With so much to see and do in Oxford, why not combine traditional sightseeing with a relaxing spell in a luxurious spa in Oxford or a tranquil walk by the river?
The world-famous Macdonald Randolph Hotel can help you escape the hustle and bustle of a stressful and busy life in newly opened "The Spa". With vaulted ceilings, the luxury Italian tiling and fabrics plus relaxing candle light creates a luxurious atmosphere unlike any other.Steam up your senses in the thermal suite then plunge into the Hydrotherapy Jacuzzi followed by the refreshing ice room. The trained Spa therapists offer a range of treatments from facials to hot stone massage before you unwind in the sensation shower and relaxation room.
Oxford is home to a number of beautiful, tranquil parks and gardens. Most of the University colleges have delightful gardens, hidden behind high walls yet open to the public. Christ Church even keeps a herd of rare breed cows on its city centre meadow; Magdalen College, of course, favours a herd of deer. See if you can spot them as you stroll in the gardens.
The University of Oxford Botanic Garden is Britain's oldest botanic garden, founded in 1621 to "promote learning and glorify the works of God". Some 7,000 species and 90% of all families of flowering plants are concentrated in its idyllic 4.5 acres site beside the river Cherwell, in the most compact yet diverse collection of plants in the world. Dedicated to teaching, scientific research and conservation projects, the Botanic Garden is also an inspiration to all garden-lovers. Main features include the Glasshouses, Walled Garden, Water Garden and Rock Garden.
New College Garden , featuring fragments of Oxford’s city wall (ceremonially inspected by the Lord Mayor and city fathers every 3 years) is well worth a visit. Children can let off steam in the University Parks or Hinksey park with its playpark, open air pool and football pitches.
But Oxford offers the healthy and healing experience of walking – whether among the ginnels and snickets of the city centre or the open expanse of Port Meadow. You can walk to London along the Thames Path (given time) or to Coventry, along the Oxford canal.
One of the most varied counties in England, Oxfordshire boasts the Ironstone Hills to the north, the Chiltern Hills to the east, the Cotswolds to the west and the iron age landscape of the Ridgeway and Vale of White Horse to the south. So bring your walking boots …or buy some here.
For further information visit the official Oxford visitor website: www.visitoxford.org.
