Etain O’Carroll

The world-class museums. The scenic waterways and parks. The hallowed halls and libraries and corridors where Nobel Prize-winners, prime ministers and literary giants spent their formative years. Oxford is chock-full of brilliant things to see and do, and best of all, many of them are free to visit.Sure, several of the most famous attractions – from punting and choir services to galleries filled with ancient treasures – have something to do with the city’s storied university. But alongside all the Oxbridge buzz, you’ll find a rich industrial past, meandering rivers crying out to be explored by kayak or paddleboard, and a strong arts and music scene that brings a little edge to this most conservative of cities. Read on for the best. RECOMMENDED:🏛️ The best museums in Oxford🍴 The best restaurants in Oxford🏨 The best hotels in Oxford This guide was recently updated by Ralph Jones, a writer based in Oxford. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Oxford really does live up to its reputation as one of the UK’s most beautiful places, and it’s got the restaurants to match. But dining here isn’t all dainty Victorian conservatories, art gallery roof-tops and riverside pubs (although those are on the menu) – there’s a creative, diverse culinary scene here, too.  Feast upon the likes of Tibetan momos, Slovak goulash and Keralan curries, alongside high-end tasting menus, hotel restaurants and more. Whether you’re here for a day-trip or a full-blown staycation, you’re guaranteed to eat well in Oxford if you take our advice. Here are the best restaurants in Oxford. RECOMMENDED:🌤️The best things to do in Oxford🏛️The best museums in Oxford🚞The best places to visit in the UK This guide was last updated by Ralph Jones, a writer based in Oxford. Contributions and original photos by Oxford local Etain O'Carroll. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Given Oxford’s been around since the eighth century, it’s no wonder the place is absolutely drowning in history – and it’s got so many wonderfully varied series of institutions to match (that you can enter for free) that they even give London a run for its money.  Want some Ming dynasty pottery or pre-Raphaelite masterpieces? Head to the Ashmolean. North African astrolabes and the original Penicillin culture? Try the Museum of Science. Tribal tattoo kits and a Siberian Shaman’s apron? Make a beeline for the Pitt Rivers. If you’ve got kids in tow, you’ll also find a homage to childhood wonder at the Story Museum and work by some of the world’s leading artists at Modern Art Oxford. But the list doesn’t end there – here is our comprehensive roundup of the best museums in Oxford. RECOMMENDED: 🎭The best things to do in Oxford🥗The best restaurants in Oxford🌤️The best places to visit in the UK🍃The best day trips from London