WE all know that our city ranks high on many overseas visitors’ lists of top UK destinations – and it’s not hard to see why.

With historic ivy-clad colleges, stunning churches and chapels, beautiful parks and world-class museums, Oxford is a tourist’s dream.

But how well do you know your own city? We may have expert knowledge on Paris, Barcelona or Prague, yet many of us have yet to explore the best colleges and historic buildings here at home.

But with the city reopening after a year-and-a-half of lockdowns and restrictions, this is the perfect time to get out there.

To celebrate the launch of the Oxford Mail and The Oxford Times Rediscover Oxford campaign, with Oxford City Council, Oxford Bus Company is inviting Oxfordshire residents to re-connect with the city with a special 2for1 voucher - printed in this week's Oxford Times - on its City Sightseeing Oxford buses.

City Sightseeing Oxford, which is owned by Oxford Bus Company, is offering readers the chance to enjoy its open-top bus tours or a visit to Carfax Tower with a friend, family member or partner for a bargain price.

The tour takes passengers on a leisurely circuit of the city centre, with landmarks pointed out and amusing and informative commentary filling in details of the city’s long – and hair-raising – history.

It takes in such famous sites as Oxford Castle, Christ Church, Magdalen Bridge, Sheldonian Theatre and the Ashmolean Museum.

Carfax Tower is an excellent vantage point and provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Company MD, said: “We’re proud to again take part in the important Rediscover Oxford campaign.

“The visitor economy is crucial to the overall good of the city and its ability to bounce back. So, it is important key stakeholders work together and give back to the community. We hope lots of people take advantage of the offer and enjoy rediscovering the city.”

The Editor of the Oxford Mail Pete Gavan said: “The Oxford Mail and The Oxford Times are committed to this great campaign to get people back into our beautiful city centre.

“This offer is just one way we can explore our home city while having some much-needed quality time together. It also helps us learn aspects of Oxford’s history which may have escaped us as we rush to and from work or to the shops.”

“There is so much to see in Oxford – why should the tourists have all the fun?”

Oxford Bus Company is continuing to maintain an enhanced cleaning and hygiene regime across its fleet.

Readers who cut out the free 2for1 voucher in this week's Oxford Times (in shops up to and including Wednesday) can make use of the deal on Mondays to Fridays between June 17 and July 16.

When one person purchases a ticket for City Sightseeing Oxford or Carfax Tower, an accompanying adult or child will qualify for a free pass.

Please check the voucher for the full terms and conditions.