If you’re going to study at the University of Oxford or Oxford Brookes University, our list of things to do for students in and around Oxford is exactly what you need to start planning your first weeks of term.
Updated: 09 Mar 2025
Oxford is a relatively small city, making it easy for students to get around without the need for a car or public transport. Living here, you’ll find a large student population thanks to the two local universities, and you’ll also be surrounded by a wide variety of historical architecture which dates back as far as the late Anglo-Saxons. As well as all this, the city has plenty to offer students in the way of activities, from fun nights out to relaxing afternoons. We rounded up 10 student things to do in Oxford so you’ve got a list of things to check off right from day one of uni!
Good for: A little bit of history.
What it is: Not only is it an iconic Oxford landmark, it’s also one of the oldest libraries in Europe. You can literally smell the knowledge in here, there’s so much of it.
Why you should go: I know, I know – as a uni student you’ll be spending half your life in the library (or you should anyway), so you’re probably wondering why we’re encouraging you to go to visit yet another one… but if you love history (it's been open since 1602) and historic sites, the 'Bod' as locals call it, is a must-see.
Good for: Getting up close to some gargoyles.
What it is: A 13th century church that also served as the very first Oxford University building (it's the oldest uni building in the world, in fact).
Why you should go: Not only is the building itself absolutely stunning, it also gives you your daily dose of exercise. Climb the 127 steps to the top of the tower (£5 fee) and you'll be rewarded with awesome views of the city.
Good for: A date (or a nice day out with your mates).
What it is: Hire a punt from the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse and get punting along. Or if you are feeling really lazy, you can hire a chauffeur to do the driving for you! Row boats and pedalos are also available for hire.
Why you should go: This is the ultimate thing to do on a sunny day in Oxford. Grab your mates, pack a picnic and spend a lazy day drifting past all the best Oxford has to offer, including the next item on our list…
Good for: Getting back to nature.
What it is: This is the oldest botanic garden in the UK (Oxford sure does have a lot of old stuff in it), founded in 1621, and is home to 6,000 types of plant.
Why you should go: Feeling stressed over essays or exams? Then get some zen amongst the wildflower meadows and native woodlands. In the summer it’s the ultimate place to have a picnic. Plus if you are an animal lover, it's also home to sheep, pigs and many a feathered friend.
Good for: Bookworms (who aren’t freaked out by cemeteries).
What it is: Take a day to visit the graves of some of the UK’s most popular novelists: J.R.R Tolkien (of Lord of the Rings fame) and C.S. Lewis (The Narnia series).
Why you should go: If you are a massive fan of fantasy fiction, then paying homage to these two literary legends is a must-do. At C.S. Lewis’ grave you can see a glass window etched with characters from his famous novels. Both sites are covered in tokens from fans who come from across the world to pay their respects.
To round off your day you can head to The Eagle and Child pub – to sip a pint where the great men used to meet weekly as part of The Inklings group of writers. From there you could nip across the road to The Lamb and Flag – and pay respects to two more literary legends, Graham Greene and Thomas Hardy (who both drank here).
P.S. You’ll need a car to get between the two sites (in Summertown and Headington).
Seeing some truly domesticated wildlife!
A 26-foot shark sculpture built by Bill Heine – in a protest against nuclear warfare.
To say you’ve seen it, mostly! Bill Heine paid sculptor John Buckley to create a mega shark, which he then placed carefully on to the roof of his house. As you can see from the picture above, it certainly gave the neighbours something to talk about! Despite numerous attempts by the council to remove it – the shark has stayed for over 20 years. Anarchy at its best!
Good for: Shopping, eating and drinking.
What is it: A daily market with a mixture of permanent shops and stalls.
Why you should go: With over 50 independent traders, there’s plenty to explore. As well as shopping, you’ll also find cafés and bars so it’s the perfect day-to-night location. And, as it’s covered, it doesn’t even matter if the good old British weather has decided it’s an umbrella day.
Good for: Modern art lovers (obvs).
What it is: A cutting-edge museum showing the very best in modern art, plus music and film performances.
Why you should go: When you want a break from all that history, check out the often thought-provoking collections of international modern art and performance events here. It’s completely free and open to all.
Good for: Music lovers.
What it is: A pub with regular events (including live bands) and decent food and drink.
Why you should go: This is the pub where Radiohead played their first ever gig and where Supergrass secured their record deal - if you're a fan of old skool indie then you'll love a trip to the Jericho.
Good for: Fans of Game of Thrones.
What it is: A 1,000 year old castle and former prison.
Why you should go: Get deep into history and channel your inner king, or queen in this amazing castle. Check out the St George's Tower (which has amazing views, FYI) and the 900-year old underground crypt. On Fridays and Saturdays they run ghost tours too - very spooky!
Oxford is a vibrant student city, with strong connections to other cities in the UK, including Manchester, London and Birmingham. With a large student population, you’ll never be stuck for student things to do, and you’ll have plenty of opportunity to meet other students and make new friends.
The University of Oxford, situated in the city is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. With over 25,000 students studying at over 30 colleges, if you study here you’ll be a part of a long and illustrious history.
Read more about the University of Oxford.
The other university in the city, Oxford Brookes University offers a huge range of undergraduate courses and prides itself on its research quality and graduate employability. With around 12,000 students, it also offers a large student body and plenty of chances to get involved through over 100 clubs and societies on offer.
Read more about Oxford Brookes University.
Thinking about studying in Oxford but not sure what subject is right for you? Start your search here.