Life in Oxford is a little different than you think of. From high-end education to affordable student housing, this city is famous for a lot of things. Often associated with its top-notch universities, iconic art and student accommodation, Oxford is a place with the most rich history. However, beyond academic life, there are plenty of things to discover. Obviously, you won’t be staying in all the time, isn’t it?
Oxford is a living and breathing city with thousands of places, amazing traditions and rich culture. Plus, if you want to experience life in Oxford, it is essential to live a life full of daily rhythms. Hence, you must live like a local. We have curated a list of the ways to immerse ourselves in the culture easily. Let’s dive into the blog and find what awaits you!
1. Explore the Local Markets
One of the ways to connect with local people is to explore the local markets. Local markets are the perfect place to connect with people who have been living in Oxford since birth. Some of the best local markets in Oxford are:
- The Oxford Covered Market: Commenced in the 18th century, this is the must-visit place in the city. From local boutiques to traditional British treats, you will find fresh local produce and more.
- Gulp Fiction: Famous for its combination of bookshop and cafe, this is one of the places every localite loves to go.
- Ben’s Cookies: This is a legendary place for students. To explore legendary food, you must go here.
- Gloucester Green Market: Held on the first and third thursday of every month, this place offers a great deal on street food. Besides food, you can even explore vintage clothes, antiques and handcrafted goods too.
2. Spend a Night at a Pub
One of the oldest traditions among local students in Oxford is to spend a night at a pub. The Pub culture is more like a tradition, especially for international students. Just like universities, Oxford is also a home to some of the most popular, old and charming pubs. Each pub has a unique history.
So, try to skip the mainstream bars and explore traditional bars. Here is the list of the best pubs you should not miss out:
- The Turf Tavern: This hidden gem is a place where all the college crowd comes. Be it students or professors or localite, head down the narrow alley and experience a new pub life.
- The Eagle and Child: One of the famous places for J.R.R Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, you can enjoy a drink with a literary vibe here.
So, when you are at a pub, embrace every tradition with a pint of brewed beer or engage in a conversation with the bartender to know more. Plus, don’t forget to take part in a pub quiz, one of the most beloved British pastimes.
3. Ride a Bike into Oxford Cycling Culture
You can roam around the city with a bicycle if you wish too. As one of the essential parts in the lifestyle in Oxford, you can explore narrow streets and eye-catching lanes with a cycle. You can expect to find numerous modes of transportation but nothing beats cycling. Rent or buy a cycle, you will find many fellows cycling around.
For renting or buying second-hand bikes, you can head to Warlands Cycles or Summertown Cycles. One of the prime places to explore with cycles include:
- Picturesque lanes along with Thames Paths
- University Parks
- Port Meadow and more.
4. Indulge in Thriving Art and Theatre Scenes
Unlike other cities, Oxford is full of arts and theatre scenes which go beyond the academic facade. Here are some of the best places to explore for some vibrant art and theatre scenes:
- The Oxford Playhouse: This place is famous for classic plays as well as contemporary performances
- The New Theatre Oxford: To experience major touring productions, this is the go to place.
- The Burton Taylor Studio:For intimate and alternative experiences, you can definitely check out this studio.
- For independent theatre and art exhibitions, The Old Fire Station, Modern Art Oxfordand Blackwell’s Bookshop are some of the perfect places.
5. Get Sophisticated with a Traditional Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is one of the oldest British traditions and Oxford is famous for this tradition worldwide. From the Grand Cafe to Vaults & Garden Cafe, you can expect to find a large variety for afternoon tea. Plus, for an upscale experience, you can even book a table at The Randolph Hotel. So, to enjoy a refined selection of scones, teas and pastries, in the afternoon.
6. Wander Beyond Student Accommodation
While every college and student accommodation brings a series of events and festivals, you must go beyond the boundaries. To explore and be a localite, go beyond the tourist trail and discover some of the hidden gems. You can walk through Jericho, East Oxford or Cowley Road to indulge in the true beauty.
In short, to live like a local in Oxford, it is more than visiting the famous sites in the city. As international students, embrace the city’s culture, traditions and everyday essentials. Whether you stay in student housing or hunt down hidden gems, Oxford has more than you think of. So, engage within the community, be respectful to social norms and take a breather to experience Oxford life like never before.
Leave a Reply