Regarding nicknames, we cannot go much better than “the city of dream arrows”, invented by an estimated poet. And for Oxford – this luminous and bright jewel of the United Kingdom – the expression also perfectly captures the fear and affection that the city inspires in residents, students and visitors.
Where London is immense, Oxford is charming. Many people make a day trip from London to Oxford, but I offer the opposite: stay in Oxford, travel to London. A departure of the standard is also appropriate, because the beauty of Oxford is of the contradictory type. Here you will find the city and the greenery, history and novelty. A feeling of permanence allowing self-evolution. In Oxford, dream and life intersect, maybe where Magpie Lane meets rue Merton, where the parks adjacent Holywell…
Although we will be mixed, I must mention that this mode of displacement in space and time is Exactly How Oxford is the best experienced: wandering slowly, collecting small moments and discoveries along the way. Like any place teeming with magic, the Oxford of CS Lewis and Jrr Tolkien demand to be noticed. Even admired, with a deliberate consciousness and a wonder. And with that, you will be swept away in the brilliant and brilliant world of Oxford.
Arrive in Oxford: a welcome walk
There are many simple and simple buses from London and its airports in Oxford. If you like to walk like me, leave your coach in Headington stores and go to the city center on foot (a 1.5 mile ride with the possibility of getting on a city bus at any time). Make sure to walk by way of Southern parkWinning you a discreet but particular view of the city and its roofs.
Upon entering the city of Oxford, you will travel the colored street of St. Clement, after the relaxed Angel & Grayhound Tavern (return here later in your trip for jokes and board games in a good humor atmosphere). For the moment, bop in Ballroom Emporium To browse beautiful vintage finds because, well, Oxford. Hang on to a student favorite, The Cape of Good HopeWith a cider or a wine and good vibrations all around. Nearby is KazbarA timeless and cool tapas bar on the Cowley road focused on students.
Enter the city center here. A break to admire the view of the Magdalen bridge, which is coupled with the city Main postman. Note that the Picing – an Oxford activity par excellence – is better associated with a picnic from the famous Covered market (and a bottle of sparkling of course!). On the other side of the street, explore the Oxford botanical garden. This beauty is the oldest botanical garden in the United Kingdom and one of the oldest in the world. Turn on Rose Lane to walk the beautiful Church of Christ Meadow before bringing St. Aldate back to High Street; Or, continue to explore High Street and end your Walking Welcome in Oxford at the cathedral and the essential church garden.
Oxford: a day in life
Start of your day: accommodation, food and a little exploration
Regarding accommodation in Oxford, everything that is central is perfect, whether the luxurious Macdonald Randolph or a rental (Airbnbs are an abundant and affordable option in the city). You can even book Oxford College accommodation for the authentic student experience! If you choose to stay at Macdonald Randolph hotel, turn into tiny brothers nearby to power your morning upstairs Organic cold meats. For your morning walk or your race, be sure to explore University parksA green and relaxing counterpoint to the city.
All this before you start your day, as we do in Oxford, with a book and a hot drink. Don't miss the Norrington room Blackwell bookstoreThe largest room in the world dedicated specifically to the sale of books. Then cross the street for breakfast or a cup of coffee or tea in the perfect image Turl Street Kitchena social company, or the Missing bean For craft coffee.
If you are in Oxford on a Sunday morning, I highly recommend the 9:45 am morning and sermon to the cathedral of the Church of Christ. It is nothing touristy; In fact, there are often few visitors in this service (most of them attend the Evensonng Choral, which is also magnificent). If the music is what you are looking for, plan to attend the Oxford coffee concertsheld every week in the Holywell music roomThe oldest concert hall in Europe. And bonus! Your ticket gives you the right to a free coffee in a coffee nearby.
Afternoon charm: city views, museums and tea
The afternoons in Oxford offer an endless charm to discover. Go up the tower St. Mary University Church For a 360-degree view of the city, so go next to the emblematic Radcliffe camera. Regarding museums, Ashmoléan was the first in Great Britain and won its award-winning status daily with its great architecture and its captivating exhibitions. If afternoon tea is on your list, visit the Rose OxfordTHE Large coffeeOr Coffee Coffee. A bookstore and / or a pub tour also offers a city visit in itself! Finish with a bottle of wine in Thirst meeplesA tiny coffee filled with thousands of board games, or The perchA picturesque pub and garden riverside just outside the city center.
Evening in Oxford: soaked in pubs
For evening dinner or drinks, enter the popular Kings ArmsOxford's oldest advertising and a main student hideout. Wander a little; Oxford is beautiful at night. Bathe in a tiny passage nearby to discover Lawn tavernHistorical interior / exterior ad. Finish your night at The university club (Although an entire afternoon spent on this roof bar, with its extensive views of Oxford, is also well spent time).
Something we missed? Comment below to help all future Oxford travelers among us to enjoy their trips!
Bre Arends aims to be a catalyst: deep and authentic connections, new and prismatic perspectives, and, always, drawing beauty and light.
