Guide to Oxbridge

10 things you must see and do in Oxford and Cambridge

Oxford and Cambridge are both towns full of history, tradition, and academic excellence. If you are planning a trip to Oxbridge to study, or even just to visit, then here are 10 things you should see and do while you're there.

OXFORD

Oxford has attracted some of the world's most academic and revolutionary minds since the 12th century, so there are many sights and attractions that mark its past residents and historical events. But don't make the mistake of thinking that Oxford is a town living in the past — while its historic elements are fascinating, it's still bustling with life, activity and excitement.

Cycle around town

The ultimate way to get around Oxford is by bike. The town isn't too large so cycling means you can travel under your own steam without a thought for parking, congestion or bus tickets. The Thames River and the Oxford Canal towpaths are the perfect starting points for a cycle along the waterfront, and if you want an even more scenic trip you can head out of the city to the nearby Cotswold Hills.

Watch the University rowers

The University rowing team competes each year with Cambridge in the Varsity boat race, one of London's leading events that is watched around the world by millions. Many of these rowers are future Olympians, and during the rest of the year they can be seen training on the Oxford stretch of the Thames, which makes for great afternoon viewing from one of the many riverside pubs.

Look around the old Indian Institute

If you find yourself missing home at all on your trip, then head down to the University's History Library on Broad Street. Constructed in 1898, this building originally housed the Oxford Indian Institute, which in the words of its founders was established so that Englishmen and Indians alike could appreciate "the languages, literature and industries of India." There are still many signs of the Indian based architecture of the building; for example the elephant shaped weather vane on the top of the building, and carvings of Hindu demigods on the outer walls.

Explore Christ Church College

The largest and arguably most famous of the University colleges, Christ Church is an institute dripping with history and tradition that is mostly open to visitors. It has a reputation for producing high level graduates, having taught 13 men who went on to be Prime Minister and countless leading people in the world of business, including famed Indian businessman Russi Mody.

Museum of Oxford

For those of you interested in history, this has to be one of the most fascinating accounts of any town in England. Explore Oxford's long history from before the first student even opened a book at the university, when saints walked Oxford's streets, kings were anointed and parliamentary meetings took place there. Best of all, admission to the museum is free.

CAMBRIDGE

Just over 85 miles away, Cambridge can be reached easily by a 45 minute train ride from Oxford. Similarly to Oxford, it's a historic city with a relaxed and chilled out atmosphere that is well worth a visit no matter what you're into.

Try your hand at punting

If you want a relaxing and interesting way to travel around Cambridge, then why not go punting along the town's rivers? A punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat that is propelled by pushing a pole against the river bed — think gondola, but less fancy. You can either rent your own boat from one of the many rental places along the river, or hire out a guide who will steer the boat for you while telling you interesting facts about the sights along the route.

Visit Trinity College

This Cambridge University college is the sister college of Christ Church in Oxford. Just like its sister institution, Trinity is a must see if you are in Cambridge. It counts amongst its graduates 32 Nobel Prize winners and famous academics like Sir Isaac Newton. Your best bet is to take a guided tour of the grounds and buildings to hear the full story of the college's history and traditions.

Spook yourself on a ghost tour

It should come as no surprise to hear that such a historic town has its fair share of ghost stories and spooky tales. These tours operate at night, and will take you around all the parts of the town that are supposedly haunted, while telling you the gruesome and ghastly tales of why the ghosts are there. There are child friendly versions of the tour if you are worried about your kids (or you!) having nightmares.

Absorb some culture at The Junction

The Junction is a venue in Cambridge that is renowned for being one of the most culturally diverse places in the UK. Here you can watch live music, comedy acts, theatre, dance, and much more from all around the world. The small space inside makes for some really intimate performances, and is perfect to fully absorb whatever you're watching. It's also a great place to party the night away, as they are often open until 5am on club nights.

Shop in Market Square

Market Square has been the hub of shopping activities in Cambridge for centuries, and is still the place to go to satisfy your consumer cravings. If you can think of something you can probably buy it there; exotic food, souvenirs, clothing, flowers, books and much more are all available from the stalls at the market from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays arts and crafts are sold, and local farmers also sell some of their fresh produce.