What to do in Oxford while house and pet sitting

If you're trying to decide what to do in Oxford during your house and pet sit, we've got some ideas. Known as the "City of Dreaming Spires", Oxford is most famous for its prestigious university and literary history. With atmospheric pubs to sip pints in, world-class museums to visit and the Thames river to punt on, there are plenty of things to do in Oxford. These are just a few of our favourites.

Oxford attractions

From ancient colleges to intriguing museums, there are lots of things to see in Oxford. While you might not have time to see and do everything, if you add these attractions to your itinerary you won't leave disappointed.

1. Oxford University: Dating back to the 12th Century, this prestigious educational establishment doesn't have a central campus. Instead, it's dotted throughout the city centre. Many of the gardens, libraries and museums are open to the general public. If you've always dreamed of saying "I went to Oxford University", you can join an organised tour through the Bodleian Libraries. Its 90-minute tour takes in many of the university's main attractions – including the 15th Century Divinity School, Duke Humfrey's medieval library and the modern underground reading rooms. Alternatively, you can try a self-guided tour using Oxford University's free leaflet and map.

2. Pitt Rivers Museum: A real treasure trove, the Pitt Rivers Museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Oxford. It's hard not to be overwhelmed by the sheer breadth and scale of the weird and wonderful collection. There are over half a million archaeological and ethnographic objects sourced from around the world. They're all held safely in Victorian glass cases and arranged by theme – including Magic, Smoking, Weapons, and Body Art.

3. Bridge of Sighs: Officially known as Hertford Bridge, The Bridge of Sighs gets its nickname from its resemblance to a similar bridge in Venice. This one sits above New College Lane, connecting two of the university's buildings. Its gorgeous arched windows and intricate panels make it one of the most popular things to see in Oxford. Stop off and snap a selfie as you wander around town.

Free things to do in Oxford

While Oxford is known as being one of the most well-heeled cities in the UK, it's also important to remember that it is – at its heart – a student city. This means there are plenty of free and cheap things to do for budget-conscious travellers. 

1. Ashmolean Museum: The University of Oxford's museum of art and archaeology is home to all kinds of wonders, from Egyptian mummies to Pre-Raphaelite paintings. The museum itself has its own interesting history – opened in 1683, it was Britain's very first public museum. Despite this prestige, it's completely free to enter. Walk-up tickets are available but visitors are encouraged to book a ticket in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. Radcliffe Square: Surrounded by historic university and college buildings, the cobbled Radcliffe Square is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oxford. Its centrepiece is the Radcliffe Camera – a circular and imposing library building. Underneath the square itself is the library's immense storage space, with room for more than 600 thousand tomes. This striking square has often featured in films and TV shows, including Inspector Morse and Brideshead Revisited. 

3. Christ Church Meadow: A green, open space in the heart of Oxford, Christ Church Meadow is the ideal place to relax with a picnic on a sunny day. With the River Cherwell flowing past on one side, and the Thames on the other, you'll often spot college rowing teams gathering to train and compete. Rare English longhorn cattle graze on the lower sections of the meadow, while the popular Broad Walk trail crosses the northern end.

Fun things to do in Oxford

It's not all scholarly pursuits when you visit Oxford. Although fairly low key, these fun things to do are a lovely way to unwind during your visit.

1. University Parks: This oasis of green sits in the heart of Oxford. Its sporting facilities offer the opportunity to join games of cricket, tennis, lacrosse and football. Some pioneering people have also found a muggle-friendly way to play Quidditch. If team sports aren't your thing, you can feed the ducks at the pond, stroll underneath the giant sequoias or admire the art installations scattered throughout the park.

2. The Eagle and Child: Known by locals as "the bird and baby", this historic pub is one of the most interesting places to enjoy a pint in Oxford. After all, it's where writers such as J.R.R. Tolkein and C.S.Lewis once went to whet their whistles. Dating back to 1650, this traditional inn is known for its hearty Sunday roasts and fine selection of ales. It underwent significant renovations during lockdown in 2021, with a grand reopening planned for spring 2022. 

3. Covered Market: Home to specialist and independent traders, Oxford's covered market is the place to go for unique souvenirs and tasty treats. Under its roof you'll find stalls selling almost everything – from local crafts and handmade leather goods to mouth-watering local cheeses and freshly baked bread. It's also home to some great street food-inspired cafés, selling traditional English fare as well as more international cuisine. 

What to do in Oxford with pets

One of the best things about pet sitting in Oxford is getting to explore the City of Dreaming Spires with a four-legged friend by your side. Luckily there are lots of things to do with pets in Oxford. 

1. Punting on the river: For those who aren't sure what punting is, it basically involves pushing a small flat-bottomed boat along a shallow river using a pole. It's one of the most iconic things to do in Oxford, and is surprisingly dog friendly. While you may not want to try it with a St. Bernard, most hire companies in Oxford will let you bring a small dog along for the ride. Remember to pack life jackets for human and doggy passengers, as well as a picnic to enjoy upstream. 

2. Millets Farm: Well-behaved dogs are more than welcome at this farm on the outskirts of Oxford, as long as you keep them on the lead and away from the pick-your-own fruit and veg sections. Water bowls are placed around the site so that pooches don't go thirsty, and there are plenty of bins for swift poop disposal too. Enjoy a stroll together through the 10 acre Phoebe Woods, and let your four-legged friend take in the sights and smells of local wildlife. Once you've built up an appetite, pull up a pew on the patio at Flower Market Café and enjoy a slice of cake.  

3. The Kings Arms: After a long day of strolling through the cobbled streets, you and your new best friend can enjoy a refreshing drink together at one of Oxford's oldest pubs. This dog-friendly inn dates back to 1609. Pooches are welcome inside as well as in the outdoor beer garden, and are often served treats by the friendly staff. As well as a wide selection of beer, the bar also serves hearty British pub grub.

Best restaurants in Oxford 

When it comes to food and drink, Oxford has plenty of places to grab a bite. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner, these are some of the best restaurants in Oxford. 

1. Arbequina: Adventurous eaters will want to make a reservation at this tapas bar, owned by the team behind the famous Oli's Thai. This cool and cosy restaurant serves up a small but perfectly formed array of shared plates. Classic Spanish dishes like onion tortilla and patatas bravas share menu space with more innovative eats; like aubergine with whipped feta or sobrasada with wildflower honey. 

2. Magdalen Arms: Run by the team behind London's acclaimed Anchor and Hope, the Magdalen Arms does a great line in traditional British pub grub. The menu changes every day. Visit on a Sunday for a luxurious take on the classic roast. Dishes often include massive sharing platters such as slow cooked lamb shoulder with gratin dauphinoise, and roast Hereford rib of beef with all the trimmings. 

3. Sticks n Sushi: Located in the Westgate Shopping Centre, the roof terrace of this stylish sushi restaurant is probably the best place to watch the sun setting over Oxford's spires. The menu includes classic sushi and sashimi, as well as skewers (the eponymous "sticks"). Choose from lamb chop with miso herb butter, Emmental cheese wrapped in bacon and panko chicken with wasabi Caesar dressing. 

House and pet sitting in Oxford

Oxford is a wonderful place to visit for those who are interested in history and English culture. With quirky museums, offbeat attractions and lush outdoor spaces, it's definitely a city break with a difference.  

If walking in the footsteps of some of Britain's most famous actors, writers and politicians sounds right up your alley, explore house and pet sits in Oxford now.