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Five ways to celebrate winter in Oxford
There aren’t many sites as magical as Oxford in the wintertime. When the frost comes down, lights start to twinkle, and a chill hits the air, it becomes a stunning scene from a postcard.
Students flock from the city in the Winter, returning home for their festive break, leaving the streets less clogged and making it a perfect time to enjoy everything the historic area has to offer. If you’re thinking about booking a trip to Oxford this Winter, take a look at Vanbrugh House Hotel’s top tips and attractions you’re sure to love.
Book a stay with us and celebrate Oxford this winter.
Christmas markets
If you’re in Oxford in November or December of 2024, make sure you take advantage of the incredible events the city has to offer. Still looking for gifts or a festive treat for yourself? Enjoy any of the wonderful markets and fairs in Oxford over the festive season.
Blenheim Palace Christmas Market (Woodstock)
One of the largest Christmas markets in Oxford, Blenheim Palace is home to a season village of stalls, street food, and magical vibes from the 15th of November to the 22nd of December. Entrance to the market is covered with a Palace and Trial ticket, meaning you can supercharge your day of discovering and exploring with an adorable escape for mulled wine and tasty treats.
Waddesdon Manor Christmas Market (Waddesdon)
With over 70 hand-picked traders, the Christmas fair at Waddesdon is an infamous, immersive, shopping experience. From the 15th of November to the 22nd of December indulge in sweet treats from Unholy Donuts, adorable trinkets from Little Creative Woodcrafts, and hot chocolate from Monkshood Coffee.
Oxford Botanic Gardens Christmas Fair (Oxford)
Far more than just a market, the Oxford Botanic Garden Christmas Fair packs a punch with two days of incredible shopping and entertainment. Pick up some new favourites while you enjoy live music. There’s also entertainment for the children, making it a family-friendly day out. Just a 14-minute walk from Vanbrugh House Hotel, why not join us for the weekend and get involved?
Fantasy Adventures
For a really unique experience this festive season why not try something utterly modern and space-age in this historic city? Fantasy Futures is an immersive, multisensory, gamified environment where you’ll be led by real-world helpers and virtual gargoyle friends to explore and save the city. Heading to Oxford with your family or friends? Groups of up to ten can take part together, making it an amazing way to bring everyone together.
Fantasy Futures: Guardians of Oxford will be taking place on George Street from the 11th to the 24th of November and tickets are totally free. Book now for an exhilarating adventure.
Catch up on history
With winter being the off-season for Oxford tourists and many students heading away from the university for their holiday break, you’ll find queues shorter, galleries less crowded, and the streets looking a little sparser. This is the perfect time to take advantage and head to all the historic sites and attractions, fitting more into your trip. Lose yourself in history at the Museum of Oxford or get inspired at Modern Art Oxford – one of the UK’s leading contemporary art spaces.
Catch a show
What’s a weekend trip away without a bit of culture? Whatever your tastes, Oxford’s exciting theatres are sure to have something you’ll love. Explore the museums, grab dinner, and watch a show before retiring to a comfortable and cosy room at Vanbrugh House Hotel. Doesn’t that just sound like a perfect winter day?
Catch the National Theatre’s acclaimed production of War Horse through December and January at the New Theatre Oxford. Book tickets here.
Or, if you’d rather live a fairytale on your romantic getaway to the history city, catch Sleeping Beauty. What’s more festive than a pantomime? This Oxford Playhouse production promises to be spectacular, delving into 80’s nostalgia and the joy of the season. Find out more about Sleeping Beauty here.
Winter walks
There’s never a wrong time of year to enjoy the green spaces that litter Oxford, with each season bringing something uniquely exciting and stunning. However, in winter with frost and the first fall snow on the floor, the walks across the University parks are especially gorgeous.
Explore Port Meadow and walk along the iconic River Thames. Why not grab a warm drink before your walk and head into the Covered Market afterwards for a hot meal to shelter from the weather?
Whatever you’re looking for with a trip to Oxford this winter, you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful time. With festive delights, Christmas treats, and winter walks – the city isn’t lacking in experiences, events, or gorgeous attractions.
