| Southern England | |
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Beauty and the beach Rich in history and culture, Southern England is a fascinating corner of the UK. Justine Vaisutis visits four of the most diverse cities and discovers an area of magnificent contrasts |
| Oxford | |
Beyond its famous colleges, Oxford
offers visitors a healthy mix of the
modern and ancientOnly an hour or so west of London by public transport, Oxford sees traditional England cosying up to modern infrastructure and thriving industries. Navigating picturesque streets is a mixture of students, tourists and locals, all of whom enjoy the diversity of 13th century pubs, contemporary museums, chic bars and a melting pot of style to suit everyone. Days out The University of Oxford’s 39 colleges provide miles of jawdropping scenery, but beneath their gargoyled roofs lies a dynamic and buzzing town. ‘Punting’ – pushing yourself down the River Cherwell on a flatbed boat – is the best fun you can have on no wheels. Alternatively, take in a bird’s eye view from the medieval Carfax Tower, scavenge for a bargain at the Covered Market, or spend a lazy afternoon exploring the banks of the River Thames or watching cricket in the University’s parks. Eating out Oxford boasts diverse eateries which please discerning crowds with their fine fare. Diminutive cafes such as Beat Café and Felson’s lead a long list,whilst excellent sandwich shops and pubs like the Gloucester Arms and Chequers dish up tasty food on the cheap. You can also tempt your taste buds with everything from Jamaican (HiLo) to Japanese (Rice Box) or stock your own pantry with fresh and cheap goodies from the Gloucester Green Market. Nights out Whether you fancy a quiet pint in centuries-old surroundings at The Bear or The Turf, or a frenzied social session at the Lamb and Flag, Oxford has an inexhaustible legion of pubs.The bar and clubbing scene is similarly diverse.Try the sophisticated Kiss Bar or The Cellar, before sweating it out at Park End or the alternative Zodiac. And a night of jazz is always up for grabs at ultra-cool Freud’s. Cultural life Oxford’s Museum of Modern Art is regarded as one of England’s finest contemporary art galleries, and the city’s history is detailed at the Museum of Oxford. Classic theatre holds court at the Old Fire Station, while smaller venues such as the Burton Taylor Theatre and the Pegasus Theatre showcase independent acts.The legendary Phoenix Picture House and Ultimate Picture Palace screen indie and art house flicks daily. |
