Oxford, Oxfordshire (the city of dreaming spires)

Oxford is one of England’s most beautiful cities, many of the ancient buildings home to Oxford University.

It’s thought that Hitler did not bomb Oxford, as he admired the architecture and intellectual history. And wanted to make it his capital, if he had won the Second World War. He apparently liked the area around Blenheim Palace, where Winston Churchill grew up).

Others say it was simply due to Oxford lacking industrial or heavy military targets. Some even say it was a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ for sparing German counterparts.

Morse fans will recognise the name of Woodstock, just north of Oxford. And nearby is Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. No matter if you are not political, take this lovely virtual walking tour with fitness trainer Lucy Wyndham-Read, who walks you through the lovely grounds, with a few lunges in between!

A blend of beautiful buildings

The city of ‘dreaming spires’ features many ancient buildings, some as many as 1000 years old. Some of the main ones include:

Radcliffe Camera is a circular reading room for Bodleian Library (not open to the public) designed by James Gibbs in the Palladian style. Situated in the heart of Oxford at Radcliffe Square, it’s underground bookstore can hold 600,000 books.
St George’s Tower (built in the 11th century, climb the 101 steps for view of Oxford)
St Michael’s Tower (dates back to the 11th century, climb 97 steps again for good views of the city)
The Bridge of Sighs (completed in 1914, inspired by Venice architecture)

The countryside surrounding Oxford

Oxfordshire is a fairly large affluent county, home to part of the Chiltern hills and the Thames path, which makes for lovely walks.

Always follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms (and toxic plants/trees) and on leads near birds, barnyard friends and wild ponies.

The Cotswolds and Chilterns (part of The Cotswolds are is in Oxfordshire, including the towns of Witney (a thriving market town with a history of making blankets) and Burford (home to many antique shops).

Thame is a lovely old-fashioned town at the foot of the Chiltern Hills (often used for filming Midsomer Murders).