Oxford is a city that feels like stepping back in time. With its stunning architecture, world-renowned university, and rich literary and cinematic history, it is one of the most fascinating places to explore in England. I may be biased because I have lived here, but I truly believe Oxford is one of the most magical cities in the world.
I'm very biased because I lived in Oxford and it's truly one of the BEST places. Just an hour from London and very close to other incredible places like the Cotswolds, Bath and so much more.
Oxford is a great destination for a day trip, but if you really want to experience its charm, history, and hidden gems, spending at least three days is ideal. This guide provides a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your visit, including must-see sights, the best food spots, and special locations tied to literary greats and famous films.
Table of contents
- Know Before You Go
- Top 15 Things to Do in Oxford
- Harry Potter Filming Locations in Oxford
- The Best Tours of Oxford
- A One-Day Itinerary for Oxford
- Where to Eat and Drink in Oxford: The Best Restaurants, Cafés, and Pubs
- Where to Have Afternoon Tea in Oxford
- A Brief History of Oxford’s Colleges & The Best Ones to Visit
- How to Get from London to Oxford
Know Before You Go
Oxford is extremely walkable—in fact, I’d argue that walking is the best way to explore the city. But there are a few things to keep in mind before you visit:
Oxford is less than an hour from London. If you’re taking the train, it’s a super easy ride, and once you arrive, you can explore everything on foot.
Oxford University is NOT one big campus. It’s made up of 39 individual colleges scattered throughout the city. Each one has different opening hours and entrance fees, so if you want to visit a specific one, check ahead.
Punting is a must. If the weather is nice, don’t miss out on punting (think gondola-style boating, but with a long stick instead of a paddle). You can rent a punt yourself or take a guided ride.
Oxford has an insane literary history. If you’re a book lover, you’ll geek out over the city’s connection to Lewis Carroll, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and even Shakespeare.
Harry Potter fans, rejoice. Several scenes from the movies were filmed in Oxford, including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College. See all the Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford here.
Top 15 Things to Do in Oxford
Oxford is one of the most historic and beautiful cities in England, known for its world-famous university, stunning architecture, literary connections, and rich history. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, here are the top 15 things to do in Oxford to make the most of your trip.
1. Explore the Bodleian Library
One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is a must-visit for book lovers and history buffs. Established in 1602, it houses over 13 million books and is a working library for Oxford University students. Take a tour to see Duke Humphrey’s Library (the inspiration for Hogwarts’ Restricted Section) and the stunning Divinity School, a filming location for Harry Potter.
📍 Location: Broad Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Around £5 for a basic tour
2. Visit Radcliffe Camera
One of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, Radcliffe Camera is the most photographed building in the city. This circular library, built in 1749, is part of the Bodleian Library system and can only be visited on a guided tour. Even if you don’t go inside, Radcliffe Square is a beautiful spot to explore and take in the atmosphere of Oxford’s historic center.
📍 Location: Radcliffe Square, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Guided tour only
3. Climb St. Mary’s Church Tower for the Best View in Oxford
For breathtaking panoramic views of Oxford, climb the Church of St. Mary the Virgin. The narrow staircase leads to one of the best viewpoints in the city, where you can see Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and the dreaming spires of Oxford.
📍 Location: High Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Around £5
4. Take a Tour of Christ Church College
One of the most famous colleges in Oxford, Christ Church is home to the Great Hall that inspired the Hogwarts dining hall in Harry Potter. The Bodley Staircase, used in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, is another highlight. The college’s stunning cathedral and expansive meadows make this a must-visit.
📍 Location: St. Aldate’s, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: £16 per person
5. Go Punting on the River Cherwell
A classic Oxford experience, punting involves steering a flat-bottomed boat with a long pole along the River Cherwell. You can rent a punt and try it yourself or book a guided punting tour. The best spots for punting are Magdalen Bridge Boathouse and Cherwell Boathouse.
📍 Location: Various boathouses along the river
🎟️ Cost: Around £25 per hour for a self-hire punt
6. Visit Magdalen College and its Deer Park
One of the most beautiful colleges in Oxford, Magdalen College is known for its stunning cloisters, chapel, and gardens. It also has a deer park, where a herd of deer has been roaming for centuries. C.S. Lewis taught here, and the college’s peaceful riverside setting makes it a great place to explore.
📍 Location: High Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Around £9 per person
7. Wander Around the Covered Market
The Oxford Covered Market is a great place to stop for food, coffee, and unique local shops. Dating back to 1774, it’s home to independent vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade gifts. Stop by Ben’s Cookies, Pieminister, or Souvlaki Brothers for a great meal.
📍 Location: Market Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Free entry
8. Discover the History of All Souls College
One of Oxford’s most exclusive colleges, All Souls College is famous for its extremely selective entrance exam. The courtyard and chapel are open to visitors, and it’s worth a stop to admire the architecture. Christopher Wren, the architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, studied here.
📍 Location: Radcliffe Square, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Free
9. Take a Literary Walking Tour
Oxford has been home to famous writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll. A literary walking tour will take you to The Eagle and Child pub (where Tolkien and Lewis met), Alice’s Shop (from Alice in Wonderland), and the inspirations for Narnia.
📍 Location: Various tour providers
🎟️ Cost: Around £20 per person
10. Visit the Ashmolean Museum
Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean is Britain’s first public museum and houses art, archaeology, and historical artifacts. Highlights include ancient Egyptian mummies, Greek and Roman sculptures, and Renaissance paintings.
📍 Location: Beaumont Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Free
11. Have Afternoon Tea at The Randolph Hotel
A visit to Oxford isn’t complete without afternoon tea. The best place for a classic English tea experience is The Alice at The Randolph Hotel, a luxurious five-star hotel. Enjoy finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delicate pastries in an elegant setting.
📍 Location: Beaumont Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Around £40 per person
12. Visit Blenheim Palace
Located just 20 minutes from Oxford, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO-listed estate and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The palace features stunning Baroque architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and extensive walking trails. Many films and TV series, including James Bond and Harry Potter, have been filmed here.
📍 Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire
🎟️ Cost: Around £30 per person
13. Explore the Sheldonian Theatre
Designed by Christopher Wren, the Sheldonian Theatre is one of Oxford’s most unique architectural landmarks. It is used for Oxford University ceremonies and offers great views from its upper galleries. P.S. wren designed St. Paul's Cathedral in London AND went to All Soul's College.
📍 Location: Broad Street, Oxford
🎟️ Cost: Around £3 per person
14. Drink at an Historic Pub
Oxford has several historic pubs, each with its own story. Some of the best include:
- The Turf Tavern – A hidden pub where lots of famous people have hung out!
- The King’s Arms – A pub with a Shakespearean history.
- The Bear Inn – The oldest pub in Oxford, dating back to the 13th century.
📍 Location: Various locations
🎟️ Cost: Free entry, pay for drinks
15. Take a Harry Potter Tour
Oxford is full of Harry Potter filming locations. Join a guided tour to visit places like:
- Bodleian Library (Divinity School) – Hogwarts infirmary
- Christ Church College – The staircase and dining hall
- New College Cloisters – The courtyard from Goblet of Fire
📍 Location: Various tour providers / Harry Potter tour
🎟️ Cost: Around £25 per person
Harry Potter Filming Locations in Oxford
Oxford is one of the most magical places in England for Harry Potter fans, as several of its historic buildings were used as filming locations for the movies. The Bodleian Library's Divinity School served as Hogwarts' infirmary, where scenes of students recovering from magical mishaps were filmed.
Inside the Duke Humphrey’s Library, the high-ceilinged medieval reading room was transformed into the Restricted Section of the Hogwarts Library, where Harry sneaks in under his Invisibility Cloak. Christ Church College is home to the Bodley Staircase, where Professor McGonagall first welcomes Harry and the other first-years to Hogwarts in The Sorcerer’s Stone.
The Great Hall at Christ Church also served as the inspiration for Hogwarts’ dining hall. New College Cloisters was the filming location for the courtyard where Draco Malfoy is turned into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody in The Goblet of Fire. Whether you explore these sites on your own or join a Harry Potter walking tour, Oxford offers a magical glimpse into the wizarding world.
The Best Tours of Oxford
The best way to see Oxford? Take a tour. Here are some recommendations! All of these I’ve personally taken! Why take a tour? because there is SO much history and because they get you into the colleges (which you can’t always get in.).
History Tour with Alumni Guide
Oxford tour with access to Christ Church
Literary Tour of Oxford (C.S. Lewis and Tolkien) with access to Magdalen
Ghost Tour (great for later in the evening and usually doesn’t sell out)
Divinity School/ Duke Humphrey’s
A One-Day Itinerary for Oxford
If you only have one day in Oxford, here’s exactly how to make the most of it. This itinerary will take you through the city’s most famous landmarks, historic colleges, and hidden gems, ensuring you experience the best of Oxford in just one day.
Morning: Explore the Heart of Oxford
Start your day in the historic center of Oxford, home to some of the most iconic landmarks and literary treasures.
- Walk along Broad Street – Begin your journey on one of Oxford’s most historic streets, where you will find several of the city’s most notable attractions.
- Blackwell’s Bookshop – This legendary bookstore, where J.R.R. Tolkien first published, is a must-visit for book lovers.
- Radcliffe Camera & Radcliffe Square – One of the most photographed spots in Oxford, this circular library is a stunning example of 18th-century architecture.
- Vaults & Garden Café – Enjoy breakfast inside the oldest building in Oxford, a former church that now serves delicious locally sourced food.
- Climb St. Mary’s Church Tower – For the best panoramic views of Oxford, head up the church’s narrow spiral staircase.
- Bodleian Library & Divinity School – One of the oldest libraries in the world, home to rare books and manuscripts. The Divinity School, with its stunning Gothic architecture, was used as Hogwarts’ hospital wing in the Harry Potter films.
Midday: Colleges & Lunch
No visit to Oxford is complete without exploring at least one of its historic colleges.
- Tour a College – Choose one of Oxford’s beautiful colleges to explore:
- Magdalen College – Features a deer park and is where C.S. Lewis taught.
- Christ Church College – The most famous college in Oxford, home to several Harry Potter filming locations, including the Great Hall, which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall. (£16 entry)
After your college tour, stop for lunch at The Covered Market, a historic market filled with excellent food stalls. Some top choices include:
- Souvlaki Brothers – Authentic Greek street food.
- Pieminister – Traditional British pies.
- Ben’s Cookies – A well-loved spot for freshly baked cookies.
If you want a mid-day pint, visit one of Oxford’s historic pubs:
- King’s Arms – One of Oxford’s oldest pubs, where Shakespeare once performed.
- Turf Tavern – A hidden pub with a great garden, famously known as the place where Bill Clinton “did not inhale.”
Afternoon: Punting & Hidden Gems
Spend your afternoon experiencing Oxford’s quieter, more scenic side.
- Punting on the River Cherwell – Rent a punt (a flat-bottomed boat) and try steering it yourself or hire a guide for a relaxing ride.
- All Souls College – One of the most exclusive colleges in the world, known for its selective admissions process. Christopher Wren, the architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral, studied here.
- Sheldonian Theatre – Designed by Christopher Wren, this historic venue hosts classical concerts and special events.
- New College Cloisters – One of Oxford’s oldest colleges and a Harry Potter filming location.
- Blenheim Palace (if you have time) – Located just outside Oxford, this UNESCO-listed palace is the birthplace of Winston Churchill and one of the most stunning estates in England.
Evening: Dining & Nightlife
End your day with dinner at one of Oxford’s top restaurants, followed by a drink at a traditional pub.
Bbuona – Authentic Italian pizza, made with ingredients flown in from Italy.
The Perch – A charming riverside pub with a large beer garden.
No. 1 Ship Street – A refined restaurant with excellent seasonal dishes.
Quod – A stylish restaurant known for its modern British cuisine and elegant setting.
Old Delhi – Some of the best Indian food in Oxford.
Where to Eat and Drink in Oxford: The Best Restaurants, Cafés, and Pubs
Oxford is packed with great restaurants, historic pubs, charming cafés, and high-end dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy brunch spot, a traditional British pub, or a Michelin-starred meal, this guide will help you find the best places to eat in Oxford.
The Best Pubs in Oxford
Oxford’s pubs are steeped in history—some have been around for centuries, and a few even have ties to Shakespeare, C.S. Lewis, and Bill Clinton.
- King’s Arms – One of the oldest pubs in Oxford, this cozy spot is known as a Shakespearean pub, as it was once frequented by actors and playwrights.
- Turf Tavern – A historic, hidden pub famous for its outdoor beer garden and as the place where Bill Clinton “did not inhale”.
- The Perch – A picturesque riverside pub just outside the city center, perfect for a lazy afternoon drink in their beautiful beer garden.
- Bear Inn – The oldest pub in Oxford, dating back to the 13th century, with a collection of old ties hanging from the ceiling.
- Chequers – A traditional pub tucked away in a hidden alley, offering great drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
- The Rose & Crown – A local favorite, this pub is small, charming, and serves well-poured pints.
- Jude the Obscure – Named after Thomas Hardy’s novel, this pub is a great place to enjoy a pint and relax in Jericho, one of Oxford’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Best Restaurants in Oxford
Oxford’s food scene is a mix of casual eateries, fine dining, and international flavors. Here are the top spots to eat.
Casual Restaurants
Perfect for a relaxed meal, quick bite, or a cozy atmosphere.
- Thaikhun – One of the best places for Thai food in Oxford, with a fun, lively atmosphere.
- Bbuona – Authentic Neapolitan pizza, with ingredients flown in from Italy.
- Glut – A great burger spot known for its high-quality ingredients and indulgent toppings.
- Old Delhi – A must-visit for incredible Indian food, with rich, flavorful curries.
- The Folly – A riverside restaurant with modern British dishes and beautiful views.
High-End Restaurants
For those looking for a fine dining experience, Oxford has several top-tier restaurants.
- Quod – An elegant, upscale restaurant known for its modern British cuisine in a stunning setting.
- No. 1 Ship Street – Elevated dining with fantastic seafood and steak options, plus an amazing cocktail menu.
- Cherwell Boathouse – Located right on the river, this fine dining spot is perfect for a romantic meal.
- Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – One of the best restaurants in England, located just outside Oxford, with two Michelin stars and a menu designed by Raymond Blanc.
- The Alice – A stylish restaurant located inside the Randolph Hotel, offering refined British cuisine.
- Pompette – A chic, French-inspired restaurant in North Oxford, perfect for a special night out.
Best Cafés and Coffee Shops in Oxford
If you’re looking for a cozy café to grab coffee, tea, or a light bite, Oxford has plenty of fantastic spots.
- Grand Café – Known as the first coffee house in England, this historic spot is great for afternoon tea.
- The Missing Bean – One of the best independent coffee shops in Oxford, known for its strong espresso and relaxed vibe.
- Vaults & Garden – A charming café inside St. Mary’s Church, serving organic, locally sourced food with views of Radcliffe Camera.
- Gail’s Bakery – A chain, but worth visiting for its incredible pastries and coffee.
- Jericho Traders – A cozy spot in Jericho, perfect for coffee lovers and those looking for a quiet place to work.
Where to Have Afternoon Tea in Oxford
Afternoon tea is a quintessential British experience, and Oxford has plenty of beautiful tea rooms, historic hotels, and even grand palaces that serve an excellent selection of scones, sandwiches, and pastries alongside a perfect pot of tea. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious setting, a historic tea house, or a charming café, here are the best places for afternoon tea in Oxford.
1. The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels
Best for: A classic and luxurious afternoon tea experience.
The Randolph Hotel offers one of the most famous afternoon teas in Oxford, served in its elegant Drawing Room. The setting is grand and traditional, with chandeliers, plush seating, and impeccable service. Their afternoon tea menu includes delicate finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries and cakes. You can also upgrade to a champagne afternoon tea if you want to make it extra special.
- Location: The Randolph Hotel, Beaumont Street, Oxford
- Price: Around £40 per person for traditional afternoon tea
- Perfect for: A luxurious and traditional Oxford experience
2. The Grand Café
Best for: Afternoon tea in England’s first coffee house.
If you love historic locations, afternoon tea at The Grand Café is a must. This elegant tea room is believed to be England’s first coffee house, dating back to 1650. The gold-gilded interior, marble tables, and classic Oxford charm make it a fantastic place to experience a traditional afternoon tea with a historical twist. Their menu includes scones, clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and an extensive tea selection.
- Location: 84 High Street, Oxford
- Price: Around £25 per person for traditional afternoon tea
- Perfect for: History lovers and those wanting a charming, old-world setting
3. Vaults & Garden
Best for: Afternoon tea with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
For a relaxed and picturesque afternoon tea, Vaults & Garden is a local favorite. Located inside the oldest building in Oxford, St. Mary’s Church, this cozy café overlooks the stunning Radcliffe Camera. Their afternoon tea menu features homemade scones, cakes, and an assortment of teas, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Location: St. Mary’s Church, Radcliffe Square, Oxford
- Price: Around £15 per person for a cream tea
- Perfect for: A laid-back afternoon tea with amazing views
4. Blenheim Palace Afternoon Tea
Best for: A grand afternoon tea in a UNESCO-listed palace.
If you want a truly luxurious and unforgettable afternoon tea, head to Blenheim Palace, just 20 minutes outside of Oxford. The Orangery Restaurant at Blenheim Palace serves a grand afternoon tea with stunning views over the palace gardens. Expect classic finger sandwiches, beautifully crafted pastries, homemade scones, and a wide selection of fine teas. This is the ultimate Oxfordshire afternoon tea experience and a perfect way to relax after exploring the palace.
- Location: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock (20 minutes from Oxford)
- Price: Around £35–£45 per person for traditional afternoon tea
- Perfect for: A special occasion or a day trip from Oxford
5. The Rose & Crown
Best for: A charming, traditional British tea experience.
For a more casual afternoon tea experience, The Rose & Crown offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a great selection of teas, homemade cakes, and freshly baked scones. While it is technically a pub, they serve a delightful afternoon tea with a cozy and welcoming ambiance.
- Location: North Parade Avenue, Oxford
- Price: Around £15 per person for a cream tea
- Perfect for: A casual afternoon tea in a cozy setting
6. The Folly
Best for: Afternoon tea by the river.
If you prefer a riverside setting, The Folly offers a scenic afternoon tea experience right along the River Thames. You can even combine your tea with a river cruise, making it one of the most unique afternoon tea experiences in Oxford. Their menu includes finger sandwiches, sweet treats, and specialty teas, with an option to add prosecco for a sparkling afternoon.
- Location: Folly Bridge, Oxford
- Price: Around £30 per person for traditional afternoon tea
- Perfect for: A scenic and peaceful afternoon tea experience
Oxford Eats: Beyond the City Center
If you have time to venture outside of central Oxford, here are some must-visit spots:
Cotswolds – One of the most idyllic countryside destinations in England, known for its quaint villages, beautiful tea rooms, and cozy country pubs.
Blenheim Palace – Only 20 minutes from Oxford, this UNESCO-listed palace is the birthplace of Winston Churchill and has several great dining options inside its stunning estate.
A Brief History of Oxford’s Colleges & The Best Ones to Visit
Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, dating back to the 12th century. Unlike modern universities with a single campus, Oxford is made up of 39 independent colleges, each with its own history, traditions, and stunning architecture. Many of these colleges were founded by medieval kings, wealthy benefactors, and religious institutions, making them centuries-old centers of learning, debate, and academic excellence. Over the years, Oxford has produced world leaders, famous writers, scientists, and influential thinkers, from Sir Christopher Wren and C.S. Lewis to J.R.R. Tolkien and Stephen Hawking.
The Best Oxford Colleges to Visit
While many of Oxford’s colleges are open to visitors, some are particularly stunning and historically significant. Here are the top colleges to explore:
1. Christ Church College
- Why visit? One of the most famous colleges in Oxford, Christ Church is home to the Great Hall that inspired Hogwarts’ dining hall in Harry Potter. It also has a grand cathedral, beautiful meadows, and historic architecture.
- Notable Alumni: 13 British Prime Ministers, Lewis Carroll (Alice in Wonderland).
- Entry Fee: £16 per person.
2. Magdalen College
- Why visit? One of the most picturesque colleges, Magdalen College features a stunning cloister, chapel, and a deer park, where a herd of deer has lived for centuries. C.S. Lewis taught here, and it is a peaceful place to walk along the river.
- Notable Alumni: Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis.
- Entry Fee: Around £9 per person.
3. All Souls College
- Why visit? One of the most exclusive colleges in Oxford, known for its incredibly difficult entrance exam. The architecture, including Codrington Library, is breathtaking.
- Notable Alumni: Christopher Wren (architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral), T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia).
- Entry Fee: Free.
4. New College
- Why visit? One of the oldest colleges in Oxford, New College has stunning gardens, a medieval chapel, and a cloister that was a filming location for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
- Notable Alumni: Hugh Grant, William Hague.
- Entry Fee: Around £8 per person.
5. Exeter College
- Why visit? A hidden gem, Exeter College has beautiful gardens, a grand chapel, and a quiet courtyard, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of Oxford. It was also J.R.R. Tolkien’s college.
- Notable Alumni: J.R.R. Tolkien, Philip Pullman.
- Entry Fee: Around £3 per person.
6. Merton College
- Why visit? One of the oldest colleges in Oxford, founded in 1264. The Merton Library is one of the oldest libraries in England, and the college has beautiful medieval architecture.
- Notable Alumni: T.S. Eliot, J.R.R. Tolkien.
- Entry Fee: Around £5 per person.
7. Balliol College
- Why visit? Known for its vibrant student life and political history, Balliol is one of Oxford’s oldest and most famous colleges, with a beautiful quad and historic chapel.
- Notable Alumni: Boris Johnson, Adam Smith (father of modern economics).
- Entry Fee: Around £3 per person.
8. Keble College
Entry Fee: Free or a small donation.
Why visit? If you’re looking for something different, Keble College is known for its distinctive red-brick architecture, unlike the usual stone buildings of Oxford. It also houses The Light of the World painting by William Holman Hunt.
How to Get from London to Oxford
The easiest way to get to Oxford from London is by train, which is both fast and convenient.
From London Paddington to Oxford
- Train Service: Great Western Railway (GWR)
- Duration: About 1 hour
- Frequency: Trains depart every 30 minutes
- Tickets: Available at the station, online through the GWR website, or via train ticketing apps
- Advantages: Fast and direct, avoids London traffic
From London Marylebone to Oxford
Advantages: A great alternative to GWR, often less crowded
Train Service: Chiltern Railways
Duration: About 1 hour and 10 minutes
Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Tickets: Available at the station, online, or via train ticketing apps
Where to Stay in Oxford: The Best Hotels for Every Budget
Oxford is a city that blends historic charm with modern comforts, and whether you're looking for a luxury stay in a historic hotel, a boutique experience, or a budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone. Here are the best hotels in Oxford, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
Luxury Hotels in Oxford
If you're looking for a high-end stay with world-class service, historic charm, and prime locations, these luxury hotels are the best choices.
The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels
Best for: A classic Oxford experience with historic charm and modern luxury.
One of the most famous and elegant hotels in Oxford, The Randolph is centrally located, directly across from the Ashmolean Museum. The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1864, with its Victorian Gothic architecture, luxurious interiors, and a five-star service experience. The Alice Restaurant inside the hotel serves fantastic British cuisine, and the Morse Bar (named after the famous Oxford detective series) is perfect for a nightcap.
Old Bank Hotel
Best for: A stylish boutique stay in the heart of Oxford.
Located right on High Street, the Old Bank Hotel is one of the most stylish boutique hotels in Oxford. With modern, art-filled rooms and views over Radcliffe Camera and the University Colleges, this hotel is ideal for visitors who want to be in the center of everything. It also has one of Oxford’s best restaurants, Quod, serving up contemporary British cuisine in a stunning setting.
Old Parsonage Hotel
Best for: A cozy and historic boutique hotel with a traditional feel.
This 17th-century building has been transformed into a beautiful boutique hotel that blends classic charm with modern amenities. It’s a favorite among writers and artists, with cozy fireplaces, an excellent library, and luxurious touches throughout. The Parsonage Grill, located in the hotel, is also a fantastic place for afternoon tea or an intimate dinner.
Mid-Range Hotels in Oxford
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish stay without the luxury price tag, these mid-range hotels offer excellent value and great locations.
Malmaison Oxford
Best for: A unique stay in a converted historic prison.
If you want to stay somewhere completely unique, Malmaison Oxford is set inside a former Victorian prison. The hotel has transformed old prison cells into luxury rooms with a stylish, contemporary design, making it one of the most unforgettable stays in Oxford. Located near Oxford Castle, this hotel is just a short walk from the city center.
The Vanbrugh House Hotel
Best for: A boutique experience with a central location.
A beautiful boutique hotel just steps from Oxford’s main attractions, Vanbrugh House Hotel is known for its personalized service, charming rooms, and a historic-meets-modern aesthetic. It’s a great choice for those who want a hotel with character, but at a more affordable price than the luxury stays.
Budget-Friendly Hotels & B&Bs in Oxford
Oxford can be an expensive city, but there are still plenty of affordable places to stay that offer comfort and convenience.
Ethos Hotel
Best for: A budget-friendly stay with modern rooms.
Located just a short walk from Christ Church College, Ethos Hotel offers affordable, modern rooms with great amenities. Some rooms even have kitchenettes, making it a great option for longer stays.
YHA Oxford
Best for: Budget travelers and backpackers.
For those looking for a budget-friendly hostel, YHA Oxford is one of the best options in the city. Located near Oxford Train Station, it offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms.
University College Accommodations
Best for: A unique and affordable way to stay in an actual Oxford College.
During the summer months, many of Oxford’s colleges rent out student rooms to visitors. This is a great budget-friendly way to experience life as an Oxford student while staying in a historic setting. Some colleges offering accommodations include Magdalen College, Keble College, and St. Anne’s College.
Countryside Stays Near Oxford
If you want to experience a peaceful retreat outside the city, these countryside hotels offer relaxation, stunning scenery, and a traditional English experience.
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Best for: A once-in-a-lifetime luxury stay with world-renowned dining.
Located just outside Oxford, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is one of the best luxury hotels in England, known for its Michelin-starred restaurant by Raymond Blanc. If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay with impeccable service, beautiful gardens, and world-class cuisine, this is the place.
The Trout Inn
Best for: A cozy riverside stay in a historic inn.
Located just outside of Oxford, The Trout Inn is a beautiful country pub with cozy guest rooms. With a riverside setting and a relaxed atmosphere, this is a great place to stay if you want to be close to Oxford but away from the crowds.
