A day in Oxford

Mohit Daga(@Mohit881923)

​Traveler | Photographer | Co-founder of myroamingspirit

When in England, Go to Oxford. Period.
Oxford is a small university town with of population of about 200,000 people and . .  it has never been the capital of Britain. The more fascinating thing to know is that despite being a small town, Oxford gets more than '10 million' visitors a year and is often cited as travelers' favorite city in the UK.

“The world surely has not another place like Oxford; it is a despair to see such a place and ever to leave it, for it would take a lifetime and more than one to comprehend and enjoy it satisfactorily.”
-Nathaniel Hawthorne


From -HUFFPOST- https://www.huffpost.com/entry/oxford-quotations_n_6350390

The most obvious reason for Oxford’s fame is of course - THE University. It’s the second oldest in the world (allegedly), educator of 28 Nobel Prize winners, and often cited as the best university on the planet. You will see young millennials flocking the streets almost throughout the day. But what makes this place special is its magnificent history, beautiful architecture, shopping options from across the street to huge shopping centers, delicious food and some cool coffee spots to indulge in – All of which make Oxford perfect for a day trip!

The moment we landed in Oxford, a question bothered me - How did this university became so famous? The answer isn’t simply because it’s a great university. It's more for Hollywood Fanatics !

Oxford is stunning. And because it’s so beautiful a lot of people have made films here – the ones which have been watched by people across the planet.... including you & me !
Here’s just a few of the films that have been filmed in Oxford.

• X-Men: First Class

• Harry Potter Series

• Saving Private Ryan

• 102 Dalmatians

• The Italian Job

Got any flash backs ? No, then go watch them now. If you have already watched any of the movies above, watch them again to find out the scenes shot in Oxford. Trust me it is fun.

After all this information about Oxford, I am sure you will want to know – What do I do once I reach Oxford? Here's What -

Explore The University Of Oxford And The City’s Architecture
38 colleges make up the historic University of Oxford – the oldest university in the English-speaking world. It’s incredible when you think that teaching started in the 11th and 12th centuries! The center of the city is saturated with stunning architecture, and you really do feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander the streets. Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee from the nearest joint you come across. It is advisable to walk in the streets of the university campus area. It is great to explore the lovely cobbled streets and the narrow alleyways. But if you need to see surrounding area or wider Oxford shire, you can use public buses or hire a taxi. I am 100% sure you would be awe struck from the glimpses of beautiful buildings around you.

The city is so pretty that you will not keep your camera down (though it is certainly recommended). I also strongly recommend visiting the 'Bridge of Sighs' in the morning before it gets crowded. You will not be disappointed.

For me, the most beautiful part was walking through Radcliffe Square, home to the impressive circular Radcliffe Camera. We also loved passing the Bridge of Sighs and the 17th Century Sheldonian Theater, designed by Sir Christopher Wren – a former student at the university.

Though we did not go to Christ Church we’d highly recommend walking down to Christ Church – often named as one Oxford’s most beautiful colleges and famed for its huge impressive cathedral. 

​Climb The Tower At St Mary The Virgin
For some of the best views of Oxford city center, pay £4 to climb the church tower of St Mary The Virgin. The 62m tower dates from the 13th century and while the stairs up are narrow and steep, it’s definitely worth the effort!

University Church of St Mary the Virgin- place of worship with an ornate 14th-century spire plus regular musical recitals and events.

University Church of St Mary the Virgin- the place is in the heart of the town, opposite to Radcliffe Camera.

History laden Oxford Castle
Very close to where we had our buffet lunch (4500  miles from Delhi), was this old castle. We parked at Chargemaster Charging Station. We walked to Oxford Castle. With 1000 years of history, it’s worth checking out the beautiful exterior and 11th-century Motte and Bailey Castle, even if you don’t fancy venturing inside. The area is also home to a Pizza Express, Prezzo, a coffee shop. Don’t forget to hike the small heap called CASTLE MOUND. It is worth the view.

​Picnic outside the town in the old school way @Port Meadow, Oxford
Keep the evening for quiet time with family or friends. After excessive walking in the day you would definitely want to spend the evening relaxing. What better way to do it than sitting by the creek and the open grassland. Getting to Port meadow is tricky. It is off the express way; we drove to the nearest car park - Godstow Car Park. That's what we would also recommend.

Mind you!  The only restaurant close to this place is The Trout Inn across the creek. Remember to bring your picnic gear and food. And with all this preparation the day will surely end on a happy note. 

Port Meadow, Oxford- Unspoilt ancient meadow by the River Thames for walks, wild ponies, bird watching and wildflowers.

England has so many historic and beautiful towns and each with personality of its own. If you are planning for a short break or a day trip, you will be spoil for choices. Plan your perfect day trip from London and visit one of the most beautiful historic towns in England – Oxford. Plan the perfect itinerary for 24 hours. If you prefer a guided tour, most of the guides on these tours are local students or Oxford-educated guides with extensive knowledge of the area and history.