Sian Victoria © - Views from Oxford Castle & Prison

How to spend a day visiting Oxford – Places to go

Located in South East England in the county of Oxfordshire, Oxford is home to stunning historical buildings, rich culture and Britain’s oldest university, making it one of the most beautiful cities in England. With the city's origins dating back to the 9th century, Oxford is a history-lovers dream. Scattered throughout the city’s streets are buildings showcasing an array of architectural styles and different periods throughout history.

Boasting some of the most unique architecture across the country, from Gothic spires to its prestigious, world-renowned university, and palaces, castles, and prisons. Visit Oxford and take a trip back in time to admire the sights the city has to offer.

So, if you're asking - is Oxford worth visiting, and how do I spend a day in Oxford? Be sure to read on and find out what you can get up to in this fascinating historical city. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot where they filmed the iconic Harry Potter series in Bodleian Library among other locations.

Book yourself onto a city tour of Oxford to see the filming locations if you’re a fan of the wizarding world, its food & drink scene or simply want to learn all about the rich history of this prestigious city in the United Kingdom.

Places to visit in Oxford

So, here are just a few of the top-rated things to do, tourist attractions, historic sites, landmarks, and points of interest to visit in Oxford. As well as the best architectural buildings to admire while you go sightseeing around the city’s historical streets.

1. Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Sian Victoria © - Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Happen to be a history buff? Consider a visit to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, it was undoubtedly my favourite part of my day trip to Oxford.

Situated within a simply breath-taking example of history – a neo-Gothic architectural building style dating back to the 19th century – this museum is the perfect place for all ages to satisfy their curiosities. And, to make things even better, the museum is free to visit. Of course, donations are more than welcome.

Admire the array of exhibits, showcasing some of the best zoological and geological specimens and artefacts. Walk through the beautiful establishment and see great dinosaur skeletons, taxidermies of extinct creatures and more. Prepare to have your mind blown as you make your way through the exhibits, before stopping off to have a bite to eat at the on-site café.

Perfect if you're visiting the city with all the family, a stop-off at this incredible museum is a must.

2. Views from Oxford Castle & Prison

Sian Victoria © - Oxford Castle & Prison

Another example of Oxford’s seemingly endless range of historical architecture is the Oxford Castle and Prison. Boasting an impressive display of Medieval architecture, this colossal building allows you to step back into the 13th century as you admire the beauty of this authentic motte and bailey castle.

Explore its 1000-year history on a guided tour, where you can go down below and see the hair-raising crypt as you listen to ghost stories before exploring the authentic 18th-century prison cells. Hear the history of the castle and tales from the past with knowledgeable tour guides.

After you’ve descended below the grounds, climb the 101 steps to the mount and see the beauty of the city from above, with panoramic views from the top of the hill next to the castle.

Pay a visit to this historical establishment, with prices starting from £15.25 for adults, £9.95 for children aged 5 – 15 and children under 5 visiting for free. If you’re keen to discover Oxford’s past, why not take a trip back in time by visiting this preserved piece of history – and admiring the view of the city while you’re at it?

3. Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

Sian Victoria © - Bicycle racks near Oxford train station

If you visited the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and were amazed at the exhibits and artefacts on show, why not follow up the visit by popping into the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology?

Housed in another spectacular building, dating back to 1683, the museum boasts a classical architectural style. Step inside the grand building and discover the display of exhibits it has to offer.

If you're an art lover, this is the place to be. Featuring an expansive collection of ancient and contemporary art, and exhibitions showcasing world history including Egyptian mummies, jewels from past monarchs and even local artefacts from excavations, there’s so much to see.

If you'd like to see the array of historical art, artefacts, and textiles from around the world during your visit to Oxford, why not pay a visit to this renowned museum? With free admission and so much to admire, what’s not to love?

4. University of Oxford

Sian Victoria © - Tom Tower, main entrance of Christ Church, Oxford

Sian Victoria © - Entrance to Pembroke College, Pembroke Square, Oxford

Britain's oldest university, the University of Oxford, is one of the city's most iconic sights, attracting visitors from far and wide for centuries and is considered one of the most beautiful universities in Europe.

The prestigious establishment is recognised for its iconic status, educating world-renowned alumni - including 30 prime ministers - and unbelievable architectural styles across its 67 buildings. Pay a visit and admire the Gothic and Baroque architecture, transporting you back in time as you walk through the infamous school and retrace the footsteps of its alumni.

If you're keen to explore this beautiful university and see Oxford’s most iconic attraction for yourself, why not hop on a tour? You can book a walking tour of Oxford University, where a knowledgeable guide will take you through the history of the colleges and reveal how the university garnered the iconic status it has today.

5. Pitt Rivers Museum

The Pitt Rivers Museum can be accessed through the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and is another incredible establishment to visit if you happen to be a history lover or are just keen to explore the fascinating past of the city.

Entry to the museum is free, making this a perfect place to visit if you fancy a break from strolling the streets. With a range of exhibitions and displays, discover the archaeological, ethnographic, and anthropological artefacts and history from around the world.

See the fascinating photograph and film archives, cultural artefacts and even human remains as you walk through the museum and appreciate the thousands of pieces on display. There's sure to be something in this museum that will entertain all ages – it's certainly worth considering a visit.

6. Christ Church building

Sian Victoria © - Christ Church College building, Oxford

Among the seemingly endless array of historical buildings throughout Oxford is Christ Church, a constituent college under the University of Oxford. Located within the grounds, this building is nothing short of breathtaking.

Dating back to 1546, this establishment is built in the beautiful Venetian Gothic architectural style and was built with education in mind by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. Today, the Christ Church houses and educates undergraduates across its grounds, including the stunning Meadow Building, as well as providing a foundation for the equally stunning Christ Church Cathedral.

The building and its grounds are nothing short of amazing and will leave you awe-struck as you take in their authentic history. If you’re part of a tour to see the filming locations of Harry Potter, you’re in luck; the Christ Church Great Hall was used as a location for multiple scenes in the franchise. You can even spot the Gothic architectural cloisters at the Christ Church building in Harry Potter.

Not only is it worth it to see the impressive architecture that has withstood the test of time, but it’s a must if you’re a Harry Potter fan, too.

7. Modern Art Oxford

Oxford’s impressive displays and exhibitions of history through art and artefacts continue to be proven through Modern Art Oxford. This art gallery, located just a 5-minute walk from Christ Church on the university grounds, is one of the best ways to see the most fascinating contemporary and modern art from international and local artists.

Considered one of Britain’s leading establishments for contemporary art, this gallery comprises an array of displays that dive into the talent of artists from around the world, showcasing creativity and visual culture.

Admire the beauty of the art, from fascinating sculptures and art displays to interactive exhibits, and see art like never before at this creative gallery. If you’re into all things art, enjoy free admission.

8. Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

Sian Victoria © - Christ Church Meadows, Oxford

Need a break from exploring iconic buildings and admiring historical artefacts? Pop over to the Oxford Botanic Gardens and Arboretum, located within the University of Oxford’s grounds.

Founded back in 1621, these gardens are the finest example of well-preserved, natural beauty. Considered the UK’s oldest botanical garden, the park boasts over 5000 exotic, worldwide plant species, making it a beautiful green oasis.

Perfect on a warm summer's day, stroll through the park and take in the beauty of the flower beds and the seven glasshouses home to a range of worldwide plants. You can even peruse the number of gardens, with The Lower Garden featuring several sculptures and ornaments, and The Literary Garden hosting the infamous grinning Cheshire cat nestled away in the forest.

Whether you fancy a picnic among the scenic surroundings or just want a relaxing stroll, these gardens are the perfect place to visit when you want a break from the busy city centre – and, entry is free.

9. Radcliffe Camera

Sian Victoria © - Facade of a building on New Inn Hall Street, Oxford

The Radcliffe Camera also sits within the university grounds and is nothing short of incredible.

Before you even step inside, you'll be blown away by its grandeur and colossal size. Built-in the mid-18th century, this unique circular building boasts a simply magnificent neo-classical architectural style. Notice its eye-catching dome and elegant arches before you explore one of the best attractions in Oxford – especially if you admire grand architecture.

Part of the Bodleian Library – which is located nearby – the Radcliffe Camera houses a working library. Hop onto a guided tour of Oxford to get inside this infamous landmark, and see the stunning interior, in which the main reading room for the Bodleian Library can be found.

The Radcliffe Camera is a book-lovers heaven. Peruse the endless displays of books, from the educational to the general, while admiring the beautiful architectural style of the building. Even if you aren’t a bookworm, certainly don’t pass up an opportunity to see this infamous building and discover why it's considered such an iconic Oxford attraction.

10. Bodleian Library

Sian Victoria © - Balliol College, Oxford

Sian Victoria © - Faculty of History, University of Oxford

The Bodleian Library is located on the university grounds alongside the Radcliffe Camera and is considered one of the oldest libraries in Europe.

Established over 400 years ago in 1602, the Bodleian Library boasts some of the most incredible architecture in Oxford. Admire its English Gothic architectural style as you walk through the establishment – comprising over 26 libraries - in which over 13 million books are housed.

See where some of the world’s elite studied, including Oscar Wilde and J.R.R Tolkien. If you book onto a walking tour, you’ll even get to see the Divinity School – an unbelievable medieval building showcasing Perpendicular Gothic architecture, considered the oldest building still standing on the university grounds.

Hop onto a walking tour on your visit to Oxford and see just how beautiful these well-preserved, historical buildings are. You might even be able to spot where Harry Potter was filmed throughout the libraries.

11. Bridge of Sighs

Sian Victoria © - Bicycles outside Oxford train station

Hertford Bridge - or as it is often referred to, the Bridge of Sighs – is another iconic landmark within Oxford. Connecting parts of Hertford College as a skyway bridge above New College Lane in the city centre, it's not just this attraction's unique name that draws in visitors and tourists.

Recognised for its incredibly distinctive design, the bridge was completed back in 1914 and boasts a beautiful display of architecture. From its elegant arches to its delicate glass windows, the bridge is certainly one to visit while exploring the city.

Pay a visit to this infamous landmark and you might even be able to recall seeing it in film and television. From being used in scenes for X-Men and Morse to Harry Potter, this bridge is nothing short of iconic. Seeing the bridge and walking along its canal path is a lovely way to spend some time in the city, but to turn it into a memorable occasion you’ll remember an Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford is certainly something that shouldn’t be missed out on.

12. Sheldonian Theatre

Sian Victoria © - The Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford

The Sheldonian Theatre continues to highlight just how incredible Oxford’s variety of attractions is. Located within the university grounds, this theatre will make you stop and stare.

Built-in the 17th century, this establishment comprises a distinctive circular shape, with recognisable neoclassical architecture throughout. Considered a historical jewel in the city, this theatre has a rich and inspiring history that will leave you in awe. One of the first commissions by world-renowned – and Oxford-educated – architect Christopher Wren, the theatre was used for a range of university practices.

Today, the Sheldonian Theatre functions as the assembly room for the University of Oxford and as a concert venue for musicians and writers. This theatre is a must-see. From its Roman-inspired painted ceilings to its unique circular shape, there’s so much to take in here.

13. Carfax Tower

Sian Victoria © - Old Indian Institute, 34 Broad Street, Oxford

Sian Victoria © - Wadham College, Oxford

Another simply beautiful example of Oxford's incredible array of historical buildings is the Carfax Tower. Located in the city centre, this tower is hard to miss.

Once belonging to a 13th- century church, this visually striking tower is the only remaining feature. Although there have been reconstructions, the original construction of this city landmark goes back to the 12th century, making the tower even more impressive.

Looming above the high street at 74 feet tall, visitors can step inside this piece of history and climb the 99 steep steps to the top. For £3 for adults and £2 for children, why not pay a visit to this historical attraction and see the Oxford skyline from the very top?

14. Westgate Oxford Shopping centre

Sian Victoria © - Westgate Oxford Shopping centre

Fancy a break from admiring the historical sights and attractions throughout the city on your visit to Oxford? Stroll the high street names and go on a shopping spree at the stylish Westgate Oxford Shopping Centre.

Situated within the city centre, this shopping centre is the perfect place to visit to have a break with there being a lovely viewing deck at the top of the building lined with food & drink places. Here, fashion meets food and fun. See the classic high street names, including H&M, Primark and Zara, as well as designer brand stores such as Tommy Hilfiger, Ted Baker and Hugo Boss.

After you’ve browsed the latest fashion, grab a bite to eat at Benito’s, Mowgli, Nando’s and many more. Then, finish off your visit to Westgate by trying your hand at an escape room, or testing your golf skills at Junkyard Golf Club – perfect for if you're visiting with kids.

To conclude:

There we have it – a list of some of the best things to see and do in Oxford and the must-see landmarks for you to put down on your travel itinerary when planning a getaway to this historical paradise. If nothing on this sightseeing list takes your fancy, there is a lot more to do in this city if you want to book exciting attractions in Oxford.

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