A Comprehensive Guide For Business Travellers in Oxford

Whether you’re attending a conference at the University of Oxford, collaborating with researchers at Begbroke Science Park, or establishing a long-term business presence in this historic city, Oxford offers a unique blend of academic prestige, business innovation and cultural richness. This guide crafted by local letting experts will help you navigate everything from accommodation and transport to workspaces and leisure activities, ensuring your business stay is both productive and enjoyable.

Accommodation options and costs

Understanding the cost of short-term lets in Oxford is crucial for effective budgeting. We’ve put together a helpful guide to help you budget for your stay. Approximate weekly rates for fully furnished properties, inclusive of utilities and taxes, are as follows:

These rates provide a general overview; actual prices may vary based on location, property amenities, and seasonal demand. For more detailed information, check out
our budgeting guide or check our available serviced apartments in Oxford.

Prime Oxford areas to stay

Choosing the right area can significantly impact your convenience and overall experience. Here are some of Oxford’s prime locations for business travellers:

• Jericho: A vibrant neighbourhood just north of the city center, Jericho offers a mix of independent shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Its proximity to the city center makes it ideal for those seeking both convenience and character.
• Headington: Located to the east, Headington is home to several hospitals and research centres. It’s a suitable choice for professionals working in these institutions.
• Summertown: Situated in North Oxford, Summertown boasts a range of shops, cafes, and leisure facilities. It’s a peaceful area with easy access to the city center.
• Cowley Road: Known for its eclectic mix of eateries and entertainment venues, Cowley Road is a lively area southeast of the city center, appealing to those who enjoy a bustling atmosphere.
• Near Begbroke Science Park: For professionals working at Begbroke Science Park, areas like Kidlington or Yarnton offer proximity and a more suburban feel.

Transportation to and within Oxford

Getting to Oxford:

From London: Regular train services from London Paddington reach Oxford in approximately an hour. Alternatively, the Oxford Tube and X90 coach services offer frequent departures from London, with journey times around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

From Other Major Cities: Direct train services connect Oxford to cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Reading, making it accessible from various parts of the UK.

Within Oxford:

Buses: Oxford boasts an extensive bus network, with the Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach offering routes throughout the city and suburbs.

• Cycling: The city’s compact nature and dedicated cycling lanes make biking a popular choice. Several rental shops provide short-term bike hires.
• E-Scooters: As part of a government trial, e-scooters are available for rent in specific areas, offering a convenient option for short trips.
• Walking: Many of Oxford’s attractions and business centres are within walking distance of each other, making it a pedestrian-friendly city.

Workspaces in Oxford

Finding the right workspace in Oxford can significantly enhance your productivity and overall experience. Here are some top recommendations:

Coworking spaces:

• The Quad Summertown: Located on Banbury Road, The Quad offers open workspaces, event spaces, meeting rooms, and dedicated desks. Amenities include high-speed internet, breakout spaces, and complimentary coffee and tea.
• The Wheelhouse Oxford – Angel Court: Situated on St Clement’s Street,this space provides virtual offices, open workspaces, meeting rooms, and dedicated desks. Members benefit from bike storage, ergonomic furniture, and a communal kitchen.
• Citibase Oxford: Found at New Barclay House on Botley Road, Citibase offers hot desks, private rooms for small teams, and larger spaces for growing businesses. The facility includes touchless tea and coffee services.

Cafés and libraries:

• Common Ground: Located on Little Clarendon Street, Common Ground is a café designed for students and remote workers, featuring ample desk space, free Wi-Fi, and a rotating display of local artwork.
• Oxfordshire County Library: Situated in the Westgate Centre, this library offers a quiet environment with free Wi-Fi, numerous study tables, and accessible power sockets.
• The Jericho Café: Found on Walton Street, this café provides a relaxed atmosphere with free Wi-Fi, making it a popular spot for both studying and casual meetings.

Things to do in Oxford

Balancing work with leisure is so easy in Oxford as the city has so much to offer. Here are a few suggestions of things to do in your time off:

Oxford historical sites

• Bodleian Library: One of the oldest libraries in Europe, offering guided tours showcasing its architectural splendor.
• Christ Church College: Famous for its grand dining hall and cathedral, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Oxford museums

• Ashmolean Museum: The world’s first university museum, housing art and artifacts spanning millennia.
• Pitt Rivers Museum: Known for its vast collection of anthropological and archaeological items.

Parks and gardens

• University Parks: A vast green space perfect for leisurely walks or jogging.
• Oxford Botanic Garden: The UK’s oldest botanic garden, showcasing diverse plant collections.

For a comprehensive list of attractions, refer to our guide on the top 20 places to visit in Oxford.

If you need help planning your stay in Oxford, our team of local experts would be happy to assist you in finding your perfect accommodation. Contact us today on 01993 222 200 or send us a message.