Discover Oxford This Summer – Must-See Attractions and Events
10/07/2024 13:11PM

Discover Oxford This Summer – Must-See Attractions and Events

Summer is a fantastic time to explore Oxford, offering a huge variety of activities and sun-filled experiences for everyone. From punting along the river to exploring bustling street markets and enjoying captivating outdoor theatre productions, the historic city is brimming with cultural, artistic, and recreational events.

At the Royal Oxford Hotel, we love sharing the delights of this remarkable city with our guests, and we've collected a list of top attractions and activities to enjoy in Oxford this summer.

History and Cultural Activities

• Walking and Cycling Tours: Discover Oxford's rich history with a leisurely walking or cycling tour through the historic city centre. These tours provide a wonderful way to soak up the city's heritage and architecture.
• University Colleges: Explore the iconic Oxford University Colleges, renowned for their stunning architecture and picturesque quads. Whether you're a Harry Potter fan or a summer course attendee, these colleges are a must-visit.
• OxTrail 2024: This summer, discover 30 creative ox sculptures dotted throughout the city centre, all crafted by local and international artists, adding a vibrant touch to the city.
• The Space Vault Exhibition: Showcasing one of the largest private collections of space artefacts, including rare items from NASA’s Apollo missions and the Soviet space era, this exhibition is at the River and Rowing Museum in nearby Henley-on-Thames.
• Shopping in the Historic Covered Market: Stroll through the charming Covered Market, home to unique boutiques, charming craft stalls, and mouthwatering eateries.

Oxford Art Scene

• Open-Air Plays: Experience the magic of open-air theatre with Oxford’s Creation Theatre Company. This summer, they bring "As You Like It" and "Treasure Island" to life in stunning outdoor settings.
• Oxford Shakespeare Festival: Enjoy award-winning Shakespearean performances in the historic Castleyard of Oxford Castle & Prison.
• The Oxford Festival of Arts (OFA 2024): Celebrate the arts with a diverse programme of events across the city. From exhibitions to live performances, there's something to captivate every art lover.

Embrace the Outdoors

• Oxford’s Parks: Ideal for picnics and relaxation, Oxford’s parks like Port Meadow, Christ Church Meadow, and Magdalen College Grove offer beautiful green spaces to enjoy the summer sun.
• Oxford Botanic Gardens: Founded in 1621, these gardens boast over 5,000 plant species. Explore the wonders of plant science and biodiversity.
• Punting on the River Cherwell: A quintessential Oxford activity, punting on the River Cherwell, a tributary of the Thames, offers a serene way to appreciate the city's beauty. Rent a punt or hire a guided tour for a delightful experience.
• Outdoor Pools: Cool off at one of Oxfordshire’s outdoor pools. Hinksey Outdoor Pool features a 35m lido with a beach area for infants, while the newly-renovated Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool is a popular family destination for summer fun.
• River Swimming: If wild swimming is more your thing, why not take a dip in the River Thames at Port Meadow? With plenty of great swimming spots, the stretch of the river at Port Meadow has been designated as an official river bathing location and is a great place to soak up the rays.
• River Cruises: Enjoy stunning scenery and experience the beauty of Oxford’s natural world. A tranquil guided sightseeing river cruise is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the serenity of Oxford in the summertime.

Museums and Day Trips

• Museums: Oxford is home to world-class museums perfect for making the most of rainy afternoons. Start with the Ashmolean, the Natural History Museum, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.
• Day Trips: Explore nearby attractions such as Blenheim Palace, Kelmscott Manor, the historic Didcot Railway Centre, or the scenic Cotswolds with its rolling hills and charming villages.

Book Your Summer Stay Today!

Get the most out of your Oxford experience this summer with a stay at the Royal Oxford Hotel. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you plan your visit and ensure you make the most of your time here. With our central location near the train and bus stations, air-conditioned rooms, ensuite bathrooms, and fast Wi-Fi, the Royal Oxford Hotel is the perfect base for exploring this wonderful city.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make the most of your summer in Oxford. The team is here to assist you every step of the way!