Adventures in Oxford

Call us biased, but when it comes to well-known cities, Oxford stands out as one of the most captivating. Known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires,' it is a place where iconic landmarks, world-class museums, historic pubs, ancient woodlands, and honey-coloured colleges all coexist beautifully.

As we explored the city centre to bring you this blog, we found Oxford to be like an onion, containing layers just waiting to be peeled away, revealing secrets just when you thought you knew it all.

Ready to go? We're diving beyond the typical top 10 lists to explore the fascinating nooks, crannies, and alleyways of Oxford—all conveniently located near a bus stop.

Jericho

Introduction

Discover the hidden gem that is Jericho, where Victorian charm meets bohemian flair just minutes from central Oxford. Often overlooked by tourists, Jericho is a quaint neighbourhood famous for its role in Inspector Morse. It's home to candy-coloured houses, arty galleries, quirky shops, an ancient meadow and much more besides. This lovely area, stretching from Walton Well Road to Worcester College, is packed with cultural interest, just 10 minutes from Oxford's heart.

Discover some unexpected tranquility in Wellington Square

Begin your journey on Little Clarendon Street, where vibrant local cafes, community spaces, and shops offer interest at every corner. Be sure to turn into Wellington Square, a collection of storied townhouses surrounding a quiet, fenced-in garden that beckons all who pass to escape for contemplation.

Explore the world of words at Oxford University Press Museum

Step into the past at the Oxford University Press Museum, where nearly 200 years of publishing history unfold. Discover 17th-century Fell types and a historic printing press that helped revolutionise the world of words.

The museum can be found within the walls of Oxford University Press and tours are available Monday to Friday, except on Bank Holidays in England and must be booked in advance using this form.

Play pétanque by the canal

Enjoy a game of pétanque beside a canal bridge on Canal Street—an unexpected find. You can also read a book from the mini book library or settle in for a leisurely coffee amidst flower beds and canal-side views. If you join the locals for the events held here, such as Oktoberfest and Christmas fairs, you might make some unforgettable memories along the way.

From here, if you cross the bridge and turn right, you can follow the canal down to Port Meadow, ancient meadowland perfect for riverside walks. Alternatively, if you head south to Combe Road, opposite The Old Bookbinders, you’ll see where the first episode of Morse, called The Dead of Jericho, was filmed.

Raise a pint in The Old Bookbinders once frequented by Morse

Raise a pint at The Old Bookbinders, a Victorian pub with a French twist, which was once the location where Lewis from Inspector Morse celebrated his birthday. Tucked away in Oxford’s backstreets, it's a popular spot with the locals.

Admire the rich and opulent at St Barnabas Church

Absorb the gilded glory of St Barnabas Church, with its soaring Venetian bell tower and atmospheric Byzantine-inspired sanctuary. The rich and opulent décor seems to transport you to a bygone era, captivating all who enter.

The church has literary connections too. It appears as the Church of Ceremonies, St. Silas, in Thomas Hardy’s novel Judo the Obscure and serves as a backdrop to one of the shots in The Dead of Jericho.

Take a stroll by the river in Port Meadow

At the end of Walton Well Road lies Port Meadow, where the River Thames flows through vast, nature-rich meadows. Grazing cattle and horses dot the landscape, as well as wildfowl, offering a refreshing antidote to city life.

Port Meadow is the gateway to many special finds, including a boatyard dating back to the 1830s, the remnants of a 12th-century abbey known as the burial site of Fair Rosamund de Clifford, Henry II's mistress, and The Trout Inn, which features in Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead Revisited and Colin Dexter's Inspector Morse series.

This is also Alice in Wonderland territory, for allegedly it was on this stretch of river that Alice in Wonderland was born.

Visit Port Meadow

Want to go further? How about delving deeper into the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll?

Consider walking on to the pretty hamlet of Binsey (you’ll see it signposted from the opposite side of the river on the meadow). As you reach the village, you'll encounter The Perch on your immediate right, a grade-II listed inn visited by Carroll himself. It’s said to be one of the first venues where he publicly read from Alice in Wonderland.

It's also believed that the character of The Red Queen was inspired by Alice's governess, Mrs. Mary Prickett (1832-1920), who may have been a resident of this very village.

Beyond Binsey, the quiet St. Margaret’s churchyard awaits. Here you'll discover the Treacle Well, a square stone staircase leading to a small, dark pool, adorned with a Latin inscription. This enchanting spot is believed to be where Carroll imagined the tale of three little sisters living on treacle, further connecting Binsey into the rich tapestry of Wonderland lore.

Who knows? Perhaps you’ll glimpse a white rabbit on your journey.

Blue plaque hunt: See if you can find the plaque dedicated to local philanthropists Thomas Combe (printer to the University in the 1830s) and his wife, Martha Combe.

Nearest bus stops: Radcliffe Observatory Quarter or Stop 19 on the City Sightseeing bus route loop if you're on one of our open top bus tours.

Broad Street and Holywell

Introduction

Go beyond Oxford’s greatest hits in a neighbourhood that is spoiled for choice. And unlike Jericho, Broad Street is teeming with tourists¬—and for good reason. Here, you’ll discover the renowned Bodleian Libraries, which include the magnificent Radcliffe Camera, the oldest public museum in the world, the History of Science Museum, and Christopher Wren's Sheldonian Theatre.

But that’s not all—there’s much more to uncover.

Let’s go!

Take a stroll down Holywell Street

As you wander past the vibrant, candy-coloured facades, imagine the stories they could tell. his picturesque lane has housed some of Oxford's most notable figures, including William Thorpe, a mayor in the 1830s, and the legendary author J.R.R. Tolkien.

Unravel the mystery of the martyrs 

Unravel the mystery of the martyrs at the south end of St Giles Street, where you'll find The Martyrs’ Memorial. This striking gothic tribute marks the lives of Bishops Cranmer, Ridley, and Archbishop Latimer, who were burned at the stake in 1555. Nearby, on Broad Street, a cross of cobblestones marks the approximate location of their execution.

Venture to the historic Saxon tower of St Michael at the North Gate to see the original Bocardo Prison door, which once confined Latimer, Ridley, and later Cranmer. The nearby Ashmolean Museum houses the original key to this infamous prison.

On Holywell Street, a more discreet tribute remembers four Catholic martyrs executed in 1589 under Elizabeth I's orders. They were said to have been captured during a midnight raid at the Catherine Wheel Inn, a site full of intrigue which later saw the arrest of some of the Gunpowder plotters.

Explore Balliol College: the site of historical intrigue

Claiming to be the oldest of all Oxford Colleges, Balliol College has plenty of architectural and historical history to boot. Part of the college was built over what used to be The Catherine Wheel Inn, where it is alleged that some of the conspirators of the Gunpowder Plot met in 1605 (Guy Fawkes's lantern can be found in the nearby Ashmolean Museum). But there's also much more to discover here, including a World War II memorial, immaculate grounds featuring a 400-year-old mulberry tree, and a beautiful chapel.

Discover the original 12th century city walls at New College

New College, despite its modern-sounding name, is steeped in history, dating to the 14th century. Its grounds boast the rugged remnants of the original 12th-century city walls, providing a tangible connection to medieval times. As you wander through the atmospheric cloisters, wrapped around a solitary Holm oak tree, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient whispers. The intricate carvings of the chapel's reredos and the dazzling stained-glass windows are undeniably captivating.

Dive into a musical odyssey at one of Europe's most storied concert venues

Discover the charming Holywell Music Room, a Grade II listed hall completed in 1748, just a short walk from the Sheldonian. This intimate venue has seen countless famous musicians perform under the very chandeliers that were present at Westminster Hall for King George IV's Coronation. 

Don't miss the lively Oxford Coffee Concerts that take place on Sunday mornings.

Sip on history at Oxford’s most elusive pub

Take on the challenge of finding Oxford's best-kept secret: a slightly ramshackle 13th-century tavern known as the Turf Tavern. This secluded inn has served as a watering hole for the likes of Inspector Morse, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and even Bill Clinton.

Delve into some rare medieval finds in St Cross Chapel, Holywell

Acquired by Balliol College in 2099, this Grade I listed marvel sits at the eastern end of Holywell Street, with roots stretching back to Anglo-Saxon days. Transformed into a Historic Collections Centre, it now opens its doors several times each term for exhibitions and talks that delve into the latest research within its medieval manuscript collections.

Find out more about visiting St Cross Chapel.

Pay a visit or two or three to the Pitt Rivers Museum

Just a short walk from Broad Street, the Pitt Rivers Museum is like visiting a giant, dimly lit flea market packed with everything you can think of and more. Containing over 700,000 ethnograhic and archaeological objects, it's a place you'll want to revisit time and again.

Pair your exploration at the Pitt Rivers with a visit to the beautifully gothic Keble College. This handsome college blends the old and new with a notable highlight being the expansive chapel with its intricate Venetian wall mosaics, and the original of Holman Hunt's evocative "Light of the World" Pre-Raphaelite painting.

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this culture and history, nearby University Parks offers a brief escape through its green scenery, broad avenues, sweeping parkland, and riverside walks. As you wander, see if you can find J.R.R. Tolkien’s bench, Gandhi’s plaque, or Havel’s Place.

Find out more about the Pitt Rivers Museum.

Want to go further? Why not try your hand at some Vietnamese cooking?

If you find yourself with a little extra cash to spend, consider making your way to North Parade. This pretty street unexpectedly located south of South Parade, is brimming with quirky vintage shops, centuries-old pubs, and intriguing eateries.

Twice a month, the area transforms into a busy marketplace where you’ll find stalls offering artisan hot and cold foods, alongside fresh produce from farmers and gardening supplies.

For a unique foodie experience, visit the Vietnamese restaurant Tuyen’s Kitchen. Tuyen also offers cooking lessons for small groups, providing a great opportunity to embark on a unique culinary adventure.

Find out about Tuyen's cookery courses.

Blue plaque hunt: See if you can find the plaques dedicated to Cecil Jackson Cole who helped set up the first Oxfam shop and pioneering GP Dr Isabelle Little.
Nearest bus stops: Oxford City Centre, High Street, or Broad Street if you’re on one of our open top bus tours. 

Carfax and Christchurch

Introduction 

Carfax Tower marks the spot where the roads from the original city gates converged, making it an ideal starting point for navigating the area. Nearby attractions include Christ Church College, The Story Museum, Oxford Castle, and St Michael at the Northgate, but there are some other great things to see and do too.

Discover if walls can speak in a 16th-century painted room 

Step into history with a visit to the 16th-century Painted Room, a former bedchamber allegedly linked to none other than William Shakespeare himself. Once part of a popular tavern (later known as The Crown), this was one of just three places in the city where wine was legally poured at the time. It's whispered that Shakespeare enjoyed frequent visits to this room during his journeys between Stratford-upon-Avon. The Painted Room opens its doors to the public during the annual Heritage Open Days event in September, or by special arrangement with the Oxford Preservation Trust.

Interested in more? You could try a self-guided walk that follows in the footsteps of Shakespeare.

Arrange a visit to the Painted Room.

Get all creative at Modern Art Oxford

Head a little off the beaten path to this art exhibition space with light, spacious rooms, thought-provoking art exhibitions, an interactive creative space and an artist’s café. The art gallery has recently been refurbished and reopens in early November.

Visit Modern Art Oxford

Walk on the moon at Oxford’s Covered Market

Find a new interest or reignite an old passion at one of the UK's oldest markets. From virtual reality astronaut experiences to wool and crochet workshops, there’s whole world (or universe) of interests to explore.

Find out what’s on at the Covered Market

Enjoy a recital at St. Peter’s College

We stumbled upon St. Peter’s College purely by chance, but what a great find! Tucked away from the madding crowd on New Inn Hall Street, this lesser-known college might not boast the celebrity status of Christchurch, Magdalen, or Merton, but it shines all the greater with its rich musical calendar of lunchtime music recitals and choral evensong, all available to the public.

Find out what's on at St. Peter's College

Play some hand drums in a Javanese ensemble

Ever heard of Gamalan? We hadn’t, but it turns out to be a captivating ensemble of traditional percussive instruments from Indonesia, offering a unique sonic adventure. In fact, weekly Gamelan is just one of the many experiences available at The Bate Collection, a quirky emporium of instruments stretching back through the annals of history. Here you’re invited to not admire the instruments but to engage with them individually and through events. 

Fancy playing a harpsichord? Don’t mind if I do. 

Visit The Bate Collection

Want to go further? Try some deer spotting in Magdelen College Park.

Escape the busyness of life taking a walk through Magdelen College’s extensive grounds featuring an extensive deer park, riverside walks, a picturesque Fellows’ Garden and a water meadow. 

You could walk from Carfax to Folly Bridge, but we recommend taking the scenic route through Christchurch Meadow, from St Aldate’s to Rose Lane. Along the way, the Botanic Gardens await on your right, with Magdalen College just a stone’s throw across the road.

Spot the blue plaque: See if you can find the plaques dedicated to Felicia Skene, prison reformer and friend of the poor, Ivy Williams, the first woman to be called to the English Bar, and the Star Inn Oxfordshire yeomanry. 
Nearest bus stops: You can hop off at one of the many stops on Oxford High Street and Oxford City Centre, St Aldates. The City Sightseeing bus tour also stops in St Aldates.

New Hinksey

Introduction

Located just south of the city centre, New Hinksey’s emerald green parks and semi-wildernesses offer a lush counterpoint to Oxford's historic dreaming spires.

Visit Grandpoint Nature Park – a green world leading to other green worlds

Embark on a journey upstream from Folly Bridge, just after The Folly, to Grandpoint Nature Park, an underrated 8-acre nature reserve that features woodland areas, meandering paths, and river views. This peaceful place invites you to explore further and serves as a gateway to further adventures at neighbouring green spaces like Grandpoint Park, Hogacre Common, and Hinksey Park.

Experience the rural idyll of Hogacre Common

Escape to the rural idyll of Hogacre Common, a 14-acre eco park a stone’s throw from civilisation.  Here you can wander through woodland, enjoy the wild-flower meadow, admire the local community tending to their community allotment, and unwind at a vegetarian café housed in a former cricket pavilion.

Find out more about Hogacre Common

Take a dip at Hinksey Park

Dive into the lesser-known green oasis of Hinksey Park, where shimmering lakes brim with lively waterfowl and the odd leaping fish. Engage in a round of tennis at the free courts, take a refreshing dip in the open-air pool (open April through September), or wander further to South Hinksey village, with its quaint thatched houses and historic 13th-century church. 

Want to go further? You could milk some goats at Oxford City Farm

Hop on the 3S bus from New Hinksey, Lincoln Road, and alight at Iffley (Freelands Road) for a short stroll to Oxford City Farm. Immerse yourself in this lovely community-led farm, home to friendly goats, sheep, chickens and other animals. Here you can participate in interactive farming sessions and try your hand at milking goats.  

Find out more about Oxford City Farm

Spot the blue plaque: See if you can find the plaque marking the spot of Oxford City Football Club where H.F Hodges scored the club’s first goal when the club won the Amateur Cup in 1906.
Nearest bus stops: Oxford City Centre Police, Station (P1 or P2) just before Folly Bridge.