A Day in Oxford: Your Escape to the English Countryside
For me, this peaceful little day trip was exactly what I needed—a break from the city, a deep breath of English countryside air, and a chance to wander somewhere that felt beautifully timeless.
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
I started my day in Radcliffe Square, easily one of the most iconic places in Oxford. Surrounded by the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and several college buildings, the square feels like the historical heart of the city. It’s one of those places where you just want to slow down and take it all in.
From there, I strolled through the Oxford city center, which is full of bookstores, cafés, vintage shops, and street performers. It’s lively, but not overwhelming—the perfect solo wandering energy.
Touring University of Oxford
University of Oxford isn’t one big campus like you might expect—it’s actually made up of over 30 individual colleges, each with their own buildings, chapels, and traditions. I joined a walking tour and got to peek into some of the quads and gardens.
One of the coolest moments? Finding out that scenes from Harry Potter were filmed at Christ Church College. Standing in those same halls felt surreal—it’s Hogwarts in real life.
Beyond Oxford: A Taste of the English Countryside
While Oxford was the focus of my day, I ventured deeper into the countryside:
Blenheim Palace – This stately estate is huge, historic, and definitely worth a visit—even if you don’t pay to go inside. I opted to explore the free parts of the grounds, and honestly, the view of the palace and the gardens alone felt like enough. You can still wander the outer grounds and admire the architecture, which made it a peaceful and worthwhile stop on my countryside route. Fun fact: it’s the birthplace of Winston Churchill!
Bibury Trout Farm – This adorable little spot in Bibury is one of the oldest trout farms in the UK. Super peaceful, with walking paths and picnic spots.
Cirencester + Arlington Row – These villages are everything you picture when you think of the Cotswolds: winding lanes, stone cottages, and flower-covered walls. Arlington Row is especially famous—one of the most photographed spots in England, and for good reason.
These countryside stops felt like a fairytale ending to a perfect day.
Final Thoughts: A Day Well Spent
Oxford charmed me more than I expected. It’s a place where you can slow down, wander without a plan, and feel like you’re living in your own quiet little story. From university secrets to riverside views, it’s the kind of escape that stays with you.
If you’re in London and need a peaceful change of pace, this day trip to Oxford (with a sprinkle of countryside magic) is everything.
Plan Your Peaceful Escape
Want to plan your own day like this?
Train tickets: Trainline
Budget bus: Oxford Tube
Map your trip: Save stops on Google Maps before you go!