I have always told myself that if I ever got the opportunity to travel abroad, I would, and here we are. I am finishing up 4-week study abroad program in Oxford. I was scared at the beginning, going into this not knowing anyone and it just being something so bold and adventurous. Now I do consider myself to be adventurous, but this was something so big and different, I think anyone would have been scared. I have learned and experienced so much while on this trip, I also have met some amazing people, I hope to keep in contact with after this. This trip will be a story and memory I will share and keep forever. Since being here, I have seen and done so much. So, I am going to share with you a guide to all the spots you need to hit when you come to Oxford, from a now local.
Historical Attraction
There are so many hidden and beautiful spots throughout Oxford that you should visit, if you get the chance, but these are my top 3 favorites.
1. Botanic Gardens
This place was beautiful, especially if you manage to get it when all the flowers are blooming and the sun is out. This garden belongs to the University of Oxford, and it is the oldest botanic garden in Great Britain and one of the oldest scientific gardens in the world. It was founded in 1621 as a physic garden growing plants for mechanical research, but now it a collection of different species of plants in which contains over 5,000 different types.
If you are a fan of the classic novel, Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, then this is a must-see spot. It was the inspiration of setting of the novel. There is also a statue of the cheshire cat hiding in one of the trees that you may be able to get a glimpse of.
St. Mary’s Church
This is a tower of a local church that is located so close to the city center. Firstly, the Church is beautiful, but my favorite part is being able to climb some stairs, if you are okay with small, tight, spiral stairs. It is worth it though. You climb the tower and at the top, there are amazing views of Oxford. And, within the church there is a café called Vaults and Garden. This place has amazing architecture and has gravestones all throughout the flooring, which adds to the vibe of the place.
Christ Church
This college was incredible; the architecture and landscaping of this place is its own reason to come visit. Although, this is also very popular location for literature, as the gate that Alice goes through to get to the garden is based in the Garden of this College. I was so sad though, because of the time of our visit, that part was not open to the public. There was also the window with stained glass in the dining hall. In addition to the books in this class, it also was the place the dining hall and the stair well of Harry Potter was based on. It was amazing seeing it in person, there’s only so much you can see through a movie or visualize. It was also mind blowing that it was still a functioning college, students go there.
Food/Drinks
Ben’s Cookies
If you like cookies, you need to stop at Ben’s Cookies in the Covered Market. These cookies are the best ones I have ever had. They It makes it more special because the one in the Covered Market is the original location, created in 1984, before they expanded to different countries.
Temptations
Another must stop place for food, but especially for dessert is Temptations Dessert Bar. This place has the best vibes, and their desserts are incredible. I personally love their cookie skillets but that have so much, they also have a very good gluten free menu. It just a super fun place to chill and eat good food after a long day of being adventurous.
Turf Tavern
Getting outside of the desserts in Oxford, there are also so many restaurants and pubs. But specifically, Turf Tavern. This place is down an alley way, but won’t worry it’s not a creepy one you think you might get kidnapped in. The energy and aesthetic of this place scream Oxford. It is one of the oldest pubs in Oxford, dating back to 1381, so it’s authentic.
Not So Touristy Activities
Magdalen College Boats
There are so many other things to do in Oxford that aren’t only tourist things. One of my favorite places is Magdalen College. It is one of the oldest, largest, most beautiful colleges in Oxford. It is best known for its architecture, including the Great Tower, and its surrounding parks, meadow, and walking path. But in addition to the amazing campus, there is a spot just outside where you can get on a little boat and paddle up the river and make a loop. This was such a fun and relaxing spot in such a busy area. There was also a walking path beside the canal with benches to sit on. Sometimes Oxford can be very loud and busy, this spot is a good place to get away from the crowds.
City Scooters
This one is a little stranger, but I highly recommend riding the city scooters. Obviously take into consideration you follow the same traffic patterns as vehicles, and its different than in the US. So just be careful, but they are so much fun, I would recommend starting on Banbury Road starting in Summertown and going into city center. Since Oxford is a very walk-able city, it can be nice to speed up the process a little, especially with the crowds and if it is hot.
Night Out
This one is more for people of age, 18 years old or older, but you need to experience a night out in Oxford. The culture is just so different, there’s people out and having fun on a random Tuesday night. People will interact and talk to you, involve you in their plans, or join you on your plans. The amount of time we would meet a group of people at one bar then we would move to another one and they would follow, and then even join us the next time we were out. There is just something different in the air, the vibes are just better with people. This is something you must experience yourself, having someone else explain it to you doesn’t do its justice.
Final Thoughts
After spending a little over a month here, I have fallen in love with this place. There is just so much to do and to see. Though, I may be tired and busy, I’m also incredibly grateful, for being able to spend so much time in an amazing location, the unexpected and amazing experiences, and the chance to create memories with these amazing people. I’ll keep these memories and friends with me long after I return home. I am so happy I was able to go out of my comfort zone and do something so different. I have zero regrets and hope I get the chance to come back. This place has a special spot in my heart forever.
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