Oxford and Beyond

Honey-gold buildings, dreaming spires and a riverside setting are just part of Oxford’s unique charm.

Renowned the world over as the home of one of the oldest and most highly revered academic establishments, the city evolved over 800 years ago and has centuries of history just waiting to be discovered! The beautiful Christ Church College is a unique institution and one of the largest colleges in the University of Oxford and many distinguished scholars have studied here. The Cathedral Church for the Diocese of Oxford has a fascinating history where the choir and its choral tradition has played a prominent part for the last 500 years. More recently Oxford is probably best known for its connection to Harry Potter, with many scenes being shot in various locations which famously feature in many of the early films helping to create the iconic gothic backdrop that became the unmistakable Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry!

Beyond the city, there are a treasure trove of historic buildings and beautiful countryside to discover.  Locations within the Oxfordshire Cotswolds have featured prominently in the popular TV drama Downton Abbey, particularly Bampton, which doubles as the fictional village of Downton. Continuing the Downton Abbey theme, Cogges Manor Farm, is the setting for Yew Tree Farm and on a grander scale, the magnificent Waddesdon Manor forms the exterior for the fictional Haxby Park that featured in the second season of ‘Downton Abbey’.

Blenheim Palace provides an awe-inspiring experience for visitors. Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family and the birth place of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting a long and diverse history.