he latest edition of the best-selling Lonely Planet Guide to Great Britain describes Oxford as "bookish, conservative, closeted and elite".

The guide says the city is "a privileged place, highly aware of its international standing as one of the world's most famous university towns", but insists it is "remarkably restrained for a city driven by its students".

The book describes Oxfordshire as "a well-bred, well-preened place with plenty of rustic charm". The new edition costs £16.99.