Stepping foot in Oxford is like stepping back in time. With its enchanting spires, cobblestone streets, and delightful nooks, Oxford feels straight out of a storybook. From ivy-clad colleges to cozy cafes, this charming city is the perfect day trip from London. Read this guide for the ultimate itinerary on how to spend a day in Oxford!
How to Get to Oxford
There are many ways to get to Oxford, from guided tours to coach buses. However, I found that the most convenient way is traveling by train. There are multiple trains that run each day, giving you more flexibility and freedom to explore. Trainline is an excellent site where you can book direct train tickets that take you straight from Central London to the heart of Oxford.
What to Do in Oxford
After arriving in Oxford, take a short walk to downtown and start off your morning with coffee and a pastry at The Missing Bean on Turl Street. Once you’re fueled up, explore some of Oxford’s most famous landmarks, including Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and Bridge of Sighs. Oxford is so cute that you can easily get lost for hours wandering its charming streets and hopping in and out of boutiques.
Head over to Covered Market for lunch, where there are so many different delicious food stalls. In the afternoon, check out some colleges! Depending on which ones you want to visit, you may need to book tickets in advance as each college has their own rules. For any Harry Potter fans, Christ Church and New College are absolute must-sees as they’re the backdrop for many iconic scenes.
Of course, you can’t leave Oxford without going punting on the river, so depending the season, be sure to book a session for unique way to see more of the city. We used the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse and had a great experience. You can either try punting yourself as a fun activity or book a chauffeur for a peaceful ride down the river.
Lastly, stop by the historic Turf Tavern and grab a drink before heading back to London! Looking for more London day trip ideas? Check out my guides to Bath, the Cotswolds, and the Seven Sisters for inspiration!
Happy adventuring,
