Is Oxford worth visiting?
We loved visiting Oxford and, yes, it's absolutely a college town that any traveler should visit. By the end of our time here, it felt like a second home. During our first trip to Oxford in the spring of 2023, we fell in love with its classic collegiate atmosphere and beautiful architecture. We've been back several times since then to experience it even more.
Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this college town has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the spectacular museums and attractions and terrific nightlife.
Oxford is the quintessential college town. You can spend your time exploring the historic campus, paddling through the rivers, or soaking up the botanical gardens. There are classic British pubs as well as a few Harry Potter highlights that will keep kids and adults alike entertained.
Oxford, England
5 Reasons to Visit Oxford
1. Museums and Attractions
This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.
2. Nightlife
As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.
3. Food
In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.
4. Shopping
Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.
5. Authenticity
Oxford has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Oxford worth visiting in the Summer?
The high season for travel in Oxford is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F).
Don't miss the small town charm during summer. Just take some time to wander through the local shops and see the historic landmarks around town when the weather is nice. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable college town, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the small town charm, the museums and landmarks, and the nightlife.
Summer Weather in Oxford
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 17°C (63°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) |
| August | 17°C (62°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| September | 14°C (58°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Is Oxford worth visiting in the Autumn?
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 11°C (52°F).
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Oxford, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Oxford is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. This is a great time of year to take in the beautiful scenery, wander through the museums, and wander through the small town.
Autumn Weather in Oxford
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 11°C (52°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
| November | 7°C (45°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
| December | 5°C (40°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) |
Is Oxford worth visiting in the Winter?
Winter is the low season for travel in Oxford. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
The weather in Oxford can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 3°C (38°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to browse through museums, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and take advantage of the local nightlife.
Winter Weather in Oxford
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 3°C (38°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| February | 4°C (40°F) | 35 mm (1.4 in) |
| March | 6°C (42°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Is Oxford worth visiting in the Spring?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Oxford. Even though Oxford is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
The weather in Oxford can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 9°C (48°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
One of the main reasons to come this time of year is because of the gorgeous scenery. During this season it's fun to experience the quaint shops, the famous sights and museums, and the gorgeous scenery. Also, you can take in the local charm and enjoy an evening out.
Spring Weather in Oxford
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 9°C (48°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) |
| May | 12°C (53°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| June | 15°C (59°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Oxford
Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Oxford might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Oxford here or see if Oxford is expensive here.
Related
What is Oxford most famous for?
Oxford is most famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. People visit this impressive college town for its great museums and attractions and nightlife. It is also known for its great food and shopping. It is often described as scholarly, collegiate, beautiful, and historic.
What is the most famous sight in Oxford?
The most popular sight in Oxford is Radcliffe Square. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Oxford on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Radcliffe Square and other attractions here.
How touristy is Oxford? Is it a popular college town to visit?
Oxford is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- The Seven Sisters & Beachy Head Lighthouse Boat Trip Adventure: $61
- 3-Hour Private Tour of Oxford With University Alumni Guide: $170
- Oxford University and Harry Potter Tour with Live Entertainment: $27
- Oxford PRIVATE Pub and City Evening Walking Tour: $153
- Welcome to 2hr private Oxford walking tour: $280
- Experience Oxford's Art Masterpieces with an Art Historian: $41
- The wonders of Christ Church Private Tour: $143
- Oxford's Historic Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $12
How long should I spend in Oxford?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Oxford is one to three days. Since Oxford has activities such as museums and attractions and nightlife, many visit for up to three days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Oxford? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Oxford?.
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to UK and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in UK.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers
We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Oxford.
What makes Oxford a budget-friendly destination? Or not?
There are a lot of places that cater to students on a budget, so you can pop into a pub for a quick and cheap meal. This also lets you enjoy the local atmosphere.