With summer on its way, the transition begins from staying in, all cosy and warm to going out and enjoying the longer days and warmer weather. As a student, your assignment and exam deadlines are most likely coming to an end which will soon give you time to spare to find fun things to do in Oxford. To help you out we have created a guide of things to do in Oxford for those of you who are living and studying here. So, grab your friends and start planning for summer 2023 - it's going to be the best yet!

1. 7K Run at Blenheim Palace

If you're looking for things to do in Oxford, take part in the 7k Run at Blenheim Palace. Taking place on the 21st May 2023 you can run in support of charities like Oxfordshire Mind. It only costs £10 to get involved in the race, and not only will you be keeping in shape but you'll also be raisin money for charity. It will bring some magic to your day as the 7K now goes past the Harry Potter tree, the location of Snape’s worst memory. If you don’t know what we’re on about be sure to check this out! They have a range of races to get involved in, including a 7K canicross race to run with your dog. So why don’t you challenge yourself this summer and sign up?

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2. Black Parade - 00’s emo anthems

On Saturday 15th July at the O2 Academy 2 Oxford there is the Black Parade part full of 00’s emo anthems. From 11pm to 3am, you can enjoy old school emo anthems from the likes of My Chemical Romance, Paramore, Fall Out Boy, Panic! At The Disco, The Used, All American Rejects and loads more. If you're into alternative music then you really don't want to miss out on this event. With tickets costing less than £7, why not get yours and have something fun to look forward to?

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3. Abingdon Balloon & Fireworks Festival

For things to do in Oxford this summer, head to the UK’s biggest balloon and fireworks event taking place at Abingdon Airfield. On the 26th August from 3pm until 11pm, you can enjoy air displays, hot air balloons, demonstrations, music, skydiving and world-class firework entertainment. With ticket prices starting from £10, what a great way to spend a warm sunny weekend with all your friends. Make sure to buy your ticket now if you want to attend!

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4. Harry Potter Tour

If none of the above grab your fancy, why not explore the magical world of Harry Potter? We bet you didn’t know part of Oxford was used as filming locations in the Harry Potter films! Have a great adventure exploring the famous film locations from the Harry Potter movies with a walking tour. There’s the old Bodleian Library where you will find the Divinity school and Duke Humfrey’s library - the Hogwarts Infirmary and enchanted Library from the first film. The New College Cloisters - you will find the gigantic oak tree from the fourth film, and Christ Church College - you will find many scenes including the staircase used for the famous entrance scene and the Hogwarts Dining Hall. You are more than welcome to do a self-guided tour at your own leisure. Although, you can book a range of guided tours.

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5. Museum Of Oxford

If you're looking for things to do that won't cost you a penny, there are many museums in Oxford that’ll do just that! Take a stroll through the historic Museum of Oxford and explore the permanent and temporary displays. Located inside Oxford Town Hall, you can explore the variety of archaeological and social history objects ranging from Roman pottery to marmalade jars. There's even a gift shop if you would like to get souvenirs for family or friends.

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6. Boating

One of the best things to do on a sunny day is to take a relaxing boat ride up and down the river with your besties. The Magdalen Bridge Boathouse hires out traditionally crafted punts, rowing boats and pedalos for you to use. Don’t fancy putting in the work yourself? Hire a chauffeured boat and enjoy the view without getting tired out! Open 7 days a week between 9am and 9pm (or an hour before sunset), it costs just £25 to £30 per hour. If you would rather be chauffeured, then it's £35 to £45 per half hour.

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9. Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

Summer is the perfect time to be out enjoying the nice warm weather that the UK has to offer. Oxford Botanic Gardens and Arboretum host a range of events throughout the spring and summer, ideal if you fancy getting out and about during the academic year. Having opened back in 1621, it is the UK's oldest botanical garden which has 5,000 different types of plant from around the world. From tree climbing in the Arboretum to painting in Oxford’s Botanic Garden, there are plenty of fun activities to choose from. Prices vary depending on what you choose but there are plenty of dates to book for the best suitable time for you. Don’t hesitate and go grab your tickets now.

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8. Oxford Castle

If you're searching for things to do, take a trip to Oxford Castle to explore 1000 years of the city's fascinating and ancient history. This summer, The Oxford Shakespeare Festival is back for its 13th year and will be taking place at the castle. Starting with Macbeth and Much Ado About Nothing throughout June-July, moving on to Romeo & Juliet during July, and ending with A Midsummer Night's Dream through the start of August. If you are looking for entertainment then check this out for sure.

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9. New Theatre Oxford

If you're a theatre fanatic studying in Oxford then you're in luck as the New Theatre has a great programme of events for 2023. You can watch the smash hit that is Dirty Dancing, which tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny - Nobody puts baby in a corner! Taking place from the 25th July until the 29th, tickets start from £10 so make sure to book yours. If that's not for you what about Sister Act? Yep, The Broadway and UK smash hit musical is coming to Oxford! Dates for this show are from Mon 26 Jun - Sat 1 Jul 2023, get your show planned asap...

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10. Foodies Festival

Oxford's South Park will be hosting the Foodies Festival over the Bank Holiday weekend. What can you expect? They'll be a celebration of tasty food, delicious drinks and live music. The artists performing include Scouting for Girls, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Martin Kemp. You can also experience workshops and masterclasses from MasterChef Champions, Michelin-starred and top local chefs. Pop the date in your diary now for a summer event you won't forget...

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With our student accommodation located close to the city centre, students have easy access to all Oxford has to offer. So whether it's exploring the Oxford Botanic Garden, visiting the Museum of Oxford, or attending the Oxford Foodies Festival, you'll be within easy reach of so many fantastic things to do. Wanting to learn more about politics? Read our guide on British Politics Explained In 10 Mins.

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