Things to do this Christmas in Oxford and across Oxfordshire
With its storied history, world-renowned academia, and stunning architecture, Oxford shines year-round—but as Christmas approaches, the City of Dreaming Spires and the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside become truly magical.
The cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and iconic spires of Oxford light up with festive cheer, while towns and villages across the Oxfordshire countryside add their own charm to the season, creating an enchanting atmosphere that draws locals and visitors alike into the holiday spirit.
From vibrant Christmas markets and historic landmarks to warm village pubs and country houses hosting seasonal events, Oxfordshire’s festive season offers something for everyone. Whether you’re immersing yourself in Oxford’s holiday lights or taking a winter stroll through the rolling countryside, the region is transformed into a holiday wonderland, perfect for creating treasured memories.
This guide to things to do this Christmas in Oxford and across Oxfordshire will lead you to the best ways to enjoy the festivities, from family-friendly fun and special seasonal events to cosy pubs and elegant tours. So bundle up, take in the unique charm of Oxford and the countryside, and embrace the magic of Christmas in this beautiful part of England.
01
Find your perfect Christmas tree
It’s that time of year to find the perfect Christmas tree for your home. Oxfordshire offers wonderful options, whether you’re after a classic Norway Spruce, a no-needle-drop Nordmann Fir, or a tree you can replant after the holidays. Visit the Tree Barn at Christmas Common for its award-winning selection, or enjoy the more rustic, family-run atmosphere at Highfield Trees in Marsh Baldon, where trees are grown and cut on-site.
Our pick of where to buy fresh-cut Christmas trees in Oxfordshire
If you want to pick a live Christmas tree or buy a freshly-cut one, here are the tree barns and gardens to get mostly locally-grown fresh-cut Christmas trees in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.
02
Visit a Christmas market
Nothing says Christmas quite like a bustling market filled with handmade gifts, festive treats, and the smell of mulled wine. Step back in time at the Oxford Victorian Christmas Market, a beloved annual event where Broad Street is transformed into a bustling Victorian scene or explore Oxford’s annual Christmas Market on Broad Street, featuring handcrafted goods, delicious pastries, and festive performances. The historic Covered Market and the Botanic Garden also offer unique shopping experiences filled with seasonal cheer.
03
Attend Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival
Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival is an annual celebration that transforms the city into a festive wonderland with dazzling light displays, music, and family-friendly activities. As streets and historic buildings glow with lights, this festival marks the start of the holiday season with a stunning display of creativity, community, and culture. With light installations, music, dance, and family-friendly activities throughout the city, the festival captures the spirit of Christmas in Oxford’s iconic, historic setting.
Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival
This full three day weekend includes light and sound installations, a festive market, music, dance and lots of free activities in venues across the city, and more recently to light trails and events in residential areas of the city.
04
Attend a Carol concert
An evening of proper Christmas carols remains a cherished holiday tradition if you’re interested in getting wrapped up in unalloyed festive cheer. And we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Christmas Carol events in Oxford, with venues like Christ Church Cathedral and Magdalen College Chapel hosting multiple enchanting carol services, where visitors can enjoy classics such as O Come, All Ye Faithful and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, sung by world-renowned choirs.
05
Spend the day at Blenheim Palace
A short drive from Oxford, Blenheim Palace hosts a grand selection of festive events. Wander through the palace’s holiday market or follow the dazzling light trail, with over a million lights, winds through the grounds. Inside, rooms are transformed to offer a swashbuckling adventure in Neverland, a place bursting with magic and make-believe, making this a beautiful, immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
Christmas at Blenheim Palace
There’s always a festive treat at Blenheim Palace. Discover a new after-dark illuminated light trail and new exquisitely themed State Rooms at Blenheim Palace, and the Christmas Market in the Great Court.
06
Enjoy an evening of seasonal music
Whether it’s an enchanting choral masterpiece or a feast of traditional medieval carols paired with modern holiday classics, Oxford offers an array of festive music for every taste. Experience the rich harmonies and soaring vocals of renowned choirs and orchestras performing in historic venues as ancient melodies blend seamlessly with beloved seasonal songs. Sit back, relax, and indulge in an unforgettable musical experience.
07
Go see a pantomime or Christmas show
Christmas is a season for family fun, and Oxford has plenty of family-friendly events to enjoy together, including pantomimes. Oh yes, the very British tradition with larger-than-life characters, plenty of laughs, a villain everyone hates, a comical dame and young love. Oxford Playhouse is bringing the classic story of Cinderella to life, and you can go on a giant adventure with Jack and the Beanstalk at The Theatre Chipping Norton, amongst others.
Pantomimes and Christmas Shows in Oxfordshire
Our definitive list of must-see Pantomimes and family-friendly Christmas shows in Oxfordshire.
08
Indulge in a weekend getaway
Escape to the Oxfordshire countryside for an indulgent weekend with good food, cosy accommodations, and quintessential village charm. From rustic inns to stylish pubs, Oxfordshire boasts an array of inviting spots where you can savour delicious local fare, sip on a pint by the fire, and unwind in beautifully appointed rooms. Here’s a handpicked selection of the best village pubs with rooms perfect for an indulgent getaway where you can truly eat, drink, and sleep in comfort and style.
Best village pubs with rooms in Oxfordshire
Eat, drink, sleep, repeat! We’ve picked out some of our favourite village pubs and inns around Oxfordshire where you can treat yourself to an indulgent weekend.
09
Have a Michelin-rated gastronomic experience
Embark on a culinary journey through Oxfordshire and discover the exquisite dining options recognised by the Michelin Guide, including the prestigious Michelin-starred establishments like Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons in Great Milton and The Nut Tree Inn in Murcott. With over a dozen Michelin-plate restaurants gracing the region, Oxfordshire promises a vibrant food scene that celebrates local flavours and exceptional craftsmanship.
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10
Enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea
Indulge in the delightful tradition of afternoon tea right in the heart of Oxford, where some of the city’s finest venues beckon. The Drawing Room at the Randolph Hotel, The Ivy Oxford Brasserie, Quod Restaurant & Bar, Parsonage Grill, and Ashmolean Cafe & Rooftop Restaurant offer a delicious array of scones with clotted cream, delicate sandwiches, and beautifully presented pastries, all complemented by freshly brewed tea or a sparkling glass of champagne.
For those looking to escape the city and enjoy a more tranquil setting, the Oxfordshire countryside boasts exquisite country house venues perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Picture yourself in a grand home, savouring scrumptious treats in picturesque surroundings. Our top picks for Country House Afternoon Teas, just a short drive from Oxford, provide an elegant experience that embodies this quintessentially British tradition.
9 indulgent Country House Afternoon Teas near Oxford
Treat yourself and your loved ones to an indulgent afternoon tea in the picturesque surrounds of a Country House within stricking distance of Oxford.
11
Visit a farmers’ market
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit by attending a local farmers’ market, where you can stock up on fresh vegetables, indulge in a few delicious mince pies, and warm up with a glass of mulled wine. With a vibrant atmosphere filled with seasonal goodies, there’s plenty to see and do. Explore the various farmers’ markets in Oxford and across Oxfordshire for a delightful shopping experience that supports local producers and brings holiday cheer to your table.
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12
Have a drink or two or more!
Whether you’re planning an intimate evening with a partner, enjoying after-work drinks with colleagues, or gearing up for a lively night out with friends, there’s a cocktail bar (and nightclub!) for every occasion. From cosy spots that offer seasonal concoctions to lively venues perfect for celebrating the holiday spirit, discover the best bars in Oxford to toast the festive season.
An insider’s guide to the best cocktail bars in Oxford
Whether it’s an intimate affair with a partner, after-work drinks with co-workers, or a big night out with friends, here are the best cocktail bars in Oxford.
13
See Miss Saigon at New Theatre Oxford
Miss Saigon is the epic and emotionally charged musical that tells the story of love and loss amid the chaos of the Vietnam War. Inspired by Puccini’s Madame Butterfly, it follows the doomed romance between Kim, a young Vietnamese woman, and Chris, an American GI, as they are torn apart by war, duty, and fate.
Known for its sweeping score, unforgettable songs, and spectacular staging -including the iconic helicopter scene – Miss Saigon is a powerful theatrical experience that explores love, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of history. Embarking on a major UK Tour, this epic production arrives at New Theatre Oxford in December 2025.
14
Take a guided tour of the city
This festive season, consider embarking on a walking tour of one of the world’s oldest universities, visiting colleges such as Trinity, All Souls, Hertford, and Merton with a university alumni guide. Otherwise, hop on the City Sightseeing Oxford Bus Tour to explore iconic landmarks around the city – the open-top bus takes you to 20 different stops around the city and is a great way to see the city’s decorations, holiday lights, and heritage sites from a different perspective.
An insider’s guide to walking tours in Oxford
Walking tours of Oxford are an excellent way to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture, and here’s your insider’s guide.
15
Uncover captivating tales of Christmases past
At the Harcourt Arboretum, a 15-minute drive from Oxford, discover the festive tree traditions from around the world with The Twelve Trees of Christmas Trail around the 150-acre Arboretum. Or, for a touch of mystery and history, take a lantern-led tour of Oxford Castle and Prison. The candle-lit tour guides you through the medieval towers, crypts, and prison cells.
The post 15 things to do this Christmas in Oxford and across Oxfordshire appeared first on The Oxford Magazine.
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