Have you heard? We’re launching one-week courses and two-week courses this December, the perfect alternative for if you have a busy summer planned or are unable to travel to us.

You may be thinking, what’s so appealing about Oxford in the winter? Is it as good as the summer? 

It certainly is. 

Take a look at some of our top reasons why you should visit Oxford in the winter.

What’s Included in an Oxford Summer Course?

Our tailored summer courses for ages 9-24 include all teaching and academic content, accommodation, meals (including Friday night formal dinners), a prize-giving ceremony, all-day trips and activities, airport transfers, access to Oxford Summer Courses Foundations, travel and medical insurance, and a welcome pack. Apply now to secure your spot in one of our comprehensive summer courses.

Wintry Walks

You’ve read before about the great open green spaces in Oxford that we recommend you try and visit during your time with us. And they’re all open in the winter too!

Gather up your new circle of friends and head to University Parks, wrapped up in your hats and scarves and see what sports are going on. There’s also the iconic Christ Church Meadows, where you can walk along the frosty river bank and enjoy beautiful views of the city’s towers.

If you want to venture out towards Jericho, you can also access Port Meadow and enjoy the wild cattle and horses, walk along the Thames Path and watch the riverboats pass by. You can even stop at one of the riverside pubs along the way and pick up a hot chocolate - The Perch even has fairy light archways and outdoor heaters - the perfect place to enjoy their gooey sticky toffee pudding or a mince pie!

The Covered Market

You can’t visit Oxford without a trip to the Covered Market! And it’s no different in the winter. There’s lots of pop-up Christmas stalls selling crafts, trees and food/drink. The stationed favourites also get involved in the festive fun and sell a range of products from food and drink to music, vintage jewellery and clothes. It’s a great place to pick up a few quirky gifts whilst supporting small businesses!

The Museums

If you have a free day to explore the city, then be sure to pop into at least some of the museums. Some of the most popular include; The Ashmolean, Pitt Rivers, History of Science and Museum of Natural History and have some of history’s most fascinating artefacts on display.

They’ll also be a warm welcome from the cold outdoor air!

College accommodation

The ultimate cosy condo. 

Imagine studying at your desk, wrapped up in your cosiest jumper, and looking up to see snow falling out on the quad before you.

You can also imagine movie nights, debate evenings and catch ups with your new friends over hot chocolate in the common room - your accommodation will be the home to so many amazing memories during your time with us.

Expert tutors

Just because our courses happen in the winter doesn’t mean you’re not still getting the best of the Oxford Summer Courses experience. That’s right, you’ll still have plenty of timetabled learning sessions, one-on-one tutorials (for students 16 and over) and skill-development workshops. 

Not to forget our networking and guest speaker dinners, all designed to equip you with the skills and contacts necessary to kick-start your future career. 

Pantomime!

Nothing screams a classic British Christmas without a trip to the pantomime! Oxford is fortunate enough to have two incredible theatres; The New Theatre and the Oxford Playhouse. 

Come and enjoy a classic panto, or a selection of other fun-filled plays, ballets or musicals, guaranteed to spread the festive cheer!

Christmas Market

Oxford’s iconic Christmas market pops up every year in December on Broad Street. There’s nothing more magical than walking amongst the bustling Christmas cheer, browsing the homemade craft and gift stalls. Make sure to leave room in your suitcase as it’s inevitable that you’ll pick up a few treats for family and friends.

There’s also a variety of delicious food and drink stalls to sample from. We recommend scooping up a hot chocolate and sampling the delicious churros.

Shopping!

Need to pick up a few last-minute gifts for family and friends? Don’t fret. Westgate has plenty of high-end and high-street stores for you to browse, as well as on the surrounding streets in the city centre. 

As already mentioned, the Christmas Market and Covered Market are also great places to pick up something novel or unique. There’s plenty of shops to choose from and while away a free afternoon - just don’t forget to complete your assignment before your tutorial!

The University

In the winter, the University of Oxford comes alive with Christmas trees, twinkling lights and glimmering street lamps. If you have time to spare, and they are open, be sure to go in and check them out in a new light. 

We also recommend visiting the Bodleian library and taking a look at their famous Christmas tree during dusk - it’s truly magical. 

Ready to Join Oxford Summer Courses?

After submitting your application, we'll be in touch very soon to inform you of the outcome. Apply now to begin your journey with Oxford Summer Courses!

About the author

Rhys Mackenzie is the Website Marketing Manager at Oxford Summer Courses. With extensive experience in SEO and digital content management, they are passionate about showcasing the best that Oxford has to offer. Their previous role at Experience Oxfordshire gave them a deep appreciation for the city's unique cultural and academic offerings. Learn more about Rhys here.