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Why Oxfordshire?
Looking for great family days out in Oxfordshire? Here’s our round up of the most popular attractions and days out in the city of Oxford and the surrounding area.
The most obvious hook for children has to be its connections with Harry Potter as Oxford is closely linked to the films in a few significant ways. For example, check out the information about Christ Church College below.
As well as lots of activities in the city of Oxford, there are plenty of opportunities for families to bond together at other attractions in Oxfordshire, and we’ve come up with a few ideas that we think will be hits with children of all ages (as well as the grown ups!).
Read on to discover our top tips for why we think Oxfordshire is a great place to visit to keep families with children thoroughly entertained on holiday, including recommendations for great family days out in this lovely county of England.
The Best Oxfordshire Attractions for Families
Here are some of our recommendations for great family days out in Oxfordshire, including some things to do in the city of Oxford.
The attractions we have highlighted are either by the Oxford Canal or the River Thames, or within easy travelling distance of a mooring spot. A couple of places we’ve mentioned you may need to get a taxi or bus, but you’ll only be travelling a couple of miles.
For visiting Oxford, you’ll be able to moor up on the Oxford Canal within walking distance of the city.
Blenheim Palace
A UNESCO World Heritage site and birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace offers a lovely day out. This well known tourist attraction in Oxfordshire offers palace grounds that are ideal for picnics, and the Butterfly House, maze, and adventure playground will keep children entertained for hours. You can visit Blenheim whilst on a narrowboat cruise from our base at Lower Heyford, find out more details about our Oxfordshire cruise here.
You can find out more about Blenheim Palace and buy tickets in advance here.
Didcot Railway Centre
If your kids love trains, the Didcot Railway Centre is a must-visit. This fun family attraction in Oxfordshire is a heritage railway centre that features a collection of old steam locomotives, and visitors can enjoy train rides, explore engines, and get a glimpse of what life was like on the railways in the past.
You can reach Didcot whilst on your narrowboat holiday from our base at Lower Heyford. Moor at Abingdon and Didcot is a short taxi ride away. Find out more information about Didcot Railway Centre here.
Milletts Falconry & Wildlife Centre
Millets Wildside is Oxfordshire’s biggest centre for falconry and wildlife. If you’re looking for family things to do near Oxford then this fascinating visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year, with daily flying demonstrations and a whole host of hands-on experiences to really get your talons into.
Find out more here https://milletswildside.co.uk/
You can visit the Wildlife Centre from the River Thames on a narrowboat holiday from Lower Heyford. Moor up at Abingdon and the centre is a short bus or taxi ride away (4 miles).
Wytham Woods
Most children love exploring woodland, climbing trees and finding sticks for great sword fights! So walk off some energy at Wytham Woods, a special place that has been studied for its wildlife since the 1940s and perfect for a family activity in Oxford. The University of Oxford has owned and looked after it since 1942, and it’s known as one of the most researched woodlands in the world. The woods are made up of different types of land, including ancient woodland that’s been around since the last Ice Age and woodland from the 1600s! Release your inner Robin Hood here!
You can find Wytham Woods on the outskirts of Oxford, find out more here.
The Best Family Things to Do in Oxford
The city of Oxford is a brilliant place to explore with the family, so it’s a good idea to leave yourself a least a day free to discover the highlights of this famous English destination. From visiting fascinating museums to stepping into the magical world of Harry Potter at Christ Church College, plus checking out the famous markets and walking the city centre, there’s plenty to do and see for a memorable day out.
We picked out some highlights below of some of the best attractions in Oxford for the family.
Oxford Castle and Prison
The kids will love this attraction in the centre of Oxford! You can go underground to explore the crypt, step inside 18th century prison cells and climb the 101 steps of St Georges Tower. Take a guided tour and learn the history of this original 11th century motte-and-bailey fortress that has been a royal palace, a prison, and a military barracks over the centuries.
You can find out more and buy tickets for guided tours at Oxford Castle here.
Christ Church College
This famous college in Oxford is a popular tourist attraction as well as a seat of learning! It is that one that inspired the Great Hall in the Harry Potter films. It is open to the public for tours, and many visitors come to explore its stunning architecture, gardens, and historic rooms. While it’s not always open for general dining (it’s primarily used for college events), you can visit the hall as part of the college’s visitor tour.
You can find out more and buy tickets for guided tours at Christ Church here.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
This fascinating attraction in Oxford is sure to be a hit with kids, especially with its collection of dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and interactive exhibits. The museum does a good job in making the attraction a fun and engaging environment plus there are child friendly events that take place all through the season, including ‘specimen handling’ and themed events such as Easter Trails.
Find out more about the Oxford University Museum of Natural History here.
Ashmolean Museum
Visit this museum of art and archeology and you can say that you have been to Britain’s first public museum, dating back to 1678! While it might seem like an unusual choice for young children, the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford offers a variety of interactive exhibits and family-friendly workshops, making it a fantastic place for introducing kids to art and history, including the ever popular mummies!
Find out more about the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford here.
The Covered Market
If you’re travelling with older children then we have the perfect attraction for you to visit. In the centre of Oxford you’ll find The Covered Market, a legendary indoor bazaar dating back to the 1770s, packed with artisan grocers, boutique clothing and lots of cafes/eateries. There is lots to see and browse, keep an eye out for the art installations and some famous filming locations. It’s a step back in time that is an entertaining way to spend a couple of hours.
Summary
Oxfordshire is an amazing place to explore for families, offering a perfect mix of history, nature, and fun activities. Whether you’re wandering through charming towns, enjoying the countryside, or visiting world-class attractions, there’s something to suit every family’s interests.
Plan your visit to this fascinating English country now by visiting our narrowboat hire in Oxfordshire page and find out the different canal boat cruising routes you can do in this area.
FAQs
What is there to do indoors in Oxfordshire?
If you want to head somewhere indoors on a rainy day then the museums in Oxford are a good solution. You can visit the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, as mentioned above, which has exciting exhibits for kids, including dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays. For a more active day indoors, you can head to the Oxford Ice Rink which is located on the outskirts of the city.
What is there to do in Henley on Thames for kids?
Visit the Henley Heritage Centre to get a glimpse into the town’s rich history, plus take some time out at the towns beautiful parks and playgrounds. If you’re visiting during the summer, Henley’s annual festivals and events are perfect for families, with plenty of activities for children to enjoy. Additionally, you can explore the nearby countryside with family-friendly walks and nature trails.
What to do in Oxford for a day for free?
Oxford is full of free attractions that make it easy to explore without spending much. You can take a stroll around the University Parks and maybe enjoy a picnic there. Many colleges are open to the public, such as the famous Christ Church College, where you can admire the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Sometimes it’s just enough to take a walk through the city’s historic streets and along the River Thames.
What is the most beautiful town in Oxfordshire?
Oxfordshire is home to many picturesque towns, but Bampton is often considered one of the most beautiful because of its old-fashioned stone cottages, quaint streets, and traditional English feel. Wallingford is also popular, with its lovely riverside setting and historic buildings. If you’re looking for a more vibrant town, Henley on Thames is known for its stunning riverside location and lively atmosphere.
