Outstanding Oxford

Having lived in the UK for nearly 2 years (not continuously), but it is my first time to visit Oxford.

The idea crossed my mind as I was about to leave the country (again). Moreover, I'm always fascinated with the greatness of the university, for having such a history dating back to the 11th century, for its research and scholarship, where it produced the likes of: Stephen Hawking, Bill Clinton (Rhodes Scholar), Rowan Atkinson aka Mr. Bean who studied Msc. Electrical Engineering at Queen's College, Oxford, producing 26 Prime Ministers, including newly elected David Cameron, Tony Blair, and Margaret Thatcher (though the latter 2 became unpopular later on with their policies).

From London, Oxford is 1 hr and 30 mins away via the Oxford Tube.

There is no need to book online, as you can pay to the driver (cash only).

Why I love the Tube:

1. It's 24/7 and buses every 20 mins. from various stops around London and Oxford.
2. The ticket is valid until 12 midnight, and only £16 for a return trip.
3. The Tube has reclining seats, clean surroundings, wi-fi, and breakfast (on weekdays).
4. Courteous bus drivers and a smooth ride.

I'd strongly suggest that Oxford be a weekend getaway as there is so much to do and see.

Before you go, please Visit Oxford for places to eat, tours (you'll need to reserve your ticket as

they go quickly), accommodations, museums, etc.

Upon jumping off at High Street (I didn't wait for the bus to end at Gloucester Green),

I called the Oxford Tourist Information Centre and went there.

The place is quite small, but clean and well-lighted. The gentleman was very kind and helpful as I showed him my University and City tour reservation @ 1045, which costs £7.50. Also, he helped me purchase a city map of Oxford @ 60p, and the entertaining Bill Spectre's Ghost Trail tour.

While waiting for the time, I roamed around the nearby shops which sold Oxford merchandise, and got a few things for myself, some good friends and my little sister.

At 1040, nineteen people gathered outside the Oxford Tourist Information Centre as we waited for our tour guide, who is old Italian lady, married to man who studied at St. Edmund's Hall, Oxford.

The tour lasted for 2 hours, where we visited the Pitt Rivers Museum, the famous Turf Tavern,

and the various colleges, while the lady explained the city's history, the famous alumni's of the colleges, the current developments, and the uniqueness of the Oxford system-- it is simply the best.

Usually the colleges are open to visitor for a small fee, however, 8th May marked the degree ceremonies and the colleges were closed to visitors.

At 1300, I decided to head out for lunch, originally to Eagle & Child, but it was packed as expected.

Going through an alley, I spotted a pub called Far From the Madding Crowd. True to its name, it wasn't crowded, well-lighted and spacious too.

Still a drinking lightweight, I tried the Brakspear Bitter in a shot glass, but couldn't stand the taste. So, I opted for a pineapple juice and beef stew with mashed potato and steamed veggies instead.

However, if you're really starving, you should opt for the Madding Special Burger.

After lunch, I decided to walk around the city and toured the Bodleian Library @ 1600. The mini tour lasts 30 mins. and costs £4.50, but the Divinity School is closed for the special occasion. Afterwards, I strolled the Radcliffe Square and headed to the St. Mary of the Virgin Church, which is part of the University College, Oxford.


Before heading to the Oxford Castle for the Ghost Tour, I stopped by Starbucks to get a tall Chai Tea Latte. 
My fault, I didn't look at the weather forecast before heading to Oxford. It rained the whole day!
Finally, I get to my destination, with 10 mins. to spare, as I was getting lost around the castle.
Just had to cough up some nerves to ask for the entrance. 


At last, I met Bill Spectre, his aide and a bunch of other tourists as well (all English), and the tour lasted 1 and 3/4 hours, which ended up at the back of University College, Oxford. Bill kept our attention as he amazed us with his tricks. Its already 2100, and I hoped into the Tube from Lincoln Collge, headed back to London.


I'll be back!