Oxfordshire is not just about clever students and old universities. It is full of amazing stories, beautiful countryside, and fascinating history. Whether you live nearby or plan to visit, there is always something new to learn about this special part of England.
1. A Place of Learning and Legends
Everyone knows Oxfordshire for the famous Oxford University, one of the oldest and most respected in the world. For a long time only men could study there. In 1974 the last of Oxford’s colleges finally let women join and earn degrees too.
Fun fact: If it were not for Oxford, Cambridge University might not exist. Long ago some students left Oxford and started their own university in Cambridge. The two places have a friendly rivalry to this day.
2. A Hidden History in Wartime
During World War II, Oxford was not heavily bombed. One reason given is that Adolf Hitler wanted to keep the city safe because he planned to make it his new capital in England if he won the war. That never happened, and we are all very glad.
3. The World’s Oldest Purpose-Built Museum
The Ashmolean Museum opened in 1683. It is the oldest museum in the world that was built to be a museum. You can still visit today and see amazing objects from history, art, and archaeology.
4. Countryside Wonders
Step outside the city and Oxfordshire becomes a world of nature. The county includes parts of the Chiltern Hills and the Cotswolds. These are perfect for walks, picnics, and spotting wildlife.
5. What Is In a Name
People from Oxford are called Oxonians. Across the rest of the county, different towns may have their own nicknames too.
6. How Big Is Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire covers almost 1,000 square kilometres and has around 649,000 people. That means lots of open space, fields, and peaceful countryside to explore.
7. Tasty Local Treats
Feeling hungry. Try a Banbury cake from the town of Banbury. It is a sweet pastry with fruit and spices. You can also find tasty sausages and cheeses made by local people in markets, farm shops, and old pubs across the county.
8. Amazing Places To Visit
If you are planning a day out, here are some great places:
- Didcot Railway Centre – explore historic steam trains.
- Blenheim Palace – a grand mansion and UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Stonor House – a beautiful stately home with gardens.
- Broughton Castle – a real castle with a moat and centuries of history.
9. A College Built As a Punishment
Balliol College has a surprising origin. In the 1200s, its founder John Balliol fell out with the Bishop of Durham. As a punishment he had to build a college. He did, and Balliol is still one of Oxford’s famous colleges today.
10. Alice in Wonderland’s Home
Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice in Wonderland, lived in Oxford and based parts of the story on real places in the city. When Queen Victoria said she loved his book, he sent her his next one, which was about algebra. Not quite what she might have expected.
