OXFORD
Scenic Oxford is home to the oldest university in Britain (the school was founded in 1263). The university is made up of 35 colleges, each with its own traditions, architecture and history. Begin a full day by climbing Carfax Tower to get a view of the entire town. Some of the more interesting places to visit are Magdalen (pronounced MAUD-lin) College, circular Radcliffe Camera, the excellent botanic gardens and Christ Church Cathedral. Be sure to visit some of Oxford's museums and libraries (especially Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum and Pitt Rivers Museum) and stroll through the quadrangles (e.g., Christ Church's Tom Quad). A more intimate view of Oxford colleges can be obtained through the Verger's Tours that start at most colleges' main entrances. Typically these tours are inexpensive and not publicized. As in Cambridge, punting (boating) is a popular summertime activity in Oxford. Punts are available for rent near the Magdalen Bridge.
Northeast of Uffington is an ancient landmark: The outline of a horse carved into the chalk hillside was probably made in the 1 st century AD (try to see it when the sun is low). Winston Churchill's Blenheim Palace in nearby Woodstock is another must-see in the area. 50 mi/ 80 km northwest of London.