Oxford is famous for its historic university, stunning architecture, and world-class museums, but beyond the well-known sights, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From secret gardens and ancient libraries to quirky museums and tucked-away pubs, this city is full of unexpected treasures.
Whether you’re a history lover, a bookworm, or just someone who enjoys exploring unique places, this guide will take you to the 10 best hidden gems in Oxford.
1) The Turf Tavern
The Turf Tavern is one of Oxford’s most charming hidden gems, tucked away down a narrow passageway near the historic Bridge of Sighs.
This centuries-old pub, dating back to the 13th century, has welcomed famous visitors over the years, including former U.S. President Bill Clinton, Stephen Hawking, and renowned writers like C.S. Lewis.
With its low wooden beams, ivy-covered walls, and cosy beer garden, the pub offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Known for its real ales, hearty food, and fascinating history, The Turf Tavern is a favourite among locals, students, and visitors looking for a true taste of Oxford’s past.
Whether you’re relaxing by the open fire in winter or enjoying the sun-soaked garden in summer, this historic and character-filled pub is a must-visit for those who want to experience Oxford’s hidden charm.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Turf Tavern
1. How do you find The Turf Tavern?
The Turf Tavern is tucked away down a narrow alley off Holywell Street, near the Bridge of Sighs. Look for the small passageway beside the old city wall—it’s easy to miss but well worth the effort to find!
2. What makes The Turf Tavern special?
This historic pub dates back to the 13th century and has been visited by famous figures like Bill Clinton, C.S. Lewis, and Stephen Hawking. With its cosy interior, beer garden, and traditional British food, it offers a truly authentic Oxford experience.
3. Is The Turf Tavern a good place to visit in all seasons?
Yes! In the summer, the beer garden is a great spot to relax with a drink, while in the winter, the low wooden beams and open fires create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for escaping the cold.
2) The Oxford University Parks Duck Pond
The Oxford University Parks Duck Pond is a peaceful hidden gem in the heart of University Parks, offering a beautiful escape into nature.
Nestled among the park’s lush greenery and winding pathways, this charming pond is home to ducks, swans, and other wildlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and quiet reflection.
The pond’s calm waters reflect the changing seasons, from spring blossoms and summer sunshine to autumn’s golden leaves and the crisp frost of winter. Visitors can relax on one of the nearby benches, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the soothing sounds of nature away from the city's busy streets.
Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a keen photographer, or just looking for a quiet place to unwind, the Oxford University Parks Duck Pond is a hidden treasure worth discovering.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Oxford University Parks Duck Pond
1. Where is the Duck Pond located within University Parks?
The Duck Pond is nestled within University Parks, a short walk from the main entrances on Parks Road and South Parks Road. It’s easy to find by following the peaceful walking paths that wind through the park’s trees and open spaces.
2. What kind of wildlife can you see at the pond?
The pond is home to ducks, swans, moorhens, and other water birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. You might also see squirrels, dragonflies, and even the occasional heron enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
3. Is the Duck Pond a good place for a picnic?
Yes! The area around the pond has plenty of benches and grassy spots, making it a perfect place to relax with a picnic, read a book, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
3) The Pitt Rivers Museum
The Pitt Rivers Museum is one of Oxford’s most fascinating hidden gems, filled with thousands of unusual and mysterious objects from around the world.
Tucked behind the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, this incredible museum is like stepping into a real-life treasure trove. Inside, visitors will find glass cases packed with historic artefacts, from shrunken heads and ancient weapons to intricate jewellery and tribal masks.
Unlike most modern museums, where everything is neatly spaced out, the Pitt Rivers Museum feels like an exciting, old-world collection, where every corner is filled with something strange and wonderful.
The dim lighting and tightly packed displays make it feel as if you’re uncovering secrets of the past, making it a perfect place for curious minds, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys the unusual.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Pitt Rivers Museum
1. What makes the Pitt Rivers Museum different from other museums?
Unlike most modern museums, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with thousands of artefacts displayed in glass cabinets, creating a treasure trove atmosphere. Instead of being organised by time period or country, objects are grouped by theme, so you can see how different cultures around the world have approached things like weapons, clothing, or rituals.
2. What are some of the strangest objects in the museum?
The museum is famous for its quirky and unusual artefacts, including shrunken heads from the Amazon, ancient witchcraft charms, and a vast collection of tribal masks and weapons. Every visit feels like a new discovery, as there are over half a million objects to explore.
3. Is the Pitt Rivers Museum free to visit?
Yes! Entry to the museum is completely free, making it a must-visit for anyone in Oxford. Whether you have a few minutes or a few hours, there’s always something strange, fascinating, and unexpected to uncover inside.
4) The Vaults & Garden Café
The Vaults & Garden Café is a hidden gem in Oxford, offering a peaceful escape with stunning views of the famous Radcliffe Camera.
Tucked away inside the vaulted crypt of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, this café combines history, charm, and delicious homemade food.
The interior features beautiful stone arches and wooden tables, creating a cosy and atmospheric space to enjoy a meal. Outside, the garden seating area provides a perfect spot to relax while taking in one of Oxford’s most iconic sights.
The café is known for its fresh, organic, and locally sourced food, with a menu that includes homemade soups, hearty sandwiches, and delicious cakes. Whether you’re stopping by for a quiet coffee, a leisurely lunch, or an afternoon tea, The Vaults & Garden Café offers a unique and relaxing dining experience in the heart of Oxford.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Vaults & Garden Café
1. Where is The Vaults & Garden Café located?
The café is located inside the crypt of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, right next to Radcliffe Camera. It’s in the heart of Oxford, making it a perfect place to stop for a break while exploring the city.
2. What kind of food does The Vaults & Garden Café serve?
The café is known for its fresh, organic, and locally sourced food. The menu includes hearty soups, homemade sandwiches, salads, and delicious cakes, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.
3. Can you sit outside at The Vaults & Garden Café?
Yes! The café has a beautiful outdoor seating area with views of Radcliffe Square and the historic university buildings. It’s a great spot to enjoy a relaxing meal or coffee while soaking up Oxford’s unique atmosphere.
5) St Edmund Hall’s Library
St Edmund Hall’s Library is a hidden gem in Oxford, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich academic history.
Located within one of the oldest colleges at the University of Oxford, this beautiful library is housed in a converted 12th-century church, making it one of the most unique study spaces in the city.
Inside, visitors will find ancient wooden beams, grand bookshelves, and a peaceful, scholarly atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. The library holds a vast collection of books and manuscripts, many of which have been used by Oxford scholars for centuries.
While it is primarily a working library for students, special tours occasionally allow visitors to experience its historic charm. Whether you're a book lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about Oxford’s hidden treasures, St Edmund Hall’s Library is a fascinating and lesser-known part of the university’s heritage.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting St Edmund Hall’s Library
1. Why is St Edmund Hall’s Library unique?
St Edmund Hall’s Library is housed in a converted 12th-century church, making it one of the most historic and atmospheric libraries in Oxford. With its ancient wooden beams and grand book collections, it offers a truly unique space for study and research.
2. Can the public visit St Edmund Hall’s Library?
Since it is a working library for students, public access is limited. However, special guided tours and open days sometimes allow visitors to step inside and experience its historic charm and academic atmosphere.
3. Where is St Edmund Hall’s Library located?
The library is part of St Edmund Hall, one of the oldest colleges at the University of Oxford. It is located off Queen’s Lane, a quiet and picturesque street just a short walk from Oxford’s High Street.
6) The Painted Room
The Painted Room is one of Oxford’s most fascinating hidden gems, offering a glimpse into the city’s Elizabethan past.
Tucked away inside what now looks like a simple shop on Cornmarket Street, this historic room is home to beautifully preserved 16th-century wall paintings, which were hidden beneath layers of wallpaper for centuries.
The intricate designs, featuring rich red and gold patterns, were once part of a grand townhouse where William Shakespeare is believed to have stayed during his visits to Oxford. Today, visitors can step inside and admire the incredible craftsmanship, learning about the building’s history and the secrets uncovered during its restoration.
Since it is not a typical tourist attraction, access is limited to special guided tours and heritage events, making it a rare and exciting place to explore. Whether you love history, art, or Shakespearean connections, The Painted Room is a must-see treasure in Oxford’s past.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Painted Room
1. What is The Painted Room, and why is it important?
The Painted Room is a hidden Elizabethan treasure in Oxford, featuring beautifully preserved 16th-century wall paintings. These intricate designs were uncovered beneath layers of wallpaper and are believed to have once decorated a grand townhouse where William Shakespeare may have stayed.
2. Can you visit The Painted Room?
Yes, but access is limited. The Painted Room is not open daily, but special guided tours and heritage events allow visitors to step inside and admire its historic artwork and rich Elizabethan history.
3. Where is The Painted Room located?
The Painted Room is hidden inside a modern shop on Cornmarket Street, one of Oxford’s busiest shopping areas. Despite its unassuming exterior, the room inside reveals a stunning glimpse into Oxford’s Tudor past.
7) Jericho’s Colourful Streets
Jericho’s Colourful Streets are a hidden gem in Oxford, offering a vibrant and artistic escape from the city’s historic landmarks.
This charming neighbourhood, just a short walk from the city centre, is known for its pastel-painted houses, independent cafés, and creative energy. Originally a working-class area, Jericho has transformed into one of Oxford’s most stylish and bohemian districts, full of character and culture.
The streets are lined with quirky bookshops, unique boutiques, and cosy pubs, making it the perfect place to wander, explore, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. The area is also home to Port Meadow, a beautiful open space where you can enjoy a scenic walk along the river.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a coffee in a tucked-away café, or some of the best independent shopping in Oxford, Jericho’s Colourful Streets are a must-visit hidden treasure.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting Jericho’s Colourful Streets
1. What makes Jericho’s streets special?
Jericho is known for its charming pastel-coloured houses, independent cafés, and artistic vibe. Unlike the more historic areas of Oxford, this neighbourhood has a bohemian feel, making it a perfect place for a relaxed stroll away from the busy city centre.
2. What can you do in Jericho?
You can explore quirky bookshops, boutique stores, and cosy pubs, or stop for a coffee in one of its independent cafés. Jericho is also close to Port Meadow, where you can enjoy a scenic riverside walk in a peaceful green space.
3. How do you get to Jericho from Oxford city centre?
Jericho is just a 10-minute walk from the city centre, located northwest of Oxford University’s colleges. You can get there by following Walton Street, which is lined with great places to eat, drink, and explore.
8) The Oxford Botanic Garden’s Secret Corners
The Oxford Botanic Garden’s Secret Corners are a hidden gem within Britain’s oldest botanic garden, offering peaceful retreats, rare plants, and hidden pathways away from the main visitor areas.
While many come to admire the impressive glasshouses and themed gardens, the real magic lies in the quiet corners waiting to be discovered.
Tucked behind ancient stone walls and winding hedgerows, these secret spots include hidden benches, shady archways, and secluded flower beds where you can sit and enjoy the beauty of nature undisturbed. Some areas feature medicinal plants, rare orchids, and even exotic species, making every visit a new adventure.
The sound of trickling water, rustling leaves, and birdsong adds to the garden’s calm and enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re a botany lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a quiet escape, The Oxford Botanic Garden’s Secret Corners are a magical and lesser-known treasure in the heart of Oxford.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Oxford Botanic Garden’s Secret Corners
1. What makes the secret corners of the Oxford Botanic Garden special?
Beyond the main pathways and glasshouses, the garden is full of hidden benches, quiet archways, and tucked-away flower beds where you can sit and enjoy nature in peace. These lesser-known spots offer a tranquil escape from the busier areas.
2. Are there any rare plants in the secret corners of the garden?
Yes! Some of these hidden spots feature rare medicinal plants, exotic orchids, and unusual species that you might not notice at first glance. Exploring the garden’s quieter areas often reveals unique and fascinating plant life.
3. Can you bring food and sit in the secret corners?
While picnics aren’t allowed inside the garden, you can find a quiet bench in a hidden nook to sit and enjoy the scenery. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect place to relax and take a break during your visit.
9) The Eagle and Child Pub
The Eagle and Child Pub is a hidden gem in Oxford, famous for its literary history and cosy charm.
This historic 17th-century pub, located on St Giles’ Street, was once the regular meeting place of the Inklings, a group of writers that included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. It was here, in the snug back room known as the Rabbit Room, that they discussed their famous works, including The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia.
The pub itself has a warm and traditional feel, with wooden beams, narrow passageways, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy classic British pub food and real ales, while soaking in the literary history that fills the walls. Whether you’re a book lover, a history fan, or just looking for a great pub with character, The Eagle and Child is a must-visit spot in Oxford.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Eagle and Child Pub
1. Why is The Eagle and Child famous?
The pub is best known for being the meeting place of the Inklings, a group of writers that included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. They gathered here to discuss their literary works, including The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia.
2. What kind of atmosphere does The Eagle and Child have?
The pub has a traditional and cosy feel, with wooden beams, narrow passageways, and historic décor. The back room, known as the Rabbit Room, still holds memories of the famous literary discussions that took place there.
3. Can you eat at The Eagle and Child?
Yes! The pub serves classic British food, including pies, fish and chips, and real ales. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the literary history of Oxford.
10) The Oxford Castle & Prison’s Underground Crypt
The Oxford Castle & Prison’s Underground Crypt is a hidden gem that takes visitors deep into Oxford’s dark and mysterious past.
Located beneath the historic Oxford Castle, this eerie crypt is one of the oldest parts of the site, dating back nearly 1,000 years. Once a place of worship and later a prison chapel, the crypt has a haunting atmosphere, with its stone walls, dim lighting, and ancient carvings creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Guided tours bring the history to life, sharing stories of medieval monks, condemned prisoners, and ghostly sightings that have been reported over the years. Walking through the crypt, you can almost feel the weight of history, making it a fascinating visit for history lovers, ghost hunters, and anyone looking to explore Oxford’s hidden past.
Whether you’re brave enough to step inside during the day or on a spooky evening ghost tour, The Oxford Castle & Prison’s Underground Crypt is one of the city’s most chilling and exciting hidden treasures.
FAQs/Things to know when visiting The Oxford Castle & Prison’s Underground Crypt
1. What is the history of the underground crypt at Oxford Castle & Prison?
The crypt dates back nearly 1,000 years and was originally a place of worship for medieval monks. Over time, it became part of the prison, serving as a chapel for condemned prisoners before their execution, adding to its eerie and chilling atmosphere.
2. Is the crypt really haunted?
Many visitors and staff have reported strange noises, cold spots, and ghostly sightings in the crypt. Some say they’ve felt an unsettling presence, especially on nighttime ghost tours, making it one of Oxford’s most haunted locations.
3. Can you visit the crypt without a guided tour?
No, the crypt is only accessible through a guided tour of Oxford Castle & Prison. These tours provide fascinating historical insights, share spooky legends, and give visitors a chance to explore one of the city’s most mysterious underground spaces.
There you have it! These are 10 of the best hidden gems located in Oxford, which are perfect for a brief city adventure! Whether you plan to do a trip in and around Oxford, or visit for a long weekend, you should definitely add some of these places to your bucket list!
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