Oxford
The city of 'dreaming spires' and ancient colleges is one of Britain's historic gems. While Oxford did not come to prominence until well into the second millennium, with the help of royal and ecclesiastic patronage it was rapidly established as an important centre of learning and endeavour.
Oxford is dotted with 39 colleges - which together make up the University - and the city still attracts students from around the world. For the visitor, the college architecture is of more importance, and much of it ranks as Britain's most impressive contribution to the medieval age. With the earliest colleges dating from the early 1100's, the intellectual tradition at Oxford is now into its tenth century.
Oxford straddles the Thames and Cherwell rivers, and punting remains a popular pastime of both students and visitors. In good weather the Cherwell in particular will be busy with picnic-laden punts, many inexpertly steered by tourists, although most are skilfully handled by students. Punts cost in the vicinity of £10 per hour, and a deposit is often required to ensure the safe return of the craft. The Magdalen Bridge is the busiest spot for hiring a punt.
Many colleges can be viewed from High Street, one of the main thoroughfares that leads eastwards past All Soul's and Queen's towards Magdalen Bridge. To the north and south of High Street lie more colleges of world renown, and these university precincts can easily be traversed on foot. Make a note of college opening times (some now also charge admission), as much of the Oxford tradition is hidden behind the college facades, requiring more persistent exploration.
Christ Church is Oxford's largest and - some would say - most prestigious college. The Cathedral features a mixture of architectural styles, and other points of note at the college are the Tom Quad, and the Christ Church meadow, which leads you to the River Cherwell.
The Radcliffe Camera is a fine Italianate rotunda, a short walk from the High Street, and one of Oxford's most photographed buildings. The adjacent University Church offers excellent views from its imposing tower if you can survive the 129-step climb.
The Ashmolean is one of Britain's best museums, and was originally established as a repository for the university's vast collection of art and historical treasures. The Egyptian and ancient Greek galleries are popular, and more esoteric artifacts include Oliver Cromwell's death mask and the lantern of Guy Fawkes. Admission is free - for more information check out www.ashmol.ox.ac.uk.
With such a strong student presence, Oxford has plenty of eateries and pubs, although the nightlife is fairly restrained. Less clubland than the home of the reasonably-priced classical recital. This Month In Oxford is a publication aimed at tourists and details what's on in town.
Getting There
Oxford is just one hour from London Paddington by train, and approximately double that by bus. Several of each service depart daily.
Bus Info 01865 772250 or 0990 808080.
Train Info 08457 484 950.
More Information
Located in the 'Old School House' at the end of the Gloucester Green Road Bus Station, the Tourist Information Centre has plenty of help on hand for the visitor.
There is a range of walking tour and hop on-hop off bus tours available to help you explore the city. For more Oxford tourist information, check out the official web site at www.oxfordcity.co.uk.
Karibuni Small Group Tours
Karibuni Tours takes small groups on a 'Best of the Shires' weekend tour that visits Oxford (not to mention a number of other great spots such as Stratford and Avebury). At only £80 per person, this tour is well worth checking out. For details, visit the Karibuni website at www.karibuni.co.uk.
|
.gif)
