What to Do in Oxfordshire
Family Fun Days
Courtesy of Crocodiles of the World
Vacation or Staycation?
There is always something Fun to Do in Oxfordshire
Whether it’s a staycation or just a Fun day out, Oxfordshire has a wealth of things to do to keep all age groups entertained. Beautiful countryside, towns to explore and memories to be made minute by minute.
Zoos and Family Days Out
Cogges Manor Farm Museum
This is a great family day out, with more than 17 acres of open space to explore, including gardens, orchards, play areas and plenty of farm animals. The museum is situated in the heart of Witney, and the beautiful manor house is popular with nearby residents and visitors.
Crocodiles of The World Zoo
As the UK’s only crocodile zoo, we recommend adding this fun attraction to your list of things to do in Oxfordshire. With under-water viewing areas, feeding opportunities and plenty of crocodiles to see, this is a fun and interesting day out.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Meet the giraffes on the unique giraffe boardwalk and watch the lions being fed, all before exploring the sierra, prairies, outback, and the jungle within this brilliant wildlife park.
Charlbury and the Wilderness Festival
This multi-award winning 4-day festival takes place every year in the sleepy Oxfordshire town of Charlbury. The rich cultural festival is home to live music, art, theatre, food, drink and craftmanship, which makes it a great choice for families, music lovers and those who simply enjoy a relaxed outdoor cultural experience. This year the festival takes place on the 5th-8th August, a date which you should add to your diary!
Wheatley Windmill
This fully restored 17th Century windmill is situated in the charming Oxfordshire village of Wheatley, and it is free to visit between May and October. The fascinating windmill is a throwback to an interesting era, and you will be able to learn more about its history and its restoration during your visit.
Historic Houses & Castles
Blenheim Palace
As the birthplace of Winston Churchill, the elegant Blenheim Palace makes an excellent day out. The palace is situated within 2000 acres of parkland and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the impressive Baroque architecture and award-winning formal gardens to the giant hedge maze and adventure playground, Blenheim Palace offers something for everyone.
Oxford Castle & Prison
Step back in time at the Oxford Castle & Prison, where you will learn the tales of some of the most notorious criminals whilst enjoying panoramic views from St. George’s Tower. When William the Conqueror invaded England and won the Battle of Hastings in 1066, Oxford Castle was marked by the Normans as the ideal place for a motte-and-bailey castle. The Castle has stood for more than 1000 years, making it a fascinating attraction with a great story to tell.
University of Oxford
Oxfordshire is the famous home of one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. The university is divided into independent campuses which are dotted throughout the historic city, with many completely free to visit. You can even explore the filming locations of your favourite films, including Harry Potter, Endeavour, Lewis, and Morse.
Wallingford Castle
The historic market town of Wallingford in South Oxfordshire is often described as the best surviving example of a Saxon fortified town. If you take a short walk outside the town, you can explore the ruins of one of England’s most important castles, stunning gardens and the Wallingford Bridge which has been used to cross the River Thames since the 14th Century.
Countryside Walks and Outdoor Adventures
Oxford Punting
For another view of the city you can take to the water and hire a punt, for a relaxed yet fun way to explore Oxford. Punting is a timeless tradition here in Oxfordshire, and they are available to hire from the Magdalen Bridge Boat House. There are many routes to take, but we recommend punting along the College Meadows and Botanic Gardens.
Cotswolds
With many towns and villages, the Cotswolds has plenty of picturesque places to explore, including the filming locations of Downton Abbey, idyllic countryside, rivers, and ancient monuments. We recommend including the mysterious Rollright Stones, the Witney Meadows, and the River Windrush in your list.
Witney Lake & Country Park
This country park offers tranquil walks around the lake with an abundant variety of wildlife and plants, you can even enjoy angling if you purchase a fishing licence during your visit.
Abingdon and The Thames Path
The historic market town of Abingdon, which is famous for its bun-throwing competition, is set in rural Oxfordshire and offers plenty of places to explore. From ancient meandering streets to the riverside walks along The Thames Path, it is possible to plan a full day’s hike or explore the stretch in bite sized chunks. We recommend the Abingdon Waterways Walk, which is a circular route that is very manageable within a day trip.
Port Meadow
On the outskirts of Oxford is the Port meadow, which provides a welcome open space of tranquillity away from the busy city centre.
With its grazing horses, cattle, and wildflowers it is a great place to take a walk and stop for a rest in the popular 17th Century pub, The Perch.
