Things to do in Oxford

Oxford is, like many other ancient English towns, compact and easily managed on foot. The most central point is the Carfax Tower, at the crossroads of four main streets. High Street and Broad Street are perhaps the most typical Oxford streets, lined with colleges and other architectural wonders. Visitors will undoubtedly want to explore some of the Oxford colleges, soaking in the timeless air of academia. But there are also a couple of stunning botanical gardens worth looking into, as well as Blenheim Palace, just on the outskirts of town. As you meander along the streets of Oxford, dont forget to occasionally stop and look up. There are always at least one or two gargoyles staring down at you.

Ashmolean Museum

This museum houses a fascinating collection of archeology and art spanning 4,000 years of Humanity. The ancient civilisations of Egypt, Greece and Rome are major attractions, but the extensive collection runs right into the 20th century as well. The Ashmolean, founded in 1683, is the oldest museum in Britain. Phone: +44 1865 278 000.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheims architecture is so breathtaking that it was named a World Heritage site, the only such title bestowed on any British house. Built in the 1700s, Blenheim became the home of General John Churchhill, first Duke of Marlborough. Both its exterior and its vast interior are simply mind-boggling. Its a lesson in opulent splendour and should not be missed if you have any interest in palaces. The 2,000-acre grounds are equally splendid and offer unlimited exploration. Phone: +44 1993 811 325.

Bodleian Library

Foremost among Oxfords plethora of academic and architectural highlights is the unique Bodleian Library, which is spread among several buildings, and contains a copy of every book printed in Britain since 1610. The core of the collection is set in Radcliffe Square, where you can find the historic 15th century Duke of Humfreys Library and the Gothic Divinity School, with its stunning vaulted ceiling. Guided tours are available for the main buildings. Phone: +44 1865 277 180.

Botanic Gardens

These are the oldest botanical gardens in England, replete with some 7,000 species of plants that have been growing here for over 400 years. Founded in 1621, the gardens biodiversity is even greater than that of a tropical rainforest. The variety of landscapes and the tranquility of these gardens make it well worth a visit. Phone: +44 1865 286 690.

Carfax Tower

Climbing the 99 steps of this tower in the heart of Oxford rewards the visitor with arguably the finest views in the area. From the top you can see all of the dreaming spires of this lovely town and snap some amazing photos. The tower is all that remains of the 14th century St Martins church. Phone: +44 1865 792 653.

Christchurch Picture Gallery

Christchurch is one of Oxfords most famous colleges, and houses a priceless collection of art. The 300 paintings and 2,000 drawings are mainly the work of Italian masters. Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael and Rubens are all represented, as well as dozens of other great artists. The exhibitions change every few months because of space constraints, but that means you can see new art each time you revisit Oxford. Phone: +44 1865 276 172.

Legoland

Just two miles outside of Windsor is an extensive theme park dedicated to the ingenious building brick, Lego. There are rides, interactive exhibits, amazing Lego models both big and small and 150 acres of parkland. Phone: +44 8705 040404.

Magdalen College

Magdalen is another of Oxfords most prestigious names, having educated great minds from Wolsey to Wilde. Located on High Street opposite the botanical gardens, is its famous bell tower, where Charles I watched the Roundheads approach at the end of his reign, and where the choir still sings in Latin at dawn every May Day. The grounds of Magdalen are the most expansive of all Oxfords colleges, and the college even has its own deer park.

Merton College

Founded in 1264, Merton is one of the oldest colleges in Oxford and has a long history. Situated on Merton Street, the sole survivor of Oxfords medieval cobblestone roads, this is typically a stop for college visitors. Merton is noted for its astrolabe, which once belonged to Chaucer, and one of the oldest college libraries in England. Phone: +44 1865 276 310.

Stowe Landscape Gardens
This magnificent garden is a fine example of Georgian landscaping. Built by some of the most famous English gardeners in the 18th century, the 980 acres are a balanced natural collage of lakes, rivers, valleys and meadows. Some 30 monuments dot the gardens, making this a wonderful spot to spend a leisurely afternoon. Phone: +44 1280 822 850.