cambridge v oxford

Oxford is more of a city with a university attached whereas Cambridge has little but the university. Both have plenty of old colleges to see, although whether you will be allowed into them depends on luck and the time of year - they are working educational institutions, not tourist attractions. If you go to Oxford I particularly recommend the University Museum of natural history and the Pitt Rivers of anthropology, which are in two spectacular linked buildings.

Thanks Phillip - those are excellent considerations

Both are doable from London via a day trip by train. Cambridge is more quaint. Depends largely on whether you want to visit a city or smaller university town. I prefer Cambridge myself.

Rick periodically changes what he includes in each book. At this time, he includes Oxford in his England book, but not his London or his Great Britain book. He includes Cambridge in all three, so you can see which one he prefers. If you want to see what he has to say about Oxford, see if you can borrow a copy of Rick Steves England.

I've never been to either, so I can't help further.

Been to both for a couple of days, one after the other, at the end of a trip in 2015. Enjoyed each, but preferred Cambridge, mostly because it is smaller and easier to explore. Each is certainly deserving of more than just a day trip, I would say. From Cambridge, Ely is also just a 15-minute train ride north. Wonderful Cathedral in Ely, with an excellent Stained Glass Museum upstairs above the church.

And if you are a fan of Morse, et al, it's Oxford - no contest!

Patricia,
I've been to both and found interesting sights in both towns. There are many things to choose from for a day trip. It depends on your interests.

Cambridge: Kings College Chapel where the Kings College Choir sings - soaring architecture and interesting history, the Fitzwilliam Museum filled with art, Medieval armor and William Blake's art. Pubs with outdoor seating by the river where we talked to locals. Very nice old streets to wander. We stayed in a Rick-recommended hotel, very nice.

Oxford: Ashmolean Museum, big place with lots of history and cultural artifacts as well as art. When we were there saw an exhibit of paintings by Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud and World War II - thought-provoking. Had tea at the Richmond Hotel, also visited the bar Morse and Inspector Lewis frequented. We also spent a day touring Blenheim Palace which is close by.

We made a huge mistake, unknowingly, of visiting Cambridge during exam period. So we saw very little. But Oxford was great--loved it. Spent a day and the highlight was being allowed into the dining hall at Christchurch. It was all set up for noon day lunch and it was a treat to see it--think we have seen it in a few movies--Harry Potter, for one.

Oxford is more of a city with a university attached whereas Cambridge has little but the university.

Interestingly I see it sort of the opposite. I live about midway between the two and over the years have visited both frequently. I actually prefer Cambridge because of the symbiosis of the colleges and the town. I find the shopping and the atmosphere better in Cambridge, the Pieces, the coffee, and not to forget the Fitzbillies yummies. The Fitzwilliam Museum, for its size punches way above its weight. The Polar, too. And I don't think that Oxford can compete with the Backs.

BUT, then there are all the lovely things in Oxford, and some of the quads are fab. Not such good food though....

Thank You Thank You

I truly appreciate the detail provided in your responses. Unfortunately, it complicates the decision. I am a Morse/Endeavour Fan and a science aficionado. Arghh! I did not think it would be so difficult.

If you're a science fan, the Museum of the History of Science in Oxford (next door to the Sheldonian Theatre) will also be of interest.