2-Day Oxford Adventure: Castles & Colleges

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By Jayden

May 7, 2024 · 2 min read

Oxford 2 Days Itinerary

Embark on a scholarly journey with our 2-day Oxford itinerary, where history and academia blend seamlessly. Day one begins at the prestigious University of Oxford, where you'll spend a day immersed in the intellectual atmosphere of the world-renowned institution. Wander through the historic halls and let the spirit of knowledge inspire you. Next, delve into the literary treasures of the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, for a 1.5-hour tour that promises to be a highlight for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. On day two, step back in time at the Oxford Castle & Prison, exploring its storied past over the course of an hour. Then, be enchanted by the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during a 2-hour visit that offers a glimpse into the opulence of British aristocracy. Conclude your trip with a 2-hour exploration of Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, where British royal history comes to life. This curated itinerary ensures you experience the quintessential attractions that make Oxford an unforgettable destination.

Top 6 Hotels in Oxford
TOP 1
Courtyard Oxford South
Courtyard Oxford South
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Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon Oxford
Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon Oxford
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Courtyard Oxford City Centre
Courtyard Oxford City Centre
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Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford
Leonardo Royal Hotel Oxford
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EasyHotel Oxford
EasyHotel Oxford
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Hampton by Hilton Oxford
Hampton by Hilton Oxford
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2 Days in Oxford Itinerary: Day 1

1

University of Oxford

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Embarking on our Oxford adventure, we begin with the prestigious University of Oxford, a beacon of learning and academia. Nestled in the heart of the city on Broad Street, this historic institution is not just a single campus but a collection of colleges, each with its own unique charm. Spend the day wandering through centuries-old quads, admiring the classical architecture, and perhaps even catching a glimpse of student life in the city of dreaming spires.

Attraction Info

  • Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AZ, United Kingdom
  • Suggested tour duration: 1 day
  • Open from 9:00am-5:00pm,The opening hours of each college within the university are different, please see the official website for details.

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Eastgate Brasserie
Eastgate Brasserie
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Deacons Bar, Lounge & Restaurant
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Halley Cafe
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The Eagle and Child
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2

Bodleian Library

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Just a short stroll from the university, our next stop is the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe and a treasure trove of history. With its impressive collection of manuscripts and awe-inspiring architecture, including the iconic Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian is a must-visit for history buffs and bibliophiles alike. Allocate about an hour and a half to immerse yourself in the military and scholarly past preserved within the walls of this historic building.

Attraction Info

  • Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BG, United Kingdom
  • Suggested tour duration: 1.5-2 hour
4.3/545 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent45 Reviews
Oxford
|0.18km from Bodleian Library
3.9/548 Reviews
3.9/548 Reviews
Oxford
|0.21km from Bodleian Library

2 Days in Oxford Itinerary: Day 2

1

Oxford Castle & Prison

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Embark on the final day of your Oxford journey with a visit to the Oxford Castle & Prison, a site brimming with military prowess and historical intrigue. As the morning sun casts its first rays, explore the ancient walls that have stood the test of time for nearly a millennium. Within this hour-long tour, you'll uncover the castle's storied past, from its Norman origins to its transformation into a place of incarceration. The blend of architecture and history provides a compelling narrative that sets the tone for a day steeped in heritage.

Attraction Info

  • 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY, United Kingdom
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 10:00am-5:00pm

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The Black Boy Pub and Restaurant
The Black Boy Pub and Restaurant
4.8/5 · 10 reviews
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Eastgate Brasserie
Eastgate Brasserie
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Deacons Bar, Lounge & Restaurant
Deacons Bar, Lounge & Restaurant
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Halley Cafe
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2

Blenheim Palace

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Next, venture into the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allot two hours to wander through the opulent state rooms, admire the exquisite tapestries, and delve into the palace's rich history as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The palace's stunning gardens are a visual feast, offering a serene retreat to reflect on the lavish lifestyles of the aristocracy and the architectural marvels of the past.

Attraction Info

  • Woodstock OX20 1PP, United Kingdom
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
  • Open from 01/01-04/09,10:00am-5:00pm;Closed from 04/10-04/13;Open from 04/14-07/14,10:00am-5:00pm;Closed from 07/15-07/20;Open from 07/21-12/31,10:00am-5:00pm

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3

Windsor Castle

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Conclude your Oxford escapade with the regal splendor of Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. As you step into the royal residence, which has housed British sovereigns for over 1,000 years, allow two hours to be captivated by the sumptuous State Apartments and the priceless artworks adorning the walls. The castle's enduring legacy as a symbol of monarchy and British history makes it a fitting finale to your two-day exploration of Oxford's most storied edifices.

Attraction Info

  • Windsor SL4 1NJ, UK
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 03/01-06/16,Mon, Thu-Sun,10:00am-5:15pm;Closed from 03/01-06/16,Tue-Wed;Closed all day on 06/17,Mon;Open from 06/18-10/31,Mon, Thu-Sun,10:00am-5:15pm;Closed from 06/18-10/31,Tue-Wed;Open from 11/01-12/25,Mon, Thu-Sun,10:00am-4:15pm;Closed all day on 12/26,Thu;Open from 12/27-12/31,Mon, Thu-Sun,10:00am-4:15pm;Closed from 12/27-12/31,Tue-Wed;Closed from 11/01-12/25,Tue-Wed,St George's Chapel in the castle is closed on Sundays as it is only open for worship. It is open on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Access may be restricted after 14:30, so please arrive as early as possible. The entrance to the State Apartments in the castle will be closed 30 minutes after the latest entry time. The Semi-State Rooms in the castle are usually open from autumn to spring every year. They are currently closed until autumn 2024. The castle will be completely closed on 17 June and December 26,2024.

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Top Things to Do in Oxford-2024

TOP 1
University of Oxford
University of Oxford
4.7/5 · 367 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 1,649 review
Highlights:
Oxford University, located in Oxford, England, is the oldest university in the UK. There are no school gates and walls here. More than 30 quaint and solemn college buildings are scattered on the streets of Oxford City. The cobblestone streets pass through the campus, full of literary and elegant atmosphere.
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TOP 2
Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs
4.6/5 · 129 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 1,025 review
Highlights:
Hertford Bridge, commonly known as the Bridge of Sighs, is a pedestrian bridge in Oxford, England, spanning New College Lane and connecting the north and south parts of Hertford College. It is indeed very similar to the Rialto Bridge in Venice. Walking through Oxford University and seeing this Bridge of Sighs is still very romantic.
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TOP 3
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
4.7/5 · 86 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 2,511 review
Highlights:
The University Museum of Oxford University, which collects and displays natural history specimens, is located opposite Keber College, Oxford University, UK. The museum was founded by geologist John Phillips, one of the main skeptics of Darwin's theory of evolution. The museum's lecture hall, which was the site of the 1860 Oxford debate on evolution, is now part of the University's Department of Chemistry, Zoology and Mathematics. The biggest attraction here is the natural history collection of more than 5 million items, from strange insects and fossils to the gigantic Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, which is dizzying. The museum is more famous for the most complete specimen of a dodo in the world (Oxforddodo, a mysterious creature that has been extinct for more than 300 years), and the logo of the museum is also a dodo image.
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TOP 4
Bodleian Library
Bodleian Library
4.7/5 · 134 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 3,326 review
Highlights:
If the RadcliffeCamera with a history of less than 300 years is an Internet celebrity attraction in Oxford, then the Bodleian Library is the grandfather next door who watched Internet celebrities grow up. The library was built in 1602 and now has a collection of 11 million volumes. Qian Zhongshu, who once studied in Oxford, dubbed the Bodleian Library as a "full-bodied (dù) building", describing it as a big bookworm of Oxford University. , Qian Zhongshu lingered here all day long like a silverfish, absorbing the nutrients of books without eating or sleeping. #collectionrich 4,000 books are shipped to the library every week, and they all need to be catalogued, because for every book published in the UK, the Oxford University Library gets one. The library consists of three very main libraries at Oxford University, including the Old Bodleian Library, the Radcliffe Library and the New Bodleian Library. The library's collection of books is strictly managed, and can only be read, not borrowed, and even the king cannot make an exception. #RadcliffeRound House The round Radcliffe Round House is the library's medical and scientific library, built in 1749, this graceful Baroque building has become one of Oxford's landmarks.
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TOP 5
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle
4.8/5 · 1,041 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 14,189 review
Highlights:

• Wander the Windsor family castle

• View the exquisite treasures in the State Suite

• Listen to the audio guide and appreciate the beauty of the castle


Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years and is today one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. Occupying over 10.5 hectares, the Castle offers a varied day out for visitors, including a visit to the magnificent State Apartments and St George's Chapel.


The Windsor Castle includes the State Apartments that are used today by the Royal Family, and other must-see moments within these spectacular rooms, like the Waterloo Chamber, the Crimson Drawing Room and Semi-State Rooms.


The entire Windsor Castle can be divided into upper area, middle area and lower area. The upper area mainly includes palace furnishings such as Waterloo Chanmber, galleries, Queen Mary's Dolls' house, etc.


The central area is dominated by a round tower surrounded by a rose garden. It was originally built of wood and later rebuilt with stone. The Round Tower was once a prison for political opponents of the royal family, but now it is mainly used to preserve royal documents and photography collections.


St. George's Chapel in the Lower District is a fine example of English Gothic architecture. It is famous for its magnificent stone fan-vaulted roof and detailed and gorgeous stained glass. It has also hosted many royal weddings.

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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

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Oxford 2 Days Itinerary