Living in Oxford
Oxford is a beautiful and vibrant city with lots to see and do. With over 40,000 students from two universities, it is a young city with a third of the population aged 18-29.
Students at Gloucester Green Market. Copyright © Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO
Oxford is a compact and highly walkable city, making it easy to explore on foot, by bike or via an extensive bus network. Despite its small size, it is exceptionally well connected, with London and other major cities within easy reach by train or coach - ideal for day trips or weekends away.
The city centre is characterised by our historic colleges, which sit side by side at the heart of Oxford life. Wherever your friends are based, you’ll find that most colleges, libraries and social spaces are just a short walk or cycle away, creating a close-knit and vibrant community.
Green space is woven throughout the city. From the well-kept lawns of college grounds to well-loved open spaces such as the University Parks there are plenty of places to relax, exercise or meet friends. Whether it’s a picnic by the river, a run at sunrise or simply enjoying the changing seasons, Oxford offers a balance of city life and nature.
Beyond its historic setting, Oxford has a lively cultural and social scene. You’ll find independent cafés, restaurants and numerous pubs alongside theatres, museums and live music venues. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to study, a lively night out, or something in between, there is always something happening.
Oxford’s unique combination of tradition, community and opportunity makes it an inspiring place to live - both during your studies here and even beyond.
Safe, green and fun
Importantly, Oxford is also well known as a safe city. The Complete University Guide ranks Oxford in its top twenty safest student cities.
If you are looking for green spaces, you are spoilt for choice, from the vast expanses of Port Meadow and Shotover Hill to University Parks, Christ Church Meadow and South Park (home to many festivals), as well as miles of tranquil waterside walks and many other peaceful corners.
If it's entertainment you're after, then Oxford offers everything from student club nights to stand-up comedy. The city also hosts classical concerts, plays and musicals including at the Schwarzman Centre. There are plenty of theatre spaces, some within colleges themselves, as well as cinemas and an abundance of live-music venues.
The independent Daily Info newsletter lists everything going on in the city and is a great way to find things to do.
Where are the colleges?
Take a look at the University map to see that the colleges make up much of Oxford’s city centre. There is no central University campus.
A few colleges are slightly further from the centre. Typically, they feel spacious and have large gardens, sometimes running alongside the river. All are within easy distance of the main University buildings, such as the Bodleian Libraries. They may also be conveniently near privately rented student accommodation.
Your home in Oxford
All first year undergraduate students are guaranteed accommodation in their college, and many continue to live in college accommodation for the whole of their degree.
Links beyond the city
Oxford has excellent transport links. The city is just over 50 miles (92km) from London and has great train and coach networks which connect you to international airports at Birmingham, Heathrow and Gatwick.
Situated in central England, Oxford's position makes it perfect for visiting other parts of the UK. You can be in central London or Birmingham within an hour, get to the south coast in two, or travel cross-country to other destinations such as Manchester, Edinburgh or Bristol.
Read more about travelling between Oxford and other cities and countries.
