Where to go and what to do in Oxford

Arts & Culture

Oxford boasts a wealth of cultural attractions including as theatres, cinemas and museums. 

The Phoenix Cinema dates back to 1913 and shows a unique mix of classic, independent and subtitled foreign language films.  Upstairs at the Phoenix is a cosy cafe bar where you can enjoy a cocktail with friends before the performance.

The Sheldonian Theatre on Broad Street, just along from the college, has been described by the European Commission as "one of the architectural jewels of Oxford".  This beautiful venue is today used for principal meetings, public ceremonies, concerts and music recitals.

The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology is Britain's first public museum.  It opened in 1683 and houses the University's enormous collection of art and artefacts as well as holding special events such as lectures, exhibitions and days of special interest. 

If you'd like to learn more about the city of Oxford or the University, the Museum of Oxford is the place to go.  If modern art is more your thing, take a trip to Modern Art Oxford - the largest gallery devoted to modern art in south-east England.  It is also a venue for music concerts, talks and film screenings.  Admission to all three museums is free.

Outdoor Life

There are many parks and green spaces in the riverside city of Oxford.  Christ Church Meadow by the river is a great place for picnics, especially during the University boat races.  Head down for Eight Week in May, the main intercollegiate rowing races, or the annual Oxford City Royal Regatta in August. 

There are a number of sports centres around the city which offer sports such as basketball, swimming, badminton and volleyball.  You'll find cricket in the University parks, football at Headington (Oxford United) and an outdoor ice rink at Oxford Castle in the winter.

Oxford is also surrounded by stunning countryside, with plenty of villages and country houses to explore.

Blenheim Palace, just outside Oxford, is a grand historic house filled with priceless arts, tapestries and furniture.  Once home to Winston Churchill, the Palace has beautiful gardens and many special events such as themed tours, fishing days and concerts.  You can catch a bus to Blenheim Palace from Oxford city centre.

The Cotswolds are a beautiful range of gentle hills and valleys in western Oxfordshire.  There are many famous cities and charming villages in the area, including Bath and Cheltenham.  It's a great place to spend a few days exploring, walking and sampling the local cheeses, beers and afternoon teas.

Social Scene

Shopping

The main shopping centres in Oxford are the Clarendon and Westgate Shopping Centres in the centre of town.  You can find all the usual UK high street stores here.

For something a little different, head down to The Golden Cross Arcade - a picturesque arcade of cafes and shops dating back to the 15th century.  This leads to the famous Covered Market where you can find lots of independent cafes, fashion and food shops.

Nightlife

Oxford has many excellent cafes and restaurants, plus lots of pubs with a history.  The Kings Arms is a popular, lively pub and was originally a 15th century coaching house. Try The White Horse pub opposite the Sheldonian Theatre, just along from the college, for a real ale and friendly welcome. 

There are nightclubs in the city to suit all music tastes, including Po Na Na, Escape and Green Bar.  Or try one of the new DJ bars like Freud's, a stylish cafe bar with DJs and art exhibitions, based in a 19th century church.

Fun

One special activity in Oxford is punting on the river.  You can hire punts from Magdalen Bridge, Folly Bridge and Bardwell Road.

The Oxford Story, just next to the college, is a fun journey through the 800 year history of the university on an amazing ride in the dark!  Commentaries are available in many languages.

You can catch musicals, opera, live music and stand-up comedy at the New Theatre or a film at the Odeon, Phoenix, Picture Palace or VUE cinema.

"I chose Oxford because I think it is a good environment to study and start a new life in England.  I like living in Oxford - it's an antique city, beautiful and very relaxed. I am content because I have opted here for my first year living in England."
Trang Nguyen Thuy from Vietnam