The Netflix film has got us dreaming of a visit …
Have you been watching My Oxford Year, the romantic drama based on Julia Whelan’s bestselling novel, on Netflix now? Starring Sofia Carson and Corey Mylchreest, the film follows an ambitious American student who relocates to Oxford for a prestigious scholarship, only to be swept up in an unexpected romance with a local poet.
Shot entirely on location, the film weaves together Oxford’s literary heritage, architectural beauty and romantic corners, and is set to inspire a new wave of literary tourism. Of course, Whelan is following in the footsteps of other authors who have used the city and its dreaming spires as a backdrop. If you haven’t yet read them, add the following to your booklists: Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited, Philip Pullman’s Dark Materials, Charles Finch’s The Last Enchantements, The Lessons by Naomi Alderman and Gaudy Night by Dorothy L Sayers.
As England’s answer to Florence, Oxford is a perfect weekend escape with cobbled lanes, ancient spires, bookshops and architecture that makes even a coffee run feel like a period drama. In addition, there are plenty of restaurants that appeal to student budgets and special occasions.
For coffee, head to the city’s Covered Market that dates back to the 1770s – Brown’s Cafe is one of the original traders and is something of a local institution. Slightly bohemian, Arbequina is perfect for tapas and cocktails while for dinner, just outside the centre is Pompette, which offers a good value Prix Fixe menu with a focus on Mediterranean and French dishes.
If you’re looking for a poetic itinerary, a must visit is Magdalen College Cloisters where the movie’s main character meet. Open to visitors, Magdalen’s peaceful cloisters and riverside grounds offer picturesque walks.
A classic Oxford moment featured in the film is punting from Magdalen Bridge, where you can hire a wooden punt and float along the Cherwell, passing meadows, willows and hidden college gardens. Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum is also used for several key scenes; it’s the oldest botanic garden in the UK.
A recurring location in the film is Radcliffe Square and Bodleian Library. The square is the academic heart of the city – and one of its most photogenic. Duke Humfrey’s Library is one of the oldest reading rooms in the Bodleian, a stunning medieval library likely to feel familiar to fans of Harry Potter too. Access is by guided tour only, its wood-panelled interior and historic manuscripts make it an unforgettable stop for literature lovers. Another must-visit for bibliophiles is Blackwell’s Bookshop, a local institution since 1879. Its underground Norrington Room holds the record for the largest single room selling books in the world.
Finally, New College Lane and the Bridge of Sighs are featured in the film’s most romantic scene. This narrow lane with its iconic bridge is best visited at dusk when the stone glows gold and the street quietens.
WHERE TO STAY
As the city’s newest luxury hotel, set within the walls of the former Boswells department store (hence the name), this hotel has been shaking up the social scene with its lively atmosphere, immersive experiences and striking window displays. There’s also a ground floor bar serving the Oxford-based Newground Coffee, while its rooftop bar and terrace offers panoramic views of the city. The hotel also has a posh spa by OSKIA with extensive treatments and a sleek gym by Nohrd. Pack Susie Dent’s novel Guilty by Definition – I’ve just read this love letter to the city, which is also a great crime mystery! @thestoreoxford
Poised on Oxford’s famous High Street, rooms and suites at this posh five-star hotel overlook the spire of St Mary’s Church, the Radcliffe Camera and All Souls College quad. Enjoy striking artworks from the owner’s collection, Carrara marble bathrooms, and Wildsmith toiletries. Guests have special discounts to dine in one of its three restaurants – the Quod, Parsonage Grill and Gees – as well as shopping in nearby Bicester Village. Parking is always complicated in central Oxford – much better to hire a bike for seeing the city – just like the university dons. @oldbankhotel
This small, charming bed and breakfast in a Victorian townhouse is great value with a gym in the basement and small garden. For antiques lovers, it’s a treasure trove of vintage furniture, assorted collections and prints. Breakfast is served in a beautiful conservatory filled with houseplants. Located in the suburb of Summertown, in north Oxford, it’s only ten minutes from the centre.
This cosy bolthole is in a brilliant location with top colleges, shops and museums a short stroll away. It’s housed in two historic buildings, so fancy fireplaces, wood panelling and original beams are some of its décor features. The collection of black and white photographs on its walls document college history and life. Directly opposite the hotel is the Oxford Union debate society’s bar, famous for the its heated discussions post-debate. For retail therapy, try the glitzy Westgate Shopping Centre or book a show at the New Theatre. @vanbrughhousehotel
This leafy 60-acre country club and hotel, owned by Sharan Pasricha, is on the outskirts of Oxford (and is a sibling of the posh private members’ club Maison Estelle in Mayfair, London). It’s a gorgeous spot to explore the extensive grounds and delights of its Roman-inspired Eynsham Baths spa, with activities including axe-throwing, archery and falconry. There are three dining options on the premises and Oxford is a 30-minute drive away where the Quod on the High Street is recommended. Don’t leave without visiting Blenheim Palace, which is on the doorstep of the hotel in Woodstock. @estellemanor
