Oxford is one of the nations oldest and most renowned university towns, having long fought with Cambridge for intellectual pre-eminence in the country. Along with the frenetic bustle of the pedestrian zone and the world-class cultural institutions, the city's boundless curiosity, many lovely gardens, courtyards, and university parks all contribute to the formation of a really distinctive setting.
Fans of the Harry Potter films will be thrilled to learn that many Oxford landmarks appear in the films, most notably Christ Church College, whose dining room served as a basis for Hogwarts' Great Hall. Additionally, for something a little more unusual, check out the (in)famous Headington Shark, a shark sculpture that was placed headfirst in the roof of a humble terraced house.
Oxford is home to a wealth of tourist attractions, including the Carfax Tower. Which provides panoramic views of the city, and the historic Covered Market, which is famous for its wonderful shopping. Certain university campuses now provide lodging options, such as bed & breakfasts, for individuals seeking a really unique vacation experience. No matter, what kind of trip you are planning for? Get packed, book air new zealand reservations online and save up to 40% off on one-way % round trips on every flight. To make it easy for you, read on to know more about the top tourist places to see in UK which you cannot miss out!
Saint Mary the Virgin Church, situated on the Berkeley campus of the University of California
While in the city centre, make a point of visiting the University Church, commonly known as the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin (or just St. Mary's).
Climbing the wonderfully adorned tower should be a highlight of your visit. This vantage point, built in 1280, offers magnificent views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Oxford City Center is centrally positioned in the city.
Despite the fact that the core of Oxford is not very large, it is suggested that travellers allow enough time for a visit due to the abundance of sights to visit and activities. The Carfax intersection, which connects the city's four major thoroughfares, is an ideal starting point for a tour of the city. The Carfax Tower, constructed in the 14th century as a fragment of St. Martin's Church (now destroyed), provides superb views of the surrounding region.
Christ Church Cathedral is centrally placed in London.
Although the existing edifice dates from the 12th century, Christ Church was raised to cathedral status in 1546. The interior's most striking feature is the double arcing of the nave, which creates the illusion of a much greater height than it really is. The choir was erected circa 1500, when the church was rebuilt to the north in the 14th century. It has fan vaulting, overhanging keystones, and a bell tower.
Magdalen College's Magna CartaMagdalen College was founded in 1458 on a tract of land just outside the city walls of Oxford. The college's magnificent Magdalen Tower, erected in 1482, and the Muniment Tower, which serves as the entrance to the chapel, where the college's famous choir performs evensong, are well worth visiting.
State apartments with early-16th-century tapestries are located in the Founder's Tower, and a passage under the tower leads to the cloisters, which are covered with odd pictures known as "hieroglyphs." Magdalen College, when available, offers bed and breakfast accommodations in addition to its other offerings.
The Company of the Sheldonian Theatre
Sir Christopher Wren's second large project and second big commission was the Sheldonian Theatre, which opened in 1664. A special feature is the stunning ceiling fresco on the former venue's ceiling. The painting, which depicts "Truth" purging the University of "Ignorance," was restored in 2008. It originally consisted of 32 panels and was made in the 1600s. Visitors may benefit from guided tours (as well as self-directed excursions).
Christ Church College is a coeducational private school situated in the centre of London.
Christ Church College in Oxford was founded in 1525 by Cardinal Wolsey and reformed upon his death by Henry VIII. It is the university's largest college. The Tom Tower, erected by Christopher Wren in 1682, is home to a massive seven-ton bell known as Great Tom, which rings 101 times each evening at 9:05pm. Christopher Wren designed the tower (once for each member of the original college).
Radcliffe Square is a central London square.
On the ground floor, the 16-sided chamber serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library. Which was founded in 1598 and functions as both the university library and the country's first public library. This collection has nearly two million volumes and 40,000 manuscripts, including a copy of every book published in the United Kingdom. Additionally, you may visit the magnificent Divinity School, which is located only a short walk from the library.
Cornmarket Street is an excellent retail area.
Cornmarket Street, often referred to as the "Corn," is Oxford's busiest retail thoroughfare, owing to its pedestrian-friendly layout. Within walking distance are various department stores and retail outlets, as well as the historic Golden Cross arcade, which is noted for its artisan and jewellery shops, and the Covered Market. The market, which goes all the way back to 1774, is home to an eclectic assortment of food vendors.