Top reasons to visit Oxford
- Historic University: Oxford is home to the prestigious University of Oxford, offering stunning architecture and rich academic heritage to explore.
- Cultural Attractions: The city boasts numerous museums, including the Ashmolean and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.
- Charming Atmosphere: Experience the vibrant city centre and the serene beauty of the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside.
- Diverse Accommodation: Oxford provides a range of lodging options, from cosy hostels to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller’s needs.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy activities suitable for all ages, including exploring Oxford Castle and the Oxford Playhouse.
Find great hotels in Oxford
Explore a variety of hotel accommodation options in Oxford, where you can find everything from cosy hostels to upscale hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly stays, LGBTQIA+ welcoming environments, or business amenities, Oxford has something to suit every traveller's needs. Discover the Royal Oxford Hotel and read reviews to find the top hotels that will make your visit memorable.
- Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford: This eco-certified 4-star hotel is tailored for business travellers and those seeking a sustainable vacation. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford combines modern elegance with eco-friendly practices. Guests can enjoy contemporary amenities, including a well-equipped business centre and meeting facilities, ensuring productivity during their stay. The hotel also features a restaurant that focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, allowing visitors to indulge in a taste of Oxford while being environmentally conscious.
- Ramada by Wyndham Oxford: A family-oriented 3-star hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Oxford is perfect for those travelling with pets and children. With a welcoming atmosphere, this property offers amenities tailored for families, including kid-friendly dining options and services that cater to young guests. The hotel has a flexible pet policy, allowing furry companions for a fee. Its convenient location provides easy access to Oxford's attractions, making it a great base for family adventures while ensuring comfort for both parents and their children.
- The Randolph Hotel Oxford, a Graduate by Hilton: This luxurious 5-star hotel boasts a distinguished guest rating of 8.8 out of 10 and is ideal for those in search of adventure and relaxation. The Randolph Hotel offers a variety of recreational activities, from hiking and kayaking to nearby skydiving. Guests can unwind at the full-service spa, which features a sauna, manicures, and facial treatments. Family amenities, such as cribs available for a fee, make this hotel accommodating for visitors with children, ensuring a harmonious blend of excitement and relaxation during your stay in Oxford.
Where to stay in and around Oxford
Oxford, a historic city renowned for its prestigious university, offers a delightful blend of culture and urban charm. Families and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from the vibrant city centre to the serene Oxfordshire countryside. Visitors can enjoy friendly locals and a relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers. With a range of accommodation options in central Oxford, you’ll have the perfect base to discover this captivating region.
- Oxford City Centre: The heart of Oxford, this vibrant area boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Surrounded by the stunning architecture of the historic university, the City Centre is a hub for education, shopping, and cultural experiences. Visitors flock here for its iconic landmarks, including ancient colleges and monuments. The area is lively year-round, with peak travel in July to August and October, making it perfect for family outings and cultural explorations. Enjoy a stroll through its bustling shopping streets or unwind at charming cafés while soaking in the academic atmosphere.
- Abingdon: Just 9.7km from Oxford, Abingdon is a picturesque market town steeped in history. Renowned for its family-friendly environment, Abingdon offers a delightful mix of outdoor experiences and cultural attractions. The town is dotted with historical sites, including a majestic palace and various monuments. With peak visitor numbers in April, June, and September, it’s an ideal spot for a day trip. Explore its charming shopping centre and enjoy leisurely walks along the River Thames, making it a perfect escape from the bustling university city.
- Bicester: Located 17.7km from Oxford, Bicester is a thriving city known for its shopping and business opportunities. Families, city dwellers, and business travellers alike are drawn to its modern shopping mall and the excitement of motor racing events. With peak visits in April, July, and September, Bicester blends contemporary amenities with historical landmarks, including a notable stadium and historic palaces. This vibrant city offers a unique combination of leisure and commerce, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Oxford area.
Things to do near Oxford
Shopping
In the heart of Oxford, explore the charming Covered Market, featuring an array of local crafts and delicacies. If you're up for a drive, the Westgate Oxford shopping centre offers a mix of high-street brands and dining options, all in a modern setting.
Recreation
In Oxford, the Oxfordshire Health & Racquets Club offers a range of wellness facilities, including a tranquil spa and fitness classes. The De Vere Oxford Thames provides riverside relaxation with a spa and beautiful gardens, ideal for a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Silverstone Circuit, located 38.6km from Oxford, where you can feel the adrenaline rush of high-speed action. Alternatively, enjoy the excitement of High Ropes Oxford, a zipline ropes course set 11.3km away, offering an adventurous outdoor challenge amidst the treetops.
Nightlife
In Oxford, The O2 Academy hosts vibrant live music events, while The Jericho Tavern offers a relaxed atmosphere with local bands. For a lively pub scene, head to The Eagle and Child, known for its historic charm and friendly crowd, making for a memorable evening out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oxford
To save money during your visit to Oxford, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January and October to November, when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for free activities such as exploring the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum. For transport, walking, cycling, or using buses are economical choices. Book your hotel through Expedia, where you can filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Lastly, aim to book on a Monday, as Saturday is typically the most expensive day.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Oxford are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Oxford is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Oxford is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your selection by hotel category; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Oxford with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Oxford
Oxford is an ideal destination for family and culture-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as churches, history museums, and historic palaces. Visitors can enjoy exploring Oxford Castle, the Oxford Playhouse, and the renowned Oxford colleges, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Heart of Oxfordshire. This charming city provides ample opportunities for cultural enrichment and outdoor experiences that cater to all ages.
- Christ Church College: This magnificent college, part of the University of Oxford, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, which include the famous Christ Church Cathedral and the Great Hall, inspiration for the Harry Potter films, creating a magical atmosphere steeped in academic tradition.
- Blenheim Palace: Located a mere 12.9km from Oxford, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The palace boasts breathtaking gardens and opulent state rooms, offering insight into British history and aristocratic life.
- Carfax Tower: Standing at the heart of Oxford, Carfax Tower offers a unique vantage point of the city. Climb the narrow staircase for panoramic views of the surrounding architecture and bustling streets, allowing for a memorable snapshot of Oxford's vibrant atmosphere.
Best time to go to Oxford
The best time to visit Oxford is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Oxford
Accessing Oxford is convenient via several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated approximately 64.4km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, located 3.2km from the airport, and Fairmont Windsor Park, 11.3km away. London Gatwick (LGW), located 101.4km from Oxford, offers luxurious stays at Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8.0km away, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 4.8km distant. Lastly, London Stansted (STN), 106.2km from Oxford, features the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 322m from the airport. Each hotel provides convenient transportation services to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors.