Immortalised in verse by Matthew Arnold as "that sweet city with her dreaming spires", Oxford has a mixture of architecture that reflects the history of the city from Saxon times to the present day.

Initially a market town, Oxford has evolved to become the magnificent city it is today, known globally as a centre of excellence for academic learning. Attracting scholars as early as the twelfth century, Oxford rapidly gained a glowing reputation for learning and in 1379 the foundations for the present day University were laid with the opening of New College.

Although predominantly renowned for its University, Oxford can also lay claim to other historical landmarks such as the first printed book, the Bible, being produced here in 1478 and the world famous Mini motorcar, now a national icon, being manufactured here at the nearby Cowley plant.

Situated within 1 1/2 hours of London, Oxford lies on two rivers the Thames and the Cherwell and they have played a vital role in the city's development. Both the city and surrounding countryside have been a source of inspiration to many, including Lewis Carroll, who went on to describe scenes from the area when writing Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. A rare glimpse of Îold Englandâ is possible at Port Meadow, a flood plain nestling between the river and the city, which has never been ploughed. It offers a haven for wild fowl whilst flooded and at other times horses and cattle graze freely.

 A thriving social scene exists with excellent pubs, clubs, restaurants and theatres providing so much variety that it could prove difficult to choose amongst them. So you see that coming to Oxford offers you the potential to see, do and be what you want to be and more.

Local Secrets of Oxford