Tag: London

8 Amazing Places to See in Oxford, England (2026 Guide)

Paola TamboLeave a comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a booking through them.

Visiting Oxford, England feels like stepping into a living tapestry of history, literature, and knowledge. With its breathtaking architecture, majestic college buildings, ancient libraries, and ivy-clad stone walls, the city exudes a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere shaped by centuries of academic tradition and student life.

Whether you’re visiting for a day trip from London or planning a longer stay, Oxford offers a magical blend of culture, beauty, and intellectual charm. In this guide, I’m sharing 8 amazing places you must see in Oxford, along with how to get there, where to stay, and how to plan your trip easily.

Compare cheap flights to Oxford & London airports here

1. The Covered Market

The Covered Market is one of Oxford’s most charming hidden gems. Dating back to the 1770s, this historic indoor market is filled with independent shops, florists, bakeries, boutique clothing stores, and local food stalls.

The scent of fresh pastries and coffee fills the air, and it’s the perfect place to grab lunch, pick up unique souvenirs, or escape the rain while exploring the city center.

Don’t miss: Ben’s Cookies, local craft shops, and the historic cake counters.

2. Turl Street

Turl Street is one of Oxford’s most picturesque historic lanes. Lined with beautiful college buildings such as Exeter College, Lincoln College, and Jesus College, it feels wonderfully timeless.

This narrow cobbled street offers a quieter escape from the busy main roads while still placing you right in the academic heart of Oxford. Cozy cafés and centuries-old facades make it an ideal photography spot.

Browse Oxford tours and experiences here

3. St. Mary’s Passage (Narnia Connection)

This narrow, enchanting walkway between the University Church of St Mary the Virgin and the Radcliffe Camera is often overlooked, yet it’s one of Oxford’s most magical corners!

St. Mary’s Passage is famously linked to C.S. Lewis and The Chronicles of Narnia. A carved lion’s head, stone fauns, and a nearby lamppost are all believed to have inspired elements of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Victorian lamp post which is said to have inspired C.S. Lewis in his book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

To book a self-guided audio tour about Oxford’s literary legends and landmarks, click here

4. Radcliffe Square

Radcliffe Square is one of the most iconic locations in Oxford. Surrounded by architectural masterpieces, including the Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, and the University Church, this area feels like the living heart of the university.

Every angle offers postcard-worthy views, making it one of the best places in Oxford for photography.

The Radcliffe Camera, locate at the center of Radcliffe Square

5. The Bridge of Sighs (Hertford Bridge)

Oxford’s Bridge of Sighs connects two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. Built in 1914 and inspired by Venice, it is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks!

It adds a romantic, fairy-tale feel to the historic streets and is especially beautiful in early morning light.

6. New College

Founded in 1379, New College is one of Oxford’s most impressive and peaceful colleges. Behind its high stone walls you’ll find:

  • Medieval cloisters
  • A magnificent chapel
  • One of Oxford’s oldest gardens
  • Sections of the original city wall

New College is also a Harry Potter filming location, making it especially popular with fans.

To book a private tour of the college, click here

7. Christ Church College

Christ Church is one of Oxford’s most famous colleges and a highlight of any visit. Founded in 1546, it features:

  • Christ Church Cathedral
  • The iconic Tom Tower
  • Grand meadows and river walks
  • The legendary dining hall that inspired Hogwarts

This college alone can easily fill several hours of exploration.

Book a guided Christ Church & Oxford University tour here

8. St. Edmund Hall

Known affectionately as “Teddy Hall,” St. Edmund Hall dates back to the 13th century and is one of Oxford’s oldest academic institutions.

Smaller and quieter than many colleges, it offers a wonderfully intimate atmosphere, beautiful medieval architecture, and a peaceful garden perfect for slowing down and soaking in Oxford’s academic soul.

How to Get to Oxford, England

Oxford is extremely easy to reach from anywhere in the UK.

By Train

Direct trains run frequently from London Paddington and Marylebone. Journey time is around 1 hour. I usually book my tickets with Trainline.

By Bus

The Oxford Tube and National Express offer frequent, budget-friendly connections from London and Heathrow Airport.

By Car

Oxford is about 1.5 hours from London via the M40. Park-and-ride services are highly recommended.

You can compare car rentals here (click on the “car rental” option)

Where to Stay in Oxford, England

Oxford offers accommodation for every style and budget.

Extra Travel Tips for Oxford

  • Best time to visit: April–June & September (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
  • Wear comfortable shoes – Oxford is best explored on foot
  • Book popular colleges and tours in advance
  • Consider travel insurance for UK trips

Oxford is a city that rewards slow exploration, every alleyway, courtyard, and college seems to hide another story waiting to be discovered.

Are you planning a trip to Oxford? Let me know in the comments which place you’re most excited to see!

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4 Wonderful Things to Do in Lacock Village, England (2026 Guide)

Paola TamboLeave a comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of my links, at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support my website and allow me to continue creating free travel guides and resources.

Lacock is one of the most beautifully preserved villages in England and a true hidden gem in Wiltshire. From medieval streets and historic abbey ruins to famous film locations and cozy tearooms, Lacock feels like stepping into another century. It is no surprise that this village has been used as a filming location for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, and many more productions.

Whether you are planning a day trip from Bath, Bristol, or London, or staying overnight in the Cotswolds area, Lacock is a wonderful place to slow down and explore!

  • The cottages of Lacock Village

1. Visit Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum

One of the most important places to visit in Lacock is Lacock Abbey. Founded in 1232 by Ela, Countess of Salisbury, the abbey began as a nunnery and was later transformed into a country house. Today, it is managed by the National Trust and is open to visitors.

Lacock Abbey is also famous as the former home of William Henry Fox Talbot, the inventor of the photographic negative. The Fox Talbot Museum, located on site, tells the story of early photography and displays some of the oldest surviving photographs in the world.

Inside the abbey, you can explore medieval cloisters, Gothic and Tudor rooms, grand Victorian interiors, and the very space where the first photographic negative was created.

  • The dining room at Lacock Abbey

There is no need to book tickets in advance, tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit from visitor reception. You can find more information on the Abbey’s opening days and times here

Discover the Harry Potter Filming Locations at Lacock Abbey

Lacock Abbey is one of the most recognizable Harry Potter filming locations in England. Several rooms and passageways were used to represent Hogwarts interiors. You can explore the abbey on your own, or find Harry Potter themed tours via GetYourGuide, Viator, or Tripadvisor.

The Cloisters

Used as Hogwarts corridors in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Scenes include Harry walking with his invisibility cloak, students moving between classes, and Professor McGonagall recruiting Harry for the Quidditch team.

  • The cloisters at Lacock Abbey, also known as Hogwarts corridors

The Chapter House

Used as the room of the Mirror of Erised and later as a classroom where students discuss the Heir of Slytherin.

  • The Chapter house room

The Warming Room

Featured as Professor Quirrell’s Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, complete with its historic cauldron.

  • The Warming Room—or, should I say, Professor Quirrel’s classroom

The Sacristy

Transformed into Professor Snape’s Potions classroom.

Explore the Abbey Gardens and Greenhouse

After touring the abbey, take time to wander through its beautiful grounds. The gardens have existed for centuries and blend woodland paths, open parkland, and formal historic spaces.

One of the highlights is the Botanic Garden and greenhouse, created by Henry Fox Talbot in the nineteenth century. The greenhouse is filled with colorful plants and offers a quiet place to pause and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The grounds also feature an orchard, rose garden, and riverside walks that are especially beautiful in spring and summer.

  • Partial view of the greenhouse
  • Wild garlic growing on Lacock Abbey grounds

2. Wander the Streets of Lacock Village

Lacock village itself is just as special as the abbey. The village layout has remained largely unchanged for centuries, with timber framed cottages, stone houses, and historic inns lining four main streets.

As you wander, you will find independent shops, small museums, cozy tearooms, and traditional pubs. Lacock feels wonderfully untouched by modern development, which is why it is so often chosen for period dramas.

  • One of the lovely cottages in Lacock Village

Stop for a freshly baked treat at Lacock Bakery or enjoy a coffee and homemade cake at The Stables Cafe. For a sit-down meal, the historic Sign of the Angel and The George Inn are perfect choices for classic English fare, while The Bell Inn offers more refined dining just outside the main thoroughfare. The village also has delightful places to browse local crafts and gifts, including the National Trust Gift Shop, Barty’s of Lacock, Quintessentially English, and Lacock Shop & Deli, making a slow stroll through Lacock feel like a step back in time with plenty of inviting stops along the way.

3. Harry Potter filming locations in the village

The Cottage with the Blue Door

The blue door cottage on Church Street appears briefly in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

  • The day I visited, some Harry Potter themed jewelry and keychains were for sale right outside the cottage

Sign of the Angel Pub

The Sign of the Angel pub was used as the Babberton Arms. You can even book a stay here!

  • The Sign of the Angel pub, also known as Barberton Arms in the sixth Harry Potter movie

Harry Potter Parent’s House

A house at the end of Church Street was used as James and Lily Potter’s home.

  • James and Lily Potter’s house in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

Horace Sluggorn’s Hideaway

A large house on Church Hill appears as Horace Slughorn’s hideaway.

  • Horace Sluggorn’s Hideaway

4. Visit St Cyriac’s Church and Churchyard

St Cyriac’s Church dates back to the fourteenth century and stands at the heart of Lacock. The church features beautiful stonework, medieval details, and impressive stained glass. Settlement in Lacock originally developed around the church, which is still reflected in the shape of Church Street today.

The peaceful churchyard is a lovely place for a quiet stroll and offers beautiful views of the surrounding village.

  • St Cyriac’s Church, a 14th Century medieval church

Where to Stay in Lacock

If you want to extend your visit, Lacock is a wonderful place to spend the night. One of the most popular options is the Sign of the Angel, a historic inn located right in the village.

You can also find charming cottages, boutique hotels, and countryside stays nearby through Booking.com and Expedia.

Getting to Lacock

Lacock is located in Wiltshire, about thirty minutes from Bath and under two hours from London.

By car: easy access from Bath, Bristol, and the Cotswolds. Click here for car rental options.
By train: Chippenham station is the closest, followed by a short taxi ride. You can check private transfers through Welcome Pickups and Kiwitaxi.

By tour: many small group tours include Lacock with Bath and the southern Cotswold

Final Thoughts

Lacock is one of those rare places that truly feels frozen in time. Whether you are visiting for its history, gardens, photography heritage, or famous filming locations, the village offers a peaceful and unforgettable experience. It is the perfect destination for a slow day of wandering, exploring, and soaking in English village life.

If you are planning a trip to Wiltshire or the Cotswolds, Lacock absolutely deserves a place on your itinerary!

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London on a Budget: How to Experience the Best of the City Without Breaking the Bank (2026)

Paola Tambo2 Comments

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links

London has a reputation for being expensive, but with the right approach, it can be one of the most rewarding budget friendly cities in Europe. From world class museums and iconic landmarks to beautiful parks and lively neighborhoods, London offers countless experiences that cost very little or nothing at all.

This guide shows you how to explore London on a budget without missing out on what makes the city so special. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to see more, these tips and ideas will help you stretch your money while still enjoying the very best of England’s capital.

Free and Affordable Things to Do in London

1. Explore Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park

Kensington Gardens is one of London’s Royal Parks and a wonderful place to start your budget friendly adventure. Once reserved for royalty, it is now open to everyone. Here you can admire Kensington Palace from the outside, stroll through the Italian Gardens, visit the Peter Pan statue, and enjoy views of the Albert Memorial.

Right next door is Hyde Park, one of the largest green spaces in the city. Walk along the Serpentine Lake, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and people watch. Both parks are completely free and offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

To see a map with all the Monuments, click here

  • View of the Italian Gardens located inside Kensington Gardens

2. Discover London Mews Streets

London mews are small residential streets that were once home to stables and carriage houses. Today, they are some of the most charming and photogenic spots in the city.

Some of the prettiest mews to explore include:

  • Kynance Mews in South Kensington, famous for its colorful houses and ivy covered walls
  • St Luke’s Mews in Notting Hill, known for its pastel facades
  • Prince’s Mews near Hyde Park, quiet and full of character
  • Victoria Grove Mews, tucked away and residential
  • St Petersburg Place Mews, elegant and peaceful

Walking through these streets costs nothing and gives you a glimpse into a quieter side of London.

3. Visit London’s Free Museums

London is home to some of the best museums in the world, many of which offer free entry.

The British Museum houses artifacts from across the globe, including the Rosetta Stone and ancient Egyptian mummies.

The Natural History Museum is especially popular for its dinosaur exhibits and stunning architecture.

The Tate Modern showcases modern and contemporary art inside a former power station on the Thames.

The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square features masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Turner.

The Science Museum is ideal for families and interactive learning.

Pre booking is recommended for some museums, but general admission remains free.

  • View from the Natural History Museum

4. Walk Along the South Bank

A walk along the South Bank of the River Thames offers some of the best views in London. You can see landmarks such as the London Eye, Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge without spending anything.

Street performers, book stalls, and riverside views make this one of the most enjoyable free activities in the city.

Wondering if you can afford to ride in the London Eye? Click here and type in “London Eye” to check ticket prices for this attraction

  • View of the London Eye

5. See Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster

Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster are among the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Completed in the nineteenth century, the Elizabeth Tower and its famous bell remain a symbol of London.

Across the river, you can find quieter spots with benches and green areas where you can sit, enjoy a drink, and admire the view without the crowds.

  • The Big Ben
  • Unique view of Westminster Palace

6. Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Buckingham Palace has served as the official residence of the British monarch since the nineteenth century. Watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony is completely free and offers a memorable glimpse into British tradition.

Even outside ceremony times, walking past the palace and nearby St James’s Park is well worth it.

To check the Changing of the Guard dates and times, click here

  • View of Buckingham Palace

7. St James’s Park and Green Spaces

St James’s Park is one of the most beautiful parks in central London. Surrounded by royal buildings, it offers views of Buckingham Palace, pelicans, and carefully landscaped gardens.

Other excellent free green spaces include Regent’s Park, Greenwich Park, and Hampstead Heath, which offers panoramic views over the city.

  • St James’s Park

8. Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden

Trafalgar Square is a lively public space known for its fountains, statues, and cultural events. Nearby Covent Garden is famous for street performers, historic market buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere.

You can enjoy both areas without spending anything, simply by wandering and taking in the sights.

  • View of Trafalgar Square
  • Inside Covent Garden

9. Tower Bridge and the Tower of London

Walking across Tower Bridge is free and offers fantastic views of the Thames. Nearby, you can admire the Tower of London from the outside, learning about its long history as a fortress, palace, and prison.

Wondering if you can afford a visit to Tower Bridge? Click here and type in “Tower Bridge” to find out!

  • The iconic Tower Bridge

Click here and type in “Tower of London” to see if you can afford a visit to this historic landmark!

  • The Tower of London

10. Notting Hill and Portobello Road

Notting Hill is one of London’s most charming neighborhoods, made famous by the film Notting Hill. Colorful houses, elegant terraces, and Portobello Road Market make it a popular spot for walking and photography.

Visiting the neighborhood is free, and browsing the market does not require spending money.

  • Beautiful Notting Hill

Hidden Cheap Eats in London

London has no shortage of affordable food options if you know where to look.

Borough Market offers street food from around the world at reasonable prices.

Camden Market is known for its variety of international food stalls and relaxed atmosphere.

Chinatown is packed with budget friendly restaurants serving Asian cuisine.

Supermarkets such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s offer excellent meal deals that include a main item, snack, and drink at low cost.

  • Chinatown

Getting Around London on a Budget

Using public transportation wisely can save you a lot of money.

An Oyster card or contactless payment is the cheapest way to use buses and the Underground.

London buses are often cheaper than the Tube and offer scenic routes.

Walking is one of the best ways to explore central London and discover hidden neighborhoods.

Santander Cycles offer affordable bike rentals across the city.

You can’t buy a Visitor Oyster card in London. Visit the Visit Britain Shop to order an Oyster Card online.

Budget Friendly Places to Stay in London

Staying slightly outside the city center often results in better value while still offering easy access via public transport.

Neighborhoods such as Paddington, Bayswater, Greenwich, and Stratford offer more affordable accommodation options.

Booking early or staying midweek can also significantly reduce costs.

Click here to book your next stay in London with Booking.com!

Click here to book with Vrbo!

Best Time to Visit London on a Budget

January, February, and November tend to have lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds. Flights are also often cheaper during these months.

Spring and autumn offer a good balance between pleasant weather and manageable prices.

Plan Your London Trip on a Budget

To make planning your budget friendly London trip even easier, here are trusted resources you can use to book accommodation, experiences, transportation, and flights while keeping costs under control.

Where to Stay in London

Find budget hotels, affordable apartments, and well located stays that fit every travel style. These platforms are ideal for comparing prices and securing the best deals in London:
Booking.com
Expedia
Vrbo

Tours and Experiences

Enhance your trip with affordable activities, guided experiences, and day trips that help you see more while spending less. Find them on:
Viator
GetYourGuide
Tripadvisor
Klook

Transportation in London

Make getting around easier and stress free with reliable airport transfers and private transportation options:
Welcome Pickups – Airport transfers from Heathrow or Gatwick

Kiwitaxi – Private transfers in London

Attractions and Sightseeing Passes

Save money on top attractions with:
Go City – Best for London attraction passes and discounted sightseeing passes.

Flights to London

Aviasales – Compare flight prices and find affordable routes to London from anywhere in the world.

Final Thoughts

London does not have to be expensive to be unforgettable. With its abundance of free attractions, affordable food options, and efficient public transportation, it is one of the best cities in Europe for budget conscious travelers.

By planning smartly and focusing on experiences rather than expenses, you can enjoy everything from royal parks and historic streets to world class museums and lively neighborhoods without breaking the bank!