Oxford

Oxford: A Historic City in England

Oxford is a well-known city in the west of England and is home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Oxford. The city is roughly 1200 years old and its architecture, and that of its grand university campus, runs through the periods as if in a display of history. It boasts Oxford Castle (a grand structure build after the Norman invasion of 1066), St George’s Tower (a rare example of stone military architecture), the sublime Cathedral and a variety of buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries.

But, of course, the city is most famous for its university and many of the most notable buildings in Oxford belong to the university, although you can still visit and enjoy them. In particular, the university churches, laboratories, master houses and streets are all ancient windows into British history and taking a tour of them with a knowledgeable guide is an unmissable activity to include on your sports vacation, especially if you’re planning to explore London afterward.

Stadiums and Teams

Oxford United

Oxford United provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the authentic, grassroots passion of English football within the setting of one of the world's most famous historic cities. Playing at the modern Kassam Stadium, the club is deeply embedded in the local community and boasts a dedicated, vocal fanbase that ensures a lively matchday atmosphere.

Kassam Stadium

The Kassam Stadium is home to Oxford United and provides an authentic football experience within the historic university city. Visitors can combine a match or club experience with Oxford’s famous architecture, museums and university traditions, creating a varied itinerary that combines sport and culture.

Reading

Reading Football Club, known as the Royals, offers a superb, family-friendly football experience at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in the heart of the Thames Valley. With a proud history dating back to 1871, the club blends rich tradition with excellent modern facilities.

Madejski Stadium

Reading offers another football option within reach of Oxford. The club’s stadium provides a local English football experience that can complement a wider itinerary through southern England. Visitors can combine football with time exploring Reading and the surrounding Thames Valley.

Unique experiences

University of Oxford Colleges

Explore some of the historic colleges of the University of Oxford with a private guide. Learn about the university’s traditions, famous alumni and distinctive architecture while walking through centuries-old courtyards and gardens.

Bodleian Library

Visit the Bodleian Library and discover one of Europe’s oldest university libraries. Guided visits reveal historic reading rooms, architecture and collections connected to Oxford’s long academic tradition.

River Thames Punting

Take a traditional punt along the River Thames and see Oxford’s historic architecture from the water. The experience offers a relaxed way to experience the city while passing beneath bridges and alongside university buildings and college grounds.