Oxford

[astuz]

Thinking about going for a couple of days. We like old medieval buildings, but not so into museums. We're members of EH, so usually do castles, but I've never been to Oxford and I've heard it's quieter at the moment due to less international tourists (correct me if I'm wrong!), so thinking it might be nice to go there for a change.

We have two teens who are (or have been) into Harry Potter, so I've heard we should go to Christchurch college. Just wondering what other colleges are worth visiting ( I think some will be open) and also nice reasonably priced places to eat (pubs, cafes). Don't like fine dining types places.

Also, should we go to Oxford for one day and then Blenheim on the other, or stick to Oxford for both days?

any chance i can piggyback on this or is that not allowed? We too are going to oxford, but taking a dog instead of teenagers.

Most, if not all, of the colleges are closed to visitors right now, so you won't be able to go IN anywhere, even into the college grounds.

This is the oldest running walking tour and very good - www.oxfordwalkingtours.com/

They do the ghost tour as well - www.oxfordghosttours.com/

I feel that as you can't go inside anywhere, 1 day is sadly enough right now! Normally I would say do 2 days of Oxford and skip Blenheim, but as it is, maybe do Blenheim on day 2.

Where to eat? The White Rabbit does nice pizzas and has a good big outdoor area, as does the Red Lion beside it.

We often get coffee and pastries from The Missing Bean on the Turl and sit in the sun somewhere like the steps of the Weston.

The Bear has been going since the 1200's (more or less) and is nice - www.bearoxford.co.uk/

So many historic places have closed this year, unfortunately.

@dreamingofsun you're more than welcome to tag on

@crosspelican thanks for the info. I did look at the opening times for some of the colleges, and because their opening times were listed, I just assumed they would be open, but after delving a bit more deeply, I realise you're right and most of the colleges won't be open. Christchurch says it's not opening until at least the end of the academic year.

Wondering whether to leave our visit until later in the year. Thanks for the info on ideas for places to eat - I'll definitely be making a note of those for when we do go.

If your teens are into HP, the Turf Tavern is a quirky pub (would easily fit into a HP movie with its crooked alley ways and small atmospheric rooms) to grab a drink or a meal (food is average though). It's where HP actors and crew used to hang out while filming the movie. Worth a visit.
A great place to eat is The Perch - excellent quality wholesome food. Would need a car but not too far from centre. Great in the sun as has big beer garden. Booking is essential as gets very busy. Jacobs Inn is also a nice pub with good food.

@mumofthree22 Thanks for the info.

I think we've decided we'll still go, but just go for the day, instead of staying overnight, so the Turf Tavern might be a good place to go for lunch.