Seven Reasons to Visit Oxford on a Day-Trip from London – Exploring Oxford’s Rich History and Culture in a Day

Just a short train ride from the bustling city of London, Oxford beckons with its captivating blend of history, academia, and timeless charm. While London boasts its own set of attractions, here are seven compelling reasons why you should consider embarking on a day-trip to Oxford.

1. Prestigious University Heritage

“Discover the Academic Heart of England”

Oxford is home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford. On your day-trip, you can explore the historic colleges, libraries, and gardens that have nurtured the minds of countless scholars, including famous alumni like J.R.R. Tolkien and Albert Einstein.

2. Architectural Marvels

“Marvel at Architectural Grandeur”

Oxford’s architecture is a visual feast. From the stunning Radcliffe Camera to the ornate Bodleian Library, and the iconic Christ Church Cathedral, the city is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and be transported back in time.

oxford

3. Literary Inspirations

“Walk in the Footsteps of Literary Legends”

For literature enthusiasts, Oxford offers a literary pilgrimage like no other. Visit the Eagle and Child Pub, where J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis used to meet, or explore the inspirations behind Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”

4. Botanical Beauty

“Relax in Tranquil Botanic Gardens”

Take a break from the urban hustle and bustle by exploring Oxford’s Botanic Garden. Established in 1621, it’s one of the oldest botanic gardens in the world. The beautifully landscaped grounds provide a peaceful retreat to enjoy nature’s beauty.

5. World-Class Museums

“Immerse Yourself in Culture and History”

Despite its small size, Oxford boasts a range of world-class museums. The Ashmolean Museum, for instance, houses an incredible collection of art and artifacts from around the globe. Spend some time enriching your cultural knowledge.

6. Harry Potter Connections

“Experience the Magic of Hogwarts”

Harry Potter fans, rejoice! Oxford’s Christ Church College served as inspiration for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Wander through the Great Hall, which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall scenes in the movies, and feel the magic come alive.

7. Riverside Serenity

“Enjoy Tranquil Moments by the Thames”

Oxford’s proximity to the River Thames provides opportunities for riverside walks, picnics, or even punting on the river. This serene setting allows you to unwind and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

In conclusion, a day-trip to Oxford from London offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in academia, architecture, literature, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, Oxford has something to offer every traveler. So, hop on a train from London, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Oxford’s heritage on your next day-trip. You won’t be disappointed.

Nice spring activities in London

Spring is just around the corner which means there are even more things to do in London. As the weather gets warmer there will be more opportunity for outdoor programs. So in this article we will list some of the best outdoor activities you can be part of during a visit in London.

Visit Paris

Visit Paris in Spring from London

The first one from our list is the Paris Rail Day Trip from London. What could be better than to spend a day in Paris during your London vacation? Take an Eurostar train from London to Paris and discover Paris own your own or with a tourist guide. If you choose a guided trip it includes the visit of the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower, a Seine River cruise and you can also explore the Notre Dame.

– More information here

Sightseeing tour

London Sightseeing

The second outdoor activity we would like to recommend is The Original London Sightseeing Tour which gives you the possibility to see the city as you have never seen it before. Discover the top London attractions such as the Tower Bridge, London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and a lot more with a guided tour. The hop-on-hop-off bus provides three family friendly routes to make your discovery even more enjoyable.

More information here

Harry Potter tour

Harry Potter tour in spring

The third activity from the list is the Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio. Discover the magical world of Harry Potter and get a closer look how the movies were made at the Warner Bros. Studio in London. Check out the original costumes, the original sets such as the Platform 9 ¾, Dumbledore’s office and so on. Learn how the books of J.K. Rowling were brought to life with all the special effects and life sized models. Leave central London by a luxury coach which will take you to the studios of Warner Bros and after the arrival you will have three hours when you can independently discover the studio.

More information here

Visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford

Stonehenge Spring

The trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford Custom Day Trip is the fourth program you can attend during your stay in London. It is a full day trip where you can discover England’s three iconic sights. The journey begins from London with an air-conditioned bus to Windsor then explore the famous Stonehenge which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and at last enjoy a walk through the historical city of Oxford. The entrance to the castle and to Stonehenge are not included you can get your tickets from your guide or you can just simply discover it own your own.

– More information here

Visit Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover

Spring in London

The last outdoor activity we would like to recommend is the Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover. It is also a full day activity where you can check out the beautiful country side of England. The tour starts from central London and the first stop is at Leeds Castle. Inside the castle you will have the chance to check the collection of medieval furnitures, tapestries and Impressionist art. The journey continues at the UNESCO World Heritage scene of Canterbury Cathedral. The Gothic Cathedral from the 11th century is considered as the birth place of English Christianity and at last the bus will take you to the magical White Cliffs of Dover.

More information here

Enjoy spring in London, and hope you have liked this article. Get more information on other activities in London here, and if you want a river cruise on the river Thames, or maybe have another good idea, just write a comment.

Movies that were shot in London

As London one of the most popular and famous cities in the whole world there are plenty of movies that are set in London so in this article we will show you the best and the most popular films that takes place in the capital city of England in London.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
One of our all time favourite is Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows. Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows is a British-American action mystery movie which was released in 2011 and was directed by Guy Richie. The movie is based on the fictional character by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and it shows the adventure of Sherlock Holmes and his faithful friend and partner Dr. John Watson. The whole movie is set in the 19th century in London. The film stars Robert Downey, Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams, Noomie Rapace and so on.

This film can not be seen on Netflix, but if you really like Sherlock, then why not watch the Sherlock BBC series on UK Netflix!

Closer
CloserOur second movie from the list is Closer. Closer is romantic drama which was released in 2004. The movie was directed by Mike Nichols and it was written by Patrick Marber and it is an adaption of the award winning 1997 novel Closer by Patrick Marber. the movie stars Julia Roberts, Natalie Portman, Jude Law and Clive Owen. The whole movie takes place in London and tells the strange story of four strangers that are connected in different ways. The movie shows love, passion and drama at the same time. The movie was nominated and won several awards.

Bridget Jone’s Diary
Probably one of the most famous romantic movie that was shot in London is Bridget Jone’s Diary. Bridget Jone’s Diary is a British romantic movie which was released in 2001. The movie is based on the novels of Bridget Jone’s Diary by Helen Fielding. The movie stars Renèe Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth. The film tells the story of Bridget Jones and how she finds her true love.

The Harry Potter
The Harry Potter movies also features some London locations including King’s Cross station, London Zoo and so on. Harty Potter is a series of 7 novels written by J. K. Rowling. They made movies based on the books and they are among the most popular movies. The movie shows the life and the adventures of the young wizard Harty Potter and his friends. The movie stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley, Emma Watson as Hermione Granger and so on.

SnatchSnatch
Snatch is our other favourite movie that was shot in London. Snatch is a comedy crime movie which was released in 2000 and it was written and directed by Guy Ritchie. The whole movie takes place at the different locations of London. The movie stars Brad Pitt, Benicio del Toro, Dennis Farina, Vinnie Jones and Jason Statham.

This film can be seen on UK Netflix. If you want to know more about watching Netflix from abroad, just click the link.

Love Actually
One of the most popular romantic movies is the Love Actually. Love Actually is a British Christmas themed romantic comedy which was written and directed by Richard Curtis. The movie shows ten separate stories of love and the development of the characters. The film is completely set in London 5 weeks before Christmas and it ends with the holidays. The movie stars Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Kiera Knightly, Martine McCutcheon, Bill Nighy and Rowan Atkinson.

Making of Harry Potter tour

Harry Potter London

Are you one of the big Harry Potter fans out there? Would you like to see some of the original sets used during the recording of the Harry Potter films, including the Great Hall?

There are daily Harry Potter tours available from London, including round transportation and the sightseeing tour itself. During the tour, you can see the magical sites where the shots were made, and you will take a deep dig into the world where Harry Potter was born and made. Sounds cool?

To find out more and to make sure that you can be there on one of these Harry Potter tours, visit Viator.