Ultimate Oxfordshire Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Dining & Accommodation

10 min read

Nestled in the heart of England, Oxfordshire offers a blend of rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cultural scenes. From the iconic spires of Oxford University to the charming villages dotting the countryside, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting county.

As we explore Oxfordshire, we’ll uncover hidden gems, must-visit attractions, and local favourites that make this region truly unique. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or foodie, our travel guide will help you make the most of your visit to this captivating corner of England. Let’s embark on this journey together and discover what makes Oxfordshire a destination worth exploring.

Key Takeaways

Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage: Oxfordshire is renowned for its historical landmarks, including Oxford University and Blenheim Palace, contributing to its cultural richness.
Picturesque Landscapes and Outdoor Activities: The county offers beautiful natural landscapes like the Chiltern Hills and the Cotswolds, perfect for hiking, walking trails, and boating on the River Thames.
Diverse and Quality Dining Options: From traditional pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, Oxfordshire caters to all palates with its variety of dining experiences.
Strong Transport Connectivity: Comprehensive transport links, including major roads, rail connections, and proximity to London Heathrow, make Oxfordshire easily accessible.
Wide Range of Accommodations: Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget-friendly stays, and cosy bed and breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable visit for all budgets.

Overview Of Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire, in South East England, is a county brimming with historical significance and natural beauty. It spans 2,605 square kilometres, making it a perfect mix of urban attractions and rural landscapes. Our county is bordered by Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, and Gloucestershire, providing easy access to a wealth of regional history and culture.

Key Features

Historic Oxford: As home to the University of Oxford, Oxford is the jewel in the county’s crown. The city offers architectural marvels, libraries, and museums.
Charming Villages: Villages such as Bibury, Burford, and Woodstock epitomise quintessential English charm, with their stone cottages and winding streets.
Natural Landscapes: The Chiltern Hills, part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer hiking trails and scenic views.
Market Towns: Towns like Abingdon and Banbury provide bustling markets, historic buildings, and unique local shops.
Rivers and Canals: The River Thames runs through Oxfordshire, complemented by numerous canals ideal for boating and waterside walks.

Economy and Employment

Oxfordshire’s economy is diverse, with strengths in education, research, and manufacturing. The University of Oxford, along with Oxford Brookes University, plays a significant role in education and research. Additionally, the county is home to science parks such as Harwell and Culham, contributing to research and innovation.

The manufacturing sector is robust, including automotive and technology companies. Renault F1 Team and Williams Grand Prix Engineering base their operations here, highlighting the county’s automotive prominence. The publishing industry, represented by Oxford University Press, is also notable.

Transportation and Connectivity

Oxfordshire benefits from comprehensive transport links:

Roads: Major roads include the M40, A34, and A40, facilitating travel to London, Birmingham, and other major cities.
Rail: The railway connects Oxfordshire to London Paddington, Birmingham, and Manchester, with key stations in Oxford, Banbury, and Didcot.
Air: London Heathrow is the nearest major airport, 45 minutes from central Oxford.

Oxfordshire is a blend of historical landmarks, idyllic countryside, and vibrant towns. With strong transportation links, it’s an accessible and diverse region worth exploring.

Top Attractions In Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire offers visitors a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. We’ll explore some must-see locations.

Oxford University

Oxford University stands as a symbol of academic excellence. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s one of the world’s oldest universities. Visitors can tour iconic colleges like Christ Church, known for its grand architecture and connections to “Harry Potter.” The Bodleian Library offers a glimpse into ancient manuscripts and historic collections. Ashmolean Museum, containing art and archaeology collections, further enriches the cultural experience.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases grand Baroque architecture and expansive gardens. Built in the early 18th century, it’s the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Visitors can explore the State Rooms, featuring collections of art, tapestries, and furniture. The landscaped parkland, designed by Capability Brown, invites leisurely walks. Seasonal events like the Flower Show and Christmas at Blenheim enhance the visit.

Cotswold Wildlife Park

Cotswold Wildlife Park offers a family-friendly experience with over 260 species of animals. Located near Burford, it’s set within 160 acres of beautiful gardens. Visitors can see endangered species like rhinos, big cats, and primates. The park’s adventure playground and narrow-gauge railway train appeal to children. The Walled Garden houses a variety of exotic plants and animals, adding a botanical element to the visit.

Outdoor Activities

Oxfordshire provides an array of outdoor activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in its breathtaking scenery and rich history. Here are some top picks for nature enthusiasts.

Walking And Hiking Trails

Oxfordshire boasts numerous walking and hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels. Popular routes include:

The Ridgeway National Trail: This 87-mile ancient path stretches from Wiltshire across the Chiltern Hills to the Goring Gap. It’s perfect for long-distance walkers and offers stunning hilltop views.
Thames Path: Following the curves of the River Thames, this trail is ideal for leisurely strolls and runs between Oxford and Abingdon. Major landmarks include the Iffley Lock and Folly Bridge.
South Oxfordshire Way: A 37-mile trail that runs through the Chiltern Hills and picturesque villages like Watlington and Goring. It’s perfect for countryside walking.

Boating On The Thames

Boating on the Thames offers a relaxing way to explore Oxfordshire’s riverside scenery. Options include:

Punting in Oxford: A quintessentially Oxford activity, punt down the River Cherwell or parts of the Thames. Boats can be hired from several spots, including Magdalen Bridge Boathouse.
Canal Boat Hire: For a more extended adventure, hire a narrowboat and navigate the Oxford Canal. These trips provide a novel way to see charming canal-side villages and peaceful countryside.
River Cruises: Choose from various cruise operators offering round trips from Oxford to Abingdon or longer routes to Henley-on-Thames. Key points of interest include Sandford Lock and Abingdon Weir.

Enjoying outdoor activities in Oxfordshire is not just about beautiful landscapes; it’s a chance to engage with the region’s rich heritage.

Best Places To Eat And Drink

Oxfordshire offers a rich array of dining options, from cosy traditional pubs to exquisite fine dining restaurants. Let’s explore some top picks across these categories.

Traditional Pubs

Oxfordshire’s traditional pubs provide not only hearty meals but also a sense of local history and community. Several well-established pubs have become landmarks in their right.

The Perch, Oxford: Situated close to the River Thames, The Perch combines history with a modern twist. Their Sunday roast, featuring locally sourced meats and seasonal vegetables, is a must-try.
The Eagle and Child, Oxford: Known for its literary heritage, as it was a favourite of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. The pub offers classic British dishes like fish and chips, along with a variety of ales.
The Trout Inn, Wolvercote: Overlooking the Thames, this pub offers spectacular views along with a diverse menu. Try their spiced lamb shank, served with rosemary mash.
The Fleece, Witney: A quintessential market town pub known for its warm ambiance and delectable gastro-pub fare. Popular dishes include steak and ale pie and sticky toffee pudding.

Fine Dining Restaurants

For those seeking a more refined culinary experience, Oxfordshire’s fine dining restaurants serve exceptional dishes using the finest local and international ingredients.

Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Great Milton: A two-Michelin-starred restaurant by Raymond Blanc. Guests can enjoy an exquisite tasting menu that blends French cuisine with British ingredients.
The Oxford Kitchen, Summertown: This Michelin-starred restaurant specialises in modern British cuisine. Highlights include their tasting menu with dishes like hand-dived scallops and venison loin.
The Nut Tree Inn, Murcott: Another Michelin-starred spot, offering innovative dishes like pigeon breast with roasted figs. The setting combines rustic charm with contemporary elegance.
The Black Boy, Headington: Offers a mix of classic and contemporary dishes. Recommended for its pan-fried sea bass and extensive wine list, making it suitable for special occasions.

Oxfordshire’s culinary scene provides a rich blend of tradition and modernity, ensuring every palate is catered for. From historic pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, the region’s dining options are as diverse as they are excellent.

Accommodation Options

Oxfordshire offers a wide array of accommodation to suit different tastes and budgets. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly stays, travellers will find plenty of choices to make their visit comfortable and memorable.

Luxury Hotels

Guests seeking ultimate comfort can opt for one of the many luxury hotels in Oxfordshire. The renowned Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Great Milton stands out, offering world-class amenities, a Michel Roux Jr. restaurant and beautifully landscaped gardens. The Old Bank Hotel in Oxford provides stylish, contemporary rooms within a historic setting, featuring artwork and a prime location close to key attractions. Eynsham Hall in Witney, set in a sprawling mansion, combines historic charm with modern luxury, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Travellers on a budget will find numerous affordable options without sacrificing comfort. Premier Inn and Travelodge offer dependable accommodation at multiple locations across Oxfordshire, like in Oxford City Centre and Abingdon, ensuring easy access to key sights. The YHA Oxford, located near the train station, provides an economical choice with shared and private rooms and social amenities for an extended stay. For a more unique and homely experience, several bed and breakfasts scatter through picturesque villages like Woodstock and Burford, providing an affordable way to enjoy local hospitality.

Getting Around Oxfordshire

Navigating Oxfordshire combines charm and convenience, offering a variety of transport options to explore its rich history and stunning scenery.

Public Transport

Oxfordshire boasts extensive public transport options, including buses and trains, which provide efficient travel links across the region. Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach operate frequent services within Oxford city and to surrounding towns (e.g., Abingdon, Banbury, and Witney), ensuring accessible routes for both locals and tourists. For rail travel, Great Western Railway and Chiltern Railways connect major towns with London and the Midlands, making it easy to explore further afield. For example, a direct train from Oxford to London Paddington takes about an hour.

Car Hire

Hiring a car offers flexibility to explore Oxfordshire at your own pace. Several car rental companies, such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis, have branches in Oxford and other key towns, providing a range of vehicles to suit different needs. Driving through the Cotswolds or the Chiltern Hills lets you discover picturesque villages and scenic routes not easily accessible by public transport. Parking facilities are widely available in towns, though it’s advisable to check for availability and fees, especially in popular tourist destinations like Oxford city centre.

Conclusion

Oxfordshire truly offers something for everyone. From the historic charm of Oxford University to the natural beauty of the Cotswolds and Chiltern Hills, the county is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you’re exploring charming villages, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in the vibrant culinary scene, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Accommodation options cater to all budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller. With excellent transport links, getting around is both easy and enjoyable. We hope this guide inspires you to visit Oxfordshire and discover its unique blend of history, nature, and culture.