Oxfordshire Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, local culture, food and drink, safety, and logistics in Oxfordshire, England.


Introduction to Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire is a beautiful county located in South East England. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historic venues. It is home to the world-renowned Oxford University and is dotted with charming towns and villages that exude traditional English charm. With its many attractions, Oxfordshire has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing retreat.

List of Places to Visit in Oxfordshire

The following is a list of must-visit attractions when in Oxfordshire:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
  • Blenheim Palace
  • Oxford Castle and Prison
  • The Bodleian Libraries
  • The Turf Tavern

Natural Attractions of Oxfordshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Cotswolds
  • White Horse Hill
  • Shotover Country Park
  • River Thames
  • Botanic Garden Oxford

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oxfordshire

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an amateur biker, Oxfordshire has many trails and routes that will take your breath away. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Oxfordshire:

  • The Ridgeway National Trail (87 miles)
  • The Oxfordshire Way (67 miles)
  • Chiltern Way (134 miles)
  • Phoenix Trail (5.5 miles)
  • Wittenham Clumps Walk (4 miles)

Best Things to Do in Oxfordshire: Activities and Tours

Here are the best activities and tours to experience in Oxfordshire:

  • Take a walking tour of Oxford University
  • Hot air balloon ride over Oxfordshire countryside
  • Oxford Castle and Prison Ghost Trail
  • Punting tour on the River Thames
  • Day trip to Blenheim Palace

Week-Long Itinerary for Oxfordshire

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long trip to Oxfordshire that covers the county’s must-see attractions:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive and explore the city of Oxford
Day 2 Visit the Ashmolean Museum, the Bodleian Library, and Oxford Castle and Prison
Day 3 Explore the Cotswolds and visit Blenheim Palace
Day 4 Take a hot air balloon ride
Day 5 Hiking at Ridgeway National Trail and visit Wallingford Castle
Day 6 Go on a punting tour on the River Thames
Day 7 Visit White Horse Hill and the Botanic Garden Oxford

Food and Drink Scene of Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire boasts a thriving food and drink scene, with many local specialties and artisanal products. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oxfordshire lamb roast
  • Banbury cake
  • Chipping Norton smoked bacon
  • Apple pie with clotted cream
  • Rose veal burger

Local Beverages

  • Hook Norton beer
  • Cotswold gin
  • Bignell’s cider
  • Oxford Artisan Distillery spirit
  • Vale of the White Horse wine

Where to Stay in Oxfordshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, Oxfordshire has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to stay in when visiting Oxfordshire:

  • The Old Bank Hotel
  • Malmaison Oxford
  • The Randolph Hotel
  • YHA Oxford
  • Cotswold Lodge Hotel

What to Buy in Oxfordshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Oxfordshire without bringing back some local souvenirs and products. Here are some great things to buy in Oxfordshire:

  • Cotswold lavender products
  • Burford Garden Company plants and garden accessories
  • Bampton Classical Opera recordings
  • Sinodun Hill Cheese
  • Comfrey Cottage herbal remedies

Local Culture and Customs of Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire has a rich and diverse culture, with a mix of traditional and modern customs. The people of Oxfordshire are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to behave with respect and courtesy while visiting the county.

Best Time to Visit Oxfordshire

The best time to visit Oxfordshire is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, spring and autumn are also great times to visit, as the countryside is beautiful with blooming flowers and colourful leaves.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oxfordshire

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Visit historical and cultural landmarks
  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Explore the countryside
  • Be polite and courteous to locals

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Be loud or boisterous in public places
  • Drink and drive
  • J-walk an thin road

Safety and Health

Safety in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire is a safe county with low crime rates. However, visitors should still exercise basic caution and common sense.

Health in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire has good medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Visitors are advised to get appropriate travel and health insurance before their trip.

Getting to Oxfordshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Oxfordshire is easily accessible from major UK cities via various transportation options. Here are some ways to get to Oxfordshire:

Airports Near Oxfordshire

  • London Heathrow Airport
  • Birmingham Airport
  • Bristol Airport

Bus Stations Near Oxfordshire:

  • Oxford Bus Station
  • Banbury Bus Station
  • Witney Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train (Oxford Station)
  • Car (A34, M40, M4)

How to Get Around in Oxfordshire

There are many ways to get around Oxfordshire, including:

  • Train
  • Bus
  • Taxi
  • Rental Car
  • Bicycle

Where to Go Next from Oxfordshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to visit after exploring Oxfordshire:

  • Bath (1.5 hours by car)
  • The Cotswolds (30 minutes by car)
  • Stratford-Upon-Avon (1 hour by car)
  • London (1 hour by train)
  • Bristol (1.5 hours by car)

Conclusion

Oxfordshire is a fascinating county, with a rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. With its numerous attractions, activities, and scenic vistas, it is a must-visit destination in England. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Oxfordshire has something for everyone.

Blenheim Palace, Blenheim Palace, "the English Versailles"


    Banbury
    Burford
    Kidlington
    Oxford
    Witney
    Woodstock