What to do in Oxford in December?

In December, Oxford offers festive cheer with its famous Christmas Market, illuminated historic colleges like Christ Church, lantern-lit tours at Oxford Castle & Prison, special events at Blenheim Palace (light trails!), winter trails at the Ashmolean Museum, theatre shows, and walks through snowy Port Meadow, blending academic charm with seasonal sparkle for a magical visit.

Is Oxford worth visiting at Christmas?

A Christmas Experience for All

Christmas in Oxford is more than just a market – it's a celebration of everything that makes this time of year special. Whether you're shopping for unique gifts, meeting friends for a festive catch-up, or simply enjoying the magical atmosphere, there's something here for everyone.

Does Oxford have a xmas market?

Oxford's Christmas markets fill the city with artisan stalls, glowing lights and a winter charm shaped by history, creativity and festive warmth.

What to do in Oxford for 3 days?

1. Bridge of Sighs tickets.
2. Blenheim Palace tickets.
3. Carfax Junction tickets.
4. Balliol College tickets.
5. Oxford Botanic Garden tickets.
6. Cogges tickets.
7. Burford tickets.
8. Oxford Covered Market tickets.

Is Oxford nice in winter?

Few cities glow like Oxford in December. The cobbled lanes, centuries-old spires, and warming light of the winter markets come together to create an atmosphere that lives for the holidays.

TOP 15 Things To Do In Oxford 🇬🇧 Travel Guide

What is there to do in Oxford at Christmas?

Our Favourite Days Out During The Festive Season

• explore the festive events at blenheim palace.
• find out more about christmas celebrations at christ church.
• explore the festive events at oxford castle & prison.
• find out more about the pantomime at oxford playhouse.
• book your festive oxford getaway.

Is Harry Potter filmed in Oxford?

Yes, Oxford was a major filming location for the Harry Potter series, with its historic colleges and libraries providing the backdrop for many iconic Hogwarts scenes, including the Divinity School as the infirmary, New College cloisters as corridors, and Christ Church's staircase as the entrance to the Great Hall.
 

Is Oxford a walkable city?

The city is famously walkable, making it the perfect trip away without having to hire a car or rely on public transport. Stroll through the streets and visit gorgeous sites from the past or head to the shops for some retail therapy.

What is the crisis at Christmas in Oxford?

Crisis works at Christmas and all year round to support people in Oxford to build lives beyond homelessness. Every year thanks to our Christmas appeal we offer much needed warmth, advice, food and company to people experiencing homelessness.

What's on Oxford in December 2025?

December 2025 in Oxford is packed with festive cheer, featuring the main Christmas in Oxford market on Broad Street (Nov 22 - Dec 31) with gifts and food, the Oxford Botanic Garden Christmas Fair (Dec 6-7) for crafts and Santa, Story Museum events like Pingu meet-and-greets and holiday workshops, classical concerts such as The Candlelight Concert, plus family fun with Wallace & Gromit, The Grinch, and a special Elf Trail by City Sightseeing.
 

Which is nicer, Oxford or Bath?

I visited Bath & Oxford as a part of a road trip through Southern England with my mother. From these two cities I much preferred Bath and wished we had more time in Bath, while we stayed longer in Oxford. However Oxford is a good classic and worth a visit for a day.

How do I spend a day at Oxford?

For a day in Oxford, focus on its iconic university sights like the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and colleges (e.g., Christ Church) {1, 2, 8}, visit the Ashmolean Museum (Britain's oldest public museum) {1, 12}, explore the historic Covered Market {4, 15}, and enjoy the river by punting or a river cruise {1, 15}. Don't miss climbing a tower for city views or relaxing in the Botanic Garden for a perfect mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Where is Diagon Alley in Oxford?

Broad Street aka Diagon Alley

The architecture, with its charming facades and centuries-old buildings, provides a perfect backdrop reminiscent of the wizarding shopping district, making it a must-visit for any Potter enthusiast looking to experience a slice of Diagon Alley in the heart of Oxford.

Is New College Oxford free to visit?

New College

Charge: Adults £12; seniors, under 16s and full time students £10; family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children aged 7 or over) £29. Free to children under 7 years of age, Oxford residents and old members. Note: Maximum 20 people in a group. Larger groups will need to split.

Can I ride the Harry Potter train?

Not only can you ride the train on a one-day tour from Edinburgh, but also from Glasgow and Inverness too. Check out our wide selection of tours that include a trip on the Harry Potter Train in Scotland here. Book your tour today.

What are the best free things to do in Oxford?

The best free things to do in Oxford include exploring world-class museums like the Ashmolean, Natural History Museum, and Pitt Rivers Museum, wandering through historic college grounds and meadows like Christ Church Meadow, taking free walking tours, admiring iconic spots like the Bridge of Sighs, and enjoying nature at Port Meadow or the University Parks. You can also browse unique shops, relax by the canals, and find free events in the city's many pubs. 

What areas to avoid in Oxfordshire?

Comparing Oxfordshire's larger towns and cities, and using Crime Risk Scores - which are calculated by taking severity of each crime type into account - Blackbird Leys is the most dangerous. The next most dangerous is Great Faringdon, and Oxford comes in as third most dangerous.

Is Oxford worth visiting in winter?

All about Oxford

Winter, from November to February, is quieter and offers a more peaceful exploration of the city. If you visit in December, you can enjoy festive markets and seasonal events. Keep in mind that summer can be crowded due to the influx of tourists, so plan accordingly.

What is the ethnicity of people in Oxford?

In 2021, 54% Oxford's total population was White British - this compares to 64% in 2011. 17% of residents were from a white but non-British ethnic background - this compares to 14% in 2011. 29% of residents were from a black or minority ethnic group in 2021, compared to 22% in 2011 - this compares to 19% in England.