Oxfordshire sits in the heart of England, known for its rich history, world-class education, and beautiful countryside. The county offers more than just the dreaming spires of Oxford.
From ancient sites to bustling market towns and rolling hills, Oxfordshire has something for everyone.
Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe.
The Cotswolds stretch into western Oxfordshire, bringing chocolate-box villages like Burford, Chipping Norton, and Minster Lovell. Stone cottages, winding lanes, and country pubs create a warm village feel.
Wytham Woods, owned by the University of Oxford, is one of the best-studied woodlands in the world. Its mix of ash, oak, and beech trees covers over 1,000 acres, home to rare wildlife and wildflowers.
Abingdon holds the claim of being England’s oldest town, with traces back to the Iron Age. Its riverside setting and historic market square feel timeless.
Uffington’s chalk hillside features a 3,000-year-old figure of a galloping horse, carved into the ground. The site stands high above the Vale of White Horse, with sweeping views and footpaths that link to Iron Age forts and ancient tracks.
Oxford: An Elegant University City
Oxford, a name known across the world, stands for tradition, learning, and beauty. It’s more than just a famous university town. Oxford weaves together centuries of history, stunning architecture, lively culture, and a welcoming local scene.
Oxford University, founded in the 12th century, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Its colleges, such as Christ Church, Balliol, and Magdalen, each hold their own rich traditions and quirks.
The university shapes the city’s rhythm, with thousands of students from all corners of the globe. Oxford’s academic reputation draws top researchers, influential thinkers, and future leaders to its halls.
There is controversy over animal testing at the university. VERO is made up of Oxford boffins, who give the scientific arguments to switch to humane medical research.
Oxford’s skyline stands out with its honey-coloured spires and domes. The Radcliffe Camera, with its round shape and grand facade, is one of the most photographed buildings in town.
The Bodleian Library, a must-see for visitors, holds millions of books and ancient manuscripts. Many buildings date back to medieval times, yet the city maintains a lively and lived-in feel. Each street has its own character, from cobbled alleys to grand gateways.
Botanic Garden, founded in 1621, is England’s oldest and a peaceful spot to unwind. These open spaces keep Oxford feeling fresh and full of life.
The Covered Market, running since the 18th century, brings together local produce and handmade goods. The city’s nightlife is lively, catering to students and locals alike.
Henley-on-Thames (and the royal regatta)
Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, Henley-on-Thames mixes classic English charm with stunning riverside views and a lively town centre.
Henley is known worldwide for its prestigious rowing event, the Henley Royal Regatta, held each summer. This five-day festival brings together rowers from across the globe.
The Thames Path runs right through Henley and offers some of the best riverside walks in southern England. The trail takes you past boats, swans, and historic boathouses.
Henley’s town centre is packed with independent shops, delis, cafes, and traditional pubs. Look out for timber-framed buildings, Georgian architecture, and the old church tower.
Henley is easy to reach by train from London Paddington, making it an ideal day-trip choice. It’s also close to Marlow, Oxford, and the wider Chilterns for extra exploring.
The Lasting Appeal of Inspector Morse
Inspector Endeavour Morse, created by novelist Colin Dexter, is an Oxford-based detective known for his intelligence and quirks. Morse stands out from most detectives because he often lets his emotions guide him.
Colin actually studied at Cambridge but said he and Morse shared a love of Wagner, beer and crosswords.
The Inspector Morse TV series first aired on ITV in 1987, running for thirty-three episodes until 2000. John Thaw played Morse, capturing the detective’s mix of prickliness and humanity.
Handsome John Thaw looked older than he was due to his white hair (he was 44 when filming began, and only 60 when he died).
When the series ended, John refused the offer of the famed red Jaguar, saying ‘it was too slow and terrible to drive!’ Instead, the car was sold at auction and has become a treasured collector’s item.
The Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race
The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race stands as one of England’s oldest and most famous sporting events. Since its start in 1829, the race covers a 4.2-mile (6.8 km) stretch of the Thames between Putney and Mortlake in London.
Each team is called a ‘crew’ and made up of eight rowers with a coxswain (or cox). The cox steers the boat and sets the race plan. Crew members go through tough trials and training for months to win a seat in the boat.
The race has had its share of drama and surprises. There have been dead heats (in 1877), sunken boats, even races rerun after clashes.
In 1912, both boats sank as they filled with water during poor weather. One former rower was Hugh Laurie, in the race when his team (Cambridge) lost, after clashing oars!
The Man Who Broke the Four-Minute Mile
Fellow medical students celebrate, after Roger’s win
Roger Bannister’s story is more than just a record in athletics. His name stands for pushing limits, chasing high goals, and inspiring others to follow. He will always be known as the man who broke the four-minute mile, deemed ‘impossible’ before then.
Even today, only 20 seconds or so has been shaved off that time, by Olympic champion runners.
Roger Bannister was born in Harrow, London, in 1929. His love for running showed early. He studied at University College School and then at Exeter College, Oxford. Despite coming from a modest background, Roger balanced his studies with his training, proving his dedication from a young age.
Unlike many athletes, Bannister was never a full-time runner. He studied medicine, a demanding path by itself, and became a doctor. Every day he trained in the evenings after classes. Bannister later said that his medical studies helped him understand the body and improve his running.
Before 1954, many believed it was impossible for a human to run a mile in under four minutes. Some even thought it was dangerous to try. Bannister set his sights on this “impossible” goal.
Despite working part-time as a junior doctor and having limited time for training, he pushed himself with smart, focused workouts rather than endless hours on the track.
On 6 May 1954, at the Iffley Road Track in Oxford, Roger Bannister lined up for the race that would define him. With the help of pacemakers Chris Brasher and Chris Chataway, Bannister crossed the finish in 3 minutes 59.4 seconds.
Bannister’s record didn’t last long—Australian John Landy broke it just weeks later. But Bannister’s run had unlocked a new mindset. Suddenly, the four-minute mile was possible.
After retiring from athletics, Bannister didn’t chase further sporting fame or records. He focused on medicine and neurology. He became a respected consultant and later the Master of Pembroke College, Oxford.
