Things to do in Oxfordshire

Searching for things to do in Oxfordshire? Whether you are looking for Bicester Village – the world’s most popular luxury shopping outlet, the UK’s only crocodile zoo, the world’s oldest public museum – Ashmolean Museum and the oldest Botanic Garden in the world, the oldest University in the English-speaking world, Britain’s oldest chalk figure or picture-perfect villages – don’t look any further, as we’ve got them all!

Explore the city of Oxford and the wider county to discover world-class arts and culture in stunning venues, the University of Oxford, museums, country houses and gardens such as Blenheim Palace and beautiful landscapes full of walking, cycling and boating opportunities.

Oxford and Oxfordshire have also provided backdrops for countless international films including Harry Potter filmed at Christ Church and James Bond’s Spectre filmed at Blenheim Palace, to name just a few. Many places across the county may look familiar to fans of shows like Downton Abbey, Midsomer Murders and Inspector Morse.

Oxfordshire is famous for its excellent local produce and delicious food. From Michelin-starred restaurants such as Belmond Le Manoir, cosy rural pubs, farmers’ markets, social enterprise cafés and international cuisine, you will not be short of places to eat and drink.

If you are travelling with family, Oxfordshire is the perfect place to enjoy a big day out. With fantastic farms, wildlife parks such as Cotswold Wildlife Park with over 260 different species of animal. Magical museums and amazing mazes, the county’s got activities for children of all ages. You can enjoy real-life escape games at City Mazes, explore and climb the historical Oxford Castle and Prison, or visit Cogges Manor Farm, a Scheduled Ancient Monument with over 1000 years of history, for something special.

There are also many tours you can take, by foot, bike or even boat, to explore the county and discover its hidden secrets.

If Oxford is your first stop, the Oxford Visitor Information Centre offers somewhere to gather friendly local information and help, as well as a place for you to store your luggage while you explore Oxford and Oxfordshire.

Crocodiles of the World

Enjoy a great day out at the UK’s only crocodile zoo near Witney in West Oxfordshire with plenty of photo opportunities, feeding displays, crocodile talks and much more. Not to mention meeting all the amazing crocodiles, alligators, caimans, lizards, snakes, meerkats and even a Komodo Dragon! Highlights include: Meet all 12 crocodile species – including...

Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum

SOFO offers visitors engaging and immersive experiences through a changing exhibitions programme and main galleries including a recreated Great War trench, a mock up section of a Horsa Glider from D Day and Afghan Alley. The galleries take visitors through the life of a ‘21st Century Soldier’, the ‘Blood and War’ of the frontline, Winston Churchill...

Oxford Tour Guides

A great way to discover Oxford is to take a walking tour with Oxford Tour Guides. We specialise in private or group tours that are tailored to your interests. The tour can be any length whether you just have an hour or two to spare or it can be up to a whole day. Just...

Bill Spectre Ghost Trail

Bill Spectre’s Ghost Trail Burford

Bill Spectre leads us through the streets of Woodstock revealing the darker history of this pretty town. This entertainment based tour is, performed by Bill, who’s award Oxford Ghost Trail has been named by TripAdvisor as one of 10 best in the world. By private booking starting at £100 Bill Spectre will lead you through...

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The Players Theatre

The Players Theatre is a gem of a small theatre in the centre of Thame, offering a popular year-round programme of live shows, ranging from serious plays to comedy and pantomime. The theatre also hosts many visiting shows including theatrical productions, musical artists, stand-up comedians and much more. It is also home to Thame’s only...

Cogges Manor Farm

Discover the beautiful Oxfordshire Cotswolds and enjoy a morning or afternoon visiting the historic grounds at Cogges. Cogges is a Scheduled Ancient Monument with over 1000 years of history, with Grade II* Listed 13th century manor house and 17th century farm buildings. Discover the fascinating story of past owners ranging from Norman knights, English Kings,...

Salter’s Steamers Boat Trips

Salter’s Steamers is a family run firm that has provided first-class hospitality on the Royal River Thames for almost 150 years (est. 1858). As one of the longest established firms on the Thames, Salter’s Steamers own one of the largest and most exclusive fleets operating on the river. Their cruises combine traditional style, contemporary comforts...

Alice’s Shop

A fundamental part of the tales of Alice in Wonderland, Alice’s Shop features in the original story written by Lewis Carroll. Situated across the road from Alice’s childhood home, the Oxford University college of Christ Church, Alice’s Shop was Alice’s sweet shop 150 years ago, and was written into Alice’s adventures. Illustrator of Through the Looking-Glass,...

Blenheim Palace Pleasure Gardens

The Blenheim Palace Pleasure Gardens If you’re looking for things to do with the kids, take a ride on the Miniature Train to Blenheim Palace’s Pleasure Gardens. Explore the Marlborough Hedge Maze, delight in the abundance of wildlife in the Butterfly House, burn off some energy in the Adventure Playground and enjoy a relaxing moment amongst...

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Abingdon Visitor Information Centre

The Abingdon Visitor and Community Information Centre is run by the town council and offers a service for both residents and visitors on Abingdon-on-Thames and the attractions of the town and surrounding areas. Opening Hours Monday – 9.30 am to 3.00 pm Tuesday – 9:30 am to 3.00 pm Wednesday – 9.30 am – 3.00...

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Corn Exchange Wallingford

Occupying a commanding position in the much-loved town of Wallingford, the Corn Exchange is run entirely by unpaid volunteers and is a vibrant and thriving centre for the enjoyment of arts, theatre, cinema, and entertainment. Its resident amateur theatre group, the Sinodun Players, enjoys a high reputation and performs at least four plays annually plus...

Waterperry Gardens

Waterperry Gardens have been delighting visitors for years with 8 acres of historic and inspirational gardens nestled in the Oxfordshire countryside. The gardens feature a spectacular 200 foot herbaceous border along with rose and formal gardens, a lily canal and riverside walk. The Plant Centre and Garden Shop stock everything for the garden with many...