Oxford in 1-2 days
One of the world’s most prestigious university towns, scholarly Oxford is postcard pretty and packed with history. Its close proximity to London makes it the perfect weekend escape.
Taking a stroll through Oxford is the best way to explore the small city. Start on Broad Street, where you can take in the architecture of buildings like the Sheldonian Theater and Clarendon Building. From here, head to the Covered Market, where you can do a spot of shopping, stop for a coffee or just wander through at your own pace.
South of the market you will find Christ Church College. It isn’t always open to visitors but if it is, it is well worth taking a look at. Grab a pint at the Turf Tavern, being sure to get some pictures of the Bridge of Sighs nearby on New College Lane.
Museum lovers should head to the Ashmolean (closed until November 2009) while other buildings worth checking out include the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera.
If you want to travel further afield, Blenheim Palace is just eight miles from Oxford and well worth the trip. The birthplace of Winston Churchill and a World Heritage listed sight, the magnificent baroque structure is set among acres of parkland. Inside you can see an exhibition on Churchill and take a look at the life of the servants that once worked there.