Top 4 Best Malls in Oxford … You Full Guide 2023
There is also a wide assortment of cafes and eateries for refueling between shopping trips. Furthermore, the center is well located for exploring the remainder of Oxford’s shops, restaurants, and colleges.
Botley Retail Park
Oxford’s main “out-of-town” shopping center eventually. It has a lot of retail and commercial chain stores, as well as free parking.
This shopping center contains a variety of stores. There are Wickes, Dunelm, Oak Furniture World, and other options. Jewson, Toolstation, and other trade retailers are also available. The main Argos Extra store in Oxford has opened. It sells gadgets, toys, and furniture, among other things.
Curry also sells electronics and technology for the home. Do you have any pets? Pets at Home caters to their requirements and provides veterinary services. Botley is a helpful pal. Numerous establishments can come to your aid in an emergency.
Business Hours: 8 am-8 pm
What are the best things to buy in Oxford?
Some of the most popular things to buy as souvenirs or gifts from Oxford include:
Books – Especially from famous local bookshop Blackwell’s. Books by Oxford alumni like J.R.R. Tolkien or Lewis Carroll are great choices.
University merchandise – Oxford University memorabilia like t-shirts, sweatshirts, keyrings and more can be bought from the official Oxford University online store.
Arts and crafts – Handmade jewelry, prints, ceramics and textiles from local artists are available at markets and independent boutiques.
Food and drink – Oxford Honey, marmalades, fudge and cupcakes make tasty edible gifts. Pick up locally roasted coffee beans too.
Luxury brands – Bicester Village outlets offer discounted designer fashion and accessories from brands like Gucci and Mulberry.
What is there to do in Oxford besides shopping?
Oxford has a huge range of attractions and activities including:
Exploring the historic colleges of Oxford University like Christ Church College.
Visiting cultural attractions like the Ashmolean Museum, the Pitt Rivers Museum and the Bodleian Library.
Taking a walking tour to see famous Oxford filming sites from Harry Potter, Inspector Morse and more.
Punting on the River Cherwell for idyllic views of the Oxford skyline.
Enjoying afternoon tea at elegant venues like The Randolph Hotel or Ben’s Cookies.
Seeing exhibits and artworks at the world-class Modern Art Oxford gallery.
Trying real ales at historic Oxford pubs like The Turf Tavern or The Bear Inn.
Joining an Oxford Scavenger Hunt or Escape Room for a fun team activity.
What are the best places to eat in Oxford?
Some top restaurants and cafes to try in Oxford include:
The Trout – Relaxed riverside pub for classic British fare and riverside views.
Edamame – Vibrant Japanese restaurant acclaimed for its sushi.
The Grand Cafe – Elegant all-day brasserie in the Randolph Hotel.
Vaults & Garden Cafe – Casual spot for sandwiches, pizzas and cakes in the vaults of St Mary’s Church.
Georgina’s – Cozy Greek restaurant popular for its meze platters.
The Handle Bar – Quirky bicycle-themed cafe serving burgers, milkshakes and cocktails.
Chiang Mai Kitchen – Authentic Thai street food named one of the UK’s best Thai restaurants.
Ben’s Cookies – Oxford institution serving warm, gooey cookies in 12 flavors.
What is the best way to get around Oxford?
Some of the easiest ways to get around central Oxford include:
Walking – The compact city center is very walkable. Just wear comfy shoes.
Bicycle – Oxford is very bike-friendly, with designated cycle lanes making it easy to pedal around. Bikes can be rented daily.
Bus – Oxford has frequent and reliable bus services. Single fares start from £1.50.
Taxi – There are taxi ranks all around the city center. Short trips tend to cost £5-£10. Uber also operates in Oxford.
Hop-on hop-off bus – Sightseeing buses allow you to hop on and off at key attractions. 24 and 48 hour tickets are available.
Oxon Carts – These classic pedicabs offer novel tours of Oxford’s streets for up to 4 people.
Are Oxford shops open on Sundays?
Many shops in Oxford do trade on Sundays, but often for reduced hours compared to the rest of the week.
The Westgate Shopping Centre is open 11am to 5pm. Department stores like John Lewis and Marks & Spencer also open on Sundays.
Other stores with Sunday hours include Primark, Zara, H&M, Waterstones and Paperchase. Cafes, restaurants and food shops are generally open too.
However, some independent boutiques and markets may be closed, so it’s best to check individual opening times.
Conclusion
With its blend of historic markets, modern malls, high street chains and independent boutiques, Oxford offers fantastic retail therapy. Home to the UK’s oldest department store and bookshop, shopping here feels uniquely British.
Don’t just shop until you drop – also make time to explore Oxford’s culture, cuisine and colleges for the full experience. But you’re sure to find perfect souvenirs, gifts and treats among the diverse malls in this stunning city. Just be prepared to face the crowds on busier shopping days.
