Oxford

Oxford sits where the River Thames, known locally as the Isis, meets the River Cherwell, and it has been a place of consequence since Saxon times, when it served as a fortified crossing point on the northern frontier of Wessex. The University of Oxford began teaching in the late 12th century, making it older than most European institutions of comparable standing. Today it comprises 39 colleges, the three oldest of which, University College, Balliol and Merton, all date to the 13th century.

For a weekend break, the city's compact centre works in the visitor's favour. The Bodleian Library, formally opened in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley, holds over 11 million items and offers guided tours through spaces that have been used as filming locations as well as working libraries. The Ashmolean Museum on Beaumont Street, founded in 1683 as Britain's first public museum, is free and covers art and archaeology from ancient Egypt through to modern Chinese painting, including the Stradivari violin known as the Messiah. The Covered Market, which has operated continuously since 1774, remains a working market with independent food stalls, butchers and cafes rather than a heritage attraction in name only.

What can you do on a weekend in Oxford?

The city works across different interests. Those drawn by history can spend a full day tracing college architecture without paying an entrance fee, simply by walking the streets. Food and drink visitors will find a reasonable independent scene concentrated around Cowley Road and Jericho. Families and couples often organise their time around a punting session, with hire available at Magdalen Bridge and Cherwell Boathouse from spring through autumn. Literary visitors will know that Oxford provided the setting for Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials and much of Colin Dexter's Inspector Morse series, both of which give specific locations that are easy to find on foot.

When is the best time to visit Oxford?

The city draws around 9 million visitors per year, which means weekends in summer can feel crowded on the main thoroughfares. Arriving on a Friday evening and exploring early Saturday morning before the coach tours arrive gives a noticeably quieter experience. Autumn is particularly good for atmosphere, with the academic year in full swing and the light catching the limestone buildings in ways that photograph well but are better appreciated in person.