Welcome to Oxford, a city that is rich in history and culture, and home to one of the most prestigious universities in the world. This charming city is famous for its breathtaking architecture, world-class museums, and beautiful parks. In this post, we'll explore some of the top things to see and do in Oxford and learn a bit about its fascinating history.
History of Oxford
Oxford has a long and interesting history that dates back over 1,000 years. It was first settled in the 10th century and quickly became an important center of learning. The University of Oxford, one of the oldest universities in the world, was founded in the 12th century and has been an important part of the city ever since. Many famous people have studied at Oxford, including Stephen Hawking, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Margaret Thatcher.
Top Things to See and Do
Oxford University: The University of Oxford is the heart of the city and is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in England. Take a walking tour to explore the colleges and learn about the university's history.
Oxford Castle and Prison: This historic castle dates back to the 11th century and was used as a prison until the 20th century. Take a guided tour to learn about the castle's history and explore the underground crypt.
Ashmolean Museum: The Ashmolean is one of the oldest museums in the world and has a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Highlights include Egyptian mummies, ancient Greek pottery, and paintings by famous artists like Van Gogh and Picasso.
Christ Church Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is part of Christ Church College and is famous for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework. Take a tour to learn about the cathedral's history and see the famous Harry Potter filming locations.
Botanic Garden: The Botanic Garden is one of the oldest in the world and has over 6,000 species of plants. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Covered Market: The Covered Market is a historic market that has been in operation since the 18th century. It's a great place to buy souvenirs, local produce, and handmade crafts.
Oxford Canal: The Oxford Canal is a scenic waterway that runs through the city. Take a boat tour, called a punting tour, or go for a peaceful walk along the towpath.
Food and Drink
Oxford has a thriving food and drink scene with something to suit every taste. For traditional British fare, try a pub like The Turf Tavern or The Eagle and Child, which was a favorite haunt of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. For something a bit more upscale, try Quod Brasserie or Gee's Restaurant. And for a taste of the world, head to Cowley Road, which has a wide variety of international restaurants and cafes
Literature
It's no secret that Oxford has inspired some of the most beloved works of literature in history. J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, two of the most famous Oxford alumni, were part of a literary group called the Inklings, which met regularly at the Eagle and Child pub to discuss their works in progress. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy and Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia were both heavily influenced by Oxford's history and architecture. Another famous literary figure with connections to Oxford is J.K. Rowling, who wrote much of the Harry Potter series while living in the city. Many of the famous locations in the series, such as Christ Church College and the Bodleian Library, were inspired by real-life buildings in Oxford. It's clear that Oxford's rich history and stunning architecture continue to inspire and captivate the imaginations of writers and readers alike.
Final Thoughts
Oxford is a beautiful and fascinating city that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, there's something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to this charming city for an unforgettable experience.
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