Days out to Oxford from London
Journey to Oxford from London on a day trip that promises captivating history and exciting attractions.
Where is Oxford and how can I get there from London?
Oxford is located in the county of Oxfordshire, in England, about 50 miles (80km) northwest of London. You can travel there in around one and a half hours by car or by Oxford Tube Coach from Victoria, or an hour by train from London Paddington to Oxford.
What are the best things to do in Oxford?
Being one of England’s oldest towns, the city of Oxford is a treasure trove of world-class arts and culture, and is home to some of the country’s most exceptional historic attractions.
Explore the town
Few places in the UK boast such magnificent architecture as Oxford. Buildings that have stood for centuries to form the living museum that the city is today. Wander the grounds of the University of Oxford, admire the exterior of the Oxford University Museum of Natural History (before exploring the collection within), and scale Oxford Castle for a beautiful view of the rooftops and spires from its tower.
Museums and galleries
Tick off a few of Oxford’s incredible museums during your visit. Aside from having picture-worthy ceilings and windows, the Pitt Museum is packed with interesting objects and exhibitions, along with an exciting programme of events for families. Like all great literature, The Story Museum will transport you to another world – journey through a fictional universe with The Portal, experience the mysterious indoor Whispering Wood and step into a story in the Enchanted Library.
For those who love the outdoors, exploring the green oasis that is the 400-year-old Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum is a must. Home to more than 5,000 types of plants from around the world, it's the perfect place to wander, or to explore the historic Walled Garden and discover a tropical rainforest and giant waterlilies in the glasshouses.
Unmissable activities
Go punting down the river Thames to admire the iconic spires of Oxford from the water. Take a picnic lunch, which you can enjoy as you journey down the river – whether that’s a bite from a local deli or some delicious street food from the Covered Market. And don’t forget to stop by an old pub for a traditional pint of British ale or cider!
Oxford is also a haven for Harry Potter fans, with many scenes being filmed in this magical city, including the Bodleian Library Divinity School and the Bodley staircase at Christ Church College.
What are the best day trips and tours to Oxford?
Discover day trips to Oxford below, including some taking in other destinations such as Stonehenge, Windsor and the Cotswolds.
Depart from central London by train, directly to Oxford, for a day of sightseeing in this historic town. After you've arrived, jump aboard a hop-on-hop-off bus and tick off the top landmarks, listening to the recorded commentary as you go between stops. With trains back to London running every 10 to 15 minutes, you can choose your own return time for maximum flexibility on the day.
Travel through the city, passing by iconic landmarks including Christchurch College and Meadows, University boathouses and Folly Bridge on an Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise. While you relax you can enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, quiche or tart, scones with jam, clotted cream and strawberries and Elderflower presse.
Travel along one of the River Thames' most fascinating routes, starting at the University Regatta COurse and heading towards idyllic Iffley Village. On this Oxford Sightseeing River Cruise your captain will share the history of this pretty yet lively stretch of water, referred to by the locals as the Isis.
Pair a scenic tour along the river in Oxford with a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience. On this memorable cruise you'll enjoy spotting iconic landmarks along this vibrant section of the river, passing rowing crews and punts. Tucking into a delightful selection of sweet and savoury treats as you go.
As you make your way down Oxford University's regata course on the Thames, you'll enjoy a tasty cocktail. This evening cruise promises an relaxing journey along the river as you do a spot of sightseeing from the comfort of your seat while sipping on a delicious tipple.
Explore the city of Oxford at your leisure with an open return rail ticket. Head to London the Golden Tours Visitor Centre Baker Street, where a representative will be waiting to greet you with your tickets. Your ticket includes an optional stop at Bicester Village to do a spot of shopping before continuing on to Oxford.
Discover iconic sights in Oxford on a hop-on-hop-off tour bus. See the impressive universities that have inspired many famous figures and film plots, from philosophers and actors, to beloved books and hit films. Explore the many boutique shops, enjoy a delicious meal in an award-winning restaurant or watch a show at The Sheldonian Theatre.
Combine two iconic UK cities, often referred to as 'Oxbridge', on a day trip from London. Begin the day in Oxford, exploring the picturesque college courtyards and the many spires that cover the city from the castle tower. Then, enjoy a visit to Cambridge, where beautiful bridges, the spectacular King's College Chapel and famous artworks from painters such as Rubens, await.
Where:Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH
On this day trip, you'll tick off three incredible UK sights. Seek out historic treasures and royal artefacts at
Windsor Castle, solve the mystery of the impressive
Stonehenge, and stroll through the cobbled lanes on a guided walking tour of the city of
Oxford.
Duration: 11 hours
Where:Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH
On this day trip from London, you'll start the day with a guided tour of the historic
University of Oxford. Next, head to the charming villages of the
Cotswolds and
Stratford-upon-Avon, famous as the birthplace of Shakespeare. The last stop is
Warwick Castle, where you can see bird of prey shows, sword-fighting workshops and jousting tournaments.
Duration: 10 hours and 30 minutes
Where:Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH
On this Oxford and Lacock day trip you'll explore two beautiful yet contrasting UK destinations. Beginning in the picturesque town of Lacock, enjoy a short walking tour as you admire the pebbled streets and quaint tinder-framed cottages. Next, head to the historic city of Oxford to learn of its fascinating history. Duration: 10 hours and 30 minutes
Treat yourself to a magical Christmas Day trip combing Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford-Upon-Avon with a traditional Christmas lunch. Visit the historic university town, explore bustling market towns and sleepy villages, and tuck into a delicious three-course meal on this exceptional day trip from London. Duration: 10 hours and 30 minutes
Discover a royal town, a university city and an ancient stone circle on this fabulous Christmas Day tour from London. Explore Windsor and Oxford on foot with guided walking tours, see the mysterious stones at Avebury and round off the perfect day with a traditional Christmas lunch in a British pub. Duration: 10 hours
Enjoy a special treat this Boxing Day with a day trip to three iconic locations. Visit Oxford, where you can set foot inside Christ Church College as part of a walking tour. Then, travel through charming villages in the Cotswolds before exploring Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon. End the day by being transported back to medieval times with entry to Warwick Castle. Duration: 10 hours and 30 minutes
.jpg?mw=800&rev=58eb9f4d2894414f955aca6453a72b80&hash=8D428210E83A57B6C2AECBC876883EA2 "Wander the charming streets of Oxford on a day trip from London. © Unsplash/Peter Musk")
