Oxford

About

It's now the focus for leisure activities, culminating in the Eights Week rowing races, when colleges compete to 'bump' each other's boats. If you're inspired to take to the river, there's a wide choice of craft - from stately Edwardian Salters' steamers to elegant electric launches, rowing boats and traditional punts.

You might retrace the route taken by Lewis Carroll (Charles Dodgson) 150 years ago; he recounted the tale of Alice in Wonderland to the real Alice while rowing upriver to Binsey. Many people and places featured in the Alice books really exist - and you can find them in Oxford.

Harry Potter fans seek out Christ Church, New College and the Bodleian Library - places which inspired or were featured in the books or films.Oxford’s libraries are famous across the globe. The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and in Britain is second in size only to the British Library with over 12 million printed items. First opened to scholars in 1602, it incorporates an earlier library from the 15th century to house books donated by Humfrey, Duke of Gloucester. A regular programme of guided tours of the Old Bodleian Library allows visitors to see inside its historic rooms including the 15th-century Divinity School, medieval Duke Humfrey's Library, and the impressive Radcliffe Camera.

With 5 free museums including the Ashmolean, Britain's first Botanic Garden and 37 historic colleges, Oxford merits a two-day visit and is probably best explored on foot with an Official Walking Tour guide. Historic pubs and hotels provide ample refreshment while the Covered Market, selling everything from lobsters to lardy cake, provides freshly-cooked goodies. The Visitor Information Centre in Broad Street is a mine of useful information.

Things to do in Oxford

• If you're inspired to take to the river, there's a wide choice of craft from Salters' Steamers - choose from rowing boats and traditional punts.Passenger boats depart from Folly Bridge or Donnington Bridge.
• With 5 free museums including the Ashmolean, Britain's first Botanic Garden and 37 historic colleges, Oxford merits a two-day visit and is probably best explored on foot with an Official Walking Tour guide.
• Explore Oxford Castle & Prison : 18th century Debtors’ Tower and Prison D-wing; 900 years old underground Crypt; marvel at the Mound of the 11th century motte and bailey castle; climb St George’s Tower and enjoy the unique 360° panoramic views over the dreaming spires.
• Book your own personal tour of the magical world of Harry Potter in Oxford walking tour Team Activity Group! Your guide actor Jon Dixon, will take you on a fantastic adventure, surrounded by the history and the grandeur of the whispering spires of Oxford. The walk will be professionally performed and can even be written to include references to members of your group.