Museums and exhibitions
- Ashmolean Museum
Contained in a gorgeous building across from the Randolph Hotel, the Ashmolean has paintings, coins, musical instruments, antiquities, statues of deities, and a must see Egyptian exhibit. Free entry. Café, restaurant and shop. - Modern Art Oxford
Modern Art Oxford is a leading UK contemporary art space with an international reputation for inspirational and innovative programmes. The gallery is located in central Oxford and provides free entry for all. Café and shop. - Museum of Natural History
Founded in 1860 as the centre for scientific study at the University of Oxford, the Museum of Natural History now holds the University’s internationally significant collections of geological and zoological specimens. Free entry. Café and shop. - Pitt Rivers Museum
The Pitt Rivers Museum displays archaeological and ethnographic objects from all parts of the world and all time periods. It is truly a global museum. The museum is also a teaching and research institution and the curators are also university lecturers in either cultural anthropology or prehistoric archaeology. Free entry. - History of Science Museum
See Islamic instruments from the Middle Ages, Einstein's blackboard and the first cultures of the life-saving antibiotic Penicillin under one roof.
This museum houses the world's finest collection of early scientific instruments from Europe and the Islamic World. More modern objects include microscopes, scientific models, photographic and wireless equipment. Free entry. - Story Museum
The Story Museum celebrates stories in all forms.
Oxford colleges and other places of interest
The city centre of Oxford can be covered on foot. You'll find plenty fascinating historic sites to visit! Here some suggestions of Oxford best-loved landmarks:
- Oxford Covered Market
- Christ Church*
- Radcliffe Camera
- Bodleian Library
- Bridge of Sighs
- University Church of St May the Virgin
- Sheldonian Theatre
- Oxford Castle
- Blackwell's Bookshop
- Carfax Tower
Coffee shops and restaurants
Oxford is a paradise for foodies. The whole city is full of nice cafes and restaurants, however you will find a wide variety in three main areas: Cowley Road, Jericho and the city centre (Westgate and George Street). Here are some of our recommendations for independent coffee shops and charming restaurants. But remember, the best way to discover the nicest places is exploring the city, getting lost. Enjoy!
Cafés
- Jericho Coffee Traders
- The Missing Bean Cafe
- Barefoot Cafe
- The Jericho Cafe
- Opera Cafe
- Gail's Artisan Bakery
Coffee and food
- The Handle Bar
- Vaults and Garden Cafe
- Taylors Sandwich and Deli
- George Street Social
- Thirsty Meeples Board Game Cafe
Restaurants
... and many more!
Historic pubs
Pubs, a blend of tradition, British culture and student life. Discover the oldest pubs in Oxford, learn about their fascinating History and famous patrons. Some recommendations:
- The Bear Inn
- Kings Arms
- The Turf Tavern
- The Trout Inn (near Port Meadow)
Theatres and venues
Parks and open spaces
Some recommendations here to go for nice walks in beautiful outdoor spaces. Good for the mind and the soul, enjoy!
- South Park
- Port Meadow
- Christ Church Meadow
- University Parks
- University of Oxford Botanic Gardens*
- Turrill Sculpture Garden
- Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
* Free entry to the Botanic Gardens for Brookes students when you show your student ID.
Cinemas
Main cinemas
Some independent and charming cinemas