Oxford is a destination known around the world for its amazing architecture and top-notch university. So when Marco Polo Guides invited me to the historic city for a day of exploring, I was keen to see what else it had to offer.
Y’see I’ve actually only been to Oxford once before, despite it being just a 45 minute drive from where I live. I went when I was 18 to see the Uni, when my teachers were pressuring me to go to Oxford or Cambridge. And I was like lol nah, I’m going to go study fashion, pal. Oh how my life could have been different haha!
But anyway what I’m getting at, is that my knowledge of Oxford was pretty minimal. I mainly used the trip to see the Great Hall that inspired the Harry Potter films. Priorities. (FYI it’s in Christ Church College).
So this time I was excited to explore some more.
I went along to the event with some of my blogger pals – Sophie and Ellie – and got to meet some internet friends in real life for the first time – Sam, Jessica and Freya. And we spent the whole day following some of the ‘Insider Tips’ in the new Marco Polo Oxford Pocket Guide to celebrate its launch.
Here’s some of the tips I loved and really think you ought to know before you head to the so-called ‘City of Dreaming Spires’!
Top Tips For Exploring Oxford
Have Brunch at The Handle Bar
Oh I do love a good brunch spot. And the guide was spot on with its recommendation of The Handle Bar!
When I arrived I thought I was in the wrong place as the cafe is actually above a bike shop (hence the name), but when you go up there, it’s all fairy lights and big windows letting in lots of light. It also has a nice buzz about it so it’s a good atmosphere for a bit of a Saturday brunch.
I went for the coconut pancakes with berries and it was so bloody good. Seriously, I was in heaven. Some of the girls also had smashed avocado on toast or a full English breakfast, so there’s lots of choice. And lots of vegan and gluten-free options if that’s your jam.
Wander The Covered Markets
The covered markets date back to the 1770s and host lots of permanent, independent shops. It’s mainly things like florists, greengrocers and local crafts, stuff like that, but it’s quite nice to have a wander.
It’s also a fab place to stop and grab a coffee in here and look at the little displays about the building’s history.
Rooftop Views at The Varsity Club
Whilst you’re at the covered markets, make sure you check out the rooftop bar that’s above it!
The Varisty Club seems to be Oxford’s worst-kept secret (it’s featured on the cover of the Marco Polo guide!) so it gets quite busy here at the weekends. But it’s 100% worth a visit.
This dreamy rooftop bar overlooks some kickass views of the city – spires for days! And is the perfect spot for a cheeky Aperol Spritz and a natter with your pals. Which is exactly what I did.
Get Insta Snaps On Holywell Street
Maybe it’s just me, but you know when you see Instagrammers taking photos in front of a different coloured wall every week and you’re like – where are you finding all of these walls?!
Well they’re all on Holywell Street, babes. And surprisingly, the street is pretty quiet, so it’s perfect for getting that #OOTD snap in front of a pastel-hued wall.
There are also some other cute buildings on this road so it’s worth checking out.
Go Punting On The River
I didn’t actually get a chance to do this one, but if you visit Oxford on a beaut summer’s day, definitely go for a punt on the river. It turns out punting isn’t just for Cambridge!
It looked quite busy when I visited but it does look like a fun way to spend an afternoon. Jump aboard at the Magdalen Bridge.
Have A Drink At Turf Tavern
This is such a good find!
Turf Tavern is supposedly the oldest pub in Oxford with lots of famous customers and even an in-house ghost. It has tonnes of character and is so quintessentially Oxford with the historic building, students in the beer garden and colourful walls at the entrance. It’s cute and definitely worth a stop for a drink.
Hmm, I’m making this seem like a boozy trip, aren’t I?
Check Out The Uni Architecture
Like I mentioned in the intro, Oxford’s university buildings are beautiful and definitely worth a look. There are so many to see, but on this trip we checked out Queen’s College, The Bridge Of Sighs and the Radcliffe Camera. The latter two are actually also Harry Potter filming locations just FYI.
But anyway, just having a wander around these places and appreciating the history and architecture is pretty neat. I’d recommend it just to soak up that Oxford vibe, y’know?
Go For Afternoon Tea At The Vaults
I feel like The Vaults & Garden must be where Oxford Uni students take their mums when they visit. It’s very swish and they serve a very traditional afternoon tea complete with scones, finger sandwiches and prosecco. And tea of course, but you know, when there’s bubbles… Hiccup…
It’s a cute little find recommended in the Marco Polo Oxford Guide, with a vaulted ceiling and arched beams that have definite church vibes. V cute, y’all.
There you have it, some of the fab finds I found on my recent trip to Oxford with Marco Polo Guides! And FYI if you want your own copy of the Marco Polo Oxford Pocket Guide, take a peek over this way, pal.
Have you been to Oxford? What did you think? Any other tips or places you’d recommend?
Let me know in the comments below, tweet me or find me over on Instagram!
Total Blogger Transparency: This post was in collaboration with Marco Polo Guides but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I wouldn’t play you like that, shorty.