I’m lucky enough to live Oxford, a really beautiful town. What a lot of visitors from North America might not realise is just how easily accessible the countryside is from most English towns. In Oxford, you can be in the countryside in just over a mile in most directions and there are lots of lovely towpaths and bike trails to explore.
In this section, you’ll find posts of my walks and bakerides around Oxford, as well as visits to other beautiful places. Enjoy.
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May Morning (Beltane), Oxford
The May Morning celebration in Oxford is one of the highlights of living here. For over 600 years, both “town and gown” have gathered on High Street to hear the chorus of Magdalen College sing in the official start of the “light half of the year” at 6am in the morning. May Day, or “Beltane” by its old Celtic name, is the counterbalance to the “dark half of the year” which starts on All Hallow’s Eve, “Samhain”, October 31st.
It’s quite traditional for students to stay out all night “gathering the May”, many clubs and restaurants are open all night and most other open to get some business from the thousands and thousands of people that gather to celebrate and welcome Springtime. Pubs are full and spilling into the streets and people are toasting the day, especially this year which is unbelievably warm. Morris dancer groups are everywhere, and no matter where you might look, there are people singing, dancing and having an amazing time.
Some photos from this morning (can’t believe that now I have to teach all day!)…
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Magdalen College, Oxford
Went for a quick walk around the grounds at Magdalen College, Oxford with my photography students this morning. Everything is coming to life, so great to have some sunshine.
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University Parks, Oxford
Out with the students again for a walk around Oxford. Today we decided to walk up to University Parks to see what is coming out for Spring.
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Oxford Botanic Garden, Early Winter
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Oxford, Early Winter
A few snapshots from my walk to work this morning.
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Cumnor, Early Winter
A walk around our village on a cold winter day.
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Bikeride to Thrupp
Went for a ride along the Oxford Canal to the little village of Thrupp.
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A Short Bikeride Around Cumnor Area
A beautiful spring day for a bikeride.
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Bath
Had a wonderful day in Bath. I think it’s probably the most beautiful town in England, but either way it is certainly my favourite. The Roman Spa is amazing to visit, it’s hard to believe that the structure and decorations are nearly 2000 years old, it’s dedicated to the goddess Sulis, Romanised as Sulis-Minerva. The town is full of shops, great restaurants and beautiful architecture, including quite a lot of Regency period buildings (think Jane Austin, who also lived here).
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Abingdon-on-Thames
Not far from Oxford is the ancient market town of Abingdon-on-Thames. Once one of the most powerful towns in the area and famous for its abbey, the town is a lovely mix of historical buildings from over a thousand years. My favourite spot is St Ethelwald’s House, which is a retreat centre with a delightful garden, all open to the public to visit.
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Scriptum, Oxford
Scriptum, located on Turl Street in Oxford, is a beloved independent shop specializing in fine stationery, Italian leather journals, calligraphy supplies, and unique gifts like Venetian masks. Established in 2003, it’s known for its old-world charm, curated selection, and friendly, knowledgeable staff-many of whom are artists or calligraphers. Scriptum offers personalised stationery, custom wedding invitations, and creative workshops. It’s one of my favourite shops in Oxford and always a favourite when guests visit.
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Bodleian Library, Oxford
The Bodleian Library, established in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley, is one of the oldest and most important libraries in Europe. It was built on earlier university collections dating back to the 14th century and quickly became central to academic life in Oxford. The library’s extensive holdings have grown to include millions of items, making it a vital resource for students and researchers. Renowned for its stunning architecture and historic collections, the Bodleian is a symbol of learning and culture, attracting visitors and scholars from across the globe. A highlight is the old section called Duke Humphrey’s Library which really does feel like something straight out of Hogwarts. Scenes in the original movie were filmed in the Bodleian.
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A Walk Around Oxford
Took some photos today as I was walking around town.
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Objects of Use, Oxford
Probably my favourite shop in Oxford. If you have Downton Abbey aesthetics in your soul and think that a hand made brush for cleaning your blinds, a clothe just for waxing your table, or handmade French laundry soap might be something that you could spend an hour or two exploring, this is the place for you.
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The Bear and Ragged Staff, Cumnor
A walk through our village to the local pub, The Bear and Ragged Staff. A wonderful way to spend some time near the warm open fire enjoying a pint or two whilst the cold winter blows outside.
