One bright morning, my two friends and I decided to escape our usual university routine in London and take a day trip to Oxford. As international students, we were always on the lookout for affordable travel options. National Express had a fantastic deal, and being budget-conscious, we jumped at the chance. The tickets were non-flexible, but they fit perfectly into our plan for the day.
Traveling to Oxford
Getting to Oxford is quite easy, with multiple travel options available. We chose the National Express bus for its affordability and convenience. It was a straightforward route, and the early morning journey allowed us to maximize our day. If you’re planning a trip, other options include taking a direct train from London Paddington or Marylebone, which is faster but can be pricier. For those who enjoy driving, Oxford is accessible by car, though parking can be a challenge in the city.
The bus, however, remains one of the most economical choices for students and budget travelers alike. However, you’re super bound by the timing. Our return ticket was around 8pm, and we were done exploring by 6pm, so we had to wait for 2 hours to catch our bus. We were also exhausted by the end of the day.
Exploring Oxford
We arrived in Oxford early, like 7am early. The city was bathed in sunlight, and it felt like the perfect day for exploring. Most of the cafes were still closed, so we wandered around the quiet streets, soaking in the charm of Oxford. The architecture of the colleges and the peaceful vibe of the city made for a lovely start.
Once the cafes opened, we stopped for a quick coffee break. We made our way to the famous cricket ground. Only one of us was a huge cricket fan, but it was still fun to see the space and enjoy the open air. All three of us video called brothers and friends back home to show the pitch because it was definitely a thing of beauty. After that, we dived into Oxford’s rich history by visiting its two iconic museums.
Places to Visit in Oxford
Oxford offers an incredible array of experiences, and despite its compact size, you can cover most of it in a day if you plan carefully.
Here’s how we spent our day exploring this historic city, along with some suggestions for must-visit attractions:
Walking Tour of Oxford: We began our day with a walking exploration of the city, soaking in its rich history and architecture. The cobbled streets, iconic spires, and centuries-old colleges created a magical atmosphere. Don’t miss walking along the Radcliffe Camera and the surrounding courtyards for some quintessential Oxford sights.
The Cricket Ground at University Parks: Even if you’re not a fan of cricket, the cricket ground at University Parks is worth visiting for its serene atmosphere and the chance to relax in the open air. It’s a great spot to take a breather during your day of exploring, surrounded by lush greenery and the peaceful ambiance of the gardens.
Oxford Botanic Garden: Though we decided to skip the Botanic Garden due to time constraints and differing interests in our group, it’s highly recommended for plant enthusiasts or anyone looking for a tranquil escape. As the oldest botanic garden in the UK, it features over 5,000 plant species spread across stunning glasshouses and gardens. If you have time, it’s well worth the visit. More details can be found here.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History: Another highlight of our trip, this museum showcases incredible displays of fossils, minerals, and taxidermy. The dinosaur skeletons were particularly fascinating and a hit for visitors of all ages. The building’s stunning architecture adds to the charm, and best of all, entry is free! This museum is perfect for families, science enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the natural world.
Ashmolean Museum: The Ashmolean Museum is a treasure trove of art and history. From ancient artifacts to modern art exhibits, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves culture and learning. The building itself is stunning, and entry is free, making it accessible for everyone. Unfortunately, we saved it for last and only had about 40 minutes to explore, which was not nearly enough time to do justice to this magnificent museum. Highlights include the India section and numerous other historical treasures. Plan a few hours here to fully appreciate everything this museum has to offer. Learn more here.
Bodleian Libraries: The Bodleian Libraries are world-famous for their stunning architecture and literary significance. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get tickets for the guided tour, which grants access to places like the Divinity School and Duke Humfrey’s Library. If you’re planning to visit, make sure to book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly. Even if you can’t get inside, the exterior of the library, especially the Old School’s Quadrangle, is a breathtaking sight. You can find more information here.
Where to Eat and Drink
Oxford is filled with delightful places to eat and drink. We kept things simple for lunch, packing homemade fried rice, cupcakes, and chips to save money. However, the city has plenty to offer for food lovers.
Local Food Market: We discovered a vibrant food market with stalls offering a variety of cuisines. The Chinese food we tried was exceptional, with bold flavors and generous portions.
Pizzerias: Oxford has an abundance of pizzerias that cater to every taste. Whether you prefer thin-crust, deep-dish, or creative toppings, you’re bound to find something you’ll love.
College Bars: To wind down, we visited a cozy college bar for fancy cocktails. These bars are unique to Oxford and offer a charming way to experience the city’s nightlife.
Wrapping Up the Day
By evening, we were feeling the 26,000 steps we had walked. The museums and most attractions in Oxford close around 5 PM, so we had some time to kill before our bus back to London. We found a quiet spot to sit and reflect on the day, chatting and laughing as the sun set.
It was a simple, beautiful day filled with good food, good company, and plenty of exploration. Oxford’s charm left a lasting impression, and the trip was a refreshing break from our usual student life in London. If you’re ever in the UK, a day in Oxford is absolutely worth it!