Spring in Oxfordshire
From the famous gardens of Blenheim Palace to the winding streets of Oxford, there are plenty of brilliant ways to enjoy spring in Oxfordshire this year. With so many places to visit throughout the beautiful county, we hope this guide will help you to find the best things to see and do this spring. Whether you are looking to enjoy the Oxfordshire countryside, watch a great play, or plan a fun family day out, there is something for everyone in our guide to spring in Oxfordshire.
Chris McCausland
@ New Theatre Oxford
SPRING GARDENS
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University of Oxford Botanic Garden
The Oxford Botanic Garden was founded in 1621, and today it is home to more than 5,000 plant species, making this a green oasis in the heart of the city centre. During Spring the garden experiences a flourish of colour from beautiful tulips, with more exotic plants such as the white waterlilies kept in the many greenhouses. Weekends can be quite busy, so we recommend pre-booking online.
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Harcourt Arboretum
Just 5 miles from the centre of Oxford is the famous Harcourt Arboretum, which offers visitors the chance to explore more than 130 acres of rare and endangered trees. Spring is an excellent time to visit, especially as the stunning bluebell wood will be in full bloom. We also recommend a trip to the beautiful park which is home to many fragrant daphne flowers.
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Greys Court – Henley-on-Thames
This stunning 16th century mansion is a famous Oxfordshire landmark, and during spring the tranquil gardens are an excellent place to visit. The grounds feature a series of walled gardens amid medieval ruins, a Chinese-style moon bridge, a maze, and a striking tower, with interconnected spaces that will offer something to enjoy for everyone.
Exhibitions
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Tutankhamun: Excavating the Archive – The Bodleian
Discover the story of the exciting excavation of King Tutankhamun’s tomb within this exhibition which follows the discoveries of the famous archaeologists. This year marks 100 years since the discovery of the tomb, which housed a wealth of items from the king’s life. The exhibition is free to visit and includes photographs, drawings, diaries, and plans which promise to bring the excavation to life.
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Labyrinth: Knossos, Myth & Realty Exhibition - Ashmolean
Discover the palace of Knossos, discovered on the island of Crete over 100 years ago. The elaborate labyrinth palace was once the centre of Bronze Age civilization, and this is the first UK exhibition of its kind. These objects have never left Crete or Greece before and when combined with discoveries held within Sir Arthur Evans archive, this exhibition which opens on the 10th February is sure to be an interesting visit.
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Connected Planet Exhibition – Oxford University Museum of Natural History
This brilliant exhibition opens on 7th February and will run until 15th August, allowing visitors to explore fascinating displays relating to the oceans, land, and air around us. Find out more about the delicate balance between earth and our life through displays which will take you on a journey around everything from African safaris to grassy plains.
Food & Drink
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The Chester’s Wine Tasting
The Chester is a cosy local pub which is known for its array of craft beers, real ales and the wholesome menu which includes ingredients from many suppliers throughout Oxfordshire. Every 2 months this great pub holds a popular wine tasting evening, with the next event scheduled for the 12th February. This is a great chance to try new wines, enjoy delicious canapes and the popular Chester’s cheeseboard.
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OWC X Table 13: Vegan Wine & Canapes – The Jericho Wine Rooms, Oxford
Georgia Gallacher, the former manager of Michelin starred restaurant Pidgin has returned to Oxford and launched Table 13, the brilliant plant-based supper club and pop-up restaurant. This event is presented by Georgia, alongside Andy Hesketh and Tom Brady from The Oxford Wine Company and will feature 6 exciting wines and creative nibbles. Tickets are on sale now and the event will take place on 24th February.
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Thame Spring Market
The Thame Spring Market is returning for its 7th year from 24th-26th March, with delicious street food stalls, artisan groceries, arts, crafts, jewellery, clothes, and accessories. This weekend event offers something for everyone, with the chance to try and taste products produced around Oxfordshire and further afield. This is also a great chance to explore the beautiful town of Thame, which you may recognise from the TV detective series, Midsomer Murders.
Theatre and Concerts
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90’s Silent Disco in Oxford Town Hall
For the first time ever Silent Discos in Incredible Places will be visiting Oxford, with the grand Town Hall being a great place to enjoy some of your favourite songs from the 90’s. Some of the best UK DJ’s will play everything from pop and dance to party anthems, and this is a great chance to see the famous Oxford Town Hall illuminated like never before. There will be hundreds of people enjoying this silent disco and with tickets selling out fast, now is the time to choose your session on 25th March.
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JIMMY CARR - TERRIBLY FUNNY 2
Star of the UK’s most streamed Netflix comedy special of 2021, Jimmy is back on the road with brand new material for 2023
Wed 22 Mar 2023
COMEDY
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May the Toys be with You – Banbury Museum & Gallery
The force is strong at Banbury Museum & Gallery this spring, with this collection that is a must see trip for Star Wars fans of all ages. The collection includes vintage toys, cinema posters and popular action figures which celebrate the iconic Star Wars movies. There are also many great events for children planned during the school holidays. The exhibition runs until 19th March and booking is essential.
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Scramble! – Bicester Heritage
This is the highlight of the automotive calendar and with 10,000 visitors expected, this is an event to add to your calendar this spring. The 2022 event sold out in record time and this year the event is expected to include hundreds of collector cars, special displays, and activities at the interesting WW2 RAF base. The restored base also offers great spots for picnics and with children and dogs welcome, the event on 23rd April will be a great day out for the whole family.
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Maisie Adam: Buzzed – The Old Fire Station, Oxford
Best Newcomer nominee Maisie Adam is visiting The Old Fire Station with her new show ‘Buzzed’ on 23rd February, and with Maisie fresh from Live at The Apollo, Mock The Week and A League of Their Own, this promises to be a hilarious show. The high-energy evening will be crammed with witty observations, great jokes, and plenty of laughter.
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Comedy at The Castle
This legendary stand-up comedy night at The Castle Pub is part of the ‘A Club If You’d Like To Go Collection’, and it is one of the most popular comedy nights in the county.
The nights are held once a month, with the next being on FEBRUARY 3RD, and it promises to be an evening packed with hotly tipped newcomers and award-winning comedians. -
Jericho Comedy presents Matt Winning’s ‘Hot Mess’ show
Oxford’s Green Action Week will run from 20th-24th February, with Jericho Comedy teaming up with Dr Matt Winning to deliver an excellent climate change show, Hot Mess. Climate scientist and comedian Matt are expected to deliver a brilliant and hilarious performance, and with this Oxford based comedy production company described as organising the best comedy nights in the UK, this performance is definitely a date for your spring diary.
SPRING OUTDOORS
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Cherwell Boathouse Punting
The punting season starts mid-March, with the Cherwell Boathouse being a great place to begin a punt through the countryside surrounding Oxford. The river passes great parks, pubs, and picnic spots, and this is a great activity for novices and experienced punters alike. There is no need to commit to a specific length of time and with 80 punts available, you will be able to relax and enjoy the experience.
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White Horse Hill to Ashdown Walk
Spring is a great time to explore the ancient chalk downs of Oxfordshire, and this challenging walk from White Horse Hill to Ashdown will take in many stunning sights along this ancient ridgeway. The walk is 7.7 miles in length and includes slopes, climbs, and paths through fields, so it will be an invigorating challenge with the award of being able to explore neolithic sites.
Family Fun
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February Half Term at Blenheim Palace
Wind your way through the Marlborough Maze, meet friendly farm animals, enjoy the new wildlife trail, and explore the magnificent Palace this half term, with special activities planned for children from Saturday 11th – Sunday 19th February. There is a great offer available, with children benefiting from a free annual pass with any adult annual pass purchased until 31st March.
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DIG! Oxford Castle & Prison
This February kids will have the chance to experience a real archeological dig at Oxford Castle & Prison, with the event running from the 11th to the 18th February. Children will discover the real history of the castle, and there is also the chance to make mosaic tiles and replica coins. The event will be run by Daniel Harris, the 18th governor of the Castle & Prison.
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Cogges Manor Farm
This award-winning visitor attraction is fun for the whole family, and with 17 acres of grounds, a walled garden, orchard and moated islands, spring is a great time to enjoy a picnic. Children will particularly enjoy the play area and farm animals which include goats, sheep, pigs, ducks, chickens, guinea pigs and rabbits! With over 1000 years of history, a 13th century manor house and a fascinating history ranging from Norman Knights to English Kings, Cogges Manor Farm is a brilliant day out.
Enjoy SPRING in Oxfordshire with our guide to the best events!
There are plenty of brilliant things to see and do in Oxfordshire, and with spring just around the corner, we hope this guide will help you to plan lots of activities over the coming months. To find out more about any of the events or for more recommendations of things to do in Oxfordshire, please contact our team and we will be pleased to help.
