With its perfect blend of history and culture, picturesque villages, beautiful countryside and a reputation for academic excellence, it’s no wonder Oxfordshire is a great county to visit and live in.
There are so many places to explore and enjoy, from the dreaming spires of Oxford and the stunning Blenheim Palace, to breathtaking scenery in the Cotswolds and the Chilterns. Not forgetting a trip to the top shopping destination, Bicester Village.
More than 760,000 people are estimated to live in the county, which welcomed 25.3 million trips by visitors in 2024, giving a total tourism value of £2.4 billion, according to Experience Oxfordshire.
With a thriving jobs market, growing economy and great connectivity, it’s easy to see why people want to live in Oxfordshire, particularly as it is home to booming tech, automotive and life sciences sectors.
Many businesses are looking to be part of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, which is acting as a catalyst for the growth of UK science and technology. One of the prime sites in the region is the 48-acre Bicester Arc development, which offers businesses the opportunity to create a pioneering campus or bespoke facilities.
Here, we take a peek at just six ideas for a great visit to Oxfordshire, whether for a short break or if you want to put down roots in this vibrant and cosmopolitan region…
Bicester Village is a huge hit in the UK and globally for fashion lovers. Known for being a great day out, the retail park has more than 150 types of boutiques and shops, featuring famous brands such as Gucci, Prada and Mulberry.
Designed to feel like a small cosy village rather than a big shopping mall, Bicester Village has tree-lined walkways, boutique storefronts and flower-filled courtyards that add to a more luxurious atmosphere.
With its free access, the destination is the perfect place for seasonal visits, especially during the Christmas period. Open from 9am to 8pm, the village is located just off the M40 and has plenty of direct train services.
Blenheim Palace, the UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Britain’s most magnificent estates, recognised for its unique architecture and its landscaped park, designed by Capability Brown. Built between 1705 and 1722 as a gift to the 1st Duke of Marlborough for defeating the French in the Battle of Blenheim, this living piece of British history is also significant as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.
The palace offers a range of daily tours throughout the year that includes access to the palace, the park grounds and the gardens, making it a must-visit destination.
First opening its doors in 1860, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History holds an array of interesting artefacts that showcase the wonders of science and the natural world.
Housed in a beautiful Gothic building in the heart of Oxford, the museum has impressive displays of fossils, minerals and zoological specimens, including the iconic Oxford dodo.
Perfect for visitors of all ages, other standout collections include fascinating minerals and meteorites and material and species with strong connections to Charles Darwin.
Entry is free, making it one of Oxford’s most accessible and rewarding attractions and is especially popular for school trips.
Dating back to the 11th century, Oxford Castle and Prison is an impressive heritage site that stands as one of Oxford’s remarkable historical landmarks. From the Norman conquests to its use as a Victoria prison, the site has an amazing story through the years. The fascinating experience tour includes:
The Saxon St. George’s Tower, offering panoramic views across Oxford
The underground crypt, one of the city’s oldest surviving structures
The atmospheric prison cells, complete with tales of former inmates and daring escapes
Even if the tours aren’t within your budget, the local grounds and surrounding areas are still free to wander and enjoy the atmospheric architecture.
Hidden just off Oxford’s busy High Street lies one of the city’s most charming treasures – the Oxford Covered Market. Started in 1774, the market features 50 independent stores, cafes and stalls, bursting with colour, character, and the scent of freshly-baked bread.
Over the centuries, the market has evolved but never lost its historic charm. It remains a popular meeting location where locals and visitors come to shop, drink coffee and wander around.
Although not an individual standout landmark in Oxfordshire compared to the others on this list, the county is dotted with picturesque and charming towns and villages, such as Burford and Woodstock and part of the Cotswolds.
There’s something very special and timeless about the honey-coloured cottages and cosy country pubs of Oxfordshire. So, for the views of rolling hills and the atmosphere alone, a relaxing visit to one of these lovely destinations should definitely be on your visitor list.
As well as being a wonderful place to visit, Oxfordshire is home to world-class innovation companies, driven by the University of Oxford and featuring an array of trailblazing science and technology parks.
With its skilled workforce, thriving economy and excellent transport links, the region is a prime location for new and growing businesses. Find out more about one of the most exciting commercial development opportunities by contacting the Bicester Arc team on 01773515430.
