The Top 9 Things To Do In Oxford & Oxfordshire At Christmas
Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires, is a magical place to visit any time of year. But during the festive season, it truly comes alive with a unique blend of tradition, history, and holiday cheer. From enchanting Christmas markets to historic Christmas carol services, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Our guide will give you all the best things to do in Oxford at Christmas so that you can make the most of the festive atmosphere and enjoy everything that Oxford has to offer. Whether you’re travelling alone or with your family, these activities are family-friendly, fun, and guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. And if you’re planning a trip to the city to enjoy the festive cheer, make sure to explore our selection of self-catering accommodation in Oxford.
Our Favourite Days Out During The Festive Season
Here’s a selection of our favourite places and events to visit whilst staying in Oxford and Oxfordshire this festive season.
Christmas At Blenheim Palace
Dates: 14 November – 3rd January
Times: 10:00am – 8:00pm
This Christmas, Blenheim Palace transforms into a festive wonderland with experiences for all ages. Wander the enchanting After Dark Trail, where dazzling lights and installations bring the grounds to life. Step inside the Palace itself to discover The Kingdom of Oz, a magical reimagining of the classic story with a festive twist. Browse the bustling Christmas Market, perfect for gifts and seasonal treats, then lace up your skates for Blenheim’s Great Skate under the winter sky. For breathtaking views across the illuminated parkland, take a ride on the giant Observation Wheel – a truly unforgettable way to celebrate the season.
Christmas at Christ Church
Dates: 17 December and 19 December
Times: 8:00pm
Step into the stunning surroundings of Christ Church Cathedral for an unforgettable Christmas concert. The world-renowned Cathedral Choir will fill the historic space with carols both traditional and new, interwoven with seasonal readings that bring the spirit of Christmas to life. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Oxford’s most beautiful buildings, it’s an evening of music and reflection that captures the true magic of the season.
Oxford Christmas Market
Dates: 22 November – 31 December (Closed 25th December)
Times: Bar/Food: Sunday – Monday:10:00am -8:00pm and Tuesday -Saturday: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Times: Stalls: Sunday – Monday:10:00am – 6:00pm and Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00am – 8:00pm (Closes at 5:30pm on 24th December)
Wander through the twinkling stalls of the Oxford Christmas Market and soak up the festive atmosphere. Pick up unique last-minute gifts, indulge in delicious artisanal food and drink, and enjoy a warming cup of mulled wine as you explore. With live music and entertainment adding to the magic, it’s the perfect way to wrap yourself in Christmas cheer.
Oxford Castle & Prison: Meet Santa at The Beary Workshop
Dates: Selected dates from 19 November – 23 December
Bring a little extra magic to the season with the Beary Workshop at Oxford Castle & Prison. Children can create their very own cuddly bear, give it a name, and even design a festive top to make it truly unique. The experience continues with a special meeting with Santa himself – the perfect chance for photos, before posting a letter straight to the North Pole. A festive day out filled with creativity, excitement, and Christmas cheer.
Christmas Fair At The Oxford Botanic Gardens
Dates: 6 – 7 December
Step into a winter wonderland at the Oxford Botanic Garden Christmas Fair. Wander among beautifully decorated stalls brimming with handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and festive crafts, all set against the enchanting backdrop of the UK’s oldest botanic garden. Enjoy a cup of something warm as you explore and soak up the magical atmosphere. A perfect festive day out for all ages.
Oxford Victorian Christmas Market
Dates: 13 – 16 November
Times: Thursday: 12:00pm – 8:00pm, Friday – Saturday: 10:00 – 8:00pm and Sunday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Step back in time at the Oxford Victorian Market, where festive tradition meets old-world charm. Browse stalls filled with artisanal gifts, tempting food, and warming seasonal drinks, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere of traders dressed in authentic Victorian attire. Perfect for gift shopping with a touch of nostalgia, it’s a market that brings history to life in the heart of Oxford.
Christmas Pantomime at Oxford Playhouse
Dates: 21 November – 4 January
Nothing screams Christmas more than a family-friendly trip to the pantomime. The Oxford Playhouse plays host to the Christmas Pantomime each year so expect to bring your voice as you chant along with the crowd, laugh out loud, and connect to the larger-than-life characters that every good pantomime has. This year it is the turn of Dick Whittington. The perfect family day out!
Visit a Cotswold Village
Experience the charm of a traditional English village during the Christmas season, with quaint shops, cosy pubs, and festive decorations. Our favourite Cotswolds villages to visit during the Festive Period are:
- Bibury: Renowned for its iconic Arlington Row, a row of quaint stone cottages that look like something out of a fairy tale.
- Burford: A historic market town with a charming high street lined with shops, pubs, and restaurants.
- Castle Combe: Often described as the most picturesque village in England, with its winding streets, thatched cottages, and ancient Bybrook River.
- Stow-on-the-Wold: A large market town with a stunning church, a historic wool market, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
- Moreton-in-Marsh: A historic market town with a bustling high street, a beautiful church, and a historic railway station.
Christmas Shopping
Explore Oxford’s many shops and boutiques for unique gifts and souvenirs. Our favourite places to pick up last minute gifts are:
- Westgate Shopping Centre.
- The Covered Market
- Bicester Village
Additional Festive Tips
- Book in Advance: Many popular attractions and accommodations fill up quickly during the Christmas season, so it’s best to book in advance.
- Dress Warmly: Oxford can get quite cold during the winter months, so make sure to pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Embrace the Festive Spirit: The best way to enjoy the Christmas season in Oxford is to embrace the festive spirit and soak up the magic.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and festive atmosphere, Oxford is the perfect destination for a magical Christmas. So bundle up, grab your loved ones, and explore all that this enchanting city has to offer.
Book Your Festive Getaway to Oxford & Oxfordshire
Explore all of our homes in Oxford; whether you need an Oxford holiday apartment for a romantic getaway before the busy festive period or you want to spend a family Christmas in Oxford, we have something for everyone.
If you need any help with booking your Festive Getaway to Oxford, please call our friendly bookings team 01993 222 200 or send us a message.
