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Oxford on a Budget: 5 Days of Charm

Discover Oxford's charm on a budget-friendly adventure filled with history and culture.

21 June 2023

For those on a tight budget, Oxford provides an affordable yet charming experience. Free admission can be found at several must-see spots such as the University of Oxford Botanic Garden and the Museum of Natural History. Additionally, cycling or walking around the city allows visitors to take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city without spending a penny.

Travel plan

• Check into the Newton House Hotel, a quaint and cozy budget option in the heart of Oxford.
• Visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in the UK, filled with art and artifacts from around the world.
• Take a stroll through the Botanic Garden, a peaceful oasis with over 6,000 different plant species.
• Pop into the Eagle & Child pub, a historic watering hole where C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien used to meet for drinks and discussions.
• End the day with a classic British meal at The Turf Tavern, a charming pub with a hidden courtyard.

• Begin the day with a guided tour of the University of Oxford, exploring the stunning architecture and learning about the history and traditions of the prestigious institution.
• Visit the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest and largest libraries in Europe, and take a peek inside the Divinity School, a beautiful 15th-century building.
• Check out the Sheldonian Theatre, the university's ceremonial hall, and climb up to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city.
• Wander through the picturesque alleys and courtyards of St. John's College, one of the largest and most famous colleges in Oxford.
• End the day with a leisurely punt down the River Cherwell, taking in the scenic views and passing by some of the city's iconic landmarks.

• Explore the historic village of Woodstock, just a short train or bus ride from Oxford, and visit Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and a stunning example of Baroque architecture.
• Stop by the Oxfordshire Museum, located in a charming thatched-roof building, to learn about the local history and culture.
• Visit the Eagle Comic Book Shop and Trading Cards, which has been selling comics, graphic novels, and collectibles for over 30 years.
• Check out Blackwell's Bookshop, one of the largest and most famous bookstores in the country, and pick up a few titles to read in your downtime.
• End the day with a visit to The Eagle and Child pub (yes, again), where you can sit at the very table where Tolkien and Lewis used to hold their literary discussions.

• Take a short bus ride to the village of Wheatley to visit Waterperry Gardens, a beautiful estate with orchards, formal gardens, and a plant nursery.
• Visit the University Parks, a vast green space with walking trails, picnicking areas, and a duck pond.
• Check out the Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum, founded in 1621 and home to a vast collection of rare and exotic plants.
• Take a guided tour of the Oxford University Press, the world's largest university press and a leading publisher of academic books and journals.
• End the day with a meal at The Old Fire Station, a trendy restaurant and art space with a rotating menu of delicious dishes.

• Take a day trip to the charming villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds, just a short train or bus ride from Oxford.
• Visit the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, known for its stone footbridges and crystal-clear streams.
• Stop by the Cotswold Motoring Museum, a fun and quirky attraction showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles.
• Take a hike through the stunning countryside, past rolling hills, ancient stone walls, and blooming wildflowers.
• End the day with a hearty meal at The Kings Arms, a cozy pub with a warm fireplace and delicious cuisine.
• Enjoy your time in Oxford and the surrounding areas there's so much to explore and discover!