A wander around Oxford Part 1

 

    No matter whether you are staying in Oxford or coming into the city to visit time is important.  There are so many potential places to visit and rushing can only cause stress which should really be left to those attending any one of the beautiful colleges that make up the University of Oxford.


     A few facts to get your head around in planning your visit.  Most important are:
a.  Colleges are not always open to the public.  It pays to select which you want to see and either contact the college or look on their website before you visit.
b.  There are times of the year when museums and galleries are not open on a Monday. Check websites for opening times.
c.   Bicycles are in great numbers, about twenty thousand come into Oxford each day, they are quiet and bells are not often rung.  LOOK before stepping onto the road or lane.
d.   Be aware that there are those around that would like to lighten your load so be careful of your wallets and bags.
e.   Cars are not permitted to enter certain streets in the city. They are:
      i.   High Street between 7.30am and 6.30pm.
      ii   Broad Street western end closed 24hr.
      iii  Park End Street beyond the car park access. 
      iv  Turl Street during daylight
      v   Cornmarket Street has all traffic banned seven days a week.
f.    I was once asked, "Where is the University?"  The reply, "You are standing in the midst of it."  The University of Oxford, like Cambridge University, is a collegiate university meaning it is made up of colleges and departments.  There are thirty eight colleges and six permanent private halls as well as many departments making up the University so it all comes back to time.  How much do you have to look around?
g.    The University also has Museums, libraries, parks and gardens.  These, along with the rest of the sights of Oxford means planning is paramount.
h.    Purchase, download or find a map of Oxford for it is easy to get around yet also easy to get lost and end up walking around in circles and not seeing all you planned to see.
i.     Parking is time limited and expensive.  In saying that, if you happened to collect a parking ticket from one of the obliging parking inspectors, pay it immediately and you will receive a discount.  Better still, use the Park and Ride.

     I am sure there is much more  you would like to know in your planning.  Simply ask and I will try to answer your questions.   I will give you my favourite places to visit, eat and drink as well as money changing and quality souvenirs.