Oxford and Cambridge are two of the most prestigious and historic university cities in the world, both located in England.

• Oxford is home to the University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world, dating back to the 12th century. Known for its stunning medieval architecture, Oxford has iconic landmarks like the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and Christ Church College. The city is also famous for its literary connections, including authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.

• Cambridge is equally famous, with the University of Cambridge founded in 1209. The city is renowned for its beautiful colleges, such as King’s College and Trinity College, as well as the stunning King’s College Chapel. Visitors can enjoy the scenic River Cam and take part in punting, a traditional boat ride through the heart of the city. Cambridge has produced notable figures like Sir Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking.

Both cities are steeped in academic excellence, history, and cultural significance, offering an enriching experience for visitors.

Best months to visit in Oxford

The best months to visit Oxford and Cambridge are April to June and September to early October. Here’s why:

Oxford and Cambridge – Best Months:

1. April to June: Springtime brings mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists compared to summer. This is a great time to explore the university colleges, parks, and museums.

2. September to Early October: Early autumn offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the start of the new academic year. Both cities are lively, but not overly crowded, with students returning, giving you a more authentic feel of the university life.

Avoid:

• July and August: These months are peak tourist season, with more crowds and higher prices. However, it’s still enjoyable due to the warm weather.
• Winter (November to February): These months can be cold and damp, with shorter days, though the festive season in December offers some charm.

Open days and timing of Oxford

Oxford:

1. University of Oxford Colleges:

   • Many colleges are open to visitors, but opening times vary. Typically:
     • Open daily from around 10 AM to 4 PM.
     • Some colleges may be closed to visitors during exams, holidays, or special events, so check individual college websites for exact timings.

2. Bodleian Library:

   • Open Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM; Sundays, 11 AM to 5 PM.
   • Guided tours are available and recommended for a more in-depth experience.

3. Radcliffe Camera:

   • Visitors cannot enter the Radcliffe Camera itself, but it can be admired from the outside all year round.
   • It is part of the Bodleian Library, so timings are similar.

4. Ashmolean Museum:

   • Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
   • Closed on Mondays, except for Bank Holidays.

5. Oxford Castle & Prison:

   • Open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM.

Cambridge:

1. University of Cambridge Colleges:

   • Each college sets its own visiting hours, but most are open from:
     • 10 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM.
     • Many are closed to visitors during exam periods (typically May and June) or for special university events.

2. King’s College Chapel:

   • Open Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM; Sunday, 1:15 PM to 2:30 PM.
   • During the summer, hours may be extended.

3. The Backs:

   • Open year-round, accessible at all hours for walks along the scenic riverside.

4. Fitzwilliam Museum:

   • Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
   • Closed on Mondays, except for Bank Holidays.

5. Cambridge University Botanic Garden:

   • Open daily, 10 AM to 6 PM (April to September); 10 AM to 4 PM (October to March).

General Tips:

• Punting on the River Cam (Cambridge) and walking tours (Oxford and Cambridge): Typically available year-round, with extended hours in spring and summer.
• Always check the individual attraction websites for current timings, as they may vary depending on holidays, academic terms, or events.

Ticket of Oxford(United kingdom)

Oxford

1. University of Oxford Colleges:

   • Most colleges charge a small admission fee for visitors:
     • Christ Church College: Around £15–£18 for adults (includes entry to Christ Church Cathedral and the Great Hall).
     • Magdalen College: Approximately £8 for adults.
     • Exeter College, Balliol College, and others: Fees range from £2–£5 depending on the college.
   • Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children.

2. Bodleian Library:

   • Entry to the library is free, but guided tours range from £10 to £20 depending on the type of tour (Standard, Extended, or Special Collections tours).

3. Ashmolean Museum:

   • Free entry, but donations are appreciated. Some special exhibitions may have a fee (typically around £5–£15).

4. Oxford Castle & Prison:

   • Tickets are approximately £15 for adults, £10 for children. Discounts for family tickets and group bookings are available.

Cambridge

1. University of Cambridge Colleges:

   • Most colleges charge admission fees for visitors:
     • King’s College & King’s College Chapel: Approximately £10–£12 for adults.
     • St John’s College: Around £10 for adults.
     • Trinity College: Approximately £9 for adults.
   • Some colleges may offer free entry or charge reduced rates for students, seniors, and children.

2. Fitzwilliam Museum:

   • Free entry, with donations welcome. Special exhibitions may have a small fee.

3. Cambridge University Botanic Garden:

   • Tickets are around £7 for adults, £6 for students and seniors, and free for children under 16.

4. Punting on the River Cam:

   • Prices vary by company:
     • Guided punt tours: Typically £15–£25 per person.
     • Self-hire punts: Around £30–£40 per hour for a private punt.

Famous places of United kingdom

Nearby Locations from Oxford:

1. Blenheim Palace (8 miles from Oxford):

   • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning 18th-century palace is the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The palace and its beautiful gardens are perfect for a day trip.

2. Cotswolds (15–25 miles from Oxford):

   • A picturesque region known for its rolling hills and charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold. Ideal for scenic walks, quaint shops, and traditional English countryside experiences.

3. Woodstock (8 miles from Oxford):

   • A charming historic market town near Blenheim Palace, offering cafes, antique shops, and a glimpse into rural life.

4. Stratford-upon-Avon (45 miles from Oxford):

   • The birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visit Shakespeare’s family homes, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and explore the scenic town.

5. Warwick Castle (50 miles from Oxford):

   • A well-preserved medieval castle with interactive exhibits, gardens, and historical reenactments. A fun and educational experience for families.

Nearby Locations from Cambridge:

1. Ely (15 miles from Cambridge):

   • Known for the magnificent Ely Cathedral, one of the largest and most beautiful in England. The city also offers charming riverside walks and the historic Oliver Cromwell’s House.

2. Newmarket (13 miles from Cambridge):

   • The home of British horse racing. Visit the National Horseracing Museum and Newmarket Racecourse, or enjoy a tour of the racing stables.

3. Grantchester (2.5 miles from Cambridge):

   • A lovely village known for its tea rooms, riverside walks, and literary connections to poet Rupert Brooke. You can walk or cycle from Cambridge along the River Cam to enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea at The Orchard.

4. Audley End House (18 miles from Cambridge):

   • A grand Jacobean mansion with beautiful gardens. This English Heritage site offers a glimpse into aristocratic life in the 17th century.

5. Bury St Edmunds (30 miles from Cambridge):

   • A historic town known for the St Edmundsbury Cathedral and the beautiful Abbey Gardens, as well as a traditional English market square.