Oxford. The City of Dreaming Spires. Home to a prestigious university, cobbled streets, and enough history to make your head spin. But let’s be honest, it also has a reputation for being a tad on the pricey side.
Fear not, fellow budget traveller! Oxford on a budget is absolutely achievable, and here’s how to prove it. We’re talking ten incredible things to see and do, all for a tenner (or less!)
Punting at Cherwell Boathouse
£23/hr weekdays, £25/hr weekends (up to 6 people per punt)
Ditch the double-decker tours and do Oxford like a true local! Head to the Cherwell Boathouse and grab a punt – it’s basically a flat-bottomed boat with a long pole for steering. Trust us, it’s way more fun than it sounds. You’ll be gliding down the Cherwell River, admiring the gorgeous college buildings and peeking into hidden gardens. Pack a picnic basket, grab some mates, and get ready for a relaxing puntastic adventure!
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Rectory Farm PYO
Pay for what you pick
Head over to Rectory Farm in Oxford and get your hands dirty (in the best way possible) picking your own scrumptious fruits and veggies. Imagine biting into a sun-warmed strawberry you just chose yourself, still bursting with fresh flavour. It’s an exciting and cost-friendly day out since you only pay for what you pick.
Rectory Farm has a whole field of fun waiting to be explored – you won’t regret a day spent picking your own patch of summer!
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Big Society
Food from £3.95
Big Society is your one-stop shop for good eats and epic fun. Feeling competitive? Grab a friend and challenge them to ping pong or foosball. Need a refuel after crushing the game? Tuck into the unbelievably tasty fried chicken, gravy and fries from just £9.90. Plus, they have DJs spinning tunes on Fridays and Saturdays, making it the perfect spot to unwind. So ditch the boring routine and head to Big Society for a night you won’t forget!
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Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Free
Ever wonder what a real T-Rex looked like? Or want to get up close and personal with some dazzling minerals? The Oxford University Museum of Natural History has got you covered! This place is bursting with dinosaur bones, amazing animal specimens, and tons more cool stuff from the natural world. It’s basically a giant treasure trove for curious minds, and trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
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Junkyard Golf
£9.50 pp
Craving an epic adventure that’s equal parts minigolf and mind-blowing fun? Ditch the stuffy museums and head to Junkyard Golf in Oxford! This place isn’t your average putt-putt course. We’re talking whacky obstacles, crazy cocktails, and three themed courses that’ll have you putting through a boozy treehouse bar and a UFC bear cage (minus the actual bears, of course). So grab your friends, unleash your inner champion and get ready for a hole-in-one good time!
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Sandy’s Piano & Wine Bar
£5 pp
For a night that’s as smooth as jazz and lively as a singalong, head to Sandy’s Piano Bar in Oxford! This spot is the perfect blend of classy and fun, with top-notch cocktails, delicious wines, and live music every night. Plus, entry is free and glasses of wine begin at £5. So grab your dancing shoes, warm up your vocal cords, and get ready for a night to remember at Sandy’s!
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Ashmolean Museum
Free
Calling all history buffs, art lovers, and curious minds! Ever wanted to come face-to-face with an Egyptian mummy, marvel at world-famous Raphael drawings, or get lost in a labyrinth of ancient artifacts? Then the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is your next adventure! With over half a million years of human history and creativity under one roof, there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination. Plus, it’s completely free – so what are you waiting for?
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Carfax Tower
Adults £4, children £3
Climb to the top of Carfax Tower for a stunning bird’s-eye view of Oxford’s dreamy spires. This historic tower is all that remains of a cool old church, and it’s the tallest point in central Oxford. Climb the 99 steps (don’t worry, it’s worth it!), and you’ll be rewarded with epic views of the city. So lace up your walking shoes and get ready for a panoramic adventure!
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Christ Church Meadow
Free
Pack a basket full of goodies, grab your favourite blanket, and head to Christ Church Meadow in Oxford! This sprawling green oasis is calling your name for a picnic fit for royalty. Imagine yourself unwinding under the big blue sky, with the gentle murmur of the rivers Cherwell and Thames keeping you company. Unwrap your delicious spread and watch the world go by, from punting enthusiasts to leisurely strollers. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
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Modern Art Oxford
Free
Hidden down a side street next to the grand Westgate shopping centre you’ll find Modern Art Oxford, a creative hub committed to current art and culture. They frequently host exhibitions, activities and talks which enable the community and visitors to broaden their minds and learn something new. There is plenty to keep you entertained here from the art displays and workshops to the gift shop and in-house café. Plus, you’ll be ideally located to explore the rest of the city once you’re finished.
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*all prices correct at time of writing
