Top reasons to visit Oxford
- Historic Landmarks: Discover iconic sites such as the University of Oxford, with its stunning architecture and rich academic heritage.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy performances at the Oxford Playhouse and explore renowned museums like the Ashmolean.
- Picturesque Countryside: Venture into the charming Oxfordshire countryside for scenic walks and relaxation.
- Vibrant City Life: Experience the lively atmosphere of central Oxford, filled with delightful shops and friendly locals.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of stays, including budget-friendly hostels and luxurious hotels.
Find great hotels in Oxford
Oxford offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly environment, a pet-friendly stay, or an LGBTQIA-welcoming atmosphere, you'll find plenty of choices. Notable options include the Royal Oxford Hotel and other top-rated establishments, ensuring that every traveller can enjoy a comfortable and memorable visit to this historic city.
- Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford: This 4-star hotel offers a contemporary and eco-friendly experience, ideal for business travellers and those with a keen interest in sustainability. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford features modern amenities and a commitment to eco-certification, making it a suitable choice for environmentally conscious visitors. The hotel boasts a range of facilities, including a relaxing spa, fitness centre, and on-site dining options that cater to varied tastes. Its convenient location allows easy access to Oxford's cultural landmarks, enhancing your stay with both comfort and convenience.
- Ramada by Wyndham Oxford: This family-friendly 3-star hotel is a welcoming retreat for those travelling with children and pets. With a reputation for providing family-oriented amenities, the Ramada by Wyndham Oxford ensures younger guests have a delightful experience with child-friendly services, including breakfast options. The hotel permits pets, making it an excellent choice for animal lovers. The property features comfortable accommodations alongside essential facilities, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere for families. Its prime location in Oxford makes it easy to explore local attractions, providing a homey base for your adventures.
- The Randolph Hotel Oxford, a Graduate by Hilton: As a prestigious 5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, The Randolph Hotel Oxford, a Graduate by Hilton, is a luxurious destination for those seeking adventure and sophistication. This hotel caters to families and pet owners, offering various outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and rafting nearby. The elegant accommodations are complemented by amenities for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for all ages. With its rich history and central location, this hotel is perfect for immersing yourself in the charm of Oxford, making every moment of your visit memorable.
Where to stay in and around Oxford
Oxford offers a delightful blend of history and culture, perfect for families and city enthusiasts alike. Explore the charming Oxford city centre, where historic architecture meets modern amenities. Venture into the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside for a relaxing escape, or discover the vibrant atmosphere of central Oxford with its friendly locals. With a range of budget-friendly hotels and inviting neighbourhoods, your stay in Oxford promises a memorable experience filled with urban and historical vibes.
- Oxford City Centre: The heart of Oxford, this vibrant neighbourhood is steeped in history and culture, surrounded by the stunning architecture of its renowned university. Visitors can enjoy a bustling atmosphere filled with shops, cafés, and museums. The area is particularly lively during the summer months, with a plethora of cultural events and festivals. Highlights include the historic colleges, the iconic Radcliffe Camera, and the charming streets that invite leisurely strolls. With excellent transport links, it's an ideal base for exploring the rest of the city and beyond.
- Abingdon: Located a mere 10km from Oxford, Abingdon is a charming market town with a rich history. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a delightful mix of culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the town's historic sites, including the magnificent Abingdon Abbey and the picturesque riverside. The local shopping centre provides a range of retail options, making it a convenient stop for families. Abingdon's welcoming community and scenic parks make it a lovely place to unwind and enjoy a slower pace.
- Bicester: Just 18km from Oxford, Bicester is a bustling city known for its shopping and business opportunities. Its popular shopping centres, including the famous Bicester Village outlet, attract visitors looking for designer bargains. The city also offers a variety of family-friendly activities and motor racing options nearby for thrill-seekers. With historical landmarks like the Bicester Heritage site and beautiful parks, Bicester strikes a balance between modern conveniences and traditional charm, making it a must-visit on your Oxford adventure.
Things to do near Oxford
Shopping
In the heart of Oxford, the Westgate Centre offers a variety of shops, from high street brands to unique boutiques. If you're up for a drive, Bicester Village, a designer outlet, is just a short journey away, showcasing luxury brands at discounted prices.
Recreation
At The Oxford Centre for Mindfulness, engage in mindfulness practices that promote mental well-being. Experience rejuvenation at the Bodleian Library’s tranquil gardens, ideal for peaceful reflection. For a unique experience, visit the Oxford Spa for revitalising treatments amid elegant surroundings, enhancing both relaxation and self-care.
Adventure
At Silverstone Circuit, 39km from Oxford, you can experience the thrill of motor racing with exciting events and driving experiences that capture the essence of speed and precision. Meanwhile, High Ropes Oxford, located 11km away, offers an exhilarating zipline ropes course set in a beautiful outdoor environment.
Nightlife
In Oxford, the O2 Academy hosts lively gigs and club nights, while the Jericho Tavern offers a charming pub atmosphere with local music. For a more relaxed vibe, head to The Bear Inn, where you can enjoy traditional ales in a historic setting.
*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 drop. Enjoy free attractions like the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum, and opt for walking or cycling to navigate the city affordably. Book your stay on a Monday for the best rates, and use Expedia to compare hotel prices and find package deals that include flights and activities, ensuring you get the best value for your trip.
- 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 choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences with ease. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Oxford hotel reservation 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 wealth of attractions such as historic churches, museums, and palaces. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy performances at the Oxford Playhouse, and immerse themselves in the rich history of the city. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Oxford and the heart of Oxfordshire provide endless opportunities for discovery and enjoyment.
- Christ Church College: Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of Christ Church College, one of the oldest colleges in Oxford. Famous for its impressive dining hall, which inspired the Great Hall in the Harry Potter films, this college offers a unique blend of educational heritage and spiritual ambience.
- Bodleian Library: Explore the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, renowned for its vast collection of books and manuscripts. The stunning architecture and serene reading rooms provide a perfect setting for bibliophiles and families alike to delve into the world of literature and learning.
- Blenheim Palace: Visit Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 13km from Oxford. This grand historic palace, surrounded by magnificent gardens, is the birthplace of Winston Churchill and offers a captivating glimpse into British history and artistry.
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
Flying into Oxford is convenient with three major airports nearby. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 64km from Oxford, with luxurious hotel options like the Sofitel London Heathrow, 3km away, and Great Fosters, 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 101km from Oxford, featuring hotels such as Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8km away, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 5km away. Lastly, London Stansted (STN) is located 106km from Oxford, offering accommodations like The Linden Stansted, 5km away, and the Radisson Blu Hotel, a mere 322m from the airport. All hotels provide convenient transportation to their respective airports.