Experience Christmas in Oxford
#VisitOxford
A city steeped in history and heritage, its skyline pierced with spires and its streets lined with fantastic shops and attractions – Christmas in Oxford is a magical time.
The majestic streets and enchanting buildings make the city feel like Alice in Wonderland amid the festival lights and decorations. So, with so much to see and do make sure you spend Christmas in Wonderland this year with a visit to Oxford.
We suggest you plan your time in the city to make the most of the festive season – whether you’re looking for a hotel stay, restaurant, museum, events or a stroll around the ornate, honey-hued university buildings.
Discover international brands at Westgate Oxford or the Clarendon Centre and shop independent boutiques inside the Covered Market. A thriving hub of shopping, you’ll find a special gift for each of your loved ones in Oxford over the festive period.
A great way to explore the city is via an Oxford Official Walking Tour, a ghost tour or City Sightseeing Oxford’s open top bus tour.
Oxford is ready to welcome you and is easily accessible via park&ride, bus and train.
Remember to follow all Government guidelines to keep you safe and enjoy your visit.
Whether you are a visitor, local resident or student, Oxford extends you a warm welcome to our Wonderland and looks forward to seeing you this festive season.
Discover independent boutiques, international brands, and hundreds of years of history!
Christmas Markets
It’s not Christmas if you don’t visit a festive market. Returning in 2021 after last year’s restrictions, Oxford Christmas Market is back on Broad Street from Thursday, December 9.
Our city of dreaming spires will be filled with festive joy with the sound of choirs, market traders offering unique handmade gifts, colourful decorations and an aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon. The market will be open until Sunday, December 19.
The Oxford Christmas Arts Market is taking place on December 4th and 5th Broad Street. The market will feature many local artists, design-makers and selected guests. The Oxford Arts Market is delivered by Boffy Arts Market in partnership with Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire Arts Partnership.
Experience Christmas in Oxford
Covered Market Oxford
Fifty independent traders selling gifts, crafts, jewellery, fashion, flowers and fresh food
Westgate Oxford
International brands including John Lewis, Primark, H&M, Urban Outfitters and Uniqlo
Clarendon Centre
Brands including Gap Outlet, TK Max, Robert Dyas, Swarovski and Thorntons
Oxford’s Independent Businesses
Independent Oxford has created an online map showcasing the city’s best independent businesses.
Trader of the Week
Visit local greengrocer Bonners in Oxford Covered Market this festive season.
Ashmolean Museum
Britain’s first public museum. Exhibits from Egyptian Mummies to modern art
Museum of Natural History
Internationally-significant collection, including dinosaurs and the Oxford Dodo
Oxford Castle & Prison
Step back in time and learn about Oxford’s famous prisoners with costumed tours
Stay in Oxford
Stay in the city of dreaming spires to make the most of the festive season.
Parks and waterways
Port Meadow, University Parks, rivers and canals provide a break from the bustle
Oxford Official Walking Tours
If you’re coming for a staycation or simply a day trip, then try out our Oxford Official Walking Tours.
