Oxford has stirred the imagination of some of the most celebrated literary geniuses in history and so, unsurprisingly, there are some great spots to get immersed in a book. 

Whether you’re wanting a quiet spot to read, drink in hand, or somewhere hidden away in the city where you won’t be asked to move after an hour or ten, this city has it all. 

You may already know some of these spots quite well. 

1) On Broad Street

If you’ve just bought yourself a new read from Blackwell’s and can’t wait to get started, you don’t need to.

There are some lovely places to perch on Broad Street, whether that's inside a cafe, the steps of Weston Library, or a bench.  

2) Christchurch Meadow

If the weather is good, then Christchurch Meadow is the perfect spot to set up camp with your literature of choice.

With plenty of open space, you can be confident you will find a tranquil spot to relax if you bring something to sit on. Just be mindful of the cows, and what they leave behind.

3) The Steps of the Ashmolean

A popular haunt of students and city dwellers alike in the summer is the steps of the Ashmolean on Beaumont Street.

As Britain's first public museum, the Museum of Art and Archaeology is the perfect place to get lost in some history - fictitious or real.

4) Magdalen College

It is said that the ghost of Oscar Wilde haunts the halls of Magdalen College, and whether or not you believe in that sort of thing it certainly is an atmospheric spot to delve into a ghost story, farcical comedy, or required reading if you’re a student.

Open throughout the year between 10 am to dusk (or 7 pm), with a few closures dates listed on the college website, this is certainly a spot for an all-day read as there is an entrance fee.

5) One of Oxford’s many independent cafes

If your reading coincides with a lunch break, or you simply want a cosy setting with a hot beverage, then you’re spoiled for choice in Oxford. Everywhere you turn there’s a unique café to capture your imagination.

Just one example is The Handle Bar on St Michael’s Street, a quirky brunch spot owned by Florence Pugh's dad which is particularly popular with cyclists.

6) A literary pub

There are a few famous pubs that might fit the bill for those bookworms who want something a bit stronger than tea. Despite the sad fact that the Eagle and Child on St Giles may be closed for another two years, the boozer known for its connections to some of Oxford’s most famous writers, there are other options.

If you can find it, Turf Tavern is a regular spot for the cast of Harry Potter whilst filming in nearby Christ Church College. The 12th century built tavern is hidden on Holywell Street.

A further candidate on the same road is The Kings Arms which featured in the TV series Inspector Morse, based on the series of novels by Colin Dexter who lived in the city from 1966 until he died in 2017.

Where do you like to sit and read in Oxford? Let us know in the comments.

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