What to see in Oxford, 10 things you cannot miss during a visit to the beautiful English city. These include Christ Church College, famous for its appearance in the famous Harry Potter saga, read here.
A solo one hour away from London are Oxford and, one of the most famous university cities in the world and the oldest city in the UK. If you are planning a weekend in the city, below you will find the list of the main attractions not to be missed.
1. Carfax Tower
The Carfax Tower is among the oldest monuments and is what remains of the secular of Saint Martin Church from the XNUMXth century. The tower is considered the center of the city. The name "Carfax" originates from the French term "Carrefour" or "Crossroads". Located at the crossroads of Aldate's, Cornmarket Street, Queen Street and Oxford's main thoroughfare. If you are in these parts, you should definitely try to climb the observation deck via a narrow spiral staircase. From up there you will be breathless contemplating the skyline of the city.
2. Radcliffe Camera
The Radcliffe Camera is the quintessential symbol of the city and one of the most photographed buildings. The library, which houses a large reading room inside, is constantly illuminated by daylight thanks to its circular appearance.
To visit the inside of the structure it is necessary to participate in one of the guided tours proposals.
Designed by James Gibbs in a neoclassical style, it was built between 1737 and 1749 as the home of the Radcliffe Science Library. It is located south of the Old Bodleian, north of Saint Mary's Church and Brasenose College to the west, and All Souls College to the east. For more information on opening hours you can consult the Official site.
3. Christ Church College
Christ Church College is the Oxford's most popular college. Its majestic and historic buildings were the scene of the filming of the film saga of "Harry Potter".
Founded in 1524 by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the College boasts numerous students who later became famous personalities. Some examples are John Locke, the poet WH Auden, Charles Dodgson and the thirteen British prime ministers. The main entrance is located under the impressive Tom Tower. South of the College is Christ Church Meadow, one of the city's green lungs. ideal for a relaxing picnic. here is the College website.
4. Walk along the river
From Christ Church College you can reach the river through an enchanting tree-lined avenue and then continue along the path that runs along the shore. If you want to fully enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Oxford, there is nothing better than a leisurely stroll along the River Thames. The landscape is suggestive and you can take a relaxing break before resuming your tour.
5. Botanical garden
THEbotanical garden it is an integral part of the history of the city and the University as well as the oldest botanical garden in all of Great Britain. Founded in 1621 for the cultivation of plants for scientific research, it contains more than 8 thousand species on an area of 1,8 hectares.
It was Henry Danvers, the first Earl of Danby who, with a generous donation to the University of 5000 pounds, contributed to its realization.
The garden is divided into three main sections: the Walled Garden, surrounded by the original XNUMXth century walls, and home to the oldest tree in the garden, the Taxus baccata; the greenhouse where plants are grown in a controlled environment and the area outside the fenced wall, between the Walled Garden and the Cherwell River.
6. Bodleian Library
Bodleian Library is one of the oldest municipal libraries in the world and also the most fascinating that you can visit. All visitors, even those passing by, are welcome and it is also possible to visit the exhibitions set up in the atrium. For just 1 pound you can also visit the Divinity School. To visit the rest of the building it is necessary to participate in a guided tour. More information can be found on the Official site.
7. Ashmolean Museum
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archeology is one of the oldest museums in the world and contains a wide range of Greek and Roman sculptures such as the Apollo of Olympia and the Parthenon frieze. At different times of the year, the sculptures are replaced with new ones in order to offer the visitor an ever-changing repertoire. For shopping there is a covered market where tourists can indulge in the purchase of trendy, vintage products or taste food and wine products typical of the Anglo-Saxon culture. You can consult the Official site for more details.
8. Sheldonian Theater
The Sheldonian Theater was built in 1663 thanks to a design by Christopher Wren, at the time Professor of Astronomy. From the architectural point of view it is inspired by the Theater of Marcellus in Rome. The Sheldonian features a classical Roman theater scheme with a rectangular facade and a semicircular back. On the ceiling of the main hall there is a XNUMXth century painting which represents the triumph of truth over ignorance. The Sheldonian is used for shows, concerts or conferences. Visitors can climb up to the dome for great views over the city center.
9. All Souls College
All Souls College, located on the north side of the city's High Street and bordering Radcliffe Square, is considered one of the more distinctive colleges. His name is ambiguous because in reality it is not a college since it does not host any pupils. Also despite the religious denomination it is completely secular. It is located in the city center but once inside it feels distant from the urban center. It is a very coveted college so much so that the guests, elected for excellence in their field, take the name of "fellow”(Companion) and have access to rooms that overlook Renaissance cloisters, libraries and wonderful views.
10. Oxford Covered Market
The Oxford Covered Market is Oxford's covered market that has been considered a true institution for many years with well 50 shops and various artisan pastry shops specialized in cake design. The refined style of Oxford is palpable even walking through the market where you will have the impression of immersing yourself in a fairy tale. The market atmosphere is very special. The boutiques and artisanal patisseries are the key elements that differentiate this huge gallery from the traditional, purely commercial markets.
