The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford — the world's first university museum, opened in 1683, a full 70 years older than the British Museum. It holds over 1 million artworks and archaeological artefacts spanning nearly the entirety of human civilisation, from Ancient Egypt to contemporary art. Raphael drawings, Da Vinci manuscripts, Rembrandt prints, the Alfred Jewel, the 1716 Stradivarius "Messiah" violin, Egyptian mummies, Tang dynasty sancai camel figurines... One museum is a condensed history of world civilisation. Free admission, a one-day in-depth tour covering permanent collections, special exhibitions and rooftop restaurant afternoon tea.
From Egyptian mummies to Raphael drawings, from the Alfred Jewel to the Stradivarius violin — step into the artistic and archaeological sanctuary of 5,000 years of human civilisation
Enter through the main entrance in the morning, head straight to the Lower Ground floor's Egyptian & Sudanese Galleries (Galleries 20-26), coming face to face with 5,000-year-old mummies and painted coffins, feeling the ancient Egyptians' obsession with eternity. Then ascend via the spiral ramp to Level 0's Classical & Minoan Collections — precious artefacts excavated by Sir Arthur Evans from the Palace of Knossos on Crete, with the replica of the blue bird-headed siren fresco a breathtaking sight. In the afternoon, head to Levels 1-3's Western Art Galleries, pausing at the Raphael Drawings Room — home to the world's most complete collection of Raphael drawings; then to Gallery 39 to gaze upon the 1716 Stradivarius "Messiah" violin — never played in a concert in 300 years, preserved in pristine condition. Finally, ascend to the Rooftop Restaurant, overlooking the Oxford skyline while enjoying an English afternoon tea — the perfect conclusion to a day of art.
A panoramic restaurant on the top floor of the museum, overlooking the Oxford University buildings and city skyline. Signature grilled cod with lemon butter sauce, classic English afternoon tea three-tier stand, average £18-£35 per person — the perfect end to an art journey.
The literary pub where Tolkien and C.S. Lewis used to meet, a 3-minute walk from the Ashmolean. Signature beef pie with dark beer gravy, full of collegiate atmosphere, average £15-£25 per person.
A stylish restaurant converted from an old bank, with a glass atrium and collegiate art collection complementing each other. Recommended mains include Oxford roast lamb and local trout, average £25-£40 per person.
Oxford's legendary handmade ice cream shop. Thyme honey and Earl Grey flavours are full of British creativity — perfect for a scoop while strolling along High Street on a summer afternoon. Single scoop from £4.