15 Free Things to Do in Oxford: Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re simply spending some time exploring Oxford – perhaps you’re a huge Potterhead like me – then you’re in luck. There are plenty of free things to do in Oxford and ways to visit this magnificent and historic city on a budget. 

Oxford is a beautiful English city, but it can be expensive. And, I mean very expensive – pricier than London expensive. Locals actually complain because housing is the same price as London, but there’s no London weighting to ease the cost!

But it’s also historic, beautiful, and fascinating, and the architecture is gorgeous. It’s one of my favourite places to visit in the UK, alongside Devon and Bath.

So, whether you are looking to soak up some history, explore fascinating museums, or just want to relax in a beautiful park and try some traditional English food, Oxford has it all.

Here are the 15 incredible places to visit in Oxford for free. They’ll give you a taste of everything the city has to offer without breaking the bank. Enjoy!

1. The Ashmolean Museum

One of the best free museums in Oxford, the Ashmolean is home to one of the world’s finest collections of art and archaeology.

With collections spanning almost two thousand years. Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum is the world’s first university museum, Britain’s first-ever museum, and one of the best things to do in Oxford for free.

The museum is housed in a beautiful classical building inspired by Greek architecture that was first erected in 1678–1683.

The main attraction features a huge collection of art and archaeological items from the Greek period to the Ancient Egyptian era and all across Asia too. Everything is categorized by country.

You can literally walk through global history, marvel at stunning Chinese artefacts, explore exotic relics from India, and then explore Ancient Rome and the antiques discovered at Pompeii.

The museum is bright and airy, making it a perfect destination for an hour or two of free sightseeing. Admission to Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum costs nothing.

This makes this one of the top things to do in Oxford on a budget.

2. Visit the Pitt Rivers Museum

Another of Oxford’s free museums, the Pitt Rivers Museum is home to Oxford’s world-famous collection of archaeological and anthropological items.

The museum has a huge variety of artefacts from the culture around the world as well as displays of ancient human evolution and a rather curious collection of shrunken heads.

If you’re looking for one of the best free things to do in Oxford, then this should be pretty high on that list! It’s one of those things that you think should cost money but doesn’t.

The Pitt Rivers Museum was founded by General Augustus Henry Lane Fox Pitt Rivers. He was a renowned archaeologist who donated his collections to create an educational resource for generations ahead.

In 2011 he became only the sixth person to have a portrait hung in the National Portrait Gallery.

The museum is relatively small and easy to explore, making it perfect if you’re new to Oxford or want an alternative break from sightseeing.

Located to the east of the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, you actually have to go through that museum to access it. But they’re both free to enter, so this just gives you a little more to explore! 

The Pitt Rivers will leave your brain buzzing with knowledge for days! Admission costs nothing, so why not indulge?

3. Explore Radcliffe Square

Arguably one of Oxford’s most famous sights, Radcliffe Square is home to the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Libraries.

This will give you a true taste of its historic past. But be aware this area can get pretty busy and there are often tourists taking photos all day long!

The Square was named after an original benefactor of the University: John Radcliffe. The university library stands on the site where he once lived as Chancellor.

In addition to being home to some of Oxford’s most famous buildings including Christ Church College, Corpus Christi College, and All Souls College.

It also serves as a meeting point for people from around the world who want their picture taken by our iconic landmark building. It’s easy to see why Radcliffe Square is one of the top free things to do in Oxford.

4. Walk through the Bodleian Library Grounds

It’s free to explore the grounds, see the exhibitions, and walk through the famous exterior facade of the impressive Bodleian Libraries. One of Oxford’s most historic buildings, they house a priceless collection of rare books and manuscripts including Leonardo da Vinci’s notebook.

If you need some inspiration, then this is one of those places where knowledge comes alive at your touch. Just be warned that it can get very busy on weekends.

If you have £2.50 to spare, then you can pay to enter the neighbouring Divinity School. It’s located on the grounds near the libraries.

For Harry Potter fans, this was where Harry recovered after his first run-in with Voldemort in the Philospoher’s Stone as well as the hall where McGonegal taught the students to dance in the Goblet of Fire.

5. Walk Under the Bridge of Sighs

Located right next to the Library grounds, the Bridge of Sighs is Oxford’s famous stone bridge. It is most commonly seen in movies – and should not be confused with the one in Venice or the one in Cambridge!

The Bridge of Sighs was constructed by Thomas Nevile, Master of Trinity College, to link two colleges. You can’t go inside it even if you want to because it’s reserved for students and university staff. However, you can walk under it and admire the architecture.

6. Visit The Museum of History and Science

For those interested in both the past and developing the future, the Museum of History and Science will provide hours of free entertainment.

Unlike many museums in Oxford, this one is very hands-on with lots to explore. From interactive exhibitions on natural sciences to those about history, there’s something for everyone!

The museum has a huge variety of exhibits which allows you to enjoy your visit even if it rains outside. Home to over 20,000 items, this museum is open from noon to 5pm, every day except Mondays.

7. Explore the Modern Art Oxford

For fans of art, this is one of the best free things to do in Oxford. The Modern Art Oxford gallery houses a collection of post-war and contemporary art. It includes paintings by well-known artists such as Picasso.

Located at 30 Pembroke Street, you’ll find it hard not to be impressed with this elegant building housing the museum’s permanent display.

You can find the occasional live performance here, as well as a cafe and shop. Exhibits change often, make sure to visit the website before you go and check what is currently on display.

8. Walk Around Christ Church Meadow

For fans of exploring the outdoors, there are some beautiful walks to be had around Christ Church Meadow. With a variety of trees and wildlife, this is one of Oxford’s most scenic areas.

This makes it perfect for those looking for free things to do in Oxfordshire which offer peace and tranquillity.

A popular place with tourists, the meadow offers plenty of photo opportunities whether you’re looking at animals or watching students playing sports on its lush green grass.

This area also provides easy access to Corpus Christi College – home to The Cloisters; an amazing medieval space that can’t fail but impress even the most ardent visitor.

9. Discover the Covered Market

One of the best things to do in Oxford, the Covered Market is alive with the hustle and bustle. The only remaining Covered Market in Britain, it is a wonderful place to go for some free things to do in Oxfordshire that offer culture.

This market was first constructed by architect James Gibbs in 1774 – since then there have been many modifications made; from roofing changes due to fire damage to being bombed twice during WWII (once on each side).

Today, you can find anything you need: food stalls selling fish & chips or locally-produced sausages are just a few examples, among dozens of others including fresh produce, clothes, handicrafts, and more.

Of course, it’s free if you’re window shopping. But if any of the trinkets in the windows or food items tempt you, you may end up spending a few pounds!

10. Sample Free Fudge at the Fudge Kitchen

If you’re a bit of a sweet tooth, the Fudge Kitchen is an absolute must. This small store on 5 Broad Street has been producing handmade treats for 35 years. As well as fudge, they serve up truffles, chocolates, and all sorts of other goodies too! 

The staff are very friendly – so don’t be afraid to ask them what they recommend. There’s nothing quite like enjoying some tasty local produce while taking a break from sightseeing. But once again, you may end up spending money on their delicious treats!

11. Tour the City Streets

Footprint Tours Oxford offers a range of free walking tours, giving a comprehensive overview of the best free things to do in Oxford.

Whether you’re looking for something family-friendly or more aimed at adults, there are options available that cover everything from history and architecture. For those who are new to Oxford, this can be especially helpful as it will give insight into what makes the city so unique!

The tour takes about two hours and it usually finishes close to where it started. It provides a great introduction to all aspects of life in Oxford; not just sightseeing spots but also culture and natural beauty!

If you’ve got time on your hands and want to learn more about the city, this is a great free thing to do in Oxford.

12. Be Amazed by the Shark Attack House

A rather curious sight in Oxford, if you make your way to Headington, you’ll find this 25-foot long 400-pound shark that has taken a nose dive into someone’s house. Literally.

For 28 years, the house at Number 2 New High Street has been home to the infamous headless shark sculpture. For its creator and Oxford College graduate, Bill Heine, The Shark Attack House is a work of art that comments on how we live with danger and risk in our lives.

It is an expression of discontent, anger and desperation erected exactly 41 years after the dropping of the atomic bomb on Nagasaki.

This free thing to do in Oxfordshire has been one of its most unusual tourist attractions since 1988. So if you are looking for something different and quirky then be sure to visit while you’re here. It’s around a 50-minute walk from the city centre.

There are plenty of buses that can take you there, as well.

13. Wander the Thames River Walk

No, I’m not getting confused with London. Going for a walk along the River Thames is one of the top free attractions in Oxford.

Oxford’s green, leafy banks of the Thames River are a sight to behold. Packed with flowers and trees on both sides it is an enchanting walk that you can take for free.

The Oxford University Boat Club regularly uses the river as their training ground, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

You’ll find all sorts of boats out here including some pretty impressive rowing eights in full uniform as they go about their routine practice sessions before events or competitions.

A great place for families and dogs, this stroll offers something peaceful and calm in a city full of life and excitement.

14. Visit the Free Colleges

Yup, you read that right! Although they’re certainly not the most popular colleges to visit in Oxford, there are plenty that you can visit without paying a penny.

The first one to mention is All Souls College. This is Oxford’s oldest college and was founded way back in 1438. A fantastic free Oxford attraction, it’s the grandest free college to walk around, so definitely worth a visit. There’s also:

• Exeter College,
• Keble College,
• Corpus Christ College,
• St Catherine’s College,
• Mansfield College,
• Wadham College,
• St John’s College,
• Kellogg College,
• Lady Margaret Hall, and more.

Although they’re not as well-known as Christ Church College, for example, you’ll find some beautiful architecture that is well worth the visit.

15. Visit the University Church of St Mary the Virgin

Last but not least, one of the best free things to do in Oxford is exploring St Mary’s Church. Dating back to 1385, it has a rich history and atmosphere that you’ll be sure to enjoy.

The church is a fantastic way for visitors to get a feel for what life was like when they built this church all those years ago.

Be sure to check out the stained glass windows which were made around 1465 by John Rayne (a man who studied with William Morris). He also designed many other churches including one in nearby Mildenhall.

Entrance into the church itself is free. But if you have a few pounds spare, you can also climb to the top of the tower, for spectacular skyline views over the city.

Final Thoughts on The Best Free Things to Do in Oxford

I love Oxford. In a similar way to how I feel about Cambridge, I love that there are so many wonderful free things to do in the city.

The paid attractions are also well worth it, and Oxford is a wonderful city to spend a weekend or take a day trip to.

All in all, if you’re looking for budget tips for your next trip to Oxford, I hope you found plenty of inspiration.

👉 Planning a trip to Oxford? Check out the perfect day trip itinerary for the city.