Car Hire Oxford

A quick guide to Oxford

Oxford – the ‘City of Dreaming Spires - is a city which is justly proud of its long history. There’s the island’s oldest university, pretty cobbled streets and fascinating alleyways, memorable bridges and incredible libraries all waiting to be explored. Throw in museums and theatres and you’ll know you’ve found a place that feeds the soul in so many ways.

Amazing academia

You can visit Oxford to explore the university buildings alone and still leave with a true sense of what this city represents. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to stumble over history when you wander the handsome campus.

Fans of The Lord of the Rings trilogy can’t leave without visiting the home of J.R.R. Tolkien on Northmoor Road and also Merton College, where he was based during his fellowship at Oxford University. The Bodleian Library is the second largest in the country, occupying several wings of the university, including Duke Humfrey’s library, which was built in the 15^th century. You can visit freely, but book in advance for one of the brilliant, history-packed tours.

Lights, camera, action

Many films and television programmes have been filmed in Oxford, including the Harry Potter series. There are a number of tours which will take you to these magical locations, including Christ Church college which became the iconic Hogwarts Great Hall.

A short drive from Oxford on the A34 takes you to Highclere Castle, better known as the setting for Downton Abbey. This period drama has experienced worldwide success and many of its loyal fans enjoy exploring the castle and the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re a fan or not, you’ll appreciate the stately castle, the manicured grounds and the area’s rich history.

Close to the capital

With London less than two hours away on the M40, a trip to the capital is irresistible. London is a city which needs no introduction, with a list of sights longer than your arm. Admire the iconic Buckingham Palace or spend your time shopping the high-end boutiques, jewellery stores and gorgeous arcades of Bond Street. Book for the thrilling theatres of Shaftesbury Avenue or dive into the peerless and restless restaurant scene.

A drive through the Cotswolds

One of the best things about Oxfordshire is the chance to hit the country roads and experience rural England, the famed green and pleasant land. Savour incredible British landscapes and charming towns and villages.

Take the A40 out of the city and travel through the heart of the Cotswolds. Drive through the picturesque town of Stow-on-the-Wold, which sits high on a hill, giving you a chance to soak in the incredible views. Visit the local shops which are gathered around the historic market square.

Driving through the Cotswolds can only be topped by your arrival at Chipping Campden, an elegant picture-perfect town which offers beautiful sights with a delicious serving of fine dining restaurants specialising in a range of cuisines. Wandering past medieval buildings in one of the prettiest villages in all of England is the perfect end to your Oxford adventure.

Driving in and around Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful city filled with lazy canal walks and picturesque cycle routes. Driving around the centre is scenic in the purest sense of the word. Just be mindful of bicycle lanes – Oxford’s inhabitants are keen cyclists - and take the time to plan your route to ensure you pass all of the city’s most celebrated sights.

Venturing into the wider Oxfordshire area is a must. Driving is pleasant, with roads moving freely outside of busy times and clear signage throughout. The M40 is nearby to the east, bringing quaint towns, such as Banbury and Aston, within an hour’s reach.

You can also drive to the city of Cambridge, Oxford’s academic rival, in just over two hours via the M40 and M25. Cambridge, like Oxford, has built its city around the globally celebrated university and you can easily spend a whole day admiring the stunning university buildings.

You’ll find it easy to navigate the major motorway routes, along with some scenic detours to capture the spirit of England from the comfort of your car. You’ll be driving on the left, overtaking on the right and mobile phone can’t be used when driving. The driver and all passengers must wear seatbelts, while distances on signs are shown in miles – and speed limits in miles per hour. Limits vary by area, with a top speed of 112 km/h on UK motorways.