, substantial, flat prongs.

Pharmacy

Various pharmacies are established in Oxford. Some may be open 24 hours while others are open until midnight, but still are able to cater to the needs of the customers. Rowlands Pharmacy 17 Ivy Close, Cowley, Oxford +44 1865 777 089 Monday - Friday: 9am - 7pm, Saturday: 9am - 1pm, Sunday: Closed www.rowlandspharmacy.co.uk Ahmeys Midnight Pharmacy 150 Oxford Road, Cowley, Oxford +44 1865 770 121 www.ahmeyspharmacy.com

Post

There is a stamp machine available outside the post office as well as post boxes. The post boxes in UK are red. You will find five post office in Oxford one of them is located:

Telephone

Country code: +44 Area code: 01865

The Oxford Bus Company

The Oxford Bus Company is a network of buses and coach services that will take passengers to and from the airport and around the city centre. All of their buses are built with easy access low floor models to enable pushchair, pram and wheelchair users to ride aboard. The main bus stop is on Magdalen Street and the buses run fairly often, so you never need to wait for a long time. Single and Return tickets can be bought from the driver but make sure to have the correct change on board. Tickets can also be bought from their app. (www.oxfordbus.co.uk/app/)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Oxford?

Oxford is famous for its prestigious university, so visiting the University of Oxford's colleges, such as Christ Church and Magdalen College, is a must. Don't miss the Bodleian Library, the Ashmolean Museum, and the Radcliffe Camera. A stroll through the historic Covered Market and a walk along the River Thames are also highly recommended.

When is the best time to visit Oxford?

The best time to visit Oxford is during late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. These months also coincide with the university's term time, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant student atmosphere.

How can I get to Oxford from London?

Oxford is easily accessible from London by train, with services running from London Paddington to Oxford Station in about an hour. Alternatively, there are frequent bus services, such as the Oxford Tube and the X90, which provide a comfortable and cost-effective option.

What local dishes should I try in Oxford?

While in Oxford, try traditional British pub fare like fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast. For a local twist, enjoy Oxford sausages, known for their unique blend of spices. Afternoon tea is also a delightful experience, with many cafes offering a classic selection of scones, sandwiches, and pastries.

How many days should I spend in Oxford?

A two to three-day visit is ideal for exploring Oxford's main attractions, including its historic colleges, museums, and scenic parks. This timeframe allows you to enjoy the city's rich history and culture at a leisurely pace, with time for a day trip to nearby attractions if desired.

What are some recommended day trips from Oxford?

From Oxford, consider day trips to the Cotswolds for picturesque villages and countryside, Blenheim Palace for its stunning architecture and gardens, or Stratford-upon-Avon to explore the birthplace of William Shakespeare. These destinations are easily accessible by car or public transport.

Where is the best area to stay in Oxford?

Staying in the city center is convenient for exploring Oxford's main attractions on foot. Areas like Jericho and Summertown offer a charming atmosphere with boutique shops and restaurants, while Cowley Road provides a vibrant, multicultural vibe with its diverse eateries and nightlife.

Trips

In the Footsteps of Literary Giants Private Journey

The Harry Potter Trail Explorer

In the Footsteps of Literary Giants Private Journey

The Harry Potter Trail Explorer

In the Footsteps of Literary Giants Private Journey

The Harry Potter Trail Explorer

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