Top 5 attractions in Oxford

Oxford is incredible. Known as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ for its magnificent architecture and beautiful buildings, it should absolutely be on your travel bucket list! Home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, where many renowned people have studied including the likes of Lewis Carroll, J R Tolkien and Stephen Hawking.

With so many iconic attractions, it can be difficult to know where to begin your Oxford trip. To help you out, in this blog, our boutique Oxford hotel share 5 top attractions in the city. Read on…

Bodleian Libraries

One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is the main research library of the University of Oxford; home to more than 13 million books, journals and resources. Located in Radcliffe Square, the centuries-old building has been said to be a masterpiece in English Gothic architecture. The libraries are no stranger to the silver screen either, a popular filming location for the fan favourite, Harry Potter franchise. Book onto a tour here.

[photo credit: Bodleian Libraries]

Radcliffe Camera

Probably one of Oxford’s most photographed landmarks, the Radcliffe Camera is an absolute must-visit attraction on your trip. Built in 1737-49 to house the Radcliffe Science Library. Today, over 200 years after it was opened, the building is still in use, serving as a reading room to Oxford uni students. However, unlike many attractions, it is not freely open to the public, yet it’s still worth a visit merely to admire the stunning architecture.

Christ Church

Another one for Harry Potter fans is Christ Church. Like the Bodleian Library, it’s been used as a filming location for many of the early Harry Potter films, helping to create the iconic gothic backdrop for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Great Hall was used for the iconic arrival scene for new Hogwarts students in the first two films. Aside from being one of the largest colleges of Oxford University, Christ Church also contains the Cathedral of the Oxford diocese, which doubles as the college chapel.

University of Oxford Botanic Garden

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and immerse yourself in nature at Oxford Botanic Garden. Founded in 1621, it was the first botanic garden in the UK and remains a year-round oasis of biodiversity. With over 6,000 different types of plant and a large 130-acre arboretum, it’s the ideal place to learn more about nature and wildlife. The arboretum looks particularly stunning in autumn, with crisp, golden and red leaves covering the floor.

Modern Art Oxford

Into your art? Modern Art Oxford is the attraction for you. Showcasing the very best international contemporary art with a number of cutting-edge exhibitions, it’s unlike anywhere else in the city. Considered a breath of fresh air among the many historic buildings and museums in Oxford. Take a look at what’s on before you visit here.

[photo credit: Modern Art Oxford]

Vanbrugh House Hotel, a boutique hotel in Oxford, is ideally located in the centre of Oxford, near to the area’s top Oxford museums, Oxford theatres and Oxford bars. To check availability, email us or call us on 01865 244 622.