9 Inexpensive & Exciting Things To Do In Oxford This Summer

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Oxford offers a plethora of activities and events to enjoy during the summer holidays. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone. From museums and tasting culinary delights to historical sites and nature walks, here’s our round-up of the most exciting things to do in Oxford this summer.

The Ashmolean Museum & The Pitts River Museum 

The Ashmolean Museum is the UK’s oldest public museum, established in 1683. Located in the heart of Oxford, this museum offers free admission to its extensive collections spanning art and archaeology. Highlights include the lantern carried by Guy Fawkes during the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and the renowned Messiah Stradivarius violin. With 39 galleries to explore, the Ashmolean provides an enriching experience for art and history enthusiasts alike.

For a unique and immersive experience, visit The Pitt Rivers Museum, renowned for its anthropological and archaeological collections. Founded in 1884, the museum houses over 500,000 objects from diverse cultures worldwide. Unlike traditional museums, artifacts here are arranged thematically – by type rather than by region or era. Exhibits include everything from ritual masks and musical instruments to textiles and tools. Access is through the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, and entry is free.. 

Cogges Manor Farm

Spread across 17 acres, Cogges Manor Farm offers a truly unique experience for animal lovers. With regular events held throughout the year, they are a must-visit this summer holidays. Experience rural life as you wander through the farmyard, interact with the friendly farm animals, and take part in some of the traditional farm activities like feeding the sheep. Cogges Manor Farm always promises to be a fun thing to do in Oxford over the summer. 

Millets Farm Centre

Truly homegrown, Millets Farm has been with the Carter family since 1952 and they are very committed to their farming heritage. This fantastic farm offers families a wide range of activities from pick-your-own fruit and veg to fun-filled outdoor adventures like the maize maze, it’s definitely worth a visit this summer holidays. Parents and adults will even love their onsite shop which sells local produce and artisan products.

Boat Trips & Punting on the River Cherwell

When the weather is nice nothing beats a trip along the river. Bring a picnic and hire a punt (the flat-bottomed boats you push along with a pole), or simply enjoy a ride from Oxford to Abingdon and back with Salter’s Steamers, one of the oldest established passenger boats. Why not make the day extra fun and cycle one way and then relax and enjoy a cruise home? Alternatively, hire a kayak and go your own pace along the charming River Cherwell.

Here are some companies you can book with:

• Cherwell Boat House – punt hire
• Magdalen Bridge Boathouse – punt hire
• Salter’s Steamers – boat hire and passenger services
• Oxford River Cruises – passenger services
• Oxford  Kayak Tours

Oxford Wet n Wild

For an exhilarating and affordable summer activity, head to Oxford Wet n Wild, located at Queenford Lakes Watersports Centre. This outdoor aqua park features a giant inflatable obstacle course on the lake, offering 50-minute sessions filled with climbing, sliding, and splashing fun. Suitable for ages 6 and up (minimum height 1.2 meters), it’s a fantastic way to cool off and enjoy some active entertainment. Advance online booking is recommended, with prices starting at £20 per participant. Wetsuit hire is available for an additional fee. The park operates from 24th May to 14th September 2025, on weekends and during school holidays. 

Fun Trails at Waterperry Gardens

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and step into the enchanting Waterperry Gardens and explore the extensive gardens and peaceful surroundings. The gardens are an intriguing, exciting, and inspiring experience for all visitors, no matter their age. For children, there are plenty of trails to follow as well as an exciting open-air theatre where you can see all sorts of productions throughout the summer.

Blenheim Palace

If you’re looking for things to do in Oxford over the summer, then a trip to Blenheim Palace should always be on your list. This magnificent palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a range of events throughout the year. From art installations and live concerts to flower shows and children’s adventure play, there’s plenty on offer here for a truly immersive cultural experience.

What’s On in Oxford Over Summer

Here are some of the top events happening in Oxford this summer holidays:

Shakespeare Festival

Dates: 23rd June to 16th August
Immerse yourself in the timeless works of William Shakespeare at the annual Shakespeare Festival. From June through to August enjoy open-air performances of some of his best plays in the outdoor theatre at Oxford Castle & Prison. This year’s plays include Twelfth Night and Much Ado About Nothing, and The Merry Wives of Windsor. Previous years have included captivating renditions of classics like Hamlet and King Lear.

Oxford Foodies Festival

Dates: 23rd to 25th August

Indulge your taste buds with a three-day culinary extravaganza that features a wide array of food stalls, celebrity chef demonstrations, artisan producers, and interactive cooking classes. The Foodies Festival was launched in 2006 in Edinburgh and now has a total of 12 festivals around the country. 

Each festival celebrates the very best food from the region with local street food traders and local producers taking centre stage. They also have both MasterChef and MasterChef Professional winners and finalists on tour with them to offer some help, advice, and lessons. Discover a world of new flavours and sample some truly spectacular treats whilst enjoying live music by well-known artists. 

There’s so much to explore, do, and see throughout this annual event.

Accommodation in Oxford

From townhouses and flats to cottages with riverside views and quirky roof ornaments, our accommodations in Oxford allow you a home-from-home experience. Short Let Spaces offers a wide range of properties to suit your every need and budget and there’s still time to book your summer getaway. Get in touch with us today for an unforgettable Oxfordshire break.