Location: Oxford
Top Things to do in Oxford
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Top 10 Historic Sites in Oxford, England
In the "city of dreaming spires," academia takes center stage. Gaze out at Oxford's world-famous university from the top of Carfax Tower before heading into the city's pedestrian-friendly streets. Follow your nose to the Covered Market for the makings of a picnic to enjoy at Headington Hill Park. Mix the historic and modern with visits to the 12th-century village church of Iffley and trendy Cowley's ethnic shops and music venues.
Restaurants in Oxford
1. Christ Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,479 reviews
Reviewed By PeteD60 - Ware, United Kingdom
This was an Tuesday afternoon visit in November – highlights – the Dining Hall – Custodian Sue was very informative and helpful – the tables were laid against a background of history with its Founder Cardinal Wolsey and after his fall Henry 8 and Elizabeth 1 looking down on the diners alongside portraits of Deans - past and present – different dining times for the students – early smart casual – later more formal with gowns – a different world – and then out into the quadrangle dominated by the Wren designed tower and then into the cathedral with its choir stalls running through the centre – guides on hand to provide additional information to the free guide – it is a visit of history and tradition in spades – well worth a visit – thank you
2. Bodleian Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,263 reviews
The world-famous Bodleian Libraries is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. It founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602. Since then the Bodleian libraries has grown to be the largest academic library system in the UK. In its reading rooms generations of famous scholars have studied through the ages, amongst them monarchs, Nobel Prize winners, British Prime Ministers and writers including Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. At the site, you can explore historic spaces that you might recognise from popular films and TV series such as Harry Potter and A Discovery of Witches. We also offer free, inspiring exhibitions featuring the libraries’ rich collections, two unique gift shops and a lovely café.
Reviewed By SCagray - Santa Cruz, United States
This was a wonderful way to experience the library! We took the 90 minute tour which including going inside Radcliff Camera, highly recommend!! Our guide was very knowledgeable and she was witty as week. We thoroughly enjoyed it and learned so much more than we would have without the tour.
3. Sheldonian Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 515 reviews
The Sheldonian Theatre, an exquisite Grade I listed building situated in Oxford's city centre, is the official ceremonial hall of Oxford University. The Theatre is a popular tourist attraction particular because it offers one of the best indoor panoramic views of Oxford's famous skyline from its Cupola. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1664 and 1669. The Theatre offers self-guided tours or guided tours. On a one hour guided tour, learn about how the University was formed, how long it's been in existence and the secrets of its past. For availability, booking and opening hours information, please visit our website. Opening hours vary depending on University events and concerts, so please do check our website before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Reviewed By Onleaveagain - Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom
This building is situated in the centre of the city where all of the main university buildings are located. This mainly circular structure was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and was originally built as a theatre and to house The Oxford Press University. It is now primarily used for graduation ceremonies and some theatre activities. Inside is interesting and worth a visit if you have the time.
4. The Oxford Oratory Church of St Aloysius Gonzaga
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By anglicano - Knutsford, United Kingdom
I'd attended sung eucharist at St Giles, opposite, and a fellow Anglican showed me this beautiful church. Mass was just ending, so I was able to chat to two of the priests, who were friendly and welcoming. The interior is most attractive, and I liked the smell of incence.
5. Oxford Castle & Prison
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,679 reviews
Oxford Castle & Prison explores the 1000-years of Oxford's History. Led by one of our costumed characters, the rich history of the castle with a prison at its heart will be revealed to you. Climb St. George's Tower and take in the stunning views before descending into the atmospheric crypt, along the 18th century prison wing and into archaic man-made mound.
Reviewed By PeteD60 - Ware, United Kingdom
We arrived just in time to join a tour – very fortuitous – Oliver treated us to an hour long description of the Castle from 1071 to 1996 during which time it was a castle for Matilda – an early centre of learning – a stronghold for Charles 1 – and finally a prison for 300 years until its closure in 1996 and in part conversion to a hotel Oliver included detailed insights into the stories behind the history with pen pictures of particular characters – female poisoners, a man who left his ears in the stocks and a young girl of 7 who was confined for a week before being sent for schooling….. The tour is very active with 101 steps to the top of the tower which provides views of immediate City and the countryside beyond – and then down into the crypt and back up to the cells and through a final exhibition area before departing through the shop Time just flew by – learnt things like why is a prison officer referred to a screw – not telling as you need to visit to hear the story – and Geoffrey of Monmouth who wrote an early history of the Kings of Britain (1138) including King Arthur which is available to read in print and electronically – well worth a visit - thank you
6. Sandford Lock
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By micknor51 - Newcastle, Australia
It’s always interesting to watch the various levels of expertise as narrow boats and cabin cruisers pass through Sandford Lock. The lock keeper does a fine job of maintaining the Flores and gardens around this very pretty lock. Well worth a detour down to the River Thames.
7. Logic Lane
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By rayrest - London, United Kingdom
Logic Lane is a road that connects the high street and Merton Street in Oxford city centre. Nothing spectacular about it, other that it is a road in the heart of historic Oxford colleges.
8. Tolkien's Oxford House
9. Ravenglass
10. North Hinksey Conduit House
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