you must visit the Randolph; you'll relax in cozy, mismatched armchairs in the shabby-chic sitting room as waiters bring tiered tea trays bearing an impressive selection of sandwiches, pastries, and, of course, scones with cream and jam.
The nightlife in Oxford varies from traditional pubs to thumping clubs, so you have endless options if you'd like to grab a nightcap. For a charming, unique Oxford experience, visit the Turf Tavern, one of the oldest pubs in the city. The tavern boasts several outdoor patios, and is hidden behind the walls of the city; you have to know which alleyway to take from which side street to get to it, but the search is worth it (email me if you'd like more details!). For a bit of history along with your pint, visit the Eagle and Child (known to locals as the Bird and Baby). This pub was a favorite of local literary greats J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, as they and other authors would meet to share drinks and ideas. For a livelier experience, the Grand Caf is small enough to feel intimate, but its high ceilings and mirrored walls keep it from ever feeling crowded. This is the place to order a fancy drink with the fun and hip locals.
If you're craving something sweet at the end of your evening, George and Danvers caf is open till midnight, and boasts some of the best ice cream I've ever had. Try the "Smelly Bee" which is a delightful lavender honey flavor, or the refreshing green tea ice cream. They also serve pastries and coffee for those chilly evenings.
History and culture:
Once you're rested and fed, you'll want to experience some of this city's amazing history. Start with "The Oxford Story" on Broad Street; after purchasing your ticket, you'll be ushered to a ride that looks like something out of a children's amusement park, and strapped into a replica of an old student's desk. A set of headphones regales you with history and entertaining stories about the history of the town and the university. While the ride is slow-moving and a little bit cheesy, it is definitely entertaining and absolutely informative.
The center of any university is its library, and you'll definitely want to take a tour of the Bodleian with its impressive collection that extends miles into the city in underground tunnels, and covers thousands of years of learning.
The city also boasts several museums, including the Oxford Museum and the Museum of the History of Science, and the Ashmolean Museum, all of which are located in the center of the city. However, my favorite
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