Visit Oxford - the UK’s intellectual home

Oxford may be best known for its prestigious university, but there are more reasons to visit this charming city in South-East England than just academics. Known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires' due to its distinctive architecture, Oxford is a picturesque destination to visit at all times of the year, while heading out into the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside offers the perfect insight into England's green and pleasant land.



The Oxford Botanic Garden is one of the best in the UK, as well as the oldest. In addition to collecting many fascinating examples of flora from around the world, the garden is also notable for its bog garden and rock garden, showing many different sides of the city. You should also consider spending some time walking by the city's impressive and scenic rivers during your stay in Oxford.



There are many sights to see on a tour of Oxford, from spiritual sanctuaries to verdant gardens. The St Mary Virgin Church is famous for its gargoyles, while some of the city's most famous landmarks date back far into English history - most notably Carfax Tower, built in the 13th century and still standing today.

If it's history that draws you to Oxford, you'll find a wealth of information at the Ashmolean Museum, the first museum officially dedicated to the British Empire and covering its history both at home and overseas. In addition to English historical artefacts, the museum boasts impressive collections of Ancient Egyptian and Roman art and antiquities, making it an essential destination for history buffs.



There's more art to be found in The Radcliffe Camera, a modern library facility that houses a number of ancient artworks as well as significant works of literature. Bookworms won't have to travel too far in Oxford to come across famous libraries and book stores, with even the city's famous branch of Blackwell's Books being an attraction itself.



Of course, Oxford is best known internationally as the home of Oxford University, and many of its remarkable and inspiring halls and other buildings can be explored at your leisure - whether you're visiting family or just drawn to such a prestigious centre of learning. If you're travelling from London to Oxford by train for a weekend break, you may even have the option to spend a night in an Oxford University room, allowing you to soak up the historical and intellectual ambience of this world-famous institution.