Holiday houses in Oxford

Tucked between the chocolate-box cottages of the Cotswolds and the rolling Chiltern Hills in the south of England, the city of Oxford boasts an ancient university that has educated some of the world’s most important leaders, from prime ministers to renowned scholars, over the course of 800 years. Just 90 minutes northwest of London, the city’s winding streets are full of historic buildings carved from honey-hued limestone, highlighted by the distinctive spires that dominate the skyline and the arched Bridge of Sighs. The city centre is brimming with old-fashioned tailors and sweet shops, fine dining restaurants and cosmopolitan cafes, and traditional pubs whose leather armchairs and wood panelling take you back in time.

Oxford is also home to world-class museums — there are more than 300,000 archaeological treasures at the Pitt Rivers Museum alone — as well as Britain’s largest university library. The city’s maze of streets is punctuated by plenty of green space, with six parks boasting coveted Green Flag status. Christ Church Meadow is a popular spot for watching university boat races during term time. South Park and Headington Hill Park host open-air concerts throughout the year, and the tranquil Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum is the oldest of its kind in the United Kingdom.

The most pleasant times to book Oxford holiday rentals are March to May and September to October, when mild days make exploring the city a breeze. The Oxford Literary Festival attracts leading literary figures for ten days of book readings, classes, and events in late March. June, July, and August are the hottest months, when you can expect warm and humid days. Nevertheless, be aware that the weather can be changeable, so pack a jacket with your sunscreen. In July, popular street fair Cowley Road Carnival combines food, music, and larger-than-life decorations. Winter brings cold temperatures and rain, but it’s also a magical time to be in the city. The Christmas Light Festival in late November features colourful decorations, choir singers, markets offering handmade crafts, and bright lights filling the streets.

Carfax Tower

The 99-step climb to the top of Carfax Tower — the highest point in the city — is rewarded with panoramic views. The tower is the last remaining section of St Martin’s Church, which was first built in the 12th century. Once you’re back on solid ground, head to the east side of the building, where the tower clock is guarded by the “quarter boys” — painted figures who strike the bells to mark the passing of each quarter of the hour.

Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum

The UK’s oldest botanic garden, established more than 400 years ago, spreads over 130 acres of scenic woodland along the tranquil River Cherwell. The garden was originally used to grow plants for medicinal research at the university. Today, it is still a centre for research, and you can amble through giant glasshouses which contain thousands of plants from across the globe, from rainforest environments to alpine conditions. Look out for kaleidoscopic displays of butterflies in the summer.

Punting on the River Thames

Punting is a traditional activity on the River Thames, which meanders its way through the city. Step onto one of the city’s flat-bottomed boats — punts — and push yourself along with a wooden pole to experience Oxford from a new perspective. There are plenty of spots to stop for a picnic along the way. Punts can be rented at boathouses by the river, and you can also have a quick lesson before you set off.