Oxford is one of the most rewarding day trips you can take from London. The city is compact, easy to navigate and packed with historic landmarks, making it ideal for a day of exploring. In this guide, I’ll show you the best things to do in Oxford and share practical tips to help you plan the perfect visit.
Just an hour away by train, Oxford offers an impressive mix of architecture, academic heritage and famous filming locations. You can wander through centuries-old university colleges, climb historic towers for wide views over the dreaming spires and visit several Harry Potter filming locations, all in a single day.
I’ve visited Oxford several times over the years and always enjoy coming back. Each visit feels different depending on the season and the pace of the day. While Oxford isn’t technically part of the Chilterns, it lies right on the edge of the region and pairs perfectly with a broader trip through Oxfordshire or Buckinghamshire.
Also read: 15 Best Things To Do In The Chilterns, England
1. Tour the Colleges of the University of Oxford
No visit to Oxford is complete without stepping into one of its famous colleges. With over 30 individual colleges spread across the city, each has its own unique character, gardens, and historic halls.
This is my shortlist of beautiful colleges worth visiting:
- Christ Church | Oxford’s most well-known college. Not just for its grandeur, but also because scenes from the Harry Potter films were shot here. The Great Hall was the inspiration for Hogwarts’ dining hall, and you’ll recognise the grand staircase from the first film.
- Magdalen College | Famous for its peaceful deer park and riverside walks.
- Exeter College | One of the oldest colleges in Oxford, tucked away just behind the Radcliffe Camera.
- New College | Another college that featured in the Harry Potter films. See if you recognise it from the Goblet of Fire.
The colleges are pretty large, so for a bit more context I highly recommend to join this walking tour. The tours are guided by an authentic Oxford student, that visit some of the best University Colleges (including entry to Christ Church College), but also other Oxford sights such as the Bodleian Library.
Most colleges are open to the public, though some charge a small entry fee or have limited hours, especially during term time.
Tip: If you’re short on time, visiting just one or two still give you a great feel for Oxford’s academic legacy.
2. See the Radcliffe Camera & Visit the Bodleian Library
This is one of Oxford’s most recognisable spots – and a must on any visit. The Radcliffe Camera, with its circular dome and neoclassical design, is one of the most photographed buildings in the city. Though it’s part of the university’s library system and not open to the general public, it’s stunning to admire from the outside.
Just around the corner is the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe and home to over 13 million printed items. You can explore it on your own or join a guided tour that takes you into the Divinity School. This is a breathtaking medieval hall that also appeared in the Harry Potter films.
Don’t miss: The nearby Bridge of Sighs, which connects two parts of Hertford College. It’s a favourite photo spot and a quick stop while you’re in the area.
3. Climb the Tower of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin
If you’re looking for the best views of Oxford, head to the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. Located right next to the Radcliffe Camera, this historic church has a tower you can climb for a small fee. And the views from the top are well worth the effort.
The climb takes you up a narrow spiral staircase, but once you reach the top, you’ll get a 360° view over the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and many of Oxford’s spires and rooftops. It’s one of the best photo opportunities in the city, especially on a clear day.
The church itself is also worth a quick look inside. It has a peaceful interior, impressive stained glass, and is an important place in Oxford’s religious and academic history.
4. Climb Carfax Tower for a Central View of Oxford
Standing right in the heart of Oxford, Carfax Tower is all that remains of the 13th-century St Martin’s Church. While it’s not the tallest building in the city, it offers a fantastic vantage point over Oxford’s bustling streets and rooftops.
A narrow staircase of 99 steps takes you to the top, where you’ll get a great perspective of the surrounding area. Particularly of the High Street, Cornmarket Street, and even some of the college towers in the distance. It’s especially nice if you want to see how compact and walkable Oxford really is.
Because it’s so centrally located, Carfax Tower is an easy stop between other sights, and well worth the short climb if you enjoy panoramic views.
5. Visit Oxford Castle & Prison
While Oxford is best known for its academic heritage, it also has a darker, more dramatic past. And you can experience it at Oxford Castle & Prison. This partly ruined Norman castle has stood here for nearly 1,000 years, serving as a royal stronghold, a county prison, and even a place of execution.
Today, you can explore the site on a guided tour led by costumed storytellers. They’ll take you up the Saxon St George’s Tower (even older than the university), down into the underground crypt, and through recreated prison cells from the 18th and 19th centuries.
You’ll learn about Oxford’s lesser-known history. From medieval sieges to Victorian prison reform in a way that’s both educational and entertaining. The castle grounds are open to the public, and there’s a café on-site too.
6. Explore the Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is Oxford’s leading museum of art and archaeology. And it’s also one of the oldest public museums in the world. It certainly doesn’t feel dusty or outdated though. The galleries are bright, spacious, and beautifully curated, making it a joy to explore.
Its collection spans everything from Ancient Egyptian artifacts and classical sculpture to Renaissance art, Asian ceramics, and even contemporary exhibitions. Whether you’re interested in archaeology or just enjoy wandering through thought-provoking displays, there’s something here for everyone.
What makes the Ashmolean stand out is how accessible and modern the museum feels. The labels are clear, the layout is easy to follow, and the temporary exhibitions are often outstanding.
Entry is free, and there’s a lovely rooftop café if you need a break. It’s a great place to visit whether you have a full afternoon or just a bit of time between walks.
7. Wander Through Oxford’s Covered Market
Tucked just off the High Street, the Oxford Covered Market has been a part of city life since the 1770s. Today, it’s home to a mix of independent shops, artisan food stalls, florists, cafés, and bakeries – all under one roof.
It’s a great place to take a break from sightseeing, especially if you want to grab a snack, browse for gifts, or simply soak up some local atmosphere. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and handmade chocolates to vintage clothing and quirky souvenirs.
Be sure to stop by Colombia Coffee Roasters for a proper cup of coffee. It’s tucked inside the market and serves excellent single-origin brews. It’s a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
8. Go Punting Along the River Cherwell (or Walk Addison’s Walk)
One of the most relaxing and fun things to do in Oxford is to go punting on the River Cherwell. You can hire a punt near Magdalen Bridge and gently glide past meadows, college gardens, and quiet wooded paths. All while taking in a very Oxford kind of view.
You can punt yourself (which takes a little practice!) or hire someone to do the steering while you sit back and enjoy the ride. The most popular stretch takes you past Magdalen College, alongside Christ Church Meadow, and through a peaceful, leafy section of the river.
Another punting route runs parallel to Addison’s Walk, a beautiful riverside footpath named after the 18th-century writer Joseph Addison. If punting isn’t your thing, or if the weather isn’t ideal, walking Addison’s Walk offers a similar experience. Minus the balancing act that is. It’s especially lovely in the early morning or late afternoon.
Both routes give you a quieter side of Oxford, away from the busy streets, and are a great way to slow down and enjoy the setting.
9. Visit Harry Potter’s Oxford Filming Locations
Oxford is a dream destination for Harry Potter fans, with several iconic filming locations right in the heart of the city. You can visit these independently or join a guided Harry Potter walking tour that brings the scenes to life.
Some key locations include:
- Christ Church College | The Grand Staircase featured in The Philosopher’s Stone, and its dining hall inspired Hogwarts’ Great Hall.
- The Divinity School at the Bodleian Library | Used as the infirmary where Harry recovers, and as the room for dance practice in The Goblet of Fire.
- New College cloisters | Seen in The Goblet of Fire when Malfoy gets turned into a ferret.
Even if you’re not a hardcore Harry Potter fan, the connections add a fun layer to exploring Oxford’s already magical setting.
Tip: If you’re planning your trip to Oxford from London, you can also visit the Harry Potter Studios (Warner Bros. Studio Tour) in Watford. It’s located between London and the Chilterns and offers a full behind-the-scenes look at sets, props, costumes, and more.
10. Visit the Natural History Museum & Pitt Rivers Museum
Just north of the city centre, you’ll find one of Oxford’s most memorable museum duos: the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and the Pitt Rivers Museum, which share the same grand Victorian building.
The Natural History Museum is worth visiting for its architecture alone. The soaring glass roof, cast-iron pillars, and tiled floors make it one of the most striking museum interiors in Oxford. Its collections include dinosaur skeletons, fossils, taxidermy, and geology exhibits.
Head through a small door at the back and you’ll find yourself in the Pitt Rivers Museum, one of the most curious and eclectic museums in England. Its tightly packed displays of global artifacts, shrunken heads, weapons, and ritual objects feel like stepping into a Victorian explorer’s attic. It’s a bit chaotic, but that’s all part of the charm.
Both museums are free to enter, and you could easily spend an hour or two between them. Or just pop in for a shorter visit.
More Things to Do in Oxford
If you have more time in Oxford, or want to swap out a museum or two, then here are a few more places worth checking out:
- Christ Church Meadow | A beautiful open space in the heart of the city, perfect for a peaceful riverside walk.
- University Parks | Ideal for a picnic or a relaxing break, especially in spring and summer.
- Botanic Garden & Arboretum | England’s oldest botanic garden, with glasshouses, rare plants, and quiet paths to wander.
- Sheldonian Theatre | Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, this historic building often hosts concerts and events. You can also climb to the top for another scenic view.
- The Story Museum | A fun stop for families, focused on storytelling and literature.
- Catch a student play or concert | Check the listings at the Oxford Playhouse or smaller college venues for affordable cultural experiences.
Where to Eat & Drink in Oxford
Oxford has no shortage of great places to eat and drink, whether you’re after a quick coffee, a hearty pub meal, or a relaxed dinner. Here are some favourites to try:
Cafés & Coffee Spots
- Colombian Coffee Roasters | Located inside the Covered Market, this spot serves excellent single-origin coffee in a friendly, low-key setting.
- The Missing Bean | A local favourite for specialty coffee, with a relaxed vibe and good pastries.
- Vaults & Garden Café | Housed in a historic building next to the Radcliffe Camera, with seasonal, locally sourced food. Great for brunch or lunch.
Lunch & Dinner Spots
- Comptoir Libanais | Bright, casual, and great for a fresh Lebanese lunch or dinner, right in the centre of town.
- The Handle Bar Café & Kitchen | A great all-day spot above a bike shop, serving healthy brunches, salads, and global dishes.
- The Rose | A lovely tearoom-style restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea in a traditional English setting.
Pubs & Bars
- The Turf Tavern | One of Oxford’s most famous pubs, tucked away down a narrow lane. It’s got a cosy interior and great beer garden.
- The Bear Inn | A historic pub dating back to the 13th century, known for its low ceilings and quirky tie collection.
- The Old Bookbinders Ale House | A lively pub in Jericho with a mix of French bistro food and real ales.
Cocktail Bars
- The Alchemist | Known for its theatrical drinks and quirky presentation, this is a fun spot for a night out with a twist.
- Love Jericho | A stylish bar with creative cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere, popular with locals.
How to Get to Oxford from London
Oxford is one of the easiest day trips you can take from London, with fast and frequent connections by train and coach. Whether you’re heading out for the day or combining Oxford with a longer trip through Oxfordshire or the Chilterns, getting there is straightforward.
By Train
The fastest way to reach Oxford is by train from London Paddington or London Marylebone.
- From Paddington: Trains run frequently and take around 55 minutes.
- From Marylebone: A slightly slower but scenic route, taking around 1 hour 10 minutes.
Trains arrive at Oxford Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the city centre.
Tip: Get your train ticket in advance on thetrainline.com, or in the app.
By Coach
The Oxford Tube and X90 coach services run regularly from Victoria Coach Station and other London stops. The journey takes around 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on traffic, and is a budget-friendly option with onboard Wi-Fi and charging points.
By Car
Driving to Oxford is possible, but parking in the city centre is limited. If you’re coming by car, it’s best to use one of the Park & Ride sites located on the outskirts of town, with frequent buses into the centre.
Where to Stay in Oxford
If you decide to stay longer than a day, Oxford has lots of great places to spend the night. There’s more than enough to fill a weekend, and you’ll find accommodation options to suit every style and budget.
- The Randolph Hotel Oxford | A classic Oxford stay. This historic five-star hotel sits opposite the Ashmolean Museum and offers elegant rooms with a touch of literary charm.
- Vanbrugh House Hotel | A boutique hotel just off the High Street, with cosy, stylish rooms in a characterful Georgian building. Perfect if you want to stay central.
- Malmaison Oxford | This former prison has been transformed into a boutique hotel. You’ll literally sleep in a cell (a very stylish one). Located in the Oxford Castle Quarter.
- Ethos Hotel | Located just south of the city centre, this independent hotel is a short walk from Christ Church Meadow. It offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Oxford
Oxford is one of the best places to visit on a day trip from London. The city is packed with history, stunning architecture, and beautiful college grounds. You can explore museums, enjoy the riverside, and stop for coffee or lunch in one of the many cafés and pubs.
It’s also a fantastic destination for Harry Potter fans and anyone who enjoys walking through a place with real character. I’ve loved every visit, and I’m sure you will too.
Have you been to Oxford, or do you have any questions? Leave a comment below, or reach out on Instagram. Also sign up for my newsletter to get more travel tips and itinerary ideas straight to your inbox.
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