Oxford is the strawberries and cream of English cities and an Instagram oasis where you can get snap-happy dazzling the virtual world.
Whether you’re on a weekend visit or a big Oxford hen do, this Insta-tour of the best Oxford attractions is the perfect way to see the city in all its glory!
1. Christ Church
The first thing that springs to mind when you think of Oxford is the university (this is a fact, FYI!). Christ Church is one of the main colleges and boasts an idyllic green, cathedral, and was the filming location for numerous Harry Potter scenes.
How to find Christ Church
2. Harry Potter Filming Locations
Whilst we’re on the subject, Oxford is perfect for Potterheads looking to unearth some spots where the magic happened (not sorry!) with loads of scenes being filmed in this great city. Christ Church, Bodleian Library, Duke Humfrey’s Library, the Museum of Natural History all featured in the film franchise.
How to find Harry Potter filming locations
3. University of Oxford Botanic Garden
The Oxford Botanic Garden is a quaint green space in the centre of the city with plenty to see and snap. As we all know, the best-looking person on Earth is Mother Nature herself, so you’re bound to get some picture-perfect photos to upload to the ‘gram.
How to find University of Oxford Botanic Garden
4. Radcliffe Camera
Yes, Daniel Radcliffe left his camera on a park bench when they were filming The Philosopher’s Stone and it’s become a bit of a tourist attraction… OK, that’s not true. The Radcliffe Camera is actually a stunning Oxford Uni building which, whilst not as peculiar as Harry Potter’s bench camera, is still worth checking out!
How to find Radcliffe Camera
5. Punting
A fantastic Instagram opportunity. You and your friends can float down an idyllic stretch of the Thames as the best of Oxford drifts by. We’d very much recommend taking a bottle of something suitably fizzy with you to really elevate the experience.
How to find Oxford Punting
6. South Park
No, not Kenny and Cartman! We’re talking about a picturesque park south of the city which boasts beautiful views out across the city’s skyline. A great spot for a picnic and a little sunbathing on a warm summer’s day.
How to find South Park
7. The Eagle and Child Pub
A brilliant little boozer which was frequented by both Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkein and Chronicles of Narnia novelist C.S. Lewis. There’s a brilliant backroom containing mementoes and pictures paying tribute to these two literary geniuses.
How to find The Eagle and Child
8. Oxford Castle & Prison
1,000 years’ worth of history in the heart of the city, Oxford Castle & Prison is a great place to enjoy a reign-y day (yep, that was an attempt at a castle pun – the quicker we move on, the better!). Head down to the dungeons or to the top of the tower for some criminally good snaps.
@oxfordcastle
How to find Oxford Castle & Prison
9. Magdalen College
Another part of the university which boasts some of Oxford’s best architecture is Magdalen College which is well worth taking a tour of, plus you can purchase joint tickets to the Botanic Garden and tick two of Oxford’s biggest attractions off the list.
@oxfordgradstudy
How to find Magdalen College
10. Covered Market
Cafes, bars, shops, stalls, florists – not only is this a great place to lose yourself for an hour, but the Covered Market is a treasure trove for Insta snaps if you have an eye for the creative shots. Check. It. Out!
@tansybranscombe
How to find Covered Market
11. Blenheim Palace
Located on the outskirts of Oxford, the World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace is definitely worth a little visit because 1) it’s a palace. 2) it’s a palace. And 3)… oh, you get the idea. When have you ever seen an ugly palace?
@greatwestway
How to find Blenheim Palace
Gryffindor scarves at the ready!